Marcene R. Christopherson, age 70 of Rochester died Friday, October 17, 2014 at Seasons Hospice. She had fought a courageous battle with melanoma cancer since January.

Marcene Ruth Zimmerman was born November 14, 1943 in Lake City, MN to Clarence and Irma (Wohlers) Zimmermann. She grew up in Oak Center area, attended elementary school in Oak Center, was confirmed at St. Johns Lutheran Church by Pastor Ralph Goede, and graduated from Lincoln High School in Lake City in 1961.  After graduation, Marcene moved to Rochester, MN, and began working for Northwestern Bell Tone.  She married Gary H. Christopherson; the couple were later divorced.  She retired in 2002 after forty years of service with the telephone company, later known as AT&T. She then worked for Fleet Farm for ten years, retiring early this year due to health reasons.

She was a secretary for Local #7203 Communication Workers of America and was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America retirement group. Marcene loved all animals. She enjoyed fishing, gardening and trips to the casino and was a dedicated Minnesota Vikings and Twins fan.   She especially loved spending time with her granddaughter.

She is survived by her daughter, Julie (Jose) Nunez of Rochester (now divorced), granddaughter Isabella Milly Nunez, a brother, Vernon (Mary) Zimmermann of Lake City and her "adoptive" mother, Milly Christopherson of Rochester, along with numerous nieces and cousins, two uncles; Howard (Jean) Wohlers and Orville P. (Kathy) Nelson.  She was preceded in death by her parents and one infant brother.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00AM Saturday, November 1, 2014 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester officiated by Rev. Norman Wahl.  Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens.

Macken Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, her daughter asks to help find a loving home for Marcene's two female cats, Liza and Lacey, they are sisters and need to stay together per Marcene's request.  Her cats are 9 yrs old, spayed/shots up to date.  Contact her daughter, Julie Nunez for more information.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.