Marlys Kniss

Marlys Kniss, age 88, passed away Friday, September 20, 2024, at Grand Arbor Assisted Living in Alexandria. 

Marlys Opal (Stamness) Sternhagen – Kniss, born on March 26, 1936, in Barrett to Agnes and Harold Stamness, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024, at the age of 88, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's for over 20 years. She spent her final days at Grand Arbor Assisted Living, Alexandria, Mn.

Marlys graduated from Barrett Public School in 1953 and married Duane Sternhagen on April 10, 1954. They lived in Hoffman, MN, before moving to the family farm near Barrett, where they raised dairy cattle and various crops, working together as a team. They were blessed with two children, Dean and Kim. Tragically, Duane was killed in a car accident in 1990. Marlys later married Michael Kniss from Alexandria in 1997, and they enjoyed their time living in Barrett and wintering in Texas.

Marlys was a dedicated member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Barrett where she was baptized, confirmed and married. She was known for her calm and quiet demeanor, her unwavering faith, and her dedication to her family and friends. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Marlys was an excellent cook and baker who enjoyed farming, dancing, playing cards, and spending time with her loved ones.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Kniss; her son, Dean (Bonnie) Sternhagen; her daughter, Kim (Joel) Block; seven grandchildren, Chris (Leah) Sternhagen, Ashley (Jon) Riches, Jacob (Stephanie) Sternhagen, Dayton (Jen) Sternhagen, Logan (Kristin) Block, Tanner Block, and Kai Block; thirteen great-grandchildren; sister Phyllis (Marlin) Spangrud and several nieces, nephews and their spouses. She was preceded in death by her husband, Duane, parents Harold and Agnes, sister Darlene and brother Gerald. Marlys will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

We give thanks for the love and support of all the caregivers who became a part of Marlys’ life, especially those serving at Grand Arbor and Moments Hospice.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, please consider donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Moments Hospice Foundation (820 Lilac Drive N., Golden Valley, MN 55422), or Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery Association.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Barrett with Visitation starting at 10:00 AM until the time of the service.

Interment at Immanuel Cemetery

Fellowship and lunch following the burial at the Barrett Community Center, 109 Barrett Avenue.

Arrangements by Erickson-Smith Funeral Home of Elbow Lake.