Marie Elizabeth Banken was born on May 8, 1921, at Osakis to Peter and Anna (Ruether) Weber. She was baptized and confirmed at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Osakis. Marie graduated from Appleton High School in 1939.After school she worked at J C Penny in Appleton until her marriage to Frank T. Banken on September 24, 1947, at St. John's Catholic Church in Appleton. After their marriage they moved to the farm north of Appleton. Marie worked for Joe Fox Catering from 1978 until 1999.Marie was active member of St. John's Catholic Church and served with the Altar & Rosary Society for many years. She received the Bishop's Medal of Service in 1996. She also taught Sunday school at St. Agnes Catholic Church and St. John's Catholic Church for many years.Marie enjoyed gardening, playing cards, fishing, baking, crocheting, embroidery, and spending time with family and friends. She was a 4-H club leader for the Hegbert Winners. She had a great love of God and family with a strong and loyal character. She was a hard worker with a great sense of humor. She particularly enjoyed helping others as needed.Marie died on Monday morning, July 27th, at Appleton Area Health Services. She had attained 88 years, 2 months, and 19 days of age.She is survived by two children: Peter Banken of Appleton, and Becky (David) Arndt of Montevideo; two grandchildren: Joshua and Lisa Arndt; brother Gregor (Dorothy) Weber of Philip, SD; sister-in-law, Audrey Weber of Mitchell, SD; brother-in-law Robert Steinke, Sr. of Appleton; several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Frank on November 27, 1980; sister Dorothy Steinke; and two brothers: Jim and Marcel Weber.