Marjorie “Marge” Ann Grorud was born in Clear Lake, South Dakota, to Mable and Raymond Johnson. She was the youngest of four sisters and a caring older sister to her younger brother. Marge was the last surviving member of the Johnson household.

Growing up on a South Dakota farm, Marge did not have an easy childhood. Yet through those early years, she developed the values that would define her life: resilience, hard work, and unwavering integrity. While helping care for her ill mother and younger brother, she also learned compassion, loyalty, and generosity—qualities that would leave a lasting mark on everyone she met. Throughout her life, Marge was a true mentor, a trusted friend, and a steady source of laughter and love to everyone that knew her.

Marge graduated from Clear Lake High School, where she proudly served as a baton twirler in the school band. She continued her education at South Dakota State University, where she met the love of her life, Garry. With her characteristic humor, she once said at Garry’s 80th birthday, “I saw him, I wanted him, and I got him!” That spirit of determination stayed with her always. Whether it was riding in RAGBRAI, running the Jackrabbit 15, or serving on the Sons of Norway International Board of Directors, when Marge set a goal for herself—she achieved it.

If you were to describe Marge’s life, it would be centered around her family, her community, her creativity, her hospitality, and her love of travel.

Family was at the heart of everything Marge did. She created more than just a home—she created a place where memories were made and traditions thrived. Holidays were magical under her care, filled with thoughtful decorations, carefully planned gatherings, and unforgettable meals. She made each member of her family feel seen, supported, and deeply loved, spending countless hours traveling and attending her children’s and grandchildren’s events—whether swim meets, ball games, 4-H events, or golf tournaments. She was also Garry’s constant partner, proudly standing beside him in all his work and community activities.

Community Service was one of Marge’s greatest passions. She gave generously of her time and talents to organizations such as the swim team, 4-H, sports booster clubs, and Sons of Norway. Across the state, she shared her skills by teaching wood carving and Norwegian dancing. Most meaningful to her, however, was sharing her faith. Through Bible study, youth groups, confirmation, Sunday school, and Bible camps, Marge guided and inspired many, leaving a quiet but powerful legacy of faith.

Creativity and Art were lifelong companions. Though she never sought recognition, Marge was remarkably naturally gifted. A true lifelong learner, she taught herself pencil drawing, quilting, needlepoint, cross-stitch, and eventually her beloved wood carving—learning through books, workshops, and perseverance. Her hands created beauty, but her humility made it even more meaningful.

Cooking and baking were among Marge’s most cherished ways of showing love. Anyone fortunate enough to sit at her table knew they were in for something special—and that they would never leave hungry. No family gathering was complete without Nana’s famous caramel rolls, lefse and homemade buns, lovingly prepared and eagerly anticipated by all.

Travel brought Marge great joy, especially the adventures she shared with Garry. Together, they explored the world, visiting Norway, Spain, Italy, Cancun, Hawaii, Acapulco, the Bahamas, Alaska, and beyond, creating treasured memories along the way.

Marge and Garry shared just short of 64 years of marriage built on love, laughter, and deep friendship. They were true soulmates, and their relationship stood as a beautiful example of what commitment, compassion, and resilience can create. Above all, Marge considered her family to be her greatest accomplishment.

Marge leaves behind a space that cannot be filled, but a love that will never fade. We will see her in our traditions she started, taste her touch in the recipes she passed down, and feel her in the way we care for one another. She taught us to work hard, love deeply, keep our faith, and always make room at the table—preferably with plenty of food! We will miss her more than words can say, but we are so grateful to have been loved by her, and we will carry that love with us every day.

Marge is survived by her beloved husband, Garry Grorud; her children, Shaun (Todd) Haaseth and Stacey (Kurt) McLey; six grandchildren, Brock, Alexa, Dana, Kyle, Mia, and Ike; and five great-grandchildren.

We will be celebrating Marge’s life on June 20th at 10:30 at the Trinity Lutheran Church located at 709 State Ave E, Estelline, South Dakota.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to either the SDSU Grorud Scholarship Fund or the KU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (“KU ADRC’). Donations can be made both online or by mail:

Donations to the Grorud SDSU Scholarship Fund:

• Online: Please visit https://givenow.sdstatefoundation.org ; select “other” under “Designation Box” and type “Grorud Family Scholarship.”
• Mail: Please make payable to the SDSU Alumni & Foundation and add “Grorud Family Scholarship” in the memo line.

Mail checks to SDSA Alumni & Foundation

815 Medary Ave

Brookings, Sd 57006

Donations to the KU ADRC:

• Online: www.kuendowment.org/give ; please designate donation for KU ADRC
• Mail: Please make payable to the KU Endowment and add “for KU ADRC” in the memo line.

Mail checks to: The KU Endowment

3901 Ranbow Blvd.

Mail Stop 3012

Kansas City, KS 66160