Marilyn Ruth Siskonen

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Marilyn Ruth Siskonen, who passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 24, 2025, at Benedictine Court in St. Peter, Minnesota.

Marilyn was born on August 21, 1927, in Ironwood, Michigan, to Joseph August and Arabella (Swanson) Cleys. Her family moved to Robbinsdale MN in 1944. She graduated from Robbinsdale High School in 1945. She moved back to Ironwood and was united in marriage to Keith Raymond “Dick” Siskonen on December 28, 1946. They were blessed with two wonderful daughters, Julaine and Bonna. The family relocated to St. Peter in 1964. Following Keith's unexpected passing on November 13, 1979, Marilyn returned to work as a bookkeeper at Burch’s Shoes.

Marilyn was a devoted member of First Lutheran Church in St. Peter, where she generously gave her time folding bulletins and helping in the church office. She found joy in spending time with family and friends and simple pastimes, especially knitting and taking walks. Marilyn lived independently for many years before moving to Benedictine Court Assisted Living earlier this year.

She is survived by her daughters, Julie (Dick) Battig of St. Joseph and Bonna (Steve) Gostomczik of St. Peter; five grandchildren, Troy (Sally) Battig, Anne (Dave) Kaluza, Sara Gostomczik, Eric (Deb) Gostomczik, and Kurt (Shelby Baker) Gostomczik; eleven great-grandchildren, Austin (Annie) Battig, Logan Battig, Abby Kaluza, Katie Kaluza, Vincent Kaluza, Evelyn Kaluza, Lexi (Tomer) Blas, Lizzy Orth, Jeremiah (Lindsey) Fettig, Josh (Jen) Fettig, and Isla Gostomczik; and two great-great-grandchildren, Bernadette Battig and Violet Battig.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Keith “Dick” Siskonen; and brother, Joseph (Patti) Cleys, Jr.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held on October 25, 2025 at 11:00 at First Lutheran Church in St. Peter. Following a brief service, family and friends are invited to gather in her honor - sharing memories, offering support, and enjoying a meal together until 3pm. Graveside service will be held at a later time at Resurrection Cemetery in St. Peter.