Marilyn "Marley" Hannum

Marilyn “Marley” J. Hannum of La Crosse, formerly of Sparta, Wis., passed to her eternal rest Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015, at the Gundersen Health System in La Crosse surrounded by her family.

She was born in Sparta, Wis., on July 27, 1928, to William and Hattie (Yahnke) Steinke. On April 3, 1948, she married Edward J. Hannum at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Sparta. She was very active in St. Patrick’s Parish where she sang in the choir and was involved in the PTO. Marley also was employed in various positions within the Sparta School District and received her Certified Nursing Assistant degree. In 1985, they moved to La Crosse and became long-time members of Mary, Mother of the Church Parish.

Family was always Marley’s primary focus and delight in life. Whether raising her sons or watching over her young granddaughters, Marley was always there when needed. She was a wonderful homemaker and an incredible cook, who made everyone feel welcome in her home. Marley loved music and being with her granddaughters, especially attending the many performances, recitals and athletic events they had. She was an outgoing and caring person who was able to make new friends with whomever she met. In their younger years, Marley and Edward enjoyed bowling. They also enjoyed family trips across country, especially out west where Marley loved the mountains of Colorado.

She leaves to cherish her memory three sons, Samuel, Daniel, and Brian Hannum; four granddaughters, Emma, Sophie, Maggie and Claire Hannum; and a host of nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward, on September 18, 2005; a son, Gerald; her parents, William and Hattie; and her siblings, William Steinke, Vera Getzinger, Leone Goff, and Arlys Bohnert.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday October 1, 2015, at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, 2006 Weston St., La Crosse. Rev. Brian D. Konopa will officiate. Burial will take place in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Sparta at a later date. Family and friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday October 1, 2015 at the church. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.