Marilyn Ardith Niemann passed away February 8, 2026. She was born near Sterling, Nebraska. She was the daughter of Fred and Louise Panko.

She is survived by her husband, Lloyd Arthur Niemann; son, Greg Niemann and wife, Patricia, two grandchildren, Evan with wife, Pati, and Valerie of Plymouth Meeting, PA and two great-grandchildren, Sophie and Theo; son, Timothy and wife, Carrie Worthington, two granddaughters, Sylvia and Chloë of New York City; son, Eric and wife, Shelley, two grandsons, Blake and Grant of Philomath, OR. She was predeceased by both parents and her brothers, Eldon Panko and Ervin Panko.

Marilyn was a graduate of Cook High School in Cook, NE. She attended Peru State Teachers College and began teaching at the age of 17 in a rural one room school near Cook, NE with students in seven grades. She later attended and graduated from the University of Nebraska where she was a member of Pi Lambda Theta, an educational honor society.

On July 31, 1954, she married Lloyd Niemann. She taught in elementary schools at Norfolk, NE, Lincoln, NE and at Wilmington, DE. In State College, PA she enjoyed teaching the four-year-olds and kindergarten classes at Grace Lutheran Preschool. Teaching children to read was her passion. Her teaching career stretched over 50 years.

Marilyn loved raising flowers, gardening and cooking. She served as a member of the Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries Auxiliary at The Oaks for many years. She was a Den Mother in addition to holding other positions of leadership in Cub Scouts.

A celebration of her life will be at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Pine Grove Mills, PA 16868; Juniata Valley Council of Boy Scouts of America at 9 Taylor Drive, Reedsville, PA 17084; or to State College Meals on Wheels, 205 S. Garner St., State College, PA 16801.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.kochfuneralhome. com