Marilyn Mulder

Marilyn Mulder, age 87, went to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, March 2, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents Arnold and Cora Johnson; husband, Donald Mulder; daughter-in-law, Christine Stepanek. She is survived by her son, Greg (Kelly) Stepanek; daughter, Tonya (Les) Church; grandchildren Tom (Meghan) Stepanek, Mike (Amy) Stepanek, Matthew Bryant (Niru Ragupathy), Andrew Bryant (Anna Vanderberg), and Alexis Bryant; great-grandchildren Brielle, Andi, and Owen Stepanek.

Marilyn was born as an only child to Arnold and Cora Johnson July 16, 1936, in Holland, Michigan. Growing up, she loved reading and perch fishing with both of her parents. After graduating from Holland Christian High School, Marilyn received an elementary education degree from Calvin College (University). Marilyn’s faith in Jesus was foundational for her and she spent many mornings reading her Bible and spending quiet time with the Lord. She also had a deep love for her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends.

Marilyn loved the simple things of life, i.e., spending time with family, having coffee or lunch with a friend, or quietly reading a book on her deck. She was an exceptional baker, talented cake decorator, and loved painting and counted cross-stitch designs. Following a generation of bakery owners, Marilyn’s dream of owning and operating her own bakery came true on the day she opened "The Pantry" in Holland’s Washington Square, which she ran for many years.

Marilyn loved the beauty of all four seasons in Michigan, but most loved the sunshine in Florida and California where she stayed with family during the winter months. She was selfless in the hours she spent knitting and praying over hundreds of prayer shawls provided for many churches and organizations, as well as her time sending cards to those in need. Marilyn was truly the hands and feet of Jesus. We are grateful that she has now received these words from the Lord she loves so much, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2024 at Cook Funeral Home in Byron Center, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, Michigan. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024 at First Byron CRC, 8541 Byron Center Ave. SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Byron CRC Member Care Ministry. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guest book online.