Marijean Skarich Kniefel

Marijean Skarich Kniefel, age 72 of Fayal Township died unexpectedly on Sunday, March 24, 2024. She was born September 1, 1951 in Grand Rapids, MN. Marijean, the daughter of Sam and Mildred (Krzich) Skarich, was a 1969 graduate of Nashwauk-Keewatin High School, Hibbing Junior College and also earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Bemidji State University. Marijean grew up in Keewatin and while attending Bemidji State University, met Steve who she married on August 10, 1974 in Keewatin. She began her teaching career in South Bend, Indiana where she started her career in Physical Education and coaching volleyball and tennis. Steve and Marijean returned back to the Iron Range area where they raised their family. Marijean also did some substitute teaching for local schools. Among many other occupations, Marijean worked a number of years for Health Star Homecare in Virginia as a home health care scheduler. She was an active member of Rockwell Church, serving on many committees and singing in the Praise group. Music has always been a passion for Marijean, as she was active in the Mesabi Community Band, Virginia City Band and Hibbing City Band. Marijean also sang with area choral groups. Family was everything to Marijean. She loved and supported her husband, children, and most especially her grandchildren. She would travel all over Minnesota to see her grandchildren participate in music events, athletic events and everything in between.

Marijean is survived by her husband of 49 years: Steve. Children: Tim (Steph) Kniefel of Bemidji, Todd (Amy) Kniefel of Detroit Lakes, and Karen Kniefel of Mountain Iron. Grandchildren: Chloe, Halie, Madeline, Jack, Max, Eva, Ethan, Xander, Aaron, Rory, Rainah, Landon, Caleb and Austin. Sister-in-laws: Geri Skarich and Francie Skarich. Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers: Sam Skarich and William Skarich and her in-laws: Alvin and Eva Kniefel.

The Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at the Rockwell Church in Virginia, 93 Midway Drive. Pastor Chris Teien will officiate. A gathering time for family and friends will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the church. Inurnment will take place at a later date at the Minnesota Veteran’s Cemetery in Saginaw.

Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please visit: www.baumanfuneralhome.com .