Marilyn Allmon

Marilyn Allmon, of Benson, died Monday, August 17, 2026 at Centra Care Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar at the age of 76.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at a later date.

Marilyn Dianne (Appell) Allmon was born October 12, 1949, in Morris, Illinois, the daughter of Donald and Margery (Schafer) Appell. She moved with her family from Erlum to Osage and then to Dexter, Iowa, before settling in Alexandria, Minnesota, where she graduated from high school in 1967.

Marilyn was united in marriage to Steven Claussen in 1969. They lived in Benson, where she worked as a teller at Swift County Bank. In the mid-1980s, Marilyn moved to Burnsville and worked at several hospitals as a registrar and nursing assistant. She married Jack Allman on December 17, 1988. Jack passed away on January 27, 2008, and Marilyn later returned to Benson.

Marilyn was a woman of strength and grace who faced life’s difficulties with dignity. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, known for her gentle nature, steady presence, and quiet wisdom. She found happiness in the simple things in life and had a way of making the world feel a little warmer just by being in it.

She loved spending time outdoors and found peace beneath the stars, joy around a campfire, and companionship in her dogs, especially her beloved golden retrievers. An avid gardener, Marilyn took great pleasure in watching things grow and in creating beauty around her. She loved animals, nature, and the people who were important to her. Her life was measured not by years, but by the love she gave and the lives she touched.

Marilyn is survived by her children, Corey (Darcy) Claussen of Benson and Gina Claussen of Minneapolis; two grandchildren, Alex and Julia; four sisters, Linda Kiegan of Waterloo, Iowa, Joyce Appell of Yellow Springs, Ohio, Carol Appell of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, and Debra Appell of Minnetonka, Minnesota; her beloved golden retriever, Maia; and extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Margery Appell; her husband, Jack; and a brother, Scott Appel.

Memorials may be directed to Swift County Humane Society, an organization that reflects Marilyn’s lifelong love of animals.

Marilyn leaves behind a life filled with love, kindness, and quiet beauty. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and fondly remembered for the gentle soul she was.