Marian was born to John and Mabel Linder on November 7, 1921, in Vining. She graduated from Minneapolis High School and attended the University of Minnesota for three years before World War II. Marian later completed her studies at Black Hills State College, earning a Bachelor of Science cum laude with three minor degrees. She went on to obtain her master’s degree in Psychology and Speech. 

She dedicated her life to education, teaching English, Speech, and Psychology at the National American University in Rapid City, S.D. A lifelong learner with a deep appreciation for knowledge, she was honored in Who’s Who in the World for her academic contributions. She also had a profound love for music, especially classical, which brought her joy throughout her life.

She met her husband, Robert Lee Dilly, while he was in the Army, and she volunteered at the Red Cross. They married on June 22, 1946. Robert was a World War II veteran and civil engineer who earned both a Bachelor of Science and an honorary Doctorate in Civil Engineering. They raised one son (Ronald) and one daughter (Patricia) and shared a life of love and adventure until his passing in 1987.

In 1993, Marian moved to Colorado from Dallas, Texas, to be closer to her daughter Patricia and her new grandchildren. She enjoyed the company of her family, volunteering, and hosting her annual Glogg Party, which brought together family and friends in celebration. Her warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Marian is survived by her daughter, Patricia Jeanette Dilly, and three grandchildren: Amie Marie Loftin (Ronald), Dylan Vero (Patricia), and Hayley Vero (Patricia), and one great-grandchild, Zachary Loftin (Amie). She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters Shirley Lenning (Dick) and Jane Personne.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Robert Lee Dilly, son Dr. Ronald Lee Dilly, and siblings Ruby (Linder) Dunn (Art), Pearl (Linder) Markstrom (Marvin), Bert Linder (Mae), Norma (Linder) Nelson (Neal), Thelma (Linder) Thompson (Thomas), and Reynold Linder (Kathryn).

All who know her will deeply miss her sharp mind, kindness, and passion for learning.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 26, 2025, at 12 p.m. at Rejoice Lutheran Church in Erie, CO (3413 Lowell Ln, Erie, CO 80516), with a reception to follow.

Marian will be laid to rest in Dallas, Texas, beside her late husband, Robert, at a later date.

Marian’s legacy will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. As Marian said in her “100 Years Book,” “It has been a great 100 years! It’s a beautiful and wonderful world and life is what you make of it!”

Memorial contributions may be made to TRU Community Care (Hospice)