Marilyn June VanSickle

Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Marilyn June VanSickle passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, at the age of 89.

Marilyn was born to the late George and Frieda (Ryle) Dietrich. On January 10, 1953, she married the love of her life, Herbert Lawrence VanSickle. They shared 56 wonderful years together before Herbert’s passing on October 5, 2009. Together, they built a home full of love, laughter, and strong family values.

Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Above all, her heart belonged to her family. She was a loving and dedicated mother to Cheri Harms (Tom), Louanne Neiderquill (Mark), and Larry VanSickle (Karen). She was a proud grandmother to Melissa (Bobby) LaLonde, Steven (Candice) Scott, Ryan (Janis) Neiderquill, Jeremy (Maribeth) Neiderquill, Jennifer Neiderquill, Alisha VanSickle, Tonie Parker (Austin), and Mason VanSickle. She was predeceased by her grandson, Joshua James VanSickle, on September 10, 1988.

Her legacy continues through her 12 great-grandchildren—with one more expected soon—and three great-great-grandchildren, with another on the way.

She is also survived by her siblings: Carol Gedraitis, Dennis Dietrich, and Gary (Lois) Dietrich; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother-in-law Sonny Gedraitis and sister-in-law Phylis Dietrich. Marilyn celebrated every milestone with family, comforted in every sorrow, and filled every room with warmth and encouragement. Her love for her family knew no bounds.

A long-time member of St. Mark Catholic Church in Au Gres, Marilyn’s faith was an important part of her life. She was an active and cherished member of the parish community for many years, contributing her time and talents to the choir and Altar Society. Her fellow parishioners will remember her for her warmth, kindness, and steadfast spirit.

Marilyn was also a proud member of the Au Gres Historical Society, where she found joy in preserving and celebrating her community’s rich heritage. She loved to sing, laugh, and connect with others, especially her friends in the Red Hat Society, with whom she shared many happy memories.

Marilyn served part-time with Au Gres Sims Township assisting the clerks, and worked at the former AuGres IGA, where she enjoyed connecting with friends and neighbors in the community.

In her later years, Marilyn lived at Barton Woods Assisted Care in Freeland, Michigan. The staff there became like family to her, especially Skyler Arizola and Kelsey Treichel, who brought joy and comfort to her daily life. Marilyn also shared a close bond with her hospice nurse, Mary Lynch from Heart-to-Heart Hospice, who provided her with tender care until the end.

Marilyn’s life was a testament to faith, family, and community. Her strength, grace, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Honoring Marilyn’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 415 S Court St, Au Gres, MI 48703, with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Burial of remains will follow in Sims-Whitney Cemetery.

Those wishing to honor her memory may consider a donation to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America or to Barton Woods Assisted Care, in support of resident activities, something Marilyn enjoyed, especially when there was food involved.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.