Marlys Joy Bungum

Marlys (Stueven) Bungum, age 85, from Alexandria, MN died peacefully on December 14 after suffering from dementia for several years. Born in Pipestone, Marlys graduated from Pipestone Highschool in 1955.  She then attended Luther College where she met her husband “Chuck” Bungum, presumably on band tour where she wowed him with her card playing skills. They moved to Saint Paul and then lived in Alexandria, Rochester and Minneapolis.  They eventually retired in Alexandria, escaping to Casa Grande, AZ during the winter.  Marlys is survived by daughter Kirsten Driscoll and husband Jack; daughter Andrea Bungum; and son Brett Bungum and wife Cheryl; grandchildren Charlie, Sara and Peter Driscoll, Sam and Josh Bungum, and Anne Elise Tuttle; and great grandchild Maverick Bungum.

Marlys was known for her zest for life and unstoppable appetite for organizing and attending social events of any kind.  She was an avid football fan, tortured for years by the Gophers and Vikings, but finally saved by becoming a devoted Johnnie’s fan.  She was a talented musician and played French Horn in a brass quintet and marching and symphony bands throughout high school and at Luther college.  She channeled her talent into a successful career at Schmitt Music, where she was one of the top salespeople.

Marlys stayed active well into her 70’s.  She loved to travel, whether it was family camping trips to state parks or the boundary waters, or international travel.  Closer to home, Marlys loved golf and casinos.  At age 75 she golfed better than any of her children.  And she taught all of her grandchildren how to play poker.

A funeral service will be held this spring on May 4 at 2 p.m. at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Alexandria, MN. The service will be followed by a celebration of life where we will celebrate in true Marlys style.