Marlyn Brecht, 87, entered his eternal life on July 26, 2026 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with his children at his side.

Born on October 14, 1938, in Norway, Iowa, Marlyn was the son of Rinehart and Dorothy Brecht. He grew up on the family farm east of Norway and graduated from Norway High School in 1956.  Marlyn and Elaine Irene Reardon of Newhall, Iowa were united in marriage to on August 24, 1959, at old St. Paul's in Newhall. Together, they raised four children, Lori (Semler) Brecht, Mark (Nancy) Brecht, Steven (Peggy) Brecht and Douglas (Robin) Brecht that resulted in 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren. As Dad and Grandpa he poured his life and thoughts into his kids and grandkids and traveled with Elaine to many, many baseball, basketball, football, soccer, track and music performances and took great pride in all of their achievements. He had a unique way of counselling, got the important stuff right while always cheering them on.

Marlyn was known as a reliable worker often pulling double shifts between farming and his "town" job. He was especially skilled at operating equipment and knew machinery by sound and feel. While he farmed most of his life in the Norway area, over the years he was employed by Wilson's, FMC and retired in 2004 after 19 years at General Mills. He was always appreciative and committed to his work.

Marlyn had true love for fishing and led family vacations to Webb Lake, Minnesota. This turned into tradition and left a legacy of memories and love of the North country in family and many friends who would stop in over the years. No one will forget the years when the whole family would go and take up the whole resort! His heaven on earth.

During retirement Marlyn and Elaine enjoyed travelling and took many bus trips throughout the United States. Favorites were NE Iowa in Fall and Branson's many music venues.

Marlyn is survived by his wife, Elaine; his four children, 13 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Jim and Hazel Reardon; siblings, Beryl Ollinger; twin brothers, Donald and Ronald (infancy) Brecht and one granddaughter, Kristen Brecht.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday July 29, 2026 with Rosary at 3:30 PM at St Michael's Catholic Church in Norway.

Mass of the Christion Burial is 10:00 AM Thursday, July 30th at St Michael's. Burial will take place at St. Michael's Cemetery, Norway. Memorials may be directed to the Oldorf Hospice House of Hiawatha IA. Online condolences may be sent to www.neuhausfuneralservice.com

Marlyn's family would like to thank the many care givers from "My Neighbor Homecare", "Right At Home" and Mercy Hospice House for their very kind and loving care for us and our Dad and special thank you to Dad's good friend and neighbor Mary Urell.