Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Marlene Owens, who was born in Thief River Falls and spent much of her life on a family farm in Polk County, has died, according to family information. Owens passed away peacefully on Dec. 17, 2025, at Oakland Park Communities in Thief River Falls. She was 87.
Owens was born Oct. 6, 1938, in Thief River Falls. She attended school in the Thief River Falls district through the 11th grade.
Family Life and Farming
She married LaVerne Harold Owens on Nov. 17, 1956, at First Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, according to the family. Their marriage brought six children: Susan, Cindy, Randy, Gary, Carl, and Bradley.
The couple made their home on a farm in Belgium Township in Polk County. Family members said Owens helped with farm work and supported the family in many ways. During harvest, she operated equipment and fed the crew. Relatives said she was known for her cooking and meals shared at gatherings.
Community, Faith, and Hobbies
After high school, Owens worked at Oakland Park. Family members said her main focus was home and family during the years her children were growing up.
Owens was active in the Town and Country Homemakers group for more than 50 years, according to the family. She was also a long-time member of Melo Lutheran Church in Angus. She taught Sunday School and took part in church events.
Her hobbies included gardening, canning, and raising chickens. She also sewed and repaired clothing. Family members said she often visited neighbors and friends and brought treats. They said she especially enjoyed time with her grandchildren.
In later years, Owens and her husband traveled together. Family members said she was known for strength, warmth, and kindness.
Survivors
Owens is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Dewey) Trehus of Mandan, North Dakota. She is also survived by sons Gary (Nicole) Owens of Euclid and Brad (Angie) Owens of Euclid. Survivors also include grandchildren, Gina Trehus, Kayla (Cordell) Booke, Matthew Owens, Mykayla Owens, Jacob Owens, Dilon Owens, Mason Owens, and Tanner Owens, along with other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, LaVerne “Bud” Owens, in 2010. She was also preceded in death by daughter Susan Holen, son Randy Owens, infant son Carl Owens, and other family members.
Service Details
A visitation is scheduled from 2 to 3 p.m. on Dec. 30, 2025, at Melo Lutheran Church in Angus. A funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. Burial will be at the Melo Lutheran Church Cemetery, according to the family.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.