Marilyn Leonard

August 10, 1934 - June 5, 2025 Marilyn Jean Leonard, 90, passed away on June 5th 2025. Marilyn was born on 10 August 1934 in Rock Island, Illinois to Margret and Richard Ostrom. She graduated from Rock Island High School in 1953. At 24, Marilyn married doctor and inventor Andrew Runge Petersen and they were blessed with four children- Deb 68- Christine 66- Judy 62- and Andrew R. Jr. 56.

Marilyn's early career was in fashion technical design and apparel pattern making for elite New York clothing companies which included William Mundy's clothing apparel manufacturing out of Davenport, lowa. Her creativity has been a gift she passed onto her children and grandchildren who all lead very creative lives. The family lived in Toronto, Canada from 1963-1968, then moved to Jamaica in 1968-1969 while supporting the practice. She was a compassionate and dedicated person, always teaching healthy lifestyle living.

Another love and passion of hers was for our Nation. Her daughter Christine who was in the USAF, inspired her second career at the Rock Island Arsenal. After 28 years at the Rock Island Arsenal, she retired. During her time at the arsenal she was an auxiliary member of the military police and was always impeccable in her tailored uniforms which stayed true to her first love; the form of clothing. Other special interests of hers were for the stories and history of our National Heroes. She collected and archived the history of each and every Medal of Honor recipient, read books, and watched documentaries of historical and current events. Never feeling the urge to retire, Marilyn started a job as the cafeteria lunch lady at Lourdes Catholic School where she stayed for ten years. In her free time, she loved to travel to visit her daughters, Judy in Hawaii and Christine in the Air Force. She also loved skiing in Austria, Switzerland, and Telluride. Later in life she loved staying engaged in current news, gardening, and continuing in holistic practices. She will be remembered by her infectious laugh, carefree attitude, her sense of humor, grace, and remarkable beauty.

She is survived by her four children and three grandchildren, Ayana 30, Millie 28, and Dylan 26. Her mannerisms, strength, and love will continue in their lives. A special thank you to Marilyn’s daughter Deb and dear friend Steve Flanigin for their unwavering support and care. Condolences may be left at www.rungemortuary.com