Marilyn E. Kersten

Marilyn Edith Kersten (Lowe), age 98 of Menasha, WI joined her heavenly kingdom on October 17, 2026. She was born to Leslie and Mary (McQuillan) Lowe on May 10, 1928 in Green Bay, WI. After graduating from Menasha High School, Marilyn married the love of her life, John “Skinny” Kersten in August of 1948 at St. Patrick’s Church in Menasha and together, they raised 9 wonderful children and celebrated over 60 years of marriage. She worked several careers throughout her life, including Gilbert’s Paper Mill, the Menasha VFW, and Hank’s 5th Ward Tavern, but none quite as influential or important as the job of motherhood when she got home.

Marilyn was a woman of many hats, as many loving parent could understand. As the matriarch, she was responsible for bandaging many knees and sewing many torn pants. In her free time, Marilyn enjoyed playing darts with her many friends, family, and strangers alike. She was also quite the bowler and attended many state and national tournaments. Marilyn was a devout Christian and had a deep faith that God would always steer her in the right direction. More than anything, though, Marilyn loved her family and cherished every moment she could spend with her kids, grandkids, and great-grandchildren, and if you asked her, she’d say all of them were her favorite!

Marilyn will be deeply missed by her children, Kris, Keith, Karen (Randy), Pat, Marvin, Robert (Theresa), and Curt (Cindy); her grandchildren, Debbie (Ron), Jeff, Shelly (John), Christopher (Heather), Becky, Robert, Terry Lynn (Travis), and Charles; her granddaughter-in-law, Elise; 19 great-grandchildren; her sisters-in-law, Ione and Nancy; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her husband, John; her children, Kathy and Tom; her grandchildren, Frank and Cody; her parents, Leslie and Mary; her siblings, Roberta (Cy) and Tom; and her sons-in-law, Henry and Larry.

A memorial visitation will be held for Marilyn from 9-11 AM on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Laemmrich Funeral Home, 312 Milwaukee St, Menasha, WI 54952 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for several organizations and charities she was passionate about.

Marilyn’s family would like to extend a special thanks to all the nurses, doctors, and other supporting staff at Oakridge Gardens for their compassionate care given to Marilyn during her time there.