A person facing a terminal diagnosis could feel powerless.

Marlys Zetah, a much-loved member of our community, has, from her death bed, sent out a powerful call to action. She is speaking out to protect children from the violence of misused guns and assault weapons.

Marlys, a retired nurse, mother of four, grandmother of nine, eager participant in church and community, and much-admired friend felt compelled to use her remaining days and hours to work for a just and safe governmental policy on guns.

In November of 2024, Marlys learned that her cancer had returned and been diagnosed as terminal. “My time is limited and I find myself driven to make a difference in the time that remains,” she stated.

The shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis this fall moved her to work through newspapers, politicians, the NRA, the NEA, and social media to urge a ban on assault weapons. Marlys learned that 80% of homicides in the United States are due to guns.

In one of her editorials, she said “I believe that promoting peace and safety begins with banning the sale and access to these lethal firearms.” .

In announcing her mission to convince government officials to take decisive action in banning assault weapons, she created a petition which recommends:

“Require comprehensive background checks and stricter licensing regulations to ensure that only those who are fit and qualified may possess firearms.”

Marlys continued to say “Let us transform our grief into action and tragedy into a testament of resilience and change. Let us cherish the lives lost by preventing further loss and devastation.”

Marlys has no illusion that one letter would educate others about injustice or soften a heart. She understood that her eloquent messages offered the seeds that others needed to nurture and harvest.

Marlys found her voice to urge us to action. May we honor her words.

Colleen Hokenson

and Vicki Pieser

New Ulm