Marlys O. Petersen

Marlys O. Petersen

Marlys O. Petersen, a long-time resident of Reinbeck, was born in Malcom, Iowa, on March 20, 1939, to Edna Mae Meldrum and Ernest Story. She passed away peacefully on Monday, March 15, 2021, at Parkview Manor. A private memorial service was held by the family and a private inurnment was held at Reinbeck Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.abelsfuneralhomes.com

Marlys grew up in Morrison and went to High School in Reinbeck where she met and later married, Larry (Buck) Petersen. They were married on June 10, 1956, twelve days after High School graduation. They were married for 64 years and inseparable for 67 years.

Marlys and Buck spent many years in Southern California where Marlys worked as a Bookkeeper and a Secretary. They raised four children together before moving back to Iowa in 1994. Marlys worked for the Grundy County Conservation Board. Marlys was passionate about cooking, her teapot collection, Christian Women’s Group, books, and sewing. She also cherished all of the wonderful memoires she made traveling with her husband Buck. They saw the country together, with their kids, on their trips back to Iowa along Route 66 as well as the exotic destinations such as the Bahamas, Acapulco, Mexico and their more than 20 trips together to Hawaii. However, her true joy was her family.

Marlys is survived by her husband, Buck, their daughter and son in law, Lori and David Bracy of Huntsville, AL, their son and daughter in law, Craig and Jamie Petersen of Reinbeck, IA, their daughter and son in law, Linda and James Gregg, of Phoenix, AZ, 15 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her mother, father, son, Darryl, and infant grandson. Marlys leaves behind her many beloved friends and extended family.

Marlys lived a full and rich life and gave happiness to everyone around her. A loving mother, good friend, and dedicated wife, she will be missed tremendously by her family and the many friends and communities that shared her interests.