MASON CITY – Marge M. Milbrath, 84, of Mason City, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, surrounded by her family.
According to her obituary from Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory, cremation has taken place, and no services are planned at this time. She will be laid to rest at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date.
Marge Mae Bates Milbrath was born January 27, 1942, in Dows, Iowa, to Leonard Bates and Geraldine Huey Bates. After her mother’s death in 1950, Marge was raised by her stepmother, Georgia Bates. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1960.
Soon after graduation, Marge married David Milbrath. The couple raised three children together and built a life centered around family, work and friendships.
Marge worked at Metalcraft for more than 30 years, a job she enjoyed. After retirement, she continued meeting monthly with former coworkers, who had become friends, at Village Court.
Away from work, Marge enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles and watching birds. She especially loved autumn and the activities that came with the season.
Family members remembered her as friendly, outgoing and social, someone who could walk into a room and quickly find a conversation. They also remembered gathering around her dining room table and enjoying the meals she prepared.
Marge is survived by her husband, David Milbrath; her children, Robert Milbrath and Mary Buckley; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother; a sister; and other family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Lori Duncan; two granddaughters, Kandace Duncan and Amber Duncan; her parents; and siblings.
Major Erickson Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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