Marlene “Molly” Brusse, of Oostburg, passed away Thursday evening, March 5, 2026 at Pine Haven Christian Home in Sheboygan Falls. She was 93 years old.
Marlene was born September 29, 1932 in Sheboygan, the daughter of William and Marjorie (DeMaster) Vander Ploeg. She graduated from Oostburg High School in 1950.
With a wedding dress and $50, Molly set out on a solo trek to Virginia to marry the love of her life, Richard Brusse on June 23, 1953. They shared 47 years of marriage together, making countless memories and raising their children, Rosemary, Patti and Bob. Richard preceded her in death in 2000.
Molly was a familiar face to many in Oostburg, working at Daane Hardware and as a realtor before starting her own cleaning business which she proudly ran for over 30 years.
Strong in her faith, Molly was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Oostburg. An avid reader, she developed a close friendship with many of the librarians at Oostburg Library, a library that her mother had helped start. She was passionate about exercise, and participated and led countless groups in the area well into her 80’s. She enjoyed knitting, and was known to donate her slippers, hats and mittens to others. She loved spending time with her family at their property in Carter.
Molly was a memorable presence who lived positively and believed “bucking up” was the best solution to most obstacles.
Molly is survived by her children: Rose (Larry) Gray of Oostburg, Patti (Don Olsvik) Hoy of British Columbia and Bob Brusse (Linda Wilterdink) of Grand Meadow, MN; granddaughter Andrea Gray (Elliott Dilling) and her children Kellen and Kenna Pradarelli; brother Neil (Phyllis) Vander Ploeg; sister Karen Buyze; sister-in-law Geraldine Vander Ploeg; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Molly is preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard, her parents, brother Carl “CV” Vander Ploeg, sister-in-law Frances (Hank) Kruis and brother-in-law Eugene “Hector” Brusse.
A Memorial Service is being planned for this summer.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice or Friends of the Oostburg Library.
Wenig Funeral Home – Oostburg (920-564-2771) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit wenigfh.com for online condolences.
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