Marilyn Jean Martin

February 20, 1939 – November 6, 2024

We celebrate Marilyn Martin’s 85 beautiful years—uniquely lived as only Marilyn could. We also celebrate her new life in the presence of her Savior and God.

After she was diagnosed with lymphoma in 1997, God blessed Marilyn with 27 more years.  For the past 16 months she fought cancer and illness bravely, resolutely, and without complaint. The heart of her life was caring for her husband of 62 years, being forever a mom to her children, and enjoying and loving her grandsons and granddogs. She also enjoyed a cup of coffee, fine sweaters, and estate sales. She loved and was loved by her family and friends, spiritual family at LaGrange Bible Church, fellow quilters, and neighbors.

God gave Marilyn the gifts of an extraordinarily creative mind and able hands.  These she used, during her many years of homemaking as a wife and mom, to make holidays special and create custom clothing for herself and children, and, of course, quilts.  Her wit and humor, though often subtle, were evident in both her art and in conversation.

Marilyn grew up in Cicero, Illinois, born to Dutch parents Marinus and Elizabeth (nee Krot) Bons alongside siblings Robert and Betty. In school she was an excellent student and gifted artist. After college at Northern Illinois University, she went on to teach home economics and physical education at Cicero Middle School.  There she met her to-be-husband, Gerald Martin—a fellow gym teacher.  After they married, she quit her job and raised their three children in their LaGrange Park home.  For 20 years she enjoyed a side business of making stained glass. As an empty nester, she returned to her passion of sewing and quilting. She became a master at her craft, teaching and sharing her abilities with friends and various quilting groups.

Her faith and Christ’s presence in her life was evidenced by her love and concern for others and sacrificially putting others before herself.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Marinus and Elizabeth (nee Krot) Bons, and her brother, Robert Bons. She is survived by her husband, Gerald Martin, of LaGrange Illinois, her younger sister, Betty Marks, and her three children, Jennifer (Craig) Martin-Wong of Arcadia, California, Russell (Miriam) Martin of Jacksonport, Wisconsin, and Laura (Todd) Williams of Denver, Colorado. She is also survived by her four treasured grandchildren Tyler Williams, Jason Williams, Benjamin Martin, and Silas Martin.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at 4:00 pm on Monday, November 25, 2024, at LaGrange Bible Church, 850 7th Ave LaGrange, IL. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.  Consider wearing a brightly colored sweater in memory of Marilyn.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to LaGrange Bible Church or AdventHealth St. Thomas Hospice.

 

Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside at 708-352-6500.