Marianne “Dolly” Stennes, 74, of Grand Forks, passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at Altru Hospital.

Marianne “Dolly” Ruth Wilson Stennes was born December 19, 1947, in Park Rapids, MN to the late James A. and Mary Anne (Schoneberger) Wilson. She was a member of the Class of 1965 at Park Rapids High School and graduated from St. Benedict’s College in 1969 with a degree in English. On September 1, 1973, Dolly married John K. Stennes in Park Rapids, MN, who she’d known since kindergarten. They made their first home in Orlando, FL, and eventually moved to Grand Forks, ND, in 1977. In 1985 Dolly and John welcomed Emily Laurel to their family.

Dolly worked as the Human Services Program Administrator for the North East Human Service Center (State of North Dakota), a social services agency. In her 36 years, she led many initiatives including the reorganization of medical services, wrote policies, trained countless staff, and documented the history and successes of their efforts. Beyond being a leader, statistician, writer, and historian, she was a strong advocate for all clients and staff.

In retirement, she continued to advocate for underserved communities as a board member and chairperson for Prairie Harvest Mental Health, an organization that promotes independence and an enhanced quality of life for adults with serious mental illness.

Dolly enjoyed spending her free time with her family, often visiting Park Rapids where she grew up. She enjoyed hiking, fishing, camping, and chasing waterfalls, and traveled to many national parks. Dolly enjoyed viewing life through the lens of her husband, a lifelong photographer. She was an avid reader and enjoyed fiction, biographies, women’s, and Native American history. Dolly especially loved being a mom and supporting Emily through her many creative endeavors. She was an environmentalist, a sports fan, and a lover of life. Dolly had a kind and peaceful heart and always found ways to give back.

Dolly is survived by her husband John Karl Stennes of Grand Forks; daughter Emily Laurel Stennes of Oregon; brother Steve (Mara) Wilson of Nevis, MN; and nieces Kelly (Terry) Wilson, Lindsey Wilson, Molly (Luke) Luther, Maggie (Josh) Wiederin, Megan Diamond, and Erin Pace. She was preceded in death by her parents, James A. and Mary Anne Wilson, brother Jeffrey Wilson, and nephew Johnny McFall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dolly’s name to Prairie Harvest Mental Health.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: Will be held in Park Rapids, MN at a later time

INURNMENT: St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church Cemetery in Park Rapids, MN at a later time.

GUEST BOOK: www.dandahlfuneralhome.com

Arrangements By: Dahl Funeral Home ~ East Grand Forks, MN