Marilyn Ruth Pradko (née Little) entered Eternal Life at the age of 91. She is joyfully with her Savior, Jesus Christ and the love of her life of sixty-four years, beloved husband, Fred, who preceded her in death.
Marilyn was a vibrant, dynamic Lady who was energetic and had a zest for life. She had a love for our Lord Jesus from an early age. As a child, growing up in Windsor, she was active in her church and church school. She joined the YWCA and learned to dance, swim, sing and she even taught “new Canadians” English and social skills. Marilyn was asked to be a representative for the YWCA at their worldwide Centennial Conference in Paris, France in 1955 at the age of 21. After graduating from Honourable W.C. Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor, she attended Assumption Business College and began personnel work in Detroit Michigan.
Marilyn and Fred married in 1956, they began a family and home in Eastpointe, Michigan, then later moved to Shelby Township. Raising a family of five children and being very active in church life and their communities was their priority. Marilyn was a consummate organizer, planner, writer and natural teacher. She used her many talents and gifts to serve her church and community. Marilyn and Fred were Charter Members of St. Thomas Presbyterian Church in Shelby Township. She helped to develop worship services, served as an Elder, and initiated and served as president of the United Presbyterian Women’s Organization at St. Thomas Church. Marilyn created, wrote and planned many women’s Christian retreats. She was chairperson of the Mission and Evangelism committee at St. Paul’s UMC in Rochester. Marilyn was a core leader for Community Bible Study for years and a Sunday School teacher well into her 60’s. She enjoyed bringing new people into the church fold and having fun along the way. She was warm and welcoming to all.
Marilyn’s caring touch for her surrounding community took action as she started and served on many committees and groups, she served on the Utica Community School’s Citizen Action Committee and Bond Passing committee, was a charter member of the Shelby Township Beautification Committee, she started the “Green Thumb Golden Fingers” yearly school festival fundraiser for Utica Community Schools, served on the Parent Curriculum Counsel for junior high schools, and for years she was heading chairperson for the “United Foundation" for directing efforts for three cities: Roseville, Fraser and East Detroit. She also served on the Site Development Committee at Morgan Elementary school and received an award for stewardship. Further, she was recognized for her efforts of faith and goodwill by the Christian Education Society.
Marilyn had a passion for learning and enjoyed teaching others. She was an excellent communicator and enjoyed writing her own poems, Christian inspirations and encouraging, supportive notes to loved ones. She was a beautiful artist of oil paints and pastels. She loved nature, animals and the water. She was adventuresome and fun. Marilyn became an American citizen in 2006. She studied thoroughly for her test and was very proud to take the oath and become an American.
Her deep love for her family, Faith and friends was always apparent. Her Christian faith was her compass. She used her gifts and talents to serve the Lord and took excellent care of her family.
Marilyn is survived by their five children and spouses. Dr. Brian and Sandra Pradko, Dr. John and Paige Pradko, Dr. James and Dr. Jacqueline Pradko, Michael and Kimberly Pradko and Elisabeth and David Breuhan. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren: David (Kristin) Pradko, Adam (Kristina) Pradko, Emily (Jack) Johnston, Ryan (Kelley) Pradko, Jake Pradko, Blake Pradko, Rachel Pradko, Meghan (Matthew) Pompa, Joshua Pradko, Benjamin Pradko, Nathan Breuhan, Amanda Breuhan, Faith Breuhan. As well as twelve great grandchildren.
Preceded in death are Marilyn’s brothers whom she loved greatly, Robert K Little, and Gordon (Georgina) Little of Windsor Ontario, and Beloved parents Robert E. and Pearl E.M. Little of Windsor, Ontario. Survived by sister-in-law Katherine Little of Windsor.
Marilyn’s Light shone brightly! Her Love and Spirit will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be held Saturday December 30, 2023 from 3pm to 6pm at Pixley Funeral Home, 322 W. University Dr. Rochester MI 48307.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Fred & Marilyn Pradko will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:30 am at St Paul’s United Methodist Church 620 Romeo Rd. Rochester, MI 48307. Please join the Pradko Family as they honor and celebrate their parents. They look forward to greeting family and friends at the Luncheon immediately following the service at Twin Lakes Golf Course, Noon-2pm at 455 Twin Lakes Dr, Oakland, MI 48363.
In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to United Services Organizations (USO). Fred and Marilyn Pradko admired the USO’s efforts to provide resources for service members, veterans and military families throughout various transition points of their service. Please visit Donate | USO.org
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