Marian Ruth Harelson
Marian Ruth Harelson
Marian Ruth Harelson, 98, of Black River Falls, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Onalaska Care Center in Onalaska, WI.
Marian was born June 25, 1927, in a log cabin built by her grandfather in rural Jackson County. Her father, Claude Harmon, died when she was seven, and her mother, Mayme Harmon, passed when she was 10. Marian was blessed to have two older brothers, Floyd and Cliff, who raised her until they were both drafted into the military for WWII. By the age of 16, Marian was left alone. Thankfully, family and friends helped her to find a haven. Marian’s life experiences would help mold her into a strong independent woman who would be an inspiration to all her family and friends.
In 1945, a returning soldier from World War II walked into the restaurant where Marian was working and it was love at first sight. She married Delmas D. Harelson Nov. 19, 1947. Together, they enjoyed 64 years of marriage and the joy of raising four children before his passing May 27, 2012.
Marian had many friends and interests in her life. After raising her children, Marian worked as a skilled baker in the Black River Falls School District, where staff and students came to cherish her cinnamon rolls and loaves of fresh bread. Marian loved the company of animals and enjoyed camping trips with her family. An accomplished quilter, she created many beautiful pieces that she shared with her family. Above all, Marian was the matriarch of a large, loving family who will miss her greatly.
Marian was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and seven siblings Gordon, Floyd, Doris, Clifford, Duane and two unnamed twins.
She is survived by her four children, Tom Harelson (Patricia Hart), Mike Harelson (Cheryl Callisto), Steve Harelson (Patty Gearing) and Karen Meyer (Zachary Meyer). Marian’s legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished dearly.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Onalaska Care Center and Gundersen Health System Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to Marian over the years and recent days.
Marian had a saying when anyone came to visit her and had to leave: “What’s your hurry?” She’d like it if whenever anyone reading this visits a loved one, do not hurry away and give them an extra hug.
A memorial service for Marian will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Black River Falls. A visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Following the service, Marian will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Riverside Cemetery in Black River Falls.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honorarium to Onalaska Care Center and/or the Jackson County Animal Shelter.
Buswell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.