Marilyn Jean Summers

Marilyn Jean Summers, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on October 16th, 2023, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, following a valiant effort to recover from a stroke. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Gill and Catherine Lucille Way, and both brothers, Jim Way and Tom Way. She is survived by her loving family: Bob Summers, her devoted husband of 66 years; three children, Mike Summers of East Grand Rapids, Michigan; Mary Cudney (Gary) of Portage, Michigan; and John Summers (Kristina) of Delavan, Wisconsin, and beloved sister, Kathy Way of Jackson, Michigan. Additionally, she leaves behind ten grandchildren, Jennifer, Julie, Rebecca, Ryan, Nick, Andrew, Steven, RJ, Kyle, and Matthew, along with an astounding 28 great grandchildren (#29 due in April 2024), whom she loved ‘soooooooo much’ as was her custom to note on every Birthday card. Marilyn was born on April 1, 1937, in Jackson, Michigan. She graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1955. Bob and Marilyn were married in 1957 and moved to Grand Rapids (GR) in 1963, where she dedicated her life to caring for her husband, raising her children, and directing, planning, and executing all family activities, vacations and sports. She was passionate about real estate, buying and selling numerous rental homes in her spare time. Marilyn loved to stay active. She was an avid golfer, daily walker, and enjoyed both downhill & cross country skiing when the weather turned cold. In retirement, she enjoyed the summers in GR with family & friends and winters in Florida under sunshine and warmth. Family vacations over the years to: Hilton Head, Timber Shores, South Haven, Crystal & Boyne Mountain of Michigan, Colorado and Utah are among the families’ favorite memories. Her Mantra to “grab the gusto and live your best life” is a legacy her family continues to embody. Her absence leaves an indelible mark in the hearts of all who loved her. Marilyn was a devout Catholic and faithful parishioner at St. Robert of Newminster Parish during the summer & Resurrection of Our Lord over the winters. She faithfully provided a blessing to all, at every departure, with her thumb swiping a Cross on your forehead and saying: “May God Bless You” and we echoed, “May God Reward You”, in return! The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Roberts at 6477 Ada Drive S.E., Ada, Michigan on Friday, October 27, 2023, at 11:00 AM with Reverend Logan Weber officiating. There will be a reception and luncheon in the parish cafeteria from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM following the Funeral Mass. Additionally, there will be a visitation at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary at 3525 Remembrance Road, NW, Walker, Michigan on Thursday, October 26 from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM with a Rosary service from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM and another visitation at St. Robert of Newminster Parish on Friday, October 27 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A private interment will be held at St. John's Cemetery in Jackson, Michigan.

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Marilyn Jean Summers

April 1, 1937 - October 16, 2023