Marilyn Knight Braarud 1933-2024

---

 Marilyn Knight Braarud loved the arts, her garden, animals and her family. She died unexpectedly but peacefully at her home on November 17, a week after her 91st birthday.

The families of Marilyn’s parents, Milton E. Knight and Dorothy Hudson Knight, were pioneers in a part of Seattle’s Magnolia Bluff neighborhood then referred to as Pleasant Valley, where Marilyn and her brothers grew up. Marilyn attended Magnolia Grade School, Queen Anne High School (class of 1951) and the University of Washington. 

Marilyn first married George King, father of daughter, Karin King Hasselberg. She later married Merrill “Mickey” Brashen who passed in 1997. Six decades after leaving Queen Anne High School, she reconnected with high school boyfriend Leonard “Len” Braarud. He was a genuine Northwest outdoorsman—skier, fisherman, rower and cyclist. They shared a deep appreciation for art, and their relationship and marriage were full of joy and adventure. Len passed in 2015.  

Marilyn spent her career as a pediatric dental assistant, where she was known to her young patients as “Minnie.” Once she retired, she embraced a lifetime interest in all things artistic by becoming a docent at the Seattle Art Museum. In later years, a highlight was an annual trip to New York City to enjoy Broadway theater with friends. 

  Marilyn also was recognized as a Master Gardener. The yard of her home in Kirkland was a testament to her talent and creativity. She also enjoyed skiing, travel, happy hour with friends, her dogs and spirited political discussions.  

Survivors include her pug Barney, daughter, Karin (husband Pete), grandson Sam Hasselberg, brother William Knight, plus several nieces, nephews and many friends. Another brother, Milton Robert Knight, died in 2008. 

A memorial is being planned for spring/summer 2025.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pasado’s Safe Haven or Summit Assistance Dogs.