Marilyn Vance was born on December 7, 1933, in Dupree, SD to Carl and Lorna (Robertson) Vance, the youngest of their eight children. Her father died when Marilyn was only six months old. Marilyn grew up in Dupree and graduated from Dupree High School. She attended Northern State Teachers College and after her graduation, she began her career as a math teacher in Cokato, MN. In Cokato, she met and married Russell Wenlund in 1958. Russell passed away in 1997, and Marilyn returned to South Dakota, residing in Spearfish. In 2019, following an accident in her home, she moved to a long-term care residence in Rapid City where she remained until her death on October 9, 2025.
Marilyn led an active life, and she was interested in making the world a better place for both animals and humans. In addition to fishing with Russell, she enjoyed other hobbies such as bowling; birdwatching; baking cookies; and volunteering at several museums, her church, and the humane society. Marilyn had a deep love for animals, especially cats, and she rescued many stray cats, providing them with food, shelter, vet care and lots of petting. You might remember seeing her at local rummage sales and thrift stores, always looking for a special something that she could then give to someone else—or save! Marilyn never missed sending a birthday card to her many family members and friends.
At Marilyn’s request, there will be no funeral services held and she will be buried next to her husband near Glenwood, MN.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, all seven siblings and three nephews. She is survived by 15 well-loved nieces and nephews.
Memorials in Marilyn’s name may be directed to either of her preferred organizations: Western Hills Humane Society in Spearfish where she volunteered; or to the Ziebach County Historical Society where they collect, display and preserve history in their museum. (ziebachhistory.com)
On Saturday, October 25 from 1-3 pm, at the Spearfish United Church of Christ-Congregational, there will a gathering of family and friends who wish to celebrate and remember Marilyn.