Marilyn “Mel” M. Kiffmeyer, 78, St. Cloud

December 19, 1936 - February 9, 2015

Marilyn “Mel” Mae Kiffmeyer, age 78, died Monday, February 9, 2015 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House, St. Augusta, MN.

Funeral services will be Saturday, February 14, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Cloud, MN. Visitation will be Friday, February 13, 2015 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Benson Funeral Home, St. Cloud, MN. and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Burial will be in St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Cemetery, St. Augusta, MN.

Marilyn was born December 19, 1936 in Litchfield, MN to Eino and Mayme (Leinonen) Ruotsinoja. She graduated from Kimball High School in 1953 and St. Cloud State University in 1957. On June 8, 1957, Marilyn was united in marriage to James “Jim” L. Kiffmeyer in St. Cloud, MN. Marilyn taught private piano for over 55 years. She was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Minnesota Music Teachers Association and a charter member of the Minnesota Center Chorale. Her other passions in life included playing duplicate bridge, international travel and spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include sons and daughter, Kevin (Cindy Shore) Kiffmeyer of Monticello, MN; Kurt (Laura) Kiffmeyer of Charlotte, NC; Kristi (Mike) Hassett of Eagan, MN; brother, Lee Ruotsinoja of Edgeley, ND; sister, Lois Swenson of Pequot Lakes, MN; six grandchildren, Brenna (Brad) Paradise, Erin Kiffmeyer, Katheryn Kiffmeyer, Nick Hassett, Ryan Hassett, and Nathan Hassett; and two step grandchildren, Jonathan (Bridget) Shore and T. C. Shore.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Jim, on January 4, 1997, and brother, Lowell Ruotsinoja.

Memorials are preferred to Minnesota Center Chorale or Bethlehem Lutheran Church.