Marilyn Zezulka

Marilyn J. Zezulka, 78, of New Albin died Sunday, November 10, 2019 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, MN. Friends greeted the family Thursday, November 14 at the New Albin Community Center. Martin Funeral Home in Waukon assisted the family with arrangements.

Marilyn Jean Zezulka was born November 21, 1940 in Colesburg, the daughter of Donald James and Eleanor (Cole) Hyde. She attended country school and graduated from Elkader High School in 1958. Marilyn attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette and received her teaching certificate in 1960.

Her first teaching job was in New Albin, where she met and fell in love with Robert Zezulka. The couple was married June 30, 1961 at Mount Hope Presbyterian Church in rural New Albin. Later, they moved to Edgewood, and in 1966 they started farming Marilyn’s parents’ farm near Elkport. Marilyn resumed teaching elementary school in Elkader. The family returned to New Albin in 1969, where they bought and operated the E. H. Reiser farm.

Marilyn enjoyed farm life and milked a Holstein herd for 30 years. She loved her grandchildren, her chickens and gardening. There was always a cup of coffee and something good to eat when you stopped by “Little Granny’s” house. Many of her favorite times were spent with family and on Sunday drives through the countryside.

Survivors include three daughters: Robin (Larry) Harmon and Renee (Dan) Mooney, both of New Albin, and Roxi (Panagiotis) Bougas of Fullerton, CA; John (Jamie) Hyde of Albia; 14 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her brother, Jim Hyde; and her parents.

Online condolences can be left at www.martinfunerals.com.