Marylin Jean Thomas

Marylin Jean Thomas was born to Claude and Josephine (Paradise) Russell in Elk Rapids, Michigan. She graduated from Elk Rapids High School in 1957. She married Charles Thomas on October 12, 1957. They had three children. Marylin and Charles resided in Michigan most of their married life, with the exception of four years in California. 

When her family was young Marylin graduated from cosmetology school in Traverse City and opened her own beauty salon at home. She later worked at Elk Rapids Schools. Her next career was at Millikin’s Department Store in Traverse City, Michigan where she managed many departments throughout her tenure there. This was her favorite job. She then worked at Burnette Foods in Elk Rapids until her retirement. 

Marylin was a lifelong member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Elk Rapids. She taught Sunday school there for many years. She had numerous interests and hobbies, including sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, golf, bowling, and baking. She was also an avid reader, and she taught aerobics in Elk Rapids. Marylin was a 4-H leader, and she loved animals. She was especially fond of her dog, Bria. 

Marylin and Charles retired to the home they built in Torch Lake Township. She is survived by her husband, Charles; their three children; Lynn Thomas (Gates), Merridwyn and Kenneth Griffore; Ken Thomas and Janet (Oliver) Thomas; Claudia Thomas-Ostahowski and her husband, Jeff. 

Marilyn had a garden of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is survived by her grandchildren, Josette Gates, Daniel Gates, Olivia Gates, Kayla Thomas, Ryan Thomas, Kandis Thomas, Raymond Ostahowski.  

Great grandchildren, Layton Chartier, Alden Chartier, Greyson Chartier, Sietse Gates, Hanna Gates, Tiberius Phillips. Marylin is also survived by her siblings, Richard Russell, Beverly Gorecki, and Billie Russell. 

Preceding her in death are her parents and brothers, Tommy and Joseph.

A memorial for Marylin will be in July. Date to be determined.

Marylin had outstanding care from the staff in Grass Creek House at MeadowBrook in Bellaire, Michigan. Our family will always remember the kindness and professionalism of the people that work at MeadowBrook.

Should you like to send a gift, please consider a donation in Marylin’s name to an Alzheimer’s research organization or to the MeadowBrook dementia care unit.        The family is being cared for by Mortenson Funeral Home of Central Lake, MI.