Marlen L. Heining, age 71, of Atwater, died Thursday morning, Oct. 5, 2006, at the Methodist Hospital in Rochester from complications of lung cancer.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 9, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Atwater, with the Rev. Daniel Belgum-Blad officiating. The interment will be in the Union Cemetery. Military Honors were provided by the Samstad-Jensen American Legion Post 375 of Atwater. Memorials are preferred to the Atwater Block Nursing Program or the Hope Lodge in Rochester, Minn.

Marlen Luverne Heining was born on Aug. 5, 1935, on the family farm, north of Atwater, the son of Stella (Erne) and Arthur H. Heining. He grew up in that area, was baptized and confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church and received his education at St. John Lutheran School.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 17 and served overseas in Germany from 1954 to 1956.

Marlen attended the University of Minnesota for a time and then moved to Albert Lea. On May 27, 1962, in Albert Lea, he was married to Patricia S. Baker. They made their home in Albert Lea until 1965, when they moved to Atwater. Marlen helped manage the Holm Finance for 13 years and later co-established the Home Agency in Atwater.

He spent all his life caring for his family, supporting his community and enjoying the company of friends. Marlen enjoyed wood working and landscaping. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, served on the church council, was an usher and served on the finance committee. Marlen was also a member of the Atwater American Legion, VFW in Willmar, the Orion Masonic Lodge in Atwater, Mt. Nebo Chapter, De Payens Commandery, Zuhrah Shrine Temple and Willmar Area Shrine Club.

He is survived by his wife, Partricia of Atwater; three sons, Eric J. and Bridget Heining of Chaska, Ryan A and Michelle Heining of Hutchinson and Joel A. and Stephanie Heining of Chaska and five grandchildren Kjirstin, Madeleine, Jeffery, Josh and Nickolas. Also surviving are his mother Stella Heining of Litchfield and one sister Dianne and Rand Thorp of Litchfield, besides other relatives and friends.

Marlen was preceded in death by his father.

Marlen will be dearly missed by all.

Arrangements by Atwater Funeral Home, 700 Becker Ave. S.W., Willmar, MN, 56201, (320)974-8377.