I remember as a young kid dancing with Marian around our family room on New Year’s Eve. One time I told her she looked like she was 29 and she promised that if I told her that when she was 40, she’d give me $100. You better believe I reminded her of that conversation every time I saw her. Sure enough on her 40th birthday she brought me a bag of quarters totaling $100 - which was perfect for doing my laundry in my college dorm. She was a great cook and baker and after I was diagnosed with celiac disease, she would continue to make yummy gluten free dishes - of course my favorite was her boysenberry pie.  Upon meeting my fabulous husband (then boyfriend) Dennis Thompson, she went into mama bear mode to let him know she was keeping an eye on him, which he took in stride.

Ron Zielske and Marian were always there with a smile on their faces at our activities. Year after year they came to band reviews, crab feeds, and other functions. They were there for the wonderful, memorable times but they were also there for those times when life just sucked. They helped prop me up and let me know they were in my corner. 

I was struck by Marian’s fierce loyalty, her strong love for her family and her wicked sense of humor, which always resonated with me. Marian, Rest In Peace. I take comfort in knowing that you are free from pain.  Know that you are loved and will be missed.

To Ron, I offer my sincere condolences. I hope that you are able to feel the support and all of the virtual hugs from all of us who love you.