Marie Joanna Hren, 89, of Saint Joseph, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, peacefully in her sleep. She was a loving wife, a teacher, and a loved mother and grandmother.

Marie was born October 28th, 1936, in Manning, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford "Bud" Johnson and Letha Boysen.

Marie graduated from Manning High School in 1954, then went on to Eastern New Mexico University on a full music scholarship, playing the oboe, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree.

Marie married Earl Roger Hren in 1958 in Manning, Iowa. They were married for 52 years until Roger's death in 2010.

Marie worked as a science teacher in Elida, New Mexico and in Kentucky. She also assisted for her husband, Roger's, dental practice in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Marie loved bicycling, and accompanied her family fishing and hunting. She also enjoyed reading, which she shared with her children and grandchildren.

Marie was a long-time member of Sandia Baptist Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she especially enjoyed attending and leading many Bible studies.

Remaining to cherish Marie's memory are children, Kimberly (Jonathan) Smith, Jenny (James) Hudgens; and grandchildren, Austin, Samuel, and Victoria; sister, Dr. Julia Rothenburg.

Preceding Marie in death are spouse, Earl Roger Hren; great-grandchild, Casper.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 12:00 pm at FRENCH-University. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the same location, with Dr. Claude Cone officiating. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Park following the service at 2:30pm.

Memorial donations in Marie's memory may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association. Envelopes are available and may be sent to French Mortuary in care of arrangements.