Marian Jaehn Gaard (nee Dietz) died on Friday morning, June 22, 2018 at Preferred Senior Living in Ellsworth. She was 98. Marian was born June 15, 1920 in Mankato MN to parents Edward and Frances (Jaehn) Dietz. She attended school in Wells MN, and graduated with the Class of 1938. After high school, Marian attended the Hamilton School of Commerce in Mason City, Iowa to receive training as a secretary. She would be united in marriage to Kenneth Eldon “Bud” Gaard on October 31, 1941 in Wells, where they made their home, and were members of the Methodist Church there. Their union in marriage was blessed with a son, Ron.

For years, Bud and Marian farmed near Wells, raising turkeys and beef cattle. They would later move to Ellsworth WI in 1961, and Marian began working at the Pierce-Pepin Electrical Cooperative. She would work there for over 31 years before retiring at the age of 72. Outside of work, Marian was a bird lover who enjoyed going for walks, and loved listening to music, especially Lawrence Welk. She would grow and can vegetables. She raised the best cucumbers, and made excellent Ginger Creams, homemade pies, and chocolate frosting. Marian was neat as a pin, and always “just so”. She embodied perfect penmanship through her cursive and shorthand. Most will remember Marian for her genuine sweetness and kindness, and a willingness to help others. She will be missed by many.

Marian is survived by her son, Ron; her sister, Carole Shear; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bud Gaard; her parents; her brother, Bob Dietz; and sister, Corinne Conde.

Funeral Services for Marian Gaard will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, June 26th at the O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home, 130 N Grant Street in Ellsworth. Visitation will take place one hour prior to services. Marian will be buried next to Bud at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Ellsworth. Services have been entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of Ellsworth. 715-273-4421