Marlene Karstens

Born: March 15, 1932
Died: June 22, 2018

Marlene J. Karstens, 86, of Sioux Falls, SD died Friday, June 22, 2018. Her funeral service will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, June 27 at Hope Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls, with burial at Hills of Rest Cemetery. Visitation begins at 4:00 PM Tuesday, June 26 at George Boom Funeral Home & Crematory, Sioux Falls, where the family will greet friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Marlene J. Van Drew, daughter of Roy C. and Mary Jane (Cole) Van Drew, was born March 15, 1932 in Indianapolis, IN. The family lived in several communities before moving to Riverton, WY. Marlene graduated from Riverton High School. She then furthered her education with several college courses.

Marlene was united in marriage with James Karstens on January 10, 1951 in Riverton, WY. The couple made their home there. They then lived in Huron, SD before settling in Sioux Falls, SD in 1957. After her children were grown, Marlene began work in the Financial Aid Department at Augustana College. She retired in 1994 after 13 years of service.

Marlene was a long-time member of Hope Lutheran Church, where she was active in many areas. She enjoyed playing bridge and doing volunteer work. Marlene and Jim’s lake home at Lake Herman served as a weekly summer getaway where they proudly invited family and friends to visit and relax. Marlene enjoyed traveling, especially to attend family activities. Marlene also cherished her close relationship with her neighbors through the years.

Grateful for having shared her life are her children, Jim Karstens Jr. and his wife, Lana, Elysian, MN, Vicki Olawsky and her husband, Charles, Caledonia, MI, Jan Hailey and her husband, Robert, Papillion, NE; ten grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, on February 28, 2014; her parents, Roy and Mary Jane Van Drew; and a sister, Charlotte McMillan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Marlene to Hope Lutheran Church.