Probituary: Marjorie Moe
Update: Marjorie Moe, now 95 (2015) moved to Eastern Star Nursing Home October of 2011. Her (now former) neighbor Jody Jens interviewed her several years back for the April/May 2009 Inspire(d).
I first met Marj when I moved next door to her in 2003. She brought over a gift basket brimming with delicious baked goods – the first of many home cooked treats she would share with us over the years. One of the first things I learned about Marj is that she loves moose! She has many moose collectibles in her home and yard. She is a cancer survivor – she was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2003, won the battle, and has been cancer free going on six years now. Marjorie was born in 1919 on her family farm eight miles east of Waukon. She has six children, 28 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She has many hobbies and likes to share her knowledge of birds, butterflies, and moose, often giving presentations to various church groups and nursing homes in the area. Many a summer evening, when the nights are warm and her windows are open, I can hear the sweet melody of Marjorie playing hymns on her piano.
Try to describe yourself in one sentence.
I enjoy my friends, neighbors, and family. I love the beauty of nature.
Jody’s note: “Here I think Marj is being her usual modest and humble self. I would describe her as a generous spirit; always giving, always supporting. This is evident by the sheer numbers of people she calls “friends.” She has a strong faith, a resilient character, and I’ve never heard her say a bad word about anyone. There is always a car, or two, parked in her driveway for many people are drawn to visit and spend time with her. She’s a talented quilter, baker, and has crafted many keepsakes for her children and grandchildren. Most importantly, she understands the value of the simple things in life and many summer afternoons you can find her sitting in her backyard among her beautiful flower gardens watching the birds, squirrels, and butterflies.”
What’s the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Look for the good in people. Remember that love and friendship are the most important things in life.
How about the worst?
As a young woman I loved to shop, visit people, and attend church functions. I was told, “Your place is in the home.” I was devastated.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a Rural School Teacher. My mother wanted me to be a Nurse. She thought the rural schools weren’t good enough for me and that I should apply for a teaching job in the “Town School.”
What do/did you do?
Against my mother’s wishes, I became a Rural School Teacher and enjoyed it. I taught for four years until I was married.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want with you?
A root beer float, a piano, and my Junior Choir singing with Esther Egge playing the piano.
If you could eat anything every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Sweet Soup! (A traditional Norwegian dessert made with prunes, apricots, raisins, tapioca and grape juice)
Name one thing you could not live without.
Besides my friends and family it would have to be my piano.
Tell us about…Your wedding day.
I married Earl Moe on June 9, 1943 at Old West Paint Creek Church. It was a beautiful day. The snowball trees, spirea, and peonies were in full bloom. Some of the relatives decorated the church with many beautiful flowers some of which adorned an arch. After the wedding we went to my parent’s home for the reception. We didn’t honeymoon until several years later when we visited my daughter in Bismarck, ND.
Your favorite memory.
At 89 having my grandson give me a helicopter ride and then my other grandson giving me a motorcycle ride! I look forward to a hot-air balloon ride when I’m 90!
