Marilyn Alexander Obituary

Alexander
Marilyn Ane
(Nielsen) Alexander
January 17, 2026

Marilyn Ane Alexander (Nielsen) passed peacefully on January 17, 2026, with her family by her side. The youngest of nine children, Marilyn was born in April of 1936 to Niels Harold and Ane Theodora (Sorensen) Nielsen of Moorhead, Iowa.
Her father and maternal grandparents were immigrants from Denmark who worked hard to provide their children a chance at the "American Dream". She was exceptionally proud of her heritage and the values her parents instilled including faith, hard work, self-reliance, charity and patriotism. At age five her father died prompting her mother's move from the farm to Blair, NE with Marilyn and here sister, Elaine. There she met Frank Alexander on the first day of kindergarten, 1941. They became sweethearts through high school and on to Dana College. In 1956, Frank and Marilyn were married in San Diego while he was serving in the Navy. They started their family with the birth of daughter Janna Dixon (John), followed by son Robert (Anne), daughter Amy Drach (David) and son Thomas (Alie). The Alexanders relocated to Colorado Springs where they built their businesses and finished raising their family.
Prior to having children, Marilyn worked in administration for Rhor Aircraft Corp. in San Diego during the mid-1950s. Marilyn was an outstanding homemaker and mother while generously volunteering her time to countless faith and community efforts. She led and participated in numerous Bible studies, taught Sunday School classes, served on the Assistance League, volunteered at Penrose Hospital, and participated in multiple committees at her children's schools. She was an outstanding bridge player and especially cherished the relationships formed through various bridge groups. When her children began leaving home for college, Marilyn became a material contributor to several of Frank's enterprises including the Range Development Co. Her talents were many although she was especially gifted as an oil painter and writer.
In 1997, Frank and Marilyn bought a home in Palm Desert, CA where they spent 22 winters enjoying family, friends, bridge and dancing.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, parents, brothers Chris, Edwin and Robert, sisters Winifred, Pearl, Charlotte, Francis, and Elaine and grandson Shane Dixon. She is survived by her four children, grandchildren Elaine, Thomas, Caroline, William, Marilyn, Frank, Ike, and Lily, nine great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank and recognize Pikes Peak Hospice for their remarkable care and compassion. A private family service is planned.