Mary Katherine Marcus

Mary Katherine (Berndt) Marcus, 92, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025, after a brief illness. Per Mary’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held. Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Marion is assisting the family.

Mary was born on November 18, 1932, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the daughter of Earl and Helen (VanVoris) Berndt. She was a 1950 graduate of Roosevelt High School. On October 18, 1952, Mary was united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Kenneth Marcus at St. Helena’s Church in Minneapolis. Bob would serve in the US Air Force but would return to Cedar Rapids where Mary would work in various administrative roles from Collins Radio to finding her favorite at Linn-Mar Community Schools business office.

Mary had a passion for life that was evident in her love for casinos and bingo, where she often found excitement and camaraderie. She cherished her time spent with friends at the Linn-Mar Retirement Group, where bonds were strengthened and memories created. Dining out with her close circle of friends brought her immense joy, and every week she looked forward to her visits with Lola, her beloved stylist, who ensured Mary always looked her best. For many years, Mary shared her life with her partner, Bob. Together, they were a testament to love and partnership, embarking on countless adventures and creating a lifetime of cherished memories. The bond they shared was profound, and it is in his embrace that Mary will now find her peace once more. Mary will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Mary is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughter, Kathryn (Carl) Zemanek of Cedar Rapids; two grand pups, Roxy and Sophie; two grandchildren, Cy John (Vicky) Marcus of North Pole, Alaska, and Samantha Marcus of Seoul, South Korea; and two great-grandchildren, Breana and Jacob.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Marcus; son, Thomas Marcus; sister, Donna Saban; and brother, Robert Berndt.