MARLYN LEROY HEEREN, age 76, of Luverne, died Tuesday, February 19, 2008, at the Sanford Hospice Cottage, in Luverne. He was born December 6, 1931, in Little Rock, IA. Marlyn was the only child born to Lewis and Mildred (Thiesse) Heeren. He attended Midland #2 Country School for his elementary education and graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1950. Marlyn married Joan Steffensmeier on June 2, 1952, at St. Mary Catholic Church, in Salem, SD. The couple farmed with Marlyns? father, in Lyon County, IA, until 1954 when they purchased their farm Northeast of Magnolia in Nobles County. Marlyn lost his leg in a farming accident in 1959; and in 1990 was diagnosed with Parkinson?s disease. He continued to farm until his retirement in 1994 when the couple moved to Luverne. Marlyn remained interested in the farm and made frequent trips to drive the fields, check the farm place & keep track of the crops. One of his proudest accomplishment in his later years was the grove he planted, nurtured and watched grow to maturity. He was a member of St. Catherine Catholic Church in Luverne. He enjoyed reading, traveling the country with his wife, Joan & watching his grandchildren?s sporting events. Marlyn is survived by his wife, Joan Heeren, Luverne; five children and their spouses, Deb Sunderlin, Magnolia; Doug & Robin Heeren, Kenneth; Pat & Kraig Rust, Kenneth; David & Tammie Heeren, Clive, IA; and Pam & Roger Talsma, Chandler; thirteen grandchildren; six great grandchildren, Marie & Tony Smook (Kennedy & Alex); Nathan & Darlene Rust (Alexis, Tyler & Ethan); Justin & Cecelia Rust Inesita); Sierra & Chantel Heeren, Nick & Zack Weets, Tiffany & Jacob Heeren, and Amanda, Steven, Eric & Mariah Talsma. He was preceded in death by his parents. Blessed Be His Memory.