Marilyn Opitz Dieken, born February 25, 1955, in Eden, South Dakota, to Vernon and Arlene Opitz, lived a life defined by fierce determination, courageous spirit, and a love that never wavered. She passed away on August 30, 2026, surrounded by the family she devoted her life to.

Marilyn grew up with a strength that was unmistakable — the kind that showed in the way she protected her loved ones, faced challenges head‑on, and built a life rooted in grit, generosity, and devotion. She shared a lifelong bond with her brother Vern (wife Brenda), whose presence remained a steady and cherished part of her life.

Marilyn married Kevin Stahl, and to that union were born her two children, Nicole (husband Bart) and Cody. Becoming a mother was one of her greatest joys, and nothing brought her more pride than watching her children grow into the people she loved so fiercely.

Later, Marilyn married Kenny Dieken, and with that marriage she gained three more children — Kristin, Karri, and Klint — whom she welcomed with the same open heart and steady devotion that defined her life. Together, Marilyn and Kenny poured their determination into building a trucking company, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and her willingness to take on new challenges with courage and conviction.

Marilyn was also a grandmother whose love was felt in every warm meal, every gathering, and every moment spent around her table. Her unforgettable grandma magic in the kitchen created comfort, healing, and tradition. Her grandchildren — Levi, Mesa, Lane, Mattie, Macy, Bionca, and Sterling, along with her niece Mckenzie and nephews Connor and Hayden Opitz — each held a special place in her heart, and she poured her love into them with the same fierce devotion that shaped her life.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Kenny Dieken, and her beloved granddaughter Bionca.

A graveside burial will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish on September 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. A celebration of Marilyn’s life will immediately follow at her home.

Marilyn’s legacy is one of strength, love, and tradition — a woman who stood firm when life demanded it, who loved without hesitation, and who created moments in the kitchen and beyond that her family will cherish for generations.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her unwavering heart.