I am so thankful to be a beneficiary of Marilyn’s faithful involvement in God’s Kingdom!  Starting in the 70’s when she and others sought the baptism of the Holy Spirit, I met her at Maranatha where we worshipped together.   Then she was on the Tri-Unity Christian School board in its early stages, and the school family was such an important part of our family’s life as our children received a Christ centered education there.   Marilyn was a faithful servant at GR First  Church, too, which impacted me and countless others.  We were in “Fellowship Group” together, and that was a real treat to be close and pray for one another regularly.   Lastly, her beautiful piano playing in the narthex after services was a gift to all who were there fellowshipping.  I enjoyed chatting with Ron while he waited for her near the piano.   What a special couple they were, and a wonderful example to others, including my husband, Steve, and me.  Our hearts go out to your whole family, and we pray for comfort as you miss them both!

In this photo, Marilyn sits at the center of our family—a fitting place for someone who meant so much to us. She had this remarkable way of connecting with each of us, but there was something truly special about the way she connected with my father. Marilyn was one of the rare people who could bring out a genuine smile from him, a smile from the heart that few had ever seen.

It wasn’t easy for him to open up or show emotion, but with Marilyn, it was different. Her warmth and kindness broke through his usual reserve, allowing him to relax in a way he seldom did. Around her, he wasn’t just smiling with his mouth; it was a smile that touched his eyes, his entire face, revealing a softer side that he rarely showed. Her presence created a space where he felt truly comfortable, where he could just be himself without any guard or pretense.

This image captures that rare moment—a heartfelt smile from my father, a moment of genuine joy shared among us all. Marilyn’s ability to make him laugh, to bring out the lightness in him, was a gift she gave freely and one we’ll always cherish. Moments like these remind us of the irreplaceable role she played in our lives, not just as a friend but as family.

Those eight years with the Wierenga family were more than just time spent—they were foundational years that helped shape who we would become. For us older kids, growing up with them meant growing up immersed in a culture rooted in love, honesty, and an unrelenting work ethic. Marilyn and Ron showed us that hard work was something to take pride in, that integrity was non-negotiable, and that generosity came from the heart, not obligation. They didn’t just invite us into their home; they invited us into their lives, showing us what true family looked like.

Their influence ran deeper than words. Marilyn had a way of making everyone feel valued, teaching us that kindness wasn’t just a trait—it was a way of life. She was there to support, celebrate, and encourage each one of us, showing up not only for birthdays and holidays but for the ordinary moments that made up our childhood. We learned from her that the greatest gifts in life are given freely, without expectation, and we felt that every time we shared a meal, a game, or a laugh together.

Even the fun had purpose. Whether it was playing in their backyard or gathered around the table for a meal, those moments weren’t just for passing time—they taught us the joy of togetherness. Through their example, Marilyn and Ron taught us how to balance hard work with even harder play, showing us that laughter and love were just as essential as anything else.

Now, as adults, those lessons remain with us. Marilyn and Ron’s culture of love, integrity, and resilience has become part of our own family’s foundation, a legacy that continues to shape us. They made our lives richer in ways that words can hardly capture, and their influence is woven into who we are. Those eight years were a gift, one that will resonate in our lives for years to come.

In this cherished memory, I'm on the left, seated with Mrs. Marilyn Wierenga, her husband Mr. Ron Wierenga, and their grandson, Danny. For us, going out to a restaurant like this was a special treat—something we rarely had the means to do on our own. But Mrs. Wierenga and her family never made it feel like an act of charity. Instead, every outing was framed as quality time with family, a reunion of hearts rather than an act of generosity. They welcomed us as if we were long-lost relatives, always ensuring that these gatherings felt like time spent with loved ones, not as guests or outsiders. Their warmth transformed what could have felt humbling into moments filled with genuine joy and togetherness.

I just learned of Marilyn passing. I was a blessed to know her and be her room mate on a mission trip to Argentina.  She was truly one of my heroes.  Thank you Jesus for her life and  a beautiful legacy.

Marilyn came to live at Waterford assisted living just a short time ago but she graced the residents with her beautiful piano playing inviting them to sing along! We had a hymn sing just 2 weeks ago after dinner. . . it was a taste of heaven!

So sorry for your loss.. thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Beautiful service
Kim and Rick  Koenig

Mrs. Marilyn Wierenga, her husband, and their children adopted our family to be a part of their's.  We will miss her and Mr. Roland Wierenga and we will pray that they are in good hands.  Thank you for all of the decades of friendship.  On behalf of the Truong family, please accept our condolences for her passing.  Please take solace that Marilyn and Roland have been reunited and are in good hands.

Our association / memories with the Wierenga family spans over 50 years…starting during the era of the Jesus Revolution when my dad [Pastor Cal Bergsma] founded Maranatha, and where Ron, Marilyn and children attended as charter members. 
My special bond with Marilyn was a shared love of music, and at our wedding, I chose her to play the pipe organ Postlude of many inspirational singalong praise songs…. which blessed our guests to the uttermost!  In turn, I was asked to be the organist at their son’s wedding, and many years later, was honored to teach their musical granddaughter, Amy, piano lessons.
In 1977, Dirk was also privileged for a season in his life to have been employed by Ron at Trimline Tool. His mother, Tillie Eerdmans, was also a good friend of Marilyn.
After TCS began in 1980, Marilyn served faithfully on the initial school board for a long time, along with my mom, Loie Bergsma. As the years went by, we would often run into each other at school functions and/or sports games – praying for and cheering together on the sidelines for our posterity.
Now finally, our parents are rejoicing being HOME and have received their eternal reward. Until that day, may we who remain be inspired to live worthily and “on the shoulders of” those who have walked in integrity and truth!
With continued prayers for comfort and peace as you adjust to life in her absence,
Ardene and Dirk Eerdmans

Marilyn was a dear friend of many years. She and Roland often hosted us  in their home when we came to Grand Rapids.  Our friendship was beautiful because we shared the same faith and love of the Bible and the Savior revealed therein.  She is now joyful in the presence of that beautiful Christ Who loved her in life and has received her into His loving arms.

OBITUARY

Marilyn Wierenga

March 13, 1938 – November 6, 2024

Cook Funeral and Cremation Services

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