Marilyn Marie Stevens

Marilyn Marie Stevens (née Waters), 86, passed away in Craig, Colorado having led a life marked by love, laughter, and grace. She was born on January 30, 1937, in Kansas to Cecil and Ruth Waters. Two years later, the family moved to Colorado, the state she would call home for over eight decades. Raised on a farm growing wheat and beans, Marilyn’s love for gardening was planted early on and remained an activity that brought her great joy throughout her life. She and her family also raised dairy cows and Marilyn was the fastest milk bucket filler in the family.

Marilyn, who was proudly also known as Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma, spent much of her 86 years building what would become her greatest treasure – her family. She and her beloved husband, Walter, were married in 1955 and spent the next 68 years side by side. Together they raised three children, Kathy, Randy, and Ron, and made their home a gathering place for all the neighborhood kids and friends. As a family they created a lawn service that evolved into a lucrative worm business serving local fishermen. With her trusty rib bone in hand and rubber gloves on, Marilyn would scoop up the worms while avoiding the slime. She avoided snakes at all costs too, even once sending a cup of coffee flying when Randy tossed a rope that was doing a very good snake impression her way!

Each year of Marilyn’s life brought new joys as she watched her family grow. Together she and Walt welcomed 8 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. She had a unique talent for making every member of her family feel special, dedicating one-on-one time to learn more about their interests and most importantly, their hearts. With genuine curiosity and deep love, Marilyn wanted to know more about you and with a simple pat on the seat next to her on the couch she welcomed you in.

In her professional life and personal life, Marilyn was the one making sure that everything ran smoothly. From making sure shelves were stocked and operations ran smoothly at Roach Appliance, to executing a flawless Thanksgiving dinner every year, you could always count on her to be there for her people. (And if you weren’t a sweet potato lover before sitting down at her table, you certainly left as one!)

Marilyn will be remembered as a woman who consistently drew people to her, as marked by the many close friends she and Walt held dear over the years. For over forty years, Marilyn and Walt enjoyed square dancing with their friends and she was also an enthusiastic card player who would happily teach you the game. When Marilyn and Walt moved to Craig in the 1980s, they joined the Pinochle Club and were frequent visitors over the years sharing laughs and memories.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Walter Stevens, her children, Kathy Carnahan (Kirk), Randy Stevens, and Ron Stevens (Diane). She will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Jim Kelley (Su), Justin Kelley (Suzette), Scott Coronet (Ken), James Carnahan, Melissa Wolf (Josh), Holly Kawano (Carson), Glen Carnahan (Becca), and Ryan Stevens (Brittany). Marilyn is predeceased by her parents and siblings, Dwight Waters, Juanita Dennison, Ed Waters, and Milton Waters.

Over the years, Marilyn would often say to family when they visited “I think I ought to keep you.” In our hearts, we will always do the same.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Senior Social Center of Craig in memory of Marilyn. A memorial service will be held November 21, 2023 at Grant Mortuary.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all friends, relatives, and community members who have shown their support during this difficult time.