Marianne Allen was born on October 10, 1954, in Gregory, South Dakota. She was baptized on Reformation Day, October 31, 1954, where the Lord placed His Name upon her and claimed her as His own. Raised in the Christian faith, Marianne grew in the grace and knowledge of her Savior, as the Lord faithfully watered and nurtured her faith throughout her life.

Much of Marianne's childhood was spent in Lake Park, lowa. She later graduated from high school in Ainsworth, Nebraska, and went on to attend Concordia College in Seward, Nebraska. She later earned her teaching degree from the University of North Dakota. During the year in Seward, she met a handsome young man by the name of Bill. The two were married a year later on April 21st, 1973. The Lord blessed their union with a life of love, adventure, and faithfulness. The Lord also blessed them with four children and 17 grandchildren. As an Air Force family, Marianne and Bill moved often, but wherever they went, Marianne carried with her a steadfast love for Christ.

Marianne had a deep passion for teaching children about Jesus. She began the group called Pathfinders, drawn from the words of Psalm 119:93: "I have set my heart on God's path, and He has set my heart free." Through this work, she shared the Gospel with countless children, planting seeds of faith that the Lord will continue to water and grow. She remained devoted to this calling until her illness no longer allowed her to continue. Marianne also enjoyed many of God's good gifts in this life. She loved playing softball, both in high school and as an adult. She found joy in fishing. She also loved music and enjoyed both leading the choir and singing. She treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren. Above all, Marianne lived as a baptized child of God, trusting in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of her sins and the promise of eternal life. Even in the face of illness, her hope remained firmly fixed on Christ, who has conquered death.

She is survived by her husband, William Allen, Jessica Hunter (Allen), Jeremy Allen, Aaron Allen, Lori Henriquez (Allen), and 17 grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wendelland Doris Hamilton and her brother Tim Hamilton.

We give thanks to God that Marianne now rests from her labors and awaits the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.

Honorary Pall Bearers: Aaron, Jeremy, Coy, Malachi, William/Liam, Bruno.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD.