Marilyn R. Arnsberger passed away peacefully on December 23, 2023 at the age of 98. She was born Marilyn Ruth Nelson in Red Wing, MN on July 2, 1925 to John E. Nelson and Marguerite M. Nelson. She grew up in Renville, MN.
Marilyn attended college at the University of Minnesota and Ohio State University where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1945 and Master of Science degree in 1946, respectively. It was at the University of Minnesota where she met her husband, James Howitt Anderson (Jim), through their love of music. She also marched in the university band carrying a tuba and played piano. They married in 1946 and began a family which grew to five children.
Marilyn moved their family west in 1948 for her husband’s work and settled in Cupertino, California. As her children got older, she encouraged each of them to pursue their dreams and each child was involved in music, scouting and succeeding at school. In addition to all her duties as a wife and mother, she worked as a Dietitian in area hospitals to make sure patients were cared for.
In 1982, Marilyn and Jim retired to Whidbey Island, WA and built a house at Polnell Shores. Marilyn was an accomplished seamstress and quilter. She donated many finished pieces to charity and worked together with others on many projects at the Whidbey Presbyterian Church, where she was a member for 35 years.
Marilyn’s husband Jim passed away in 2000. She met and married Jim Arnsberger in 2003 and enjoyed his companionship until he passed away in 2006. Marilyn was preceded in death by her children, Bruce, Stephen and Mark.
Marilyn moved from Whidbey Island in 2016 to South Carolina and then Florida to be near her daughter, Carol. Marilyn passed away in Clermont, Florida.
Marilyn is survived by her children Duane and wife Margaret, and Carol Winship; four grandchildren, Heather Guillen and husband Gabe; Brian Anderson and wife Camille; Brent King and wife Sarah and Justin King.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 1pm at the Whidbey Presbyterian Church. Memorial donations may be made to the church or your favorite charity.
