Because We Never Gave Up!
Sorry to know about your heartwrenching loss. May God's heavenly arms enfold Marly with love.
I am veery sorry to hear of your daughters tragic death. The pain must be unbearable, My thoughtss and prayers are wwith you and your family. Love, Dena
I am in awe of what you have done to keep Marlys' memory alive. Although I never knew her, I feel like I am able to get to know who she was through Jack and Fran. I had the privilege to read Justice For Marlys and hear the story first hand by Jack, a co-worker of mine. May God continue to bless your lives and the work you do. Rest in Peace Marlys, Heidi Nell
I just wanted to say I am so happy that you found justice for Marlys and inspired by the good work you've done for other families. The police knocked on my parents' door after Marlys was killed (I was just a baby) because we lived close by. I remember hearing about her for the first time when I asked my dad who the cross was for on the side of Memorial's Sunday school. All these years later and I never forgot her, bless you and your family.
my hearts goes out to the family i would like a ribbon button to remmeber her in my heart jesus love u very much
It has been 29 years this Mother's Day weekend since you left your earthly home to live in Heaven. Time passes so fast!!!! A day does not go by that we don't think about you and your wonderful smile, especially on Mother's Day. How painful that was for your mother (my sister), and all who loved you. We will never forget you, and we miss you dearly.
I have recently read your book. Justice for marlys. It was a crushing story and couldnt imagine the pain you went through and are goin through. i have daughters myself whom are my everything. I admire your strength. God bless Love, Nena Cass Lake,MN
My deepest sympathy to you and your family....I just saw the CBS special and a cold chill came over me. I am 46 years old now, living in another state and I remember working as a waitress at Embers in Bloomington between 1979-late 1980-where this same man came in at least three times when I worked the night shift-one morning I left and he was waiting for me by my car. He wouldn't let me leave-he pushed me into my car and the fear of knowing I was moments from rape or worse will never leave me. My angel must have been with me-because someone drove in and scared him away and I never saw him again. After all this years-I can't believe that I escaped unharmed along with other women-who I saw on the show. I had no clue until just a few days ago how lucky I was......... God bless you-you have been thru hell-just remember your daugher will always be smiling down on you and waiting to welcome you into her arm again someday. She was truly beautiful and I can only wish that her angel wasn't ready to take her home yet-but I think God must have needed her for more. My prayers are with you-I can't imagine the pain of losing a child-God bless. Terry (Also born 1961-graduated 1979 and have now taken to healing others as a nurse)
Dearest Marlys, You are still touching so many lives with your smile, and giving hope to those who still need justice. We get beautiful letters from strangers wishing they could have known you & are angered that you were taken the way you were. Your friends still write and call and most of all REMEMBER your smile and the love that you gave while you were here with us. You are a treasure to all whose lives were touched by you. We will always love & miss you. Love, MOM
I was just looking and old photos and I found one with Beth Campbell, and Marlys came to my mind right away, I sure do miss them good old Days with Marlys and Beth. Happy Birthday Marlys I Miss you. Diane
It's your birthday and we just want to say, we miss you more with each passing day. Our lives changed forever when you were taken from us, but someday we will be together again in your home so far away. Love you always.
Thoughts and prayers be with you.
I was thinking of Marlys. I was just wondering if everything was different where would she be now? and how life would be so different but it is nice to know that she has touched so many lives and helped so many people. More importantly, she is not forgotten. Maria
i am currently doing a book report for my criminal justice class, and this book has really touched me in many different ways. I am glad to say that this is by far the best book that i have ever read. I will encourage many people to read your story in trying to find justice for Marlys. People dont realize that this could happen to them at anytime.
I was just searching for some things on my P.C. and ran accross your site that I had saved when I wrote a comment back in March of 2005, I read it again and it still Breaks my Heart. I feel so very sorry for you . P.S. I was shocked to find out after I wrote. Back in 2005 that I knew your other daughter and her Husband Jay , She walked up to me and asked if I had commented on this site, And I told her yes , And she proceeded to clue me in as to who she was. What a small World. {Take Care, And God Bless your family}
What a terrible, tragic loss of your beautiful, beloved daughter. I hope that is has been of some comfort to you to know that she lives on in the precious gift of life she gave to others.
This story haunts me because I think Ture might of tried to pick me up at Jerry's in Cottage Grove when I was a night waitress. It was a thin haired blondish man who never talked to me but wrote little notes on napkins to tell me what he wanted and to ask me to meet him on 80th street where there was a new church out near the country. It was 1977 or 78. I am 48 now.
TUESDAY, May 8th. The same today....28 years later. Dear Marlys, Remembering this awful day in our life when you were struck down in our home. Remembering your beautiful smile and the love you gave to all of us. Remembering all the good times we had together, dancing, singing, laughing, playing. I will always treasure the time you were here with us. My beautiful daughter, forever 18, living in my heart! All my love forever, MOM
I talked with you (Fran and Jack) in class today at Metropolitan State University. I want to say thanks for your story, if I go to police work I will do my best to never make such critical mistakes during investigations.
I had the honor of knowing Marlys. We were in the tenth grade together and shared every class but one. We walked together from school the day I took my driver's permit test and she stood by me while I was taking it. (She did a great job of calming my nerves). She was also the fist to congradulate me on passing it with a big hug. That small girl could sure give a big hug! Marlys was just a wonderful and caring person and always there to help anyone who needed it. A few years ago I met her brother Ray and we talked a bit about her. See you again at MNGP Ray. I hope to see Marlys in heaven.
Dearest Marlys, The day of your birth is a "happy" day even though you are not here on earth with us. Your smile still brings joy even through it is only from photos and memory now. You are 46 today! You are still touching so many lives as the memory of you lives on. Funny that I just got an order for 14 copies of Butterflies, Angels and Roses on your Birthday. You are still helping us continue to help others. I love and miss you so very much and always will. Love, MOM
You are spending your 46 birthday in heaven, but we will never forget you. "Happy Birthday" to our angel. Aunt Evelyn & Uncle Jimmy
i will be 38 on january 11th ,i came across your site by chance and find it very moving . i have 2 daughters myself and cannot imagine your pain my prayers are with youat this sad time
I rememebr this series of murders, I waited for a bus as a waitress on Robert St in WSP one block from where he picked up and killed one of the victims. I will never forget the poor girls he took from this world and am thankful each day for my life. My prayers to you and your family. Kim
Hi, My name is Wendy Still-Lavin. I am a co-founder/Co-Leader of The Montgomery County, Pa Chapter of Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc. Together with Colleen Anderson-Novia I helped start up our local chapter of POMC. My daughter Jennifer Louise Still was murdered on July 6, 1999. Colleen's son JD Anderson was murdered October 28, 2000. He was stabbed to death while trying to break up a fight at a party. For those of you who have had loved ones taken from you by violent death, and the cases remain unsolved, please do not give up hope. Jenn's murder remained unsolved but open for 6 years before her murderer was brought to trial. He murdered 3 more people on March 25, 2005; Jenn's friend Heather Greaves, Heather's 3 year old daughter Avery Johnson and Heather's sister Lisa Greaves. Jenn and Heather were murdered because they rejected John Eichinger; Lisa Greaves and Avery Johnson were murdered because they could identify him. I feel for Maryls' family and friends. Wendy Still-Lavin
I remember the Joe Ture horror during my college years. I was one of those struck by the unfathonable selfishness and cruelty - directed at innocence personalized by a newspaper photo of your daughter. The faith restoration at the news of the Ture jailhouse confession gave way to skepticism and disappointment when Ture effortlessly explained it all away. The media portrayed the ploy as a credible counter that would be given process - yet it obviously defied common sense. This would be found out quickly. It took far too long..
I now have 3 beautiful daughters of my own. We have recently returned from overseas and moved near to Afton and I am reminded of the event. After so many years I find the images of your daughter and your continued demonstrated love for her uplifting. You have a wonderful daughter. She will not be forgotten.
I watched a portion of a montell williams show today.. and heard about your daugher. and others. and It saddens me that some people could be just so cruel to destroy others lives like this.. and to just take the lives of others.. My heart goes out to you.. God Bless.. and please just know that your daughter is in the best hands now..she is with our Lord... Diana
I'm the sister of a murdered brother, Larry Poole, murdered May 17, 1980. He was shot along with another young man named Anthony Cole. Twenty-twos were planted on them but they were shot with a 38 police special. We, Larrys' family hasn't nabbed the people as of this dad for their murders! My prayers are with you. Pray for us. PS: We have another family member that's a patient at Chester Mental Health Facility that is being sexually, mentally,and emotionally abused by gangbanger patients there and security guards there. The administrators there are covering it up. Please pray for our family and contact Mr. Montel Williams with any information.
My daughter was murdered in 2003 she was 3 1/2 years old. it is hard to get over but in time i know she is looking down on me everyday and sayin mommy you can do it i believe in you. i see her in my dreams everynight.
May her memory be eternal and may her soul rest in peace forever. May G-d grant all those who loved her comfort and strength now and always.
I am sorry that the murderer was convicted so long after Marlys murder. She was a beautiful girl, I read a little about her, and her story touched me, as it did many others. God bless her and her family. Im sure she is in the white pearly gates of heaven waiting for her loved ones.
I visited this site today, it is so nice, I love to read about Marlys, since I did'nt get the chance to meet her, I really enjoy hearing about her. She is so beautiful! I love you Grandpa and Grandma!!! Crystal
I am deeply saddened at the loss of Marlys from your lives and from this world. It is inspiring that on such significant dates in her life justice for her began.
I just wanted to praise you for never giving up on your daughter as well as the other familys..
May God Bless you and your family...
My heart goes out to your family for the loss of a beautiful child. She will be with you forever in your hearts and in your minds. God Bless You...
My heart goes out to you and your family you are a very strong woman and brave. I feel for your loss keep being strong.
Hi, I am related to Billy Huling by marriage. What a remarkable man. I am sure Marlys is just as remarkable.
Hello Fran, I think your dedication, strength and faith has proven that love conquers even the unimaginable. My husband's sister was killed over 10 years ago and I see the pain that is still there... for her mother, brother and children. It is difficult enough when you know who took your family member away. I am glad that you finally have some closure. Love and Prayers, Caroline
God bless you. I can't say that I know what you've went through, but I can say that it is very hard for me to even imagine losing a child. Good luck!
MIchelle
28 years for Jed, 27 for Marlys..Easter never gets easier...miss you, Fran..say "hi" to Lynn and Ray for me. And, as always...all of my love to you and Jack...
My prayers are always with you and your family. So sad.
My love and prayers are with you. As a sibling of a murder victim i know firsthand the heartache it causes. Take care and continue to keep your loved ones memory alive. Your site was a beautiful dedication.
As a person who had a love one murder i find it very comforting to see websites of people who have had the same experiences as myself. thank you for creating this page.
I'm so sorry to hear about your daughter and I feel your pain and I want to thank you for the courage to trust God and let people know to never give up. God will answer. My son was also murdered in his home, the difference is my daughter-in-law of 10 years had it done for insurance money. Her mother has my grandsons and they are brainwash that its my fault that their mom is serving 12 years because of a witch-hurt I had on her. Keep me in your prayers
Marlys, May 10 is the day one life ended and so many, many lives were changed. I call you "daughter" now, because your Mom has shared her wonderful memories with me as we've missed you and had you with us, and because we still feel your love. Your words, "Mom, be happy!" are the compass of our lives. Thank you for your smile, Love, Jack
The smile that never fades, the joy that you always brought, will always be with us. You are still alive in my heart. As delicate & as beautiful as a butterfly, you gave so much love & compassion to all who knew you. In the 27 years since you left this earth, so many people have been touched by your life & your death. We all try to imagine what life would have been like if you were still with us. On this day, May 10, 2006, we remember you with love and light a candle so that your light will always shine! Love always & forever, Mom
i cried when i read this. i am glad that the killer is caught. i dont know what more to say...god bless you....
Fran, I have been thinking of you. I listened to you speak in Isanti at Faith Lutheran for their journey through grief sessions. I feel the sadness with you. I have no magic words. It has been nearly 5 years for me without Nikki, I have learned from you. You are approaching 27 years, I have learned from you, that as we may find a happy but different life, we still will always be able to feel the freshness of the grief, no matter how many years pass by. A happy but different life. The past few days have been quite sad for me, as I have thought in detail about Marlys and how she died. I give you my most sincere condolences, as you have given so many people yours. This one is for you. God bless you.
I have read this site so many times, and I can not for the life of me understand why there are people that hurt people in the world, it saddens me. Fran your daughter would be proud of you in so many ways! God and Marlys are holding hands looking down onto you and just smiling away. I feel as if I am a daughter to you now, but more so of a granddaughter because of the age <my mom was born in 56> but no matter what i will never meet someone as kind as you. You are a true treasure from above and one day I promise one day we will all hold hands together and fly like butterflies :) Love you Fran, Love you Marlys ! Reba <3
It was such a privilaege to meet you both at the World Gathering on Bereavement in Vancouver.
This web saite provides such support for grieving parents and an example of courage born of love. Marlys's memory will always be alive. She was so beautiful. Marlys died on my birthday, although I was born 4 years before her death in 1965, I was 14 when Marlys died.
Thank-you for sharing your story and I know we will keep in touch for a long, long time to come With love Susan
I cry everytime I hear stories and see the picture of the person who is now gone. My friend told me his daughter was murdered by a family friend and it's like why do people do things like that. This is why I have chosen to become a PROSECUTOR and I know with compelling stories like these that I will achieve my goal and I know I am making the right career choice!
What a sad but touching story. God bless.
You have created a lovely memorial here. I'm sure your daughter would be very proud of you, as you were of her.
She looks so sweet. I have no words, just... my prayers and thoughts go out to Marlys and her family.
Dear Marlys, It is hard to believe that 26 years have passed since you were so brutally attacked in our home on this day...May 8th. This year it is Mother's Day. We all miss you so very much and always will. You will never be forgotten as you live in our hearts as we remember you and the joy you brought to us. Love, MOM
I never will forget Marlys. I marched in a parade with her for girl scouts when we kids and I went to high school with her and Beth. My sister recently gave me your book Justice for Marlys. Each time I go through Afton, I think about her and pray for her. I cannot imagine anyone ever wanting to hurt her. I am glad the case was solved but will always feel that it was such a terrible loss.
I live in Braham Minn , grew up in St. Paul and I have heard of this tragic story a Few times . I cannot imagine losing some loved one to a crime such as this . Allthough I do know the pain and agony of loss off a loved one I lost my only brother to a train accident in 1972 he was only 15 yrs old , And the passing of both my Parents a year and a half ago it is painful everyday. I'm so sorry for your loss I'm sure she touched many hearts . Sincerely , Dan Kuchenmeister
What if?
Dear Fran and Jack, Thankyou so much for taking the time to speak at the Cambridge High School in Casey's 9th grade English/Literature class. What a wonderful website in memory of your beautiful daughter. Sue
As a parent I cannot imagine the pain of losing a child nor do I ever want to. I admire your strength and your determination to keep your child alive in your heart, and never forget who she was. She remains alive in you. Never forget that. God Bless You.
i can't even begin to imagine what you have been through. what a loss and a emptyness you must feel. what strong and couragous people you must be. your daughter is just beautiful. what a wonderful smile, and her eyes just light up the picture. your daughter must be very very proud of you and she is looking down and knows that you are doing such a great job. see would have been a great human being as are her parents
I'm am always amazed at the strength that God provides to families who lose a child. He must have incredible plans for your family when you reunite in heaven with Marlys. God Bless Your Family (as he already has).
I remember when this happened...I went to the same school as Marlys.. I am relieved that you have found closure...My prayers are with you...Kathi Ross... Pribble
Marlys.......Today is your birthday. I always remember, but wish we could celebrate together. I miss you sister....Love-----Lynn
Although you are not here on earth to celebrate today, January 11th, as your 44th birthday, you are with us in spirit. You will always be remembered, and you are terribly missed by all who knew and loved you. "Happy Birthday"
Since moving to TX 21 years ago we lost track of this case. happened to write wohlenhaus on google and there was this wonderful site. Jimmie if you read this I would like to here from you. Cousin Dick
Thank you for sharing your story with so many people, and loving your child so much that you were never willing to give up! God Bless!
I am so moved by your story and although my family has been on the 30-year old emotional roller coaster of my 14-year old sister Karen's unsolved murder we still have hope. Hope is such a dangerous thing and is what chews at your life, but how can we ever give up on somebody that we loved so much, and who is missing from our family. My mom has recently passed away and with that we are left with her shattered dream for she never saw justice for her beautiful daughter. At times my sister and I feel beaten down because of the way the police are and like you, we are writing to government officials etc. Our efforts so far have generated numerous, numerous tips into the police and we are out to see that one of our parents sees justice for Karen. My dad is very ill and living on borrowed time. We do take comfort in knowing that my mom is now rejoined with a big missing piece of her heart.
Thank you for sharing your story for there are never the right words to describe what murder does to a family. This kind of pain I wish only on one person...Karen's killer!!!
Sincerely,
Kathy Caughlin/Hope for Karen
www.crimewatchcanada.com (Karen's story is here on this web site.
Fran, I sat through the trial of Joseph Ture and I'm gald that he is behind bars forever! I commend you on your strength and determination to keep the case open. God bless you and your family.
it is sad the cops were unable to solve the murders in the days after his capture..their incompetence led to two more young ladies losing their lives
I am impress by the courage and effor you did for getting justice. My respects is with all of you including your daughter.
Mexico City
My thoughts are with your family. Rip
I am so sorry you had to wait so long for justice for your daughter. I wish other parents of murdered children had the luck you did with finding your daughters killer. I am glad he is behind bars and that you have closure in that part of your life. Your daughter will always be with you and one day you will all be reunited agian. Until that day, God Bless you and your family.
SORRY, TO KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING THREW. I KNOW THE FEELING, HE MURDERED MY SISTER ALSO IN 1979. JOANIE BIERSCHBACH- AGE 21. I AM 43 NOW, BUT I CANNOT GET WHAT HE DID TO GOOD PEOPLE OUT OF MY MIND. I HATE THAT SOB. FOR TAKING THE LIVES OF INNOCCENT PEOPLE. PLEASE HELP ME"
She is a beautiful child. God Bless her. I lost my son Mark on November 16, 2002. I admire your persistence in getting justice for your beautiful child.
Warmest Regards
Doris
I, also, share your grief. My brother, Joel, was murdered in October of 1999 in Kansas City, MO. His case is unsolved. I'm happy that Marlys' murderer has been brought to justice and I pray that Joel's murderer will some day be found as well. What a wonderful and touching website.
My son was murdered May1,04. His name is Benjamin Carrigan. Born Sept. 15,1980.
I'm so sorry for what you have been through. Losing a child in such a violent way or any way MUST BE UNBEARABLE! Even though the pain is still there, she is in Heaven with the Angels, watching over your family. May God be with your family, and may Marlys Rest In Peace...
My sincere condolences to you and your family in the loss of your daughter Marlys. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Fran, Your daughter is beautiful.You have made a wonderful site for Marlys. I miss you Maryann
Dearest Fran and Jack,
I really do not know what to say. I have no such terrible tradegy in my life to compare it to. just know that you are in my heart. I am so thankful for all you do for Slow Food. May I be so desreving for your freindship and dedication. May God bless you always. Ron Huff
Dearest Marlys, Never a day goes by that you are not in my thoughts. Twenty five years ago is but a moment as your smile remains ever present. Your goodness and sweetness is what I remember most. The day of your attack will forever be imbedded in my memory but the happy memories are what I treasure and you will always be with me. Your last card at Easter 1979 said, "Mom be happy". That message will alwaysbe a treasure and I will do that in your honor. Today I went to art class and painted a picture of a stone wall. I will not let your killer take away the beauty that you gave to all of us. With all my love, Mom
25 yrs have passed since the monster took you from us. He stole from us the warmest & most beautiful person inside & out. Your smile would brighten up the most dismal day, and it will never be forgotten. It seems like yesterday that you were here in the flesh, but your spirit will live on through the memories of you that we all share. You were truly a wonderful niece. I am so happy that I at least had 18 years of your love & laughter. You are always in my mind & in my heart. Missing you!!!!!! With love
I found your memorial to Marlys through the link from www.rachelcookesearch.org . Your story of perseverance is encouraging to me as I wait and pray for justice in the murder of my daughter Jennifer. I sincerely hope that justice of Marlys' tragedy has helped bring closure and peace to you.
Dear Fran and Jack: What a beautiful, loving tribute you created in Marlys' honour. You should both be so very proud. May you continue to inspire others with your story, truly a loving testament to a beautiful young girl who will never be forgotten.
Your frriend, Geri :-)
Thanks for sharing your story with us. I wish you the best and was glad to be able to share some time with you in the grant writing class.
Peace, Cristy
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I added the pound cake recipe in our cookbook in Marlys honor.
I wish I could understand why our children are taken away from us. Marlys and Rachel were just entering adulthood and they had so much left to experience.
We are sorry that you cannot hear music on this site if you are on AOL. There is something that is not right and AOL can't seem to fix it. Use another search engine ie: Internet Explorer and you will hear music. Hopefully the web master can get to the bottom of it. Also, the old guest book is not in place but hopefully will be on the site soon. Many people have gone to the site and were unable to sign the guestbook but now that is okay. Thanks for your patience. Today is Easter Sunday and it was the last holiday that we were able to celebrate with Marlys 25 years ago. We will always miss her smiling face.
dear Fran, we saw your story of Marlys on tv tonight. We were deeply touched by it . Your beautiful daughter Marlys will not be forgotten. Your web site is very nice Barb and tony Carlon
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I just saw your story on Cold Case on the A&E t.v. station.
Dearest Marlys, You are always with me. You inspired me to write articles over the years & now they are in my new book dedicated to you. Butterflies, Angels & Roses was published by the foundation we started in your memory. We are proud that Ray & Lynn are part of the foundation to carry on the work of helping others. With eternal love, Mom
I share your grief.
I said a prayer for you and your family. Thank you for demonstrating how one must go on and to turn your like to assist others.Your daughters life goes on through you.