After nearly five decades in long-term care—including 25 years at Bethesda—Marla’s career is more than a profession. It’s a calling, a ministry, and a legacy of compassion that has touched countless lives.
The Early Years
Marla’s journey began in college at Northern State University, when an advisor encouraged her to explore an internship in a local nursing home. At the time, long-term care looked very different, and social services departments had yet to fully take shape.
In 1978, Marla began working in the Activity Department at Aberdeen Nursing Center (now Aberdeen Health and Rehab). What started as an internship quickly grew into something more. After graduation, she was asked to stay on—and she did. A few years later, when the opportunity arose to help grow a social services program, Marla stepped into a role that would ultimately define her life’s work.
Following a memorable trip to Europe, she returned ready to embrace that next step, spending 23 years building relationships, supporting residents and families, and helping shape care in meaningful ways.
Joining the Bethesda Family
In 2001, Marla began a new chapter when she joined Bethesda—a decision that would lead to 25 years of dedicated service and lasting impact.
“I’ve always enjoyed talking to older people—they are so full of wisdom to share,” Marla reflects. “I do think God called me to work with the elderly, as those doors always opened for me.”
Throughout her career, Marla also grew alongside her profession. As social services evolved, she pursued additional education and became a licensed social worker, continually adapting to changes while remaining grounded in what mattered most—people.
“My favorite part of my job is the residents and their families. There is something to learn from each of them,” she shares.
Her work often placed her at the center of life’s most meaningful and emotional moments—welcoming new residents, guiding families through transitions, and sometimes simply being present when no one else could be.
“There have been times when someone was nearing the end of their time here on earth and family was not able to be there. Being present when someone enters into heaven is an honor.”
Marla’s Impact
That compassion extended beyond residents and families to her coworkers as well. Known for her calm demeanor and unwavering faith, Marla became a source of strength and reassurance throughout the building.
One colleague shared:
“Marla brings joy to Bethesda residents, families and employees on a daily basis through her work as a licensed social worker. She is steadfast in her faith, which is reflected in her work and how she interacts with residents and families. Marla truly has been a blessing to Bethesda, and she will be greatly missed.”
Another coworker reflected:
“Marla is our glue and our rock in the front office. We can count on her for any spiritual needs we may have and will miss seeing her daily!”
And from a team member who worked closely with her in recent years:
“Over the past five years, it has been such a privilege to work alongside Marla. Her calm presence, genuine compassion, and sincere heart have made a lasting impact. Marla has a special gift for connecting with others. Her deep roots in the community and ability to know just the right person or resource have helped so many in ways. More than anything, her steady, faithful spirit has brought comfort and confidence to both coworkers and those we serve. I have truly enjoyed working with Marla and will miss her deeply as she begins this next chapter.”
Marla speaks just as fondly of her Bethesda team.
“My work family has also been worth coming to work for. My Bethesda team is a great team—each of us has a role to play individually, but even more so as a team. If one spoke of the wheel is missing, it makes it hard to accomplish the task.”
Marla’s Legacy
As she looks ahead to retirement—a word she admits is still hard to say—Marla is excited for more time with her family, especially as a proud grandmother, along with opportunities for travel and time at home.
And while she may be retiring, she won’t be far.
“You may see me in the halls of Bethesda—I’m always willing to help out where needed.”
In reflecting on her life and career, Marla also shared a meaningful personal milestone—being baptized in the Jordan River during a trip to the Middle East—an expression of the deep faith that has guided her throughout the years.
As Bethesda celebrates Marla’s incredible career, one thing is clear: her legacy is not just in the years she served, but in the lives she touched, the comfort she provided, and the compassion she modeled every single day.
We’d love your help in honoring Marla! Please visit the “Contact Us” page on our website to share your well wishes and favorite memories.