Marilyn Jean Ward, the daughter of Clarence and Rhoda (Lane) Ward, was born May 5, 1925 in rural Lewis, IA and died December 21, 2015 at the Atlantic Nursing and Rehab Center in Atlantic, IA at the age of 90 years, 7 months, and 16 days.

Marilyn attended country school until the eighth graded and then graduated from Lewis High School with the class of 1943. Marilyn lived in Atlantic for several years while working at Blue Star. While at Blue Star, she made dried eggs for the rations used during WWII. Marilyn moved back to the family farm, where she helped with the daily activities along with raising chickens and selling eggs. After the death of her brother Clarence, she moved to Griswold for a short time before moving to Atlantic. Marilyn lived in Atlantic until the time of her death.

Marilyn enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles, and playing bingo.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and her brother Clarence Ward, Jr.

Marilyn is survived by her Sister Marian Finnell of Atlantic, IA; her niece Connie Weston and husband Larry of Griswold; and her nephews, Mike Finnell of Clinton, MO, and Jim Finnell and wife Denise of Atlantic, IA. She is also survived by many great nieces, great nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, December 26, 2015 at 10:00 AM at the Duhn Funeral Home in Griswold. Visitation with the family will take place starting at 9:30 AM. Interment will be in the Whipple Cemetery. Duhn Funeral Home in Griswold is in charge of arrangements.