Marilyn "Sis" Ann Mullen

Marilyn “Sis” Ann Mullen, 79, of Rockford, IA, passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, of cancer, holding her loving husband’s hand and surrounded by family. Funeral arrangements are with Fullerton Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Fullerton Funeral Home, 123 2nd St SE, Mason City, IA. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. with a one-hour prior visitation on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Fullerton Funeral Home with Pastor Michael Ward from St. Croix Hospice officiating. Marilyn will be laid to rest at Rock Grove Township Cemetery in Nora Springs, IA at a later date. Marilyn was born June 24, 1946, the third of four children, to Wes and Harriett (Schultz) Navratil in Rockford, IA. As a child and even into adulthood she would spend most of her time in Grafton on the family farm with her grandparents, Art & Lora Schultz, whom she looked to as role models for her own life. Marilyn met her soulmate, Dennis Mullen, in the summer of 1961 in what can only be described as love at first sight. The couple were married in Clear Lake, IA on August 26, 1962. Shortly afterwards they welcomed their first daughter, Vicky. For many years, the three of them enjoyed camping, golfing, and spending time with extended family. After settling into family life, Marilyn went back to school to earn her GED—it was a meaningful accomplishment that she worked hard for and never took for granted. In 1973, the Mullens moved to the country, creating a loving space for family, friends, and neighbors, and growing the best food garden, similar to how her own grandparents lived. In 1976, they welcomed their second daughter, Denise, and the family was complete. Marilyn worked various roles over the years at Trettin’s Hatchery, the Rockford School systems in food service for 26 years, and as a high school Sunday school teacher at Zion Lutheran Church in Rockford where she was able to share her strong faith in God through music and gospel with “her kids” that she saw pass through the lunch line at the high school. However, her favorite role was being a grandmother. Marilyn & Dennis were blessed with two grandchildren, Travis & Rose, and one great granddaughter, Elizabeth. They would spend every opportunity with them including summer vacations around the US, babysitting after school, riding the fastest and highest roller coasters, and weekend sleepovers. Marilyn was constantly learning through her grandchildren’s school projects, musical talents, and even assisted as a scout mother on Travis’s journey to Eagle Scout. She credited staying young to having to keep up with her grandchildren. Marilyn is survived by her husband of 63 years, Dennis; daughters Vicky (John) McCloskey, and Denise; Grandchildren Travis McCloskey, Rose (Travis) Korleski, and great granddaughter Elizabeth Korleski; Sister Debbie (Jim) Fitkin; Sister-in-laws Jean Navratil, Joyce Navratil; and many nieces & nephews. Awaiting her arrival in Heaven are her parents, and brothers Jerry & Ronald (Butch) Navratil.

Marilyn "Sis" Ann Mullen

June 24, 1946 - July 29, 2025

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