Marilyn Samuelson

Marilyn Estelle Berglund Samuelson was born on her parents’ farm in the Manda Community on June 7, 1930, to Martin and Esther Peterson Berglund.  She went to the Lord on August 5, 2021, at the age of 91.  She was baptized, confirmed, and married at New Sweden Lutheran Church where she was a lifetime member.

She married David W. Samuelson, Sr. on March 1, 1949, who preceded her in death in 2002.

Marilyn was very involved in her community and church.  She was key in the formation of Manville Water Supply Corporation, Travis County ESD #13, Blackland Prairie Concerned Citizens, Farmers Union, and Friends of Manda School.  She was a delegate to Africa for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

She was proud of her Swedish heritage and was active in New Sweden 88, Texas Swedish Pioneers, Scandinavian Club, Elgin Swedish Assn., and the Swedish Interest Group. She was owner and editor of the Swedish newspaper, the “Texas Posten.”

Marilyn taught Sunday School, played the church organ, and sang in the choir, served on the Church Council and numerous other church committees and was Church Secretary for 23 years.

She was a catalyst in protecting and promoting local history and buildings including preservation of Manda School, the placement of numerous historical markers and most recently helped form the New Sweden Heritage Center and New Sweden Church Historical Society.  She worked tirelessly on her projects while diligently supporting others and their endeavors.

In addition to working at New Sweden Lutheran Church, Marilyn helped run the family farm, held jobs at several State agencies, Travis County Gin, Travis County Grain, M-D Custom Wood Floors, and EarthArrangers.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Louis and Oliver Berglund, sisters, Mildred Manguson and Dorothy Berglund, grandsons, Joshua Samuelson and James Mangum; sisters-in-law, Faye Waln Holzworth, Genevieve Berglund, and Dorothy Arnhamn; brothers-in law, Howard Magnuson, Ray Samuelson, Harold Samuelson, Wayne Waln, and Carroll Holzworth.

She is survived by her children, David Samuelson, Jr. (Melanie); Diane Moellenberg (Jerry); Vera Gebert (Randy); Martin Samuelson (Deb), and Dorothy Cude (Steve), sisters-in-law, Delphine Samuelson and Glenda Samuelson, and  brother-in-law  Marvin Arnhamn.  She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and an abundance of friends.

The family thanks Amada Senior Caregivers, especially Dasheinika and Jamie, and her longtime physician, Dr. Franklin Chang.

Marilyn taught her family faith and God’s unending love.  She was always there to help a neighbor, friend and even strangers.

Pallbearers are Wayne Ross, Gordon Samuelson, Douglas Arnhamn, Mark Berglund, Bradley Samuelson, Harley Chisholm, Ray Robbins and Jack Atterstrom.  Honorary pallbearers are Paul Berglund, Kenneth Waln, Randy Waln, Stan Arnhamn and Mark Samuelson.

Visitation is Monday, August 9 ^th, at 9:30 AM with services at 10:30 AM at New Sweden Lutheran Church, 12809 New Sweden Church Rd., Manor, Texas.

Memorials may be given to New Sweden Heritage Center, New Sweden Historical Society, New Sweden Lutheran Church, or the charity of your choice.