Marilyn Joan Hjermstad

MARILYN JOAN HJERMSTAD October 30, 1942 – July 16, 2020 Marilyn Joan (Enney) Hjermstad passed peacefully on July 16, 2020, at age 77, after a brave battle against cancer. Marilyn was born on October 30, 1942, in Park Rapids, Minnesota, to Rodger and Hildred Enney. She was the middle child of 5 children, fiercely independent, and unquestionably one-of-a-kind. From a young age, Marilyn was an artist and used the natural world around her as her inspiration. While she excelled at painting and drawing, Marilyn also enjoyed decorating her home and property using unorthodox media and bright colors. She was truly creative and shared her artwork with family right up until her passing. Marilyn was also an environmentalist, composting and recycling decades before the environment became a headline issue. She loved the outdoors and spent much of her time tending to her yard and garden. She loved animals and often adopted stray chickens, goats, and dogs (and sometimes people). She collected elephants, but most special to her was Daisy, her dog of 14 years, who will miss her so much. She had a big heart, often caring for and sheltering those who were suffering or struggling. She would give anyone the shirt off her back if she thought it would help. Most of all Marilyn loved her family. Her seven children, 27 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren were her world. She loved to stay in touch with them all and always had time to listen, often for hours, regardless of the time of the day. Her family will treasure the countless hand-written letters she regularly sent and will forever miss her compassion and wisdom. Marilyn is survived by her seven children: Kevin (Deb) Hjermstad, Kimberly Lusti, Kerri (Pete) Odland, Katherine (Dave) Blom, Kirsten (Tom) Hjermstad, Kory (Dave) Gray, and Jennifer (Paul) Jevnick; 27 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; her sisters: Bonnie (Al) Oines, Jackie (Randy) Goodwater, and Debbie Thomas; as well as her furry best friend Daisy. She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Wayne (Donna) Enney; and three grandchildren: Amber Raye Hjermstad, Marah Beth Blom, and Ethan Reed Walter Hjermstad. There will be a private funeral service, burial and celebration of life for family and close friends. Rest in Peace Mother, Grandmother, Sister, and Friend. You will be in our hearts forever.