Marsha Wilson Chall

Age 72, of Maple Grove, MN, formerly of Federal Dam and Minnetonka, beloved mother, grandmother, and author, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, just the way she wanted. She will be remembered for her stories, wit, and the remarkable way she brought people together throughout her life.

After receiving a B.S. in Education from Drake University and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Minnesota, Marsha was a coordinator for Adult Options in Education in the Hopkins School District and an adjunct professor at Metro State University and Hamline University’s MFA program in Writing for Children and Young Adults. A softball coach and Sunday school teacher, she also loved her book clubs and writing groups. Marsha was a McKnight Fellow and an award-winning children’s book author whose stories touched generations of young readers.

Marsha had a gift for making everyone laugh (and for laughing at herself), filling any room with energy. Nowhere was this more evident than at Leech Lake, which held a special place in her heart. The cabin was more than a getaway; it was where family traditions were built and friendships deepened. Summers were filled with big meals, boat rides, and bonfires that stretched late into the night. To those who loved her, she will always be “Up North at the Cabin.”

Her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother and an immensely proud grandmother to four grandchildren, who brought her delight and inspiration.

Marsha is survived by her daughter, Lindsay (Clay) Matvick; son, Robert Chall; grandchildren, Jack, Katie, and Lucy Matvick and Sylvie Wika-Chall; and many loving extended family members and dear friends who, to Marsha, were simply family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Janet and Robert (Bob) Wilson; and her beloved dog, Scout.

Marsha’s life will be celebrated with a SendOff ceremony at 10 AM Wednesday, April 15th with visitation beginning at 9 AM at Lakewood Cemetery Chapel, Minneapolis.

The family welcomes donations to The ALS Association and the Marsha Wilson Chall Memorial Scholarship (Hamline Institutional Development Office, 1536 Hewitt Ave., MS-C1917, St. Paul, MN 55104).