Marianne Solem

Marianne Solem, 91, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321. Following the service, Marianne will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to return to the chapel following the burial for a luncheon as they celebrate Marianne's life and the many memories she leaves behind.

Marianne was born on November 23, 1934, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Lester "Merle" Raper and D. "Marian" Raper. She grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Lincoln High School, where she would later return to serve her community as a beloved lunch lady for more than 40 years. Generations of students knew Marianne for her kind smile and warm heart.

A woman of deep faith, Marianne was an active member and leader at Indianola Heights Christian Church. Her unwavering commitment to her church family reflected the same compassion and servant's heart that she shared with everyone she met.

Marianne loved traveling and camping, especially among the beautiful mountains of Colorado. She took pride in tending her vegetable garden and preparing home-cooked meals for those she loved. Her goulash and homemade pickled cucumbers became cherished family favorites that brought everyone together around the table.

Above all else, Marianne treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose love, encouragement, and steady presence will be deeply missed. Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her family, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

Marianne is survived by her brothers, Donald Raper, Douglas Raper, and Randall Raper; her grandchildren, Christina (Matthew) Grimes, Matt Gaalaas, Nick Eginoire, Michael Solem, and Shaun Solem; and her great-grandchildren, Damon Grimes, Nadia Grimes, and Adison Gaalaas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester "Merle" Raper and D. "Marian" Raper; her children, Scott Solem, Kelly Eginoire, and Marty Solem; and her grandchild, Jamie Eginoire.

Marianne's kindness, unwavering faith, generous spirit, and love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy of service, hospitality, and devotion will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.