Marlen Dean Tyson

Marlen Dean Tyson, 68, passed away early Saturday, November 11, 2023 at his home near Emporia after a short battle with leukemia.

He was born September 14, 1955 in Emporia, Kansas the son of Thomas Dean and Beverly Louise Cree Tyson. Marlen attended Emporia High School and graduated with the Class of 1973. While still in High School, Marlen began working with his uncle Kenny Cree. He learned the art of auto body work from Kenny which would serve him well the remainder of his life.

Marlen would spent his entire life working with area body shops before opening his own, Tyson Body Shop in Lebo in the mid 1990’s. Following his retirement in 2016 he made deliveries for Haag Pharmacy.

He was joined in marriage to Cheri C. Bazil on September 7, 1975 in Emporia. Marlen and Cheri enjoyed camping with their children and grandchildren and he never turned down an opportunity to go fishing or hunting. He loved to bar-b- que and cook for family and friends.

Marlen took great pride in the work that he did. Over the years he painted several John Deere tractors and restored classic cars. He restored an RV that he and Cheri took camping often and will be cherished by family for many years to come.

Marlen will live on in the hearts and memories of his wife, Cheri of their home; a daughter, Pamela J. Ludolph and her husband Kenton of LeRoy, Kansas; a son, Michael D. Tyson and his wife Chelsea of Emporia; five grandchildren, Ava, Corbin and Rachel Tyson, Olivia and Emily Ludolph and Gemma Phillips; numerous extended family and a community of dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Kathy Weakley; grandparents, William & Stella Tyson and Iva & Hattie Cree.

Marlen’s family would like to invite friends and family to share memories and stories Saturday, November 18, 2023 from 6:00 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. at the Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home in Lebo. Memorial contributions may be made to Hand In Hand Hospice, Southern Lyon County FFA @ Olpe High School or SCC Trap Shooting Team and sent in care of the Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home P.O. Box #43, Lebo, Kansas 66856. Condolences may be expressed at vanarsdalefs.com.