Marian Bartsh

Bartsh Marian, age 55, of Plymouth, MN, passed away Monday morning after a courageous fight with leukemia. A devoted mother and especially devoted grandmother, Marian was surrounded by her children and loved ones throughout her life and at its end. As a mother, grandmother, volunteer and friend, Marian worked to provide a community of support and enjoyment for children and young adults. For many years, she worked with other devoted parents in community and school groups to better the environments in which children lived, played and learned. After her own children had grown, Marian returned to work within the schools continuing to help children, especially those who needed a little bit extra. Every child and student she ever met was in her own words, ``just a really neat kid.'' Her greatest joy in life came when Dominic, her grandson, was born. Nothing in the world could light up a room the way Marian's smile would when Dominic was near. The only thing that came close was the smile on Dominic's face at the sight of his Grammy. Throughout life, Marian surrounded herself with a remarkable group of friends who we count on now to give love and support to each other in the way that she taught us. She showed us all how to live life with compassion, courage, strength, understanding and love, even in the face of adversity. All of these lessons and the remarkable joy that she brought to so many lives are remembered every time we think of Marian and the life that she led. She will be missed, but never forgotten, and she will always be loved. Marian is survived by her children, Stephanie Abbate & husband Robert, Andrew Bartsh & wife Cindy, Geoffrey Bartsh & fiancee Natascha Geiger; grandson, Dominic Abbate; brother, Robert Keisler and countless other family and friends. Memorial service Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 2 pm, Minnetonka Lutheran Church, 16023 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka (952-935-3419). Visitation Wednesday, 5-8 pm, Huber Funeral Home, 520 2nd St., Excelsior. Private family interment. Memorials preferred to donor's choice. Huber Funeral Homes Excelsior Chapel 952-474-9595

Published on October 8, 2002