Marlys Jean Kuznia

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Marlys J. Kuznia, 78, Barnesville, MN, who left this world due to complications from ALS on January 29, 2025, at Valley Care and Rehab in Barnesville, MN. A memorial service to honor her life will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Barnesville, MN, with Pastor Ali Haugerud officiating the service. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

 Born on October 10, 1946, in Warren, MN to Severt & Anna Setten, Marlys was a beacon of love and kindness, embodying the spirit of compassion in every role she embraced throughout her life. She graduated from Strandquist High School in 1964 and went on to the Crookston School of Nursing where she received her LPN degree. On January 31, 1967 she married Leopold Kuznia, the love of her life. After briefly working at the Warren Hospital, she decided to stay home to raise her children and care for others’ children in her home. Marlys and Lee moved to Barnesville in 1996 to be close to their children and grandchildren. Marlys worked at the Barnesville Area Clinic until her retirement in 2010. 

Marlys dedicated her career to nurturing others—as a devoted nurse and a cherished childcare provider. Her warmth and caring nature extended beyond her profession, enveloping her family and friends in a comforting embrace. As a beloved wife to her husband, Leopold Kuznia, a devoted mother to her children, Darin, Valerie and Brenda, and a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, Marlys poured her heart and soul into each relationship, creating an unbreakable bond of love.

Her home, always neat and beautifully kept, was a reflection of her meticulous nature and her passion for creating a welcoming environment. Marlys was an exceptional cook, delighting her family with meals, being especially known for her special soups, and a talented seamstress who was always willing to help out with a patch job or hemming. Her green thumb brought life to her garden, where her vegetables and flowers flourished alongside her contagious enthusiasm for life. 

A speed reader with a deep love for puzzles and books, Marlys approached every interest with an unwavering dedication and joy. Always impeccably put-together, she exemplified grace and poise, inspiring those around her through her vibrant spirit exhibited through her love of the color red. 

Marlys is survived by her loving husband Leopold “Lee” Kuznia; her children: Darin Kuznia, Valerie (Rick) Martinson, and Brenda (Brian) Carlson; grandchildren: Breanna (Jordan) Chuinard, Brittany (Dylan) Larson, Kailee (Michael) Strand, and Seth (Sydney) Martinson; great-grandchildren: Harper, Kennedy, and Cambrie Chuinard, Oliver and Ellie Larson, and Oaklyn, Cash, and Callan Strand; and sister Lois (Stanley) DeMeyere.

She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant nephew.

Marlys leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering support. Her kindness touched the lives of many, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.