April 6
April 6
You are in my thoughts today, on your birthday! Love you always!
Marilyn C. Chang, a beloved and extraordinary wife, mother, tutu, sibling, friend, and nurse, passed away in her home, surrounded by her family, on Friday, May 21, 2021. As a compassionate and talented 40 year nurse (20 of which were in oncology), she was passionate about giving her all to her patients and encouraging them by sharing her faith in God. Likewise, she gave her all in her own 18 month fight with cancer, choosing life and a faith in His plan until the very end. Marilyn’s legacy of kindness, love, and strength, will live on in the countless number of people she touched over 66 years, from her family, friends, colleagues, and her patients and their families.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, best friend, and partner of 40 years, Ricky Chang, and their three children, Paul Roberts (43), Megan Ngaruiya (38), and Raina Chang (36). She is survived by 6 grandchildren, whom she loved and cherished so dearly – Ka’ihiao Roberts (13), Kawao Roberts (11), Uakea Roberts (7), Sanaiya Ngaruiya (7), Avea Ngaruiya (4), and Nala Ngaruiya (1). She is also survived by her two older siblings, Paul Yent and Martha Yent, and a daughter-in-law, Haili Roberts, and son-in-law, Joed Ngaruiya. Her devotion to her family was apparent to all who knew her and her abundant love for them was her motivation in all things on this earth and in heaven.
Marilyn’s wish for a private family celebration of her life in Hawaii will be honored. However, for anyone wishing to help remember her legacy and share memories, you are invited to do so on this page. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society in Marilyn’s honor.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, best friend, and partner of 40 years, Ricky Chang, and their three children, Paul Roberts (43), Megan Ngaruiya (38), and Raina Chang (36). She is survived by 6 grandchildren, whom she loved and cherished so dearly – Ka’ihiao Roberts (13), Kawao Roberts (11), Uakea Roberts (7), Sanaiya Ngaruiya (7), Avea Ngaruiya (4), and Nala Ngaruiya (1). She is also survived by her two older siblings, Paul Yent and Martha Yent, and a daughter-in-law, Haili Roberts, and son-in-law, Joed Ngaruiya. Her devotion to her family was apparent to all who knew her and her abundant love for them was her motivation in all things on this earth and in heaven.
Marilyn’s wish for a private family celebration of her life in Hawaii will be honored. However, for anyone wishing to help remember her legacy and share memories, you are invited to do so on this page. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society in Marilyn’s honor.
Tributes
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May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
I still remember very clearly our conversation about life, our future plans at the patio of Lulu’s bar. Little did I know that was our last heart to heart talk. I have learned so much from you about being humble, just living life as simple as we can be. I miss you my dear friend. I only had 2 good and true friends at work and one of them is you. I love you and I miss you.
May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
My dear Wife….oh how I so much miss you as I recall that you left earth just 2 years ago in 2021 this day. It’s amazing how my life has changed and how many of the ‘little things’ I recall of our being together for 40+ years bring me smiles and tears. I trust that Akua will allow us, in His grace, the reunion I look forward to in the Heavens. Till then, continue your at peace and calm…..see you soon. All my love to you, Mariyn. Ricky
May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
Love you dear friend!
April 6, 2023
April 6, 2023
Happy Birthday dear friend! Love you!!
August 3, 2021
August 3, 2021
Our deepest condolences to the Chang ohana for your loss. Much comfort and love during this sad time.
Matsui and Ballinger ohanas
Matsui and Ballinger ohanas
June 17, 2021
June 17, 2021
We just learned of Marilyn's passing. Our sincere condolences.
Joe and Diane Longo (former owners of Apple Valley Kennels)
Green Valley AZ
Joe and Diane Longo (former owners of Apple Valley Kennels)
Green Valley AZ
June 14, 2021
June 14, 2021
"Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation. The sun sets, the moon sets, but they are not gone." ~Rumi
Sending so much love, prayers, and healing to Uncle Ricky, Raina, Megan and family!
Sending so much love, prayers, and healing to Uncle Ricky, Raina, Megan and family!
June 2, 2021
June 2, 2021
Marilyn and Ricky were our beloved neighbors for many years. We miss them greatly. I think it's rare to have your neighbors become part of your extended family... the Changs definitely are, and will forever be, part of the Smith tribe.
"May the stars carry your sadness away,
May flowers fill your heart with beauty,
May hope forever wipe away your tears,
And, above all, may silence make you strong."
--- Chief Dan George
News of Marilyn's passing brought us to tears. She was one of the kindest, most gentle and sweet people we have ever met. On one of the worst evenings of my life -- when Dad had a cardiac arrest (that he thankfully survived) -- Marilyn came over and held my mother's hand. She was an angel.
Ricky shared many smiles with us. He even played and sang to my sister Lisa on her birthday!
We are sending love, hugs and prayers of strength to Ricky and the girls. (We were never fortunate enough to meet your son.)
Michelle (Micki) Smith, Lisa Downey and Bill Smith
"May the stars carry your sadness away,
May flowers fill your heart with beauty,
May hope forever wipe away your tears,
And, above all, may silence make you strong."
--- Chief Dan George
News of Marilyn's passing brought us to tears. She was one of the kindest, most gentle and sweet people we have ever met. On one of the worst evenings of my life -- when Dad had a cardiac arrest (that he thankfully survived) -- Marilyn came over and held my mother's hand. She was an angel.
Ricky shared many smiles with us. He even played and sang to my sister Lisa on her birthday!
We are sending love, hugs and prayers of strength to Ricky and the girls. (We were never fortunate enough to meet your son.)
Michelle (Micki) Smith, Lisa Downey and Bill Smith
May 29, 2021
May 29, 2021
It is so sad to learn of Marilyn's passing. She was a super nurse. She always had a minute to relax the doctors with some small talk. She complimented it with a smile and her cute little laughs. May she rest in peace. May God bless her and keep her.
May 28, 2021
May 28, 2021
I am so blessed to have met Miss Marilyn while working at 'Ohana mammography, and then having the privilege to work with her again on the YVMH campus when she was on 2E. Marilyn taught me much about her love of the islands, family, friends, and providing compassionate care to all patients who cross our paths. My thoughts are with all of her ohana. Mahalo for being my friend, ha'o wau ia 'oe.
May 28, 2021
May 28, 2021
Marilyn is a dear friend from 34 years ago! Even though our paths have rarely crossed since, we have kept in touch at least once or twice a year. Marilyn is one of those people that no matter the distance, you don’t want to let her fall out if your life. I have such sweet memories of our time together on the Gem State Academy staff. The fun cookouts, music & amazing food we had at Ricky & Marilyn’s home. They were all inclusive with an open door to anyone wanting to join the fellowship! Marilyn threw a baby shower for me when our son Ryan was born January of 1989, I still have the beautiful cross stitch quilt that she & the other ladies made for Ryan. Even after 34 years I can’t she a decorative pig without thinking of Marilyn and her pig collection, just happened last night! So many fond memories!! What an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister & friend!! To Ricky & family, we are looking forward to Jesus soon return & our great Reunion with Him & those whom we love so much!!
Bonnie & Gene Herbel
Bonnie & Gene Herbel
May 28, 2021
May 28, 2021
To Marilyn’s family.
In all my years as the director of the YVC nursing program I always had confidence that Marilyn would treat students and faculty with respect and kindness. She was an outstanding nurse and woman. I know we have many great nurses in the field today who were positively influenced by her. I’m so very sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person and I know she will be greatly missed.
In all my years as the director of the YVC nursing program I always had confidence that Marilyn would treat students and faculty with respect and kindness. She was an outstanding nurse and woman. I know we have many great nurses in the field today who were positively influenced by her. I’m so very sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful person and I know she will be greatly missed.
May 26, 2021
May 26, 2021
I am so blessed to have known Marilyn. I met her at my work when she started at Ohana. She was so pleasant and calming to work with. She was very focused when she was with her patience and I always admired that about her.
Later she became my daughters nurse on the oncology floor during her struggle with cancer. All the while we fought her cancer I would get up lifting scriptures and thoughts here and there and I needed them each time she sent them. I was devastated when she told me about her diagnosis. I always think in my mind that someone that works so hard to make people well should never get cancer. And ….I thought ……she’ll beat this. She’s so strong. And she was. Her life was her grandchildren. She told me she wanted to watch them grow. It’s heartbreaking to me but we don’t see the plan that our Father in Heaven has for us. I believe she’ll always be with her grandchildren in spirit. It’s so hard to see those that you love suffer so much but I’m sure she was graceful in her illness. I pray for her family to have peace and comfort in their lives and Know she’s not far away. I love my friend and I can see her smile and hear her laugher in my mind over and over again. Good by my friend and we’ll see each other on the other side.
Later she became my daughters nurse on the oncology floor during her struggle with cancer. All the while we fought her cancer I would get up lifting scriptures and thoughts here and there and I needed them each time she sent them. I was devastated when she told me about her diagnosis. I always think in my mind that someone that works so hard to make people well should never get cancer. And ….I thought ……she’ll beat this. She’s so strong. And she was. Her life was her grandchildren. She told me she wanted to watch them grow. It’s heartbreaking to me but we don’t see the plan that our Father in Heaven has for us. I believe she’ll always be with her grandchildren in spirit. It’s so hard to see those that you love suffer so much but I’m sure she was graceful in her illness. I pray for her family to have peace and comfort in their lives and Know she’s not far away. I love my friend and I can see her smile and hear her laugher in my mind over and over again. Good by my friend and we’ll see each other on the other side.
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
Ricky. Your photos shared make you look very much like Confuscis. Confirming in my mind that you are a very wise mind indeed to have chosen Marilyn as your life partner. Thank you both for sharing a sweet part of life''s short journey with Deanne and me. We now pray for you to continue to love your children and grands. Jack Hoehn
May 25, 2021
May 25, 2021
Any time I think I might be lazy and go to bed without brushing my teeth, I hear Auntie’s voice in my head... “You brush your teeth? Don’t forget to brush your teeth!” She was one of the sweetest and most kind people I’ve been lucky enough to spend time with. I wish I could give her another hug. Love you Auntie!
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
Marilyn, Thank you for all the good laughs we shared over the years and being such an awesome wife to my cousin and mother to your children. I will miss you and our games on WWF. A HUI HOU my friend . To my cousins, may the lord provide comfort to all of you. Much love and Aloha, Bernie
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
To the Chang Ohana our deepest condolences, we’re so sorry for your loss. Our ohana will cherish the sweet memories that were filled with laughter and fond memories with Marilyn and your ohana in Idaho.
May she rest in Aloha and with Jesus.
Mahalo da Fermantez Ohana
May she rest in Aloha and with Jesus.
Mahalo da Fermantez Ohana
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
To a co-worker, a nurse, a confidante, a sister, a friend. I could not describe the feeling of longing that we can still talk and spend time together and fulfill our plans of play time with our dogs Mc Kenna and Rocket. We have always wanted to do that. Thank you for listening. Thank you for understanding and for seeing the good and the beauty in me. I love you my friend. Until we see each other again.
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
Ricky, Megan & Raina, While there is no way I can feel yalls pain. I do feel your loss.
Tutu stole my heart the first time I met her. She had such a strong but calming presence, the heart and soul of this family. I enjoyed short talks with her during lessons and always left feeling so loved, supported and encouraged.
Her life and time with the girls during horse lessons gave me memories too beautiful to ever forget.
She will always be in my heart, until we meet again on that beautiful day in the clouds. I’ll be looking for her on horse back!!!
Prayers & love to you & your family during this sorrowful time.
I love y’all!
Tutu stole my heart the first time I met her. She had such a strong but calming presence, the heart and soul of this family. I enjoyed short talks with her during lessons and always left feeling so loved, supported and encouraged.
Her life and time with the girls during horse lessons gave me memories too beautiful to ever forget.
She will always be in my heart, until we meet again on that beautiful day in the clouds. I’ll be looking for her on horse back!!!
Prayers & love to you & your family during this sorrowful time.
I love y’all!
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
Ricky, thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute to Marilyn. Altho she and I did not meet in this life, I look forward to meeting her at Jesus' feet someday soon. May you and your Ohana feel the love, tears and prayers sent your way from many of us who love you! God keep you.
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
So very sorry to hear of Marilyn’s home-going as I know she leaves a space that can never be filled by anyone else. It seems Marilyn was someone who loved well and had a significant place in the lives of those around her, especially her dearly loved family. May you all sense the warm comfort of the Heavenly Father and be sustained by the support of your family and friends. Na ke akua e hoʻopōmaikaʻi iā ʻoukou āpau.
With Aloha,
Cousin Gabe
With Aloha,
Cousin Gabe
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
Oh Tutu, I will miss you forever. Thank you for welcoming me into your family with so much love and treating me as your own. Thank you for being the best advice giver and for having the most purest/sweetest soul. I promise you, your grand babies will forever be safe with me. I love you Tutu. Forever alive in my heart. Until we meet again.
Love, Perla
Love, Perla
May 24, 2021
May 24, 2021
What a beautiful tribute for a wonderful woman. My deepest condolences to the Chang family. May you find peace knowing she is pain free and soaring again.
May 23, 2021
May 23, 2021
To the Lady who is the love, light and strength of my life....mahalo for sharing 40 of your earth years with me. You are solely missed! Heaven can’t come soon enough for our reunion. A hui hou...me ke aloha pau ole. Ricky
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
April 6
April 6
You are in my thoughts today, on your birthday! Love you always!
May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
I still remember very clearly our conversation about life, our future plans at the patio of Lulu’s bar. Little did I know that was our last heart to heart talk. I have learned so much from you about being humble, just living life as simple as we can be. I miss you my dear friend. I only had 2 good and true friends at work and one of them is you. I love you and I miss you.
May 21, 2023
May 21, 2023
My dear Wife….oh how I so much miss you as I recall that you left earth just 2 years ago in 2021 this day. It’s amazing how my life has changed and how many of the ‘little things’ I recall of our being together for 40+ years bring me smiles and tears. I trust that Akua will allow us, in His grace, the reunion I look forward to in the Heavens. Till then, continue your at peace and calm…..see you soon. All my love to you, Mariyn. Ricky
Gallery
April 7, 2020 Chang, Roberts, Ngaruiya, Yent Ohanas
January 5, 2020 (L-R) Kawao, Ka'ihiao, Uakea, Nala, Papa, Avea, Tutu, Sanaiaya
December 11, 2019
Marilyn's baby--Makena (November 23, 2018)
Recent stories
Hau'oli la hanau Marilyn!
April 9, 2022
Had a wonderful time with you in spirit, with a small ohana with granddaughters and your daughters, sharing thoughts and memories on your birthday, 4/6/2022, at your young age of 67 years! We all sang happy birthday to you in your bedroom that day. Sorely still missing you; yet love that your undying presence is still with us....along with Akua's blessing for us. I love you my Honey!
Ricky
Ricky
May 25, 2021
Marilyn, you were the only one of my childhood friends that kept in touch. We went to Aikahi Park Elementary School, Kalaheo Intermediate, and Kailua High School, together. I probably would have lost track of you except for you reaching out. I loved the wonderful letters you wrote. You kept us connected. You also visited me with your brother at my home in New Mexico.
I used to go to the Waimanalo Stables with you and Julie and just watch your love for horses. Days at the beach, basket ball, your beautiful dog (Hoa Hale?) grabbing my pet chicken (the chicken was fine), meeting your first baby, Paul, and visiting you in your home at North Shore.
I was so proud of the woman you became. Nurse, wife, mother, animal lover.
I am so very sorry that you left this world. A light gone out. I am sure you faced cancer with grace and dignity. You are at eternal peace now, my long time friend. Mahalo and aloha, Diane Carlstead-Noveroske
I used to go to the Waimanalo Stables with you and Julie and just watch your love for horses. Days at the beach, basket ball, your beautiful dog (Hoa Hale?) grabbing my pet chicken (the chicken was fine), meeting your first baby, Paul, and visiting you in your home at North Shore.
I was so proud of the woman you became. Nurse, wife, mother, animal lover.
I am so very sorry that you left this world. A light gone out. I am sure you faced cancer with grace and dignity. You are at eternal peace now, my long time friend. Mahalo and aloha, Diane Carlstead-Noveroske
May 24, 2021
Marilyn, my dear friend of 50 years, I won’t say goodbye as
I will see you again. We met in 1969, and knowing you has made me a much better
person; I am so grateful for your friendship. You helped me adjust to life in Hawaii, you helped me mother my
children and many more of life’s challenges. Your heart was so big that you
could love and cherish your husband and children, and give of yourself without
reservation to all you encountered. You shared your natural empathy and
kindness with all God’s creatures. You chose nursing as a vocation, and I
believe that it was your true life’s calling. I remember when we were sixteen;
I loved to watch you ride because you were truly one with the horse. You felt
their moods and concerns, and made them know it was ok. In my mind’s eye, I see
you jumping Slim Jim, and riding Nijm in the dressage arena, so happy and at
peace. You are always in my heart, and I know you are watching over your
wonderful family with so much love.
All of my love forever, your friend Mary
All of my love forever, your friend Mary