With much sadness, and a bit of joy, we share that Marilyn has moved on from her time with us.

With sadness, because we will always miss her sparkling, mischievous eyes, her never ending curiosity, and her genuine caring for everyone around her. Her vivacious personality and interest in the world was an inspiration to so many people.

Marilyn was born in Hamilton, Ohio, in 1931. She loved music, taught piano, and had a lovely singing voice. As a school teacher and social worker, she enriched the lives of many in the Midwest and on the East Coast before moving to Vashon in 2002. She loved her husband John, and took care of him in so many ways throughout his life. A faithful member of St. John Vianney’s, she was active in the Backpack Pantry organization, and was well-known around town for her social graces and smiling face. No one was excluded from Marilyn’s circle, and she had a lovely way of empowering people by peppering them with questions about their thoughts and experiences. Especially after a glass of Prosecco. We will miss her constant and heartfelt example of what it means to truly engage with people.

But we also have a bit of joy, in that she spent her final weeks at home here on Vashon, with her daughter Elizabeth and son in-law, Jon. She was cared for by her family and lovely caregivers, including her dear, extended East Coast daughters. She was also comforted by thoughts and prayers from all of her loving friends at J.G. Commons, and many other folks from the Vashon community. In her final days, she saw a wonderful snowfall, with huge flakes, which she always enjoyed. She saw two favorite little goats cavorting in the sunny yard, and she looked into the eyes of her loving grandchildren, Madeleine and Rowan. Her final days were a long, gentle nap, a precious time that allowed us to deeply meditate on her lifelong lesson of kindness.

Marilyn, we know that you have gone to the Lord that you love, and now are truly, fully at peace. Ask all the questions you want, we are sure He will have some wonderful answers that you will be glad to hear. Especially after a glass of Prosecco.

We will miss you dearly,

Your loving family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at St. John Vianney’s on April 1st at 11 am, with reception to follow.

If you wish to honor Marilyn, you can make a donation to The Backpack Pantry, via St. John Vianney.