Marlene Ann Skuldt

Marlene Ann Skuldt (Midthun), 75, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away on May 9, 2026, after facing pulmonary fibrosis with incredible strength, tenacity, and dignity. She died with her daughter holding her hands and close family nearby.

Marlene was born on October 21, 1950, in Madison, WI, the daughter of Florence Midthun (Edge) and Ferdinand Midthun. She worked for the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as a Transportation Assistant for over 20 years. During her tenure, she was formally recognized numerous times for her commitment and exceptional performance and was described by her supervisor as the “Best Transportation Assistant in the country.” Additionally, she worked part-time for 23 years in the Home Department of JC Penney in Madison, where she developed close relationships with several women that continued past her retirement.

She thoroughly enjoyed crafting activities, such as sewing, crocheting, and knitting and regularly took classes at a local cultural center where she learned jewelry making, pottery, basket making, and stained glass. Over the years, her daughter, grandchildren, and other family and friends were graced with many personalized, beautiful, handcrafted gifts which are greatly treasured.

Marlene was committed to maintaining a consistent healthy lifestyle. She took great pride in preparing and eating whole food. Her self-care also included daily physical activity and mindfulness practices. Throughout her life, she was an active member of the YMCA, participating in a diversity of activities and classes including swimming, cycling, weights, yoga, Pilates, and Tai chi. In the last few years, she formed a close bond with members of her Tai chi class and was determined to be able continue attending, even when it meant pulling an oxygen tank with her.

Following her retirement in 2021, Marlene moved to be closer to her daughter and her family. She loved them tremendously and made every effort to celebrate their accomplishments and milestones. She was very proud of her four grandchildren and loved them with all her heart, often telling them she would “hide them in a paper bag and sneak them home with her.”

Remaining to carry her love and memory are her daughter Lesa Kardash (Keith); step daughter Kristin Niederberger-Skuldt (Jim); grandchildren Isabelle, Grayson, Oliver, and Maya; sisters Karen Davies, Susan Kinnamon (Jim), and Lesa Midthun; nieces and nephews Dan Anderson, Nona Hartman, Ken Midthun (Tina), Len Midthun, Ben Midthun, Greg Midthun, Hope Davies, Laura Steele (Robert), Amanda Rudolph (Chris), Kathy Dibble (Everett), and Kris Effie. Proceeding her in death are her parents, brother Arnold Midthun, and sisters Connie Tabor and Vivian Baumgartner.

A celebration of Marlene’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Red Sands Stone Enclosed Shelter in South Wood County Park located at 7111 South Park Road in Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494. Visitation and light snacks/beverages will occur from 10am-6pm, with a catered buffet lunch from 12-3pm. 

Donations in Marlene’s memory should be made to either The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation to support research that supports treatments and a path for a cure or to the South Wood County YMCA in Wisconsin Rapids to help ensure that everyone, regardless of their age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Donations can be made directly to these organizations or given to the family who will divide donations between the two organizations.