Teaching, coaching was just part of Oldorf's amazing story

When school starts this fall at North Cedar in Stanwood, a familiar face will be missing.

Marilee Oldorf retired after teaching for 36 years at Lincoln Community and North Cedar high schools. She also was the head varsity volleyball coach, leading Lincoln to the state championship in 1992.

Teacher and coach, however, are only part of her story.

Shortly after the birth of her third child, Oldorf's husband died. She became a single mother to three small children and a farmer.

“At the time, my father-in-law said the farm was no place for a single mother,” Oldorf said. “But it was something that I loved, and wasn't about to give it up.”

Oldorf said it was a matter of time management, and getting the right amount of help.

“We used to have hogs,” she said. “I would get up early in the morning, do the chores, and head off to school. After school it was home for more chores. Plus we always had hired hands who were able to help out a great deal. I have been very fortunate to have had a great group of people around me over the years.”

That group included those three children - and 13 foster children she helped raise.

“What's nice is now that I am retired I can get a chance to travel all over, to get to see the whole family, the children and grandkids, and the foster children,” she said. “My whole life has been in school.”

Once the school year starts, it could be an emotional time.

“The connection that you make with the school kids is something that I'll miss a great deal,” she said. “I love the sport of volleyball, it has been great. I am going to officiate some games this fall, just to stay in a bit.”

Those around North Cedar will miss Oldorf, principal Dain Jeppson said.

“Marilee is one of the neatest people I have ever worked with,” he said.