Marilyn “Boots” Haefer, age 87, of Prairie du Chien, passed away on November 3, 2026, at Prairie Maison.

She was born on October 20, 1939, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, the daughter of Frank and Veda (Steiner) Benish. Marilyn was united in marriage to Marvin R. Haefer on March 2, 1959, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. “Boots” was a familiar face in the downtown Prairie du Chien where she worked many years at Hamann’s Variety Store and Anthony’s Clothing Store. Her smile will never be forgotten whether she was picking out toys for the youngin’s or mixing paint for the older generation. Her thoughtfulness, her kindness, her effervescent smile and laugh will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her children: Daniel (Kathy) Haefer, Gina (Bill) Crubel, Gary Haefer; her grandchildren: James (Sarah) Haefer, Alyssa (Matt) Cram, Ashlee (Darrin) Crubel, Jonathan Crubel, Brandon, Justin, Zach, and Brittany Haefer; and great-grandchildren: Julia and Gracie Haefer and McCauley, Liam and Violet Cram.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Marvin; her sister, Jeannette Hagensick; sisters and brothers-in-law.

According to her wishes, there will be no formal funeral service held. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory in Prairie du Chien is assisting the family