Marie L. Otteson-Jones

Marie L. Otteson-Jones, age 104, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the IU Hospice House in Bloomington, Indiana. Her long life was a testament to resilience, grace, and enduring love for her family and community. Born in Winona, Minnesota in 1921, to the late Rudolph and Wilma (Hilgert) Rothering, Marie witnessed over a century of change and progress, always meeting life with wisdom and warmth. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and (recently) a great-great grandmother. The backbone of five generations of family, she was known for her gentle spirit, lighthearted humor, sharp mind, and unwavering kindness. She deeply cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, always seeming to know exactly what her children and grandchildren needed most from her—whether it was a listening ear, a warm hug, or a plate of her extraordinarily delicious chocolate chip cookies, which became a treasured family tradition. Marie is survived by her four children: Judy Lawrence, Martha (Tony) Lubarsky, Karn Lucero, and John (Liz) Otteson. She was blessed with nine devoted grandchildren: Mike (Marika) Lubarsky, Tina Lubarsky, John (Carrie) Lawrence, Kenneth Eric (Carrie) Lucero, Alex (Mandy) Lucero, Kara Lucero, Kristin (Chris) Golden, James (Maria) Otteson, and Julia Otteson; as well as eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Marie is also survived by her youngest sister, Sally Rosendahl and four beloved stepchildren from the Jones family: Fred, Sally, Nancy and Doug. Marie was preceded in death by her first husband of over 60 years, Schuyler Otteson, and her second husband, Frank Jones. Marie’s siblings – Grace Buchmiller, Betty Rosenow, Dale Rothering, Leroy Rothering also preceded her. A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church (219 E 4th St, Bloomington, IN 47408) on Tuesday, October 7 at 2:30 p.m., with visitation beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either First United Methodist Church or the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, honoring Marie’s lifelong commitment to her faith and education. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Meadowood Senior Living team, where Marie made her home for over twenty years, for their compassionate and dedicated care. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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Marie L. Otteson-Jones

June 21, 1921 - October 1, 2025