In Loving Memory of Sr. Marlene Bakken

(August 6, 1946 – December 13, 2024)

The Notre Dame Sisters are saddened to announce the passing of Sister Marlene Bakken, who died peacefully on December 13, 2024. A lifelong educator, servant of God, and advocate for others, Sr. Marlene’s life was a testament to faith and service.

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on August 6, 1946, to Joseph N. and Pearl Evelyn (Mellick) Bakken Weber, Sr. Marlene was the eldest of four siblings. Baptized at St. Patrick Church in Cedar Rapids, she grew up immersed in her Catholic faith, which shaped her vocation and life of service. After completing her education at St. Ludmila Grade School and La Salle High School, she entered the Notre Dame community in 1964 and continued her education at College of St. Mary.

Sr. Marlene dedicated 47 years to education, teaching in schools across Nebraska and Iowa. Her passion for education was matched by her commitment to helping those in need. Whether teaching special needs students, mentoring young people, or providing meals and resources to the elderly, she approached every task with a generous and compassionate spirit.

Sr. Marlene ministered in numerous ways over the years:

• She was a student associate at Holy Family School System for over a decade, often working closely with special needs students, helping them thrive academically and socially.
• During the 2008 Cedar Rapids floods, she prepared meals for flood victims and recovery workers at St. Ludmila Church.
• She volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul, Gems of Hope, and veteran events, always seeking opportunities to support and uplift her community.

In addition to her ministry, Sr. Marlene pursued lifelong learning, taking genealogy classes to explore her family history and engaging in spiritual retreats to deepen her relationship with God. She often reflected her strong belief in finding new ways to serve God’s people, even as her health declined.

Sr. Marlene’s dedication to helping others was a source of inspiration to all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her father, Joseph N. Bakken, her mother, Pearl Evelyn (Mellick) Bakken Weber, her stepfather, Joseph Weber, and her sister, Peggy Weber Markle.

She is survived by her Notre Dame Sisters and siblings: Sharon Weber Raghavachary (Saty), Dennis Bakken (Jill), and nieces and nephews, Kirin and Josh Raghavachary and Aaron and Carrie Sesker.

May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love of God she so faithfully served throughout her life.

Memorials may be directed to the Notre Dame Sisters.