In Memory of Marian A. Modrell

Marian A. Modrell, age 88, of Battle Creek, Iowa, passed away on February 28, 2025 at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the First Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek, Iowa. Rev. Dr. Jim Edwards will officiate. Committal Services will follow in the Mount Hope Cemetery of Battle Creek, Iowa.

A Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 7, 2025, at the Frist Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek, Iowa.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Battle Creek, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements.  Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Marian Adele (Schmidt) Modrell was born on July 17, 1936, to Milton and Karen (Svendson) Schmidt, in Battle Creek, Iowa. She received her education at Cushing Consolidated School and graduated in May of 1954. 

After graduation, Marian worked at Penney’s in Storm Lake, IA, and later as a secretary to superintendent in Cushing for a year. On August 21, 1955, Marian was united in marriage to John “Jack” Modrell Jr. in the First Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek, IA. The couple were blessed with three children, John Samuel III, James and Joyce. The family made their home on the family farm northwest of Battle Creek.  

Marian was an over 50-year member of the First Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek. She served as a deacon for six years and was also involved in Lions Club, calendar committee, serving committee, sewing committee and a member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary.

 An accomplished baker, Marian was well known for her sour cream raisin pie. She was a gracious hostess. Anytime you would stop by the coffee pot was on and a delectable treat would be waiting to be served. Marian treasured her family especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were her pride and joy.

Survivors include her children, John Modrell of Holstein, IA, James (Stacey) Modrell of Moville, IA, and Joyce (David) Johnson of Knoxville, TN; 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; sister Elaine (Jack) Holdren of Omaha, NE; and several nieces and nephews.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents Milton and Karen Schmidt; husband John "Jack" Modrell; grandson Tyler Johnson; brother Robert Schmidt; sister Audrey Beck; and daughter-in-law Julie Modrell