Mariel Jean Greenlee, age 89, died peacefully at home on November 24, 2023, surrounded by her family. She had been ill with Parkinsonism.
Mariel was born in Preston, Minn., on August 6, 1934, to Leslie and Mae (Apenhorst) Vreeman. She grew up in rural Cherry Grove and graduated from Wykoff High School in 1952. After graduation, Mariel worked 10 years at the First National Bank in Spring Valley. Mariel married Melvin Greenlee on June 2, 1962, at the Cherry Grove Methodist Church. Following their marriage, they farmed and had a dairy herd. Mariel was an excellent calf feeder, paying special attention when one was off their feed and needed additional attention.
Her favorite activity were their trips to Branson, Mo., to see a variety of musical performers. Some of her favorites were Daniel O’Donnell, Presleys, and the Duttons.
Mariel is survived by her husband Melvin, brother David (Sandy) Vreeman, brother-in-law Rodney Herrick, sister-in-law Karen (Greenlee) Beagle, brother-in-law Thomas Beagle, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, nephew Nathan Vreeman, and sister-in-law Lilas Herrick.
Memorial service for Mariel will be 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at Faith United Methodist Church in Spring Valley, Minn. Visitation will be Tuesday, November 28 from 5–7 p.m. at Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield, and one hour before the service on Wednesday at the church.
The family would like thank St. Croix Hospice for their expert and passionate care. A special thanks to Jenny Hovey.
Riley Funeral Homes & Cremation Services is assisting the Greenlee family with arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at rileyfuneralhomes.com.