Marlyn Joy (Jewell) Milnikel, age 88, passed away peacefully December 12, 2023 with her husband of 67 years at her bedside. Over her last week here on earth, her family was blessed to have been able to care for, comfort her, and share many wonderful memories.
She was born September 22, 1935 in Cheboygan, Michigan to Irene (Stines) and Roy Jewell. Marlyn was one of 13 children and shared so many great times growing up with them; she stayed in touch with her siblings over the years during wonderful family reunions and gatherings that were held in St. Joseph, Cheboygan, and other areas.
Marlyn leaves behind her husband, Fred W. Milnikel Jr.; son, Mark Richard; daughter, Tammy Ann (Kim); and daughter, Lynne Marie (Robert) LaSarge; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren that she loved, prayed for, and cared for immensely, even if separated by miles or circumstance.
Marlyn loved the Lord and will be remembered and cherished for her loving, giving, and kind-hearted spirit. Even in her last days, she was still bestowing her love for others by helping to put together care packages for troops overseas. She repurposed Christmas cards to make bookmarks and new cards --
sharing them with family, friends, and others. Marlyn was so talented with arts and crafts. She loved
making and giving away Christmas ornaments, hand-painted artwork, decoupage gifts. We'll all cherish
these beautiful items.
In her earlier years, she would donate her time and love of cooking/baking by helping out with Easter breakfasts or luncheons at funerals, and put together treats for kids in Catechism or other gatherings at Bethel Lutheran Church in Grandville.
Speaking of her love of cooking/baking, she was known for her delicious, treasured pies. Any of us who were lucky enough to have a piece of mom's pie can attest to that!! You name it, she probably baked it - apple, strawberry-rhubarb, pecan, lemon chiffon, and pumpkin.
When she was 20 year old, she was crowned "Miss St. Joseph," in St. Joseph, Michigan. Over the years, Marlyn helped out immensely with her children's activities, be it den mother for Cub Scouts, Bluebird and
Campfire leader. She supported all of her children as they participated in the wonderful Grandville Marching and Symphonic Bands, attending so many sporting games and choir concerts for both her children and grandchildren. Marlyn also loved working in retail sales over the years working at Witmark, Herpolsheimers, and Wurzburgs in the 60s and 70s. She also enjoyed working in the school cafeterias and the bakery at Daanes Grocery in Grandville.
Marlyn and Fred made many close friends and shared great memories during the 13 years that they spent in southern Florida during the winter months. Again, Marlyn volunteered and donated her time at their condominium community - spearheading the first outdoor Christmas lights and decorations and heading up the landscaping committee. Marlyn enjoyed golfing, landscaping, boating, fishing, and shark teeth hunting while in Florida.
Marlyn's family extends a heartfelt thank you to the Faith Hospice (Trillium) caregivers in Byron Center, Michigan. What a beautiful organization and beautiful people. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Drive, SW, Byron Center, MI 49315 or the Parkinson's Association of West Michigan, 7311 Crystal View Drive, SE, Caledonia, MI 49316.
Per Marlyn's wishes, a private memorial service will be held at a later date.
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