Marian Reller

Marian Theresa Reller, 83, of Grand Forks, ND passed away peacefully June 16, 2020 at Valley Senior Living in Grand Forks, with family at her side. Marian was born January 12, 1937 in Devils Lake, ND, the tenth of eleven children and youngest daughter to Louise (Keller) and Casper Kurtz. Marian graduated high school from St. Mary’s Academy in 1955.

Through the connections of mutual friends, Marian met Francis Reller, a member of the U.S. Air Force. They courted long-distance and were married in a Saturday morning Catholic Mass on April 4, 1959 at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, where Francis was stationed. Their early married life was spent on Air Force bases including Edwards in California and Columbus in Mississippi, welcoming their four children (Stephen, Monica, Jerome and Joel) and making good friends along the way. Marian had the support of family and community while Francis was deployed overseas several times during those years. The family settled in Grand Forks following Francis’ 20-year decorated military career.

In addition to raising her family, Marian was a meticulous housekeeper and gardener; she was a loyal friend who loved to play dominos and bingo; she worked part-time and volunteered in the community; was passionate about her collections (dolls, antique dishes, Christmas decorations); and made the time to pass down traditions and her favorite German recipes to her kids and grandkids, notably noodles & watermelon a fan favorite. She was also a great Chestnut Street neighbor, where she lived for 40 years.

After Francis retired from his nearly 25-year U.S. Post Office career, Marian and Francis worked for many years together at the Alerus Center, while taking time to travel, often with their children and grandchildren. A trip to Rome and attending mass at the Vatican with Pope John Paul II presiding was a highlight. They were both active members of Holy Family Catholic Church, a community that remained important to Marian following Francis’ death in 2009. Donuts following 7:30 mass was an important tradition.

In her later years, she enjoyed doing puzzles and staying up to date on her grandchildren’s lives. Our mom was witty, strong and strong-willed, generous and loving.

Marian is survived by her four children: Stephen (Judy) of Grand Forks; Monica (Don) of Dent, MN; Jerome (Tami) of Edina, MN; Joel (Tristi) of Grand Forks; and eleven grandchildren she adored: Savannah (Jake) Larson, Zack (Alisia) Arvidson, Mack Arvidson, Zane Reller, Katarina Reller, Mychael Reller, Bryce Reller, McKenna Reller, Brock Reller, Lindsi Reller and John Reller. Marian also has five precious great grandchildren: Hadley, Jaxsun, Beau, Vaeya and Micah. Marian is also survived by five of her siblings: Joseph Kurtz, Bismarck, MN; Betty Herda, Devils Lake; Wallie Klier, Devils Lake, ND; Rose (Jim) Hannon, New Hope, MN; and Julius (Joann) Kurtz, Campbell, CA

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Francis; brothers John, Tim, Balzer, Casper, and Richard; and infant grandson Jaeke Arvidson.

The family would like to thank and recognize the many caregivers and clinicians who took such loving and compassionate care of Marian, especially during her time at Valley Senior Living. In lieu of flowers, at Marian’s request, memorials can be sent to Holy Family Catholic Church, 1018 18^th Avenue South, Grand Forks. Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on June 25, 2020 at Amundson Funeral Home with a family-led prayer service at 6:30 pm. Funeral Mass will be at 10am on June 26, 2020 at Holy Family Catholic Church, with visitation beginning at 9am and Praying of the Rosary at 9:30am. Extended family and friends welcome. Diocese guidelines include 50% capacity in the church.