Marilyn Bordeaux

Lifes most precious gifts are the ones you love and Marilyn Bordeaux enjoyed, cherished and celebrated every moment she spent in the company of her beloved family. An endless source of love, Marilyn looked for ways to give to others, always thinking of their needs before her own. Her great sense of humor and easy manner won her many friends who considered it a privilege to know her. Marilyn had a full, caring heart and everyone who spent time with her felt the warmth of her presence. The year was 1938 and the United States was slowly climbing its way out of the dark recesses of the Great Depression. War had erupted in Europe and within just a few years the U.S. would be dragged headlong into the conflict. In the small village of Copemish, Michigan, on March 14, 1938, Clyde Morris and his wife, Dewey Fern (Cady), werent focusing on the hardships of the day, but rather on the birth of their healthy baby girl, a daughter they named Marilyn Joyce. Baby Marilyn was born at home in her familys log cabin, which in earlier years was a stagecoach station and was eventually turned into a museum. Being the second youngest of twelve children in a depression era family, times were often difficult, but the Morris family was a close family held fast with the things money couldnt buy. Her father worked hard as a farmer to provide for their family, while her mother had her hands busy raising twelve children. Because there was no money for entertainment, the family spent many happy memories gathered together, listening to their father play the fiddle and their mother accompany him on the piano. Despite the economics of the day, Marilyn still enjoyed a typical childhood, swimming and fishing in the nearby creek, going to dances as a teenager, playing softball, basketball, band, cheerleading and majorettes in school. She received her education in the Copemish Public Schools, and although she didnt graduate (because she was already caring for a family of her own), she went back and earned her GED in 1972. Marilyns life took a new direction when she was introduced to Ronald Bordeaux through some mutual friends. The two fell hopelessly in love and were married in Grand Rapids on March 14, 1956 her 18th birthday. Over the next few years, the couple filled their hearts and home with the joy and laughter of three children: Evert, Ronald and Jodi. Marilyn was the ideal mother, loving, devoted, nurturing and disciplinarian, when necessary. Her kids say she could give the greatest comfort when needed or a kick in the pants, if also needed. There wasnt anything she wouldnt do or give to help her kids they were truly her pride and joy in life. Time together as a family was always important, and the Morriss enjoyed many memorable family camping trips over the years, as well as relaxing summer get aways to the cottage on Brooks Lake. Besides being a devoted wife and mother, Marilyn worked for 30 years as an Inspector/Packer at Light Metals Corp. After retiring, she and Ron enjoyed traveling more often to see family, visiting area casinos for some gambling fun, or simply working in their yard together. Marilyns greatest joy, however, was being a doting grandmother to her two precious grandchildren. There were always giggles and laughter in the air when Grandma Marilyn was around, and there was never a shortage of hugs and kisses either. Over the years, Marilyn also numbered several pets to her family, and from the looks of her 3 cats, they were not wanting for anything either. Marilyn was a beautiful lady both inside and out. She was never judgmental of people, and with her warm, caring nature, she could connect with people from all walks of life in a matter of seconds. She was a great conversationalist on a vast number of topics, and she wasnt afraid to voice her opinion either. Marilyn was a firm believer in God, and although she didnt persay wear her beliefs on her sleeve, she enjoyed talking with others about religion and religious theories, which she found most interesting. Marilyn Bordeaux brought sunshine and smiles to scores of people throughout her life. She was a selfless and giving woman who never passed up another in need. Her greatest role, however, was being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother to the people who brought her life immeasurable joy. She will be deeply missed. Marilyn Joyce Bordeaux, age 70, died on Thursday, February 12, 2009, in the ICU of Mercy Hospital. She is survived by her husband, Ronald; sons: Evert Bordeaux of Muskegon, Ronald Bordeaux of Grand Rapids; daughter, Jodi (Gerry) Dibble of Muskegon; grandchildren: Autum Christie, Sicely Bordeaux; and brother, Eddie (Marilyn) Morris of Fremont. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Joey Bordeaux; brothers, Orville, Donny, Ray, Ortho, Evert, Phil; and sisters, Thelma, Inis, Vickie, Catherine. Services will be held on Tuesday, February 17, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church with Rev. Thomas C.H. Scott, D. Min., Rect officiating. Interment will be at Floral View Memorial Gardens. Friends may visit with Marilyns family on Monday, February 16, from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Clock Life Story Funeral Home - Muskegon. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please visit Marilyns memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may sign her online guest book or share a memory/thought with her family.