Marilynn Kay Anson, 78, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 8:41 p.m. in the emergency department at Elkhart General Hospital. Though her departure was unforeseen, she was surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to her family, friends and faith.

Born on January 25, 1947, in South Bend, Indiana, Marilynn was the daughter of the late Gordon Morris and Mary Kathryn (Parker) Olsen. From an early age, she exhibited a vibrant spirit and a deep love for people, traits that would define her life and relationships. On May 7, 1977, she married Dennis L. Anson in South Bend. He passed away on May 10, 2019. In addition to her beloved husband and parents, Marilynn was also preceded in death by her sister, Kathryn E. Horein.

Marilynn is survived by her loving children: her son, Dean T. Anson of Elkhart; her daughters, Tina M. Pletcher of Elkhart and Rebecca A. (David) Allen of Elkhart; her devoted siblings, brother Denny J. (Joy) Olsen of Osceola, Indiana, and sister Carol A. Hemund of Elkhart. Also survived by grandchildren, Lee Anson of Elkhart, Amanda Garrison of Elkhart, Brenna (Tucker) Belden of Branson, Missouri, Layna Pletcher of Elkhart, Vanessa (Paul) Bell of Three Rivers, Michigan, Alysha (Brandon Swain) McDaniel of Elkhart, Hannah (Adam) Rines of Elkhart, Jessica Allen of Mishawaka, Indiana, Michael Allen of Oregon, Timothy (Dreanna) Allen of Mishawaka, Madison Allen of Elkhart, David (Helen) Allen Jr. of Osceola, Indiana, Diana (Preston) Grier of Mishawaka, Bradley (Rebecca) Allen of South Bend, Indiana, and Steven Allen of Florida. Additionally, she was blessed with 13 great-grandchildren and a wide circle of extended family, dear friends, and her beloved church community.

Marilynn's life was one of service and dedication, both professionally and personally. She built a successful career as a secretary, working diligently for over four decades at Riblet Products, LaSalle Bristol, and Tellabs before her well-earned retirement. She carried that same dedication into her spiritual life as a longtime and faithful member of Hillcrest United Methodist Church in Elkhart, where she served on multiple committees and formed lasting friendships.

A creative soul, Marilynn found great joy in designing and crafting beautiful greeting cards. Her handcrafted sentiments, filled with thoughtful embellishments and heartfelt messages, brought smiles to many and reflected her kind and giving nature. She often sold her cards at local bazaars, festivals, and to private businesses.

Marilynn also had a playful and adventurous side. She was an avid euchre player and a devoted member of a local euchre club, where she shared countless laughs and friendly competition. She relished her trips to Brown County, particularly in the fall when the leaves put on a breathtaking display. She enjoyed attending plays and productions at the Bristol Opera House. A fierce domino player, she loved hosting game nights, filling her home with laughter, friendly rivalry, and the comfort of togetherness. Also, her green thumb was evident in her flourishing flower garden.

Marilynn's family will honor her wishes by cremating her remains and entombing her beside Dennis at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola. However, before she is laid to rest, her loved ones invite friends and family to celebrate her life with a visitation and viewing on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hillcrest United Methodist Church, 4206 East Bristol Street, Elkhart. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation being held one hour prior. Pastor Glenn McClimans officiating. Interment will take place at a later date at Chapel Hill.

Memorial donations may go to the Hillcrest United Methodist Church or to any local Ribbon of Hope Chapter.