Marjorie Prokop

Prokop, Marjorie A.


"Marj" , nee Lovaasen, age 59, of Pine City, MN, formerly of Dellwood, MN and Naples, FL. Ended her twenty-two year battle with Cancer on January 11, 2010. Preceded in death by father, Melvin Lovaasen and mother, Myrtle. Survived by her partner of 26 years, Wayne Reffke; sister, Judy Lovaasen; brother, Terry Lovaasen (Diane); nieces and nephews. Marj was a proud employee of H.B.Fuller Co. where her 27 years lead her from service as a bilingual secretary, public relations/marketing communications (Fuller Spectrum magazine), Human Resources, Sales Representative and Technical Sales Specialist. Marj handled Fuller's "promote from within" program along with the interviewing and initial selection of candidates. Marj was passionate in her commitment to equal opportunity and championed the role of women in the workplace. After completing her degree at the College of St. Catherine, Marj entered the field of sales and twice earned recognition for top sales performance as a member of Fuller's Inner Circle. After several battles with Cancer and much prayer, Marj felt the calling to once again take on a new challenge, leaving HB Fuller to study at the Centerpoint School of Massage Therapy. She started her own business and became successful as a specialist in reflexology. Marj volunteered and served on both industry and nonprofit boards including (TAPPI, Friends of the Park, Big Sister, YMCA,) Her passion for community service found her participating in Habitat for Humanity, Mission Jamaica, St. Matthews Care, Dorothy Day Center, and Paint-athons. Marj never forgot her cancer experience and proudly volunteered and served at many cancer functions including MOCA (Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance) and Race for the Cure. Marj loved nature and was active in sports, scuba diving, kayaking, Outward Bound, and tennis. Her spirit for adventure and appreciation for other cultures began early in her life and lead to study and travel around the world (Mexico, China, Europe, Carribean Islands, and Central America.) During winters in Florida she participated in many USTA tennis leagues and tournaments. Marj was known for her enthusiasm for life, positive attitude, and friendliness, always punctuated by her trademark smile. She maintained a sisterhood of friends from all walks of life often bound by a common experience with cancer. She will be missed by all who knew her. A celebration of Marj's life will be held Saturday, February 6, 11:00 A.M. at NAPLES FIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE, 3100 Bailey Lane. A gathering of friends and family will be held Friday, February 5, 5:00-7:00 P.M. AT THE CHURCH and also one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to: MOCA, 4604 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407 or Allina Hospice c/o AHCS Foundation, 333 Smith Avenue North, Rte 60133, Saint Paul, MN 55102.