Marilyn Rae Ross, age 68, went to the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the early morning hours of February 5th, 2013 at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Yuma, Arizona after a short battle from lung cancer, with her husband and close friends by her side.
Marilyn Ross was born on November 13th, 1944 in Richland Center, Wisconsin. She was the third child born to Lucille and Milton Krans.
After graduating from high school, Marilyn attended North Central Bible College in Minneapolis, MN. While attending college she met her husband Kenneth Ross. After his graduation from Bible College in 1964 they were married on May 29th, 1964 and spent their honeymoon on a Forest Service Fire Lookout Tower in the Glacier View Ranger District of the Flathead National Forest. Ken and Marilyn started pastoring in Columbus, MT and served five congregations over their 43 years of pastoral ministry, including, Columbus, Shelby, Glasgow, Havre and Helena, MT. After retiring from fulltime pastoral ministry in June 2007, they served several churches as interim pastors in Montana. For the past two winter seasons, they have been pastoring two RV Park Chapels in Yuma, AZ. Two daughters were born, Jeanine on March 17th, 1967, who resides in Helena and Denise on October 2nd, 1969, of Grapeland, TX.
Marilyn loved RV camping, hiking, fishing, hunting and spending time boating on the many beautiful lakes of Montana. She also loved to create colorful rugs, on an early 20th Century loom, that her and Ken regularly sold at the Helena Farmer’s Market and other craft shows. Marilyn loved Glacier Bible Camp in Hungry Horse, MT and always looked forward to working on projects on the campground campus. She was instrumental in coordinating women’s groups in taking on care for multiple lodges on the campus. Additionally, it was her dream to develop a parcel of ground that now is now known as Warneke Park. Marilyn was the Choir Director at Helena First Assembly for ten years. During her tenure she was responsible for three major musical productions including the Living Christmas Tree, the Easter resurrection celebration and a Memorial Day patriotic rally. Her music ministry impacted many lives and was a passion in her life. Marilyn’s musical talents included signing, playing the piano, organ and accordion.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her mother Lucille Parr, step-father Virgil Parr, father Milton Krans, and brother Byron Krans.
Marilyn is survived by her husband Kenneth Ross, her two daughters, Jeanine Conway (Nick Conway) her grandchildren Kyle and Michaela Conway of Helena, MT and Denise Townsend (Brian Townsend) her grandchildren, Carolyn Townsend and Eastman (Sonny) Townsend of Grapeland, TX; brother Milton Krans of Springfield, Missouri and sister Beverly Krans of Richland Center, WI.
A family receiving friends viewing is scheduled from 6-8 pm on Sunday, February 10th, 2013 at Anderson, Stevenson, and Wilke Funeral Home in Helena, MT. Funeral services are scheduled for 1:30 pm on Monday, February 11, 2013 at Helena First Assembly of God Church. Interment will be at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, February 12, 2013, conducted in a family service at the Conrad Cemetery in Kalispell, MT.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Marilyn’s name are suggested to Assembly of God FBO Glacier Bible Camp, 2147 Overland Avenue; Suite 100 Billings, Montana 59102.
Please visit: www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or share a memory of Marilyn.
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday February 10, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:30 p.m.
Monday February 11, 2013
Helena First Assembly of God Church
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Family and Friends Service
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday February 10, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:30 p.m.
Monday February 11, 2013
Helena First Assembly of God Church
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
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Nick Conway says
I was blessed to have such a wonderful Mother-in-Law. She wrapped her arms around me from the minute she met me in Glacier National Park in 1988. I am so glad you are no longer in pain and “I can only imagine.”
Brian Townsend says
I too was blessed to be welcomed as Marilyn’s son-in-law. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother to us. Words cannot express how sorry we are of your loss, I am deeply saddened. Marilyn was simply an incredible “sunshine” person, industrious, eager to help with anything and she could make amazing meals out of “thin air”. Even though the time we spent with Marilyn was all too infrequent, when we were together our bonds were reinforced by the simplest of things. She welcomed us no matter what was transpiring in her life, no matter how busy she was, and, in recent times, no matter how much she may have been suffering. “She will always live in our hearts and her memory will never fade”.
Bill and Cheryl Cornish says
Marilyn was truly a blessing to everyone who passed her way. God used her to love and bless others. We will always remember her beautiful smile, her countenance and the many ways she showed God’s love to us. Pastor and her family are in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
Keith & Michelle Rowe says
Denise, Brian & family, we were so very sorry to hear about Mrs. Ross. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Brian has told us what a wonderful person she was, and I know you will miss her greatly! Just know that we are keeping you close to our hearts. God bless you.
Michelle & Keith
Jim Kanzenbach says
Brian- Denise,
My most sincere condolences. Unfortunately I never had the pleasure of meeting her as I missed the Montana trip some years ago.
Never easy to say goodbye to a loved one – especially one that is as close as a mother. Wish words would make it all better but they don’t. And they say time will heal the wound – but the scars remain forever. Just make the scars remind you of the many, many good times you shared together.
Thinking of you lots during this difficult time.
Jim
Sybil (Conway) Gilmore & Family says
We are so sorry for the loss of this beautiful woman, Marilyn Ross. Marilyn and Ken raised two wonderful daughters….one being my sister-in-law, Jeanine Conway. Though we never had the opportunity to meet Marilyn we know that she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a deeply religious woman. Marilyn welcomed my brother Nick into the Ross family in 1988. Nick has shared so many warm and funny stories over the years. A story that sticks the most in my memory was the year that Nick was telling me about the lottery for hunting tags. (I don’t know anything about hunting so this was all very interesting to me). Nick told me about how many deer tags etc each of them received. Then Nick told me , “Marilyn got an ELK tag!” I was just imagining our own NY City born and raised Mother, Kitty Conway, hunting and it made me laugh. The thought of a “Grandmother” hunting a giant Elk was even more humorous to me. But now it only makes me smile to think about how Marilyn did not sit back and watch the men hunt…she participated in all aspects of life and if her family was hunting…she was hunting. Nick told me of learning to fly fish in the streams and hiking with bears running near the trails. All very exciting and very different than the life we lead in Up State NY. From all of this, I did embrace Marilyn’s zest for life and when given the opportunity to try something new “I’m in!” So I thank you, Marilyn Ross, for teaching me as well! My nephew Kyle and my niece Michaela were blessed to have shared so many wonderful experiences with their Grandmother. Those memories will live on in their hearts forever. We will be keeping the Ross/Conway family in our prayers. Marilyn, I know that you are at peace, watching over your family from heaven. I hope to meet you there one day! Sincerely – Sybil (Conway) Gilmore and family…JP, Katie, Megan, and Claire (Fairport, NY)
Jeff Townsend says
Denise, Brian, Ken and the Ross Family-
I am so sorry to hear about Marilyn. The few times we did meet, she was always upbeat and a very happy person. It was a pleasure to have known her. God needed another Angel, and He got a good one.
Julie Setzer says
After reading the previous comments, I am very sad I didn’t get a chance to meet Marilyn in person. She sounds like a fun, happy, loving woman. I do, however, have the pleasure of working with her lovely daughter Denise and I’m thinking that the apple most definitely does not fall far from the tree. Denise, recently I’ve been reading in Matthew and Mark and I have been struck by the fact that Jesus simply said to the guys “Come. Follow Me” and they did, without question or hesitation! It reminds me that Jesus is simply irresistible. Your mom is obviously spending all of her time with Him now and I hope it comforts you to know that it’s just her and Jesus, the Irresistible, together – forever – and that someday you can join them. Love, Julie
Tom Cheetham says
Marilyn Ross… You are loved by so many and will be missed. I think of you now in Heaven with Christ and our Heavenly Father with the Host of Angel choirs! you are Home. Pastor Ken I have no words to express the earthly pain your going through. I want to thank you both for the love you showed and shared with my children and myself. the two of you shaped a body of people who have shaped our lives and many others. Thank you for answering His call. I wish I could be there to give you a hug. Tom Cheetham
Scott and Michele Walberg says
Dear Pastor Ross and family,
Please know Michele and I are praying for you. In 1992 we were privileged to begin ministry together and you blessed, encouraged, and inspired us to remain faithful to God’s calling. Marilyn always remembered our daughters with special cards on their birthdays and other occasions – going above and beyond. We are grateful to have held your arms in ministry and please know Pastor/family we are holding you in prayer now. John 14:27 speaks of His Peace. May you sense and experience His Presence/Peace in a powerful way. God bless you. Love and prayers. Scott and Michele
Charlotte Kanzenbach says
Dear Brian and Denise,
I was so sorry to hear about Marilyn’s passing. Words just don’t seem adequate after such a profound loss, but I pray that God will wrap your entire family in his arms and bring you some measure of comfort. I know that a shock like this can take time to accept and process, but I hope the day comes soon when you’ll be able to remember her with less pain and more joy in the person she was and the life she lead. It’s obvious she leaves behind a legacy of love and grace. Hold on to those good memories. That’s what will sustain you in the painful days ahead.
All my love,
Charlotte
aaron and maryann herriges says
dear pastor ross and family, we are sorry for your loss, marilyn was a blessing to all who had the good fortune tomeet and know her! heaven just got a whole lot brighter with her arrival! god bless you all and you are in our prayers. love from the herriges and taylor families
Kathy (Brenden) Plettenberg says
Pastor Ken….My daughter shared with me the other day the stunning news that Marilyn had gone home to Jesus. What a wonderful day for her, yet so sad for you to lose your love, your partner in life. My sincerest condolences. Marilyn was always so ready with a smile and a happy greeting. She had great style and elegance, as well. I will always remember her fondly. You, your kids, and grandkids are in my prayers. In Him, Kathy
Joe and Patty atvick says
Ken and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Patty and I have always appreciated both of you for all the fellowship, friendship, love and trust over the years. I think back to when you moved to Havre as our new Pastor family, wow, what a blessing! Our prayers are with you all at this time.
May God our Father comfort your hearts, bind you together with love and led you down this path guiding you all through this time. Our love and prayers are with you all.
God be with you all.
Joe and Patty Hatvick
Mesa, Arizona
Bonnie Benson says
Dear Pastor Ken, Jeanine and Denise
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss, I was flooded with oh so many memories when I got the news. Marilyn would listen to all my woes when I was a young women and she gave the best advice she could and a stern talking to when I needed it most. She was a great Mentor, she encouraged me in my spirtual growth , and helped me to be a better S.S. Teacher and Children Church Leader. And try as she might a better diplomat because diplomacy was not my strong suit, I can still hear her say “Now Bonnie” after I had said somthing I should have. Our prayers are with and remember how much the Holden Clan loves you all.
Rob & Esther Weightman and Family says
Dear Pastor Ross,
We don’t have words to express how sorry we are to hear of your loss. You and Marilyn were such a blessing to us during our time in Montana and we think of you often. We are praying for God’s comfort for you and your family during this difficult time.
Rob, Esther, Erin & Kaili Weightman
Elk Point, South Dakota
Norm Christofferson says
Marilyn was one of the finest women we’ve had the privilege to call “friend”. She was an encourager, loved to laugh, was gifted and talented in SO many ways, and was simply a joy in our lives. She and Ken will always be a part of us. We love you Ken and are praying for you, Jeanine, and Denise.
Norm and Corlynn Christofferson
Helena Neighborhood Assembly
Leyetta Way says
Such sadness in my heart for the dear family and friends of one of the classiest, most gentle women I have ever known. Marilyn, I will always remember the way you led choir and your everlasting patience as we tried to put everyone through their paces getting ready for Resurrection Sunday. I so enjoyed working with you during those times because your patience was such an example to me. I always wanted to sing like you and dress like you. And whenever I see an Easter Lily, I think of you. And talk about the woman behind the man…I’ve never seen a better team than Ken and Marilyn Ross. You shaped a generation of people who are serving the Lord. Pastor Ross, Jeanine, and the rest of your family, know that you’re in my thoughts and prayers as you struggle to move on in this world without her.
Terry and Autumn Caffee says
Marilyn was such a classy lady; always well-dressed, friendly and polite. She was such a great role model with many talents. We are so grateful for having the opportunity to get to know Pastor and her.
Doug and Julie Ludtke says
No words can lessen the loss and sadness your family must be feeling. We are praying for you and want you to know, we love you Pastor Ross. Doug and I feel so blessed to have had you and your family in our lives.
Jane Culler says
My heart is broken knowing that we won’t have Marilyn with us any more, yet my heart rejoices that she gets to be with her Savior in heaven. She was such an awesome example of a Godly woman and I so loved being a part of her choir for so many years. When we would get to visiting and she needed to get our attention, she would simply raise her arms and hold them – no words of reprimand, just patiently and quietly bringing us to attention. Pastor Ken, Jeanine & Denise and families – we will continue to hold you up in prayer as you walk through this valley. God’s grace and peace be with you all.
Mary Sands says
What a great wife, mom, grandma and friend. So sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing but know she is rejoicing. Keeping family in my prayers and thoughts.
Karen Tyler says
The first time I met Marilyn I knew we would be friends and I thank God I could call her my friend. Marilyn, Pastor Ken, Eilene and Larry Holman visited us in AZ and what a wonderful day and it was the last day we were all together. Following that time my Ken died and now they are together in Heaven. Yes, Pastor I know your pain! I am and will always be here for all of you and love you all.
Jeri and Jenny Goodwin says
Jeri and I have so many fond memories of Marilyn. Our first date was a double date with Pastor Ross and Marilyn. I can distinctly remember her laugh as Jeri and I realized that we were “lost” on the “country roads” of Billings with Pastor Ross navigating the way. She and Pastor had packed their car in such a way that Jeri and I had to sit very close together and then mysteriously the heat in the vehicle no longer worked! Marilyn and Pastor Ross also joined us in our engagement and we were blessed to be married by them.
Marilyn always had a smile to share or a hug in due season to give. Our memories of her are truly cherished and will be told to the generations of our family. So sad to say good bye but we sure do look forward to reuniting one day in heaven. We love you Pastor Ross, Nick, Jeanine and family.
Robin & Leona says
The LOVE, the laughter, the tears, the quiet times, the belly-laugh roll-on-the-floor hilarity, the times I said something slightly ‘askew’, the shocked look but understanding laughter, the shopping (!), the advice given, the advice taken, the LOVE. I could continue but it all falls into the circle called “LOVE”. This is just a sketch of the times Marilyn & I spent together. Our friendship was a treasure to me. She never made demands, she just loved . She never put my “problems” aside, she just loved. Marilyn was so very beautiful….inside, outside……..but in a way only a friend can see. We all view people from our own place in their lives. Pastor Ken’s vision when he looked at her was definitely different than what the girls & grandchildren saw. A “bestie” views a friend in ways that cannot & should not be described. Marilyn, I will keep your beauty in my heart & love you forever….until I see you again. Thank you, Marilyn. I love you.
Judy Webster says
Dear Pastor Ken and Family,
I can’t say anymore than what has already been said. My heart is so heavy, yet I will carry in my memory Marilyn’s precious, sparkling smile and twinkling eyes. She had the gift of encouraging me without condemning me, a gift I will never forget. May the Lord continue to bless you with many more precious memories. Till we all meet again.
Darrelll & Karen Losing says
My first meeting with the Ken and Marilyn Ross was at Montana District events dating back to l968 when we accepted the church at Scobey. On one our first meetings in the District, Marilyn and Ken invited us to join them after church for lunch. I had to decline because I was sick but that was the first time I saw this great couple and witnessed Marilyn’s grace and professional courtesy.
Through the years we connected, we pastored near to each other for awhile, we served on District projects and the Presbytery. Our children went on mission’s trips together and we would see each other at camps. Marilyn always showed great leadership abilities. Her spiritual qualities were evident and she was secure in who she was, she was never insecure or proud, but always humble.
We will never forget our last visit with Ken and Marilyn in Yuma, AZ, January 19, 2013. The years had gone by far too rapidly and we hadn’t seen each other often enough the last 20 years. We now sat around the table reminiscing about the ministry, shared how retirement was going and told how many grandchildren we have. One thing we remember is the spiritual aptitude, grace, kindness and charm of Marilyn was still there.
Our lives have been enriched because we knew Marilyn Ross.
You are in our thoughts and prayers
Your friends in the ministry,
Darrell (& Karen) Losing
Pat Johnston says
Dear Pastor Ross & Family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing. She was such a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed. I will always remember her leading us in song during our trips to Israel and the many choir events and solos she sang in church. She always had a smile and was so warm and welcoming. I’m praying for all of you.
Carol Lee Townsend says
I first met Marilyn when Brian and Denise hosted our family vacation in Montana thirteen years ago. We gathered together, celebrating, as Ken christened our baby granddaughter Carolyn. Marilyn was gracious, welcoming, and so comfortable to be around. I was immediately at ease as we worked together in the kitchen or sat and chatted in the sunshine. I was struck with her energy and beauty. Brian told me about how Marilyn could take a boney turkey carcass, crack it up with her hands and next thing you know you had a pot of delicious turkey soup bubbling on the stove. I remember showing her an apron I’d made out of old jeans, and she jumped on the idea, finding a use for the part of the blue jeans that was not used in the rag rugs. we had such fun that day, and by the next day she had aprons on the sewing machine. She could make something out of nothing, as they say. I enjoyed visiting with her here on the ranch, and as we talked, the hands were busy cracking pecans, chopping vegetables for canning, cutting cloth strips for the rag rugs, always industrious, always producing. We sat on the cedar benches she and Ken fashioned from our trees. I see the bricks they laid behind the ranch house to stem the erosion problem. She was never idle, always cheerful and light. She could work like a man but she was always a woman. I am glad I had the opportunity to know her.
Arlene Heggen says
Dear Pastor Ross, Janine and Denise, I was so very saddened to read of Marilyn’s passing, and it brought back many memories of her, and all of you when we knew you in Havre. She was a dear, dear lady and I know you must miss her terribly. I never heard her say a bad word about anyone…..she was a wonderful example of a Christian woman.
A book, other than the Bible, that helped me when we lost our grandson is: “A Grief Observed” by C.S. Lewis. I am praying for you all. In His love, and mine, Arlene
Betty Warren says
Pastor Ross and Family – I truly will miss Marilyn – her ready smile, her genuine heart, her love and care for so many. Choir and grand performance director, rug maker, the good cook, comedian, prayer warrior, and oh so much more. My heart crys for her losing her on this earth but oh the joy in knowing she is now free and once again we’ll meet. Hugs and prayers for you, Betty
Warren & Bev Maxted says
Dear Ken and family,
What a rush of memories. There are times when I still reflect on the time of ministry where we labored together in Glasgow. What a joy to be mentored by Ken and Marilyn. The warmth and patience that you demonstrated while you allowed the ‘greenhorn’ to test his wings to see if he could fly. Ken, you and Marilyn gave us an example to follow. Your perserverence and commitment to our Lord encouraged me to stick with the ministry when others would have thrown in the towel. The times of fellowship that we spent together was priceless. Let’s see, I still remember the gleam in your eyes when you stated that you could always tell how far Marilyn had progressed in cleaning the house just by following the string of coffee cups around the house. Naturally, it was our joy to be in Three Forks while you and Marilyn were in Helena. It gave us opportunity to touch base again and strengthen a long lasting friendship. And, of course, the joy we shared more recently when you and Marilyn were interim pastors at Glendive. What a blessing to be able to spend an afternoon of fellowship in Medora and touring Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We were saddened to receive the news that Marilyn is no longer with us but we know that to be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord. I am confident that Marilyn is singing for her Master at this very moment. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May the God of all comfort and peace be with you.
Your old buddy, “The Mule Skinner” and Bev.
Diana Canen says
I had the great opportunity to have them as pastors twice, first in Glasgow as a young kid growing up alongside Jeanine and Denise. I don’t remember much from those times, except for thinking I lost their cat who just decided it was time to go back home. They did give me a second chance with their shelties in Havre years later and housesat and dogsat for them. Marilyn was such a gracious person.She always had a smile and could make anyone feel comfortable. She will be greatly missed. I know my dad, Lloyd, who just passed away in September, will be there to welcome her into heaven. My mom and I continue to lift you up in our prayers.
Diana and Dorothy Canen
Diana and Dorothy Canen
DARLENE KOMROSKY HENDERSON says
PASTOR ROSS, I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.marylin was the neatest lady and friend i could ever ask for.. you both taught me the true meaning of the lord and helped me give my life to him in glasgow montana.. i miss you all very very much…She always had a smile on her face. we lost my dad in 2005 due to alzheimers.. mom is still alive and going to be 83 in march.. i will never forget coming to your home on jet drive just to visit you all..GODBLESS U ALL ANDKNOW ALWAYS BROTHER ROSS YOUR LOVED…
DARLENE KOMROSKY HENDERSON
Jim and Nancy Fauth says
Pastor Ross and family, I got to know you in Glasgow and always enjoyed your ministry. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I remember you opening up your home many times to the youth in the church and seeing you at fellowship meetings as the years went by. Her willingness to help wherever she was asked. Marilyn was such a great part of your ministry and what a team you made. We love you and will hold you up in our prayers.
Lisa Townsend says
Denise and family,
I pray that the family and friends that surround you during this time can bring you some comfort. Sharing great memories of special times always helps ease the initial heartache of such a loss. I pray that GOD helps each of you feel comfort in your own way. It was so nice to have spent time with Marilyn at the ranch, she was a delightful lady.
GOD bless your family and hold you in his care.
The Southern Clan
Dan & Georgia Stinson says
Some things in life are just hard to understand, and losing Marilyn is one of those. She was such a blessing to everyone; a warm and caring person who enjoyed life and shared it with everyone around her. Ken, our hearts feel such loss and we can only begin to understand the sorrow you must feel. We will hold you and all your family in our prayers.
Larry & Judy Baker says
Marilyn still lives on in so many ways, in so many lives and hearts! I don’t remember ever seeing her without that big, genuine smile she shared with everyone. While we will miss her here, she is singing with the Saviour! Pasotor Ross, you know our Comforter will be with you through these sorrowful times. Our prayers will join those of many others for you and your loved ones.
Sharron Ensign says
I enjoyed those special lunches, meetings at the Ross home, showing us what was new in their world. It was a privelege to share in their lives even for a short time. You will be much missed Marilyn yet you are in a far better place free from pain and suffering. Will see you in a few years I’m sure.
May (Canen) O'Hara says
Pastor Ross and family,
I always appreciated your ministry in Glasgow. I remember how sad I was when your family moved away. Marilyn always encouraged me in music and gave me a few piano lessons and accompanied me in singing. As a worship/choir leader at our church now, I can look back and thank God for what she shared with me and how she influenced my life. Our prayers are with you. My Dad passed away this last September and he loved the hymns. I am sure he and Marilyn are having a wonderful time singing together in Heaven.
May (Canen) O’Hara
Olympia, Washington
Becky Schmidt Tillman says
Ken, Jeanine & Denise,
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Marilyn. A wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Although it’s been many years since we have seen or heard from each other the bonds we shared while growing up in Montana, sharing all of those holidays together, being neighbors both in ministry and at Glacier Bible Camp, and sharing in many life experiences cannot be broken by distance and time. Memories are too many to share but will forever be kept in the heart. I pray for the peace that passes all understanding to sustain you through the coming days ahead. Love to each of you.
Sandy Sands says
Knowing how difficult the times will be without Marilyn in your physical presence. Praying that your memories of times spent together will bring comfort, strength, laughter and healing tears as you move forward, knowing the legacy that Marilyn created as you look back.
Joe & Danelle Danzer says
Dear Pastor Ross & Family:
We are grateful we got to know Marilyn. We will not forget her smile, laugh, sense of humor, stories, watching her direct choirs/plays, and so much more. Both you and Marilyn had a large impact on our lives. We look up to you in many ways and appreciate you greatly. You both showed us how to live as individuals and as a married couple in this world. Both of you model Christ and what Christianity should be. Thank you Pastor and Marilyn for being this true example! Pastor, you are in our thoughts and prayers during this time and Marilyn will not be forgotten. Her and your legacy in our lives will resonate forever.
Love and Prayers,
Joe & Danelle Danzer
Jerry & Kathy Lamping says
Hey Ken Very sad to hear about Marilyn she was a very sweet lady.
The Holy Spirit will comfort you. Kathy and I are praying for you.
I miss seeing you, God bless you.
Leona & Christina Wetherall says
If I had to sum up one word for Marilyn it would be “acceptance” from the moment both Christina and I met Marilyn and Ken we felt accepted and loved. Thank you both for sharing your life with us, for caring for us, for loving us with no strings attached and for helping us stay on the path to heaven. Ken may God give you the strength he gave me when I lost Bob, and may God give the rest of the family peace in the coming days. We will all rejoice in heaven soon. Our prayers will be with you all.
David and Sharyn Gunderson says
Ken,
So sorry to hear about your loss. We have purchased many beautiful rugs from Marilyn at craft shows and Farmers Market the past few years. She always greeted us by name. I lost my mom 8 months ago……. Her name is also Marilynn.
May God bless you and your family.
Charles and Mary Taylor says
Pastor Ross and family,
Words can’t express how sorry we were to hear of Marilyn’s passing. She was a great woman of God and will be missed dearly. Marilyn played the piano at our wedding in Havre when you were pastoring there. When we moved to Helena in 1995 how excited we were to find out you and Marilyn were pastoring here. You and Marilyn are true examples for the rest of us and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bob and Mardi Millons says
We read in the paper to day the obituary. We are in CA and late in getting the news. Our heats broke for the loss to Marilyn’s family. What a fabulous, outstanding woman she was. She was an inspiration to all women. We were blessed to have known her. She always seemed the picture of health….even though we saw her battle cancer. Pastor Ross….we can’t begin to know how your heart is broken. The good news….she is in an awesome place!!!!
Love and prayers
Kim Kaftan says
I sure didn’t know Marilyn long as she and Pastor Ken were just leaving to pastor in Helena as I was preparing to enter the Kaftan family here in Havre. However, when they returned to Havre as interim pastors, I got to know here a bit! Marilyn was an absolutely AMAZING woman! She ALWAYS remembered people’s names! No matter where you saw Marilyn or what SHE was going through she radiated the joy of Christ. Marilyn had the most amazing ability to make a person feel like you were the most important person in the room when she was talking to you. Marilyn had a beautiful smile, and shining blue eyes radiated the love of Christ. Pastor Ken, thank you for sharing her with all of us… Love and prayers..Alan & Kim
Megan Wood says
Pastor Ross,
I was deeply saddened for you and your family to hear about Pastor Marilyn. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Marilyn was such a beautiful and joyful woman and someone that I have looked up to and inspired to be like.
Much Love,
Tom and Megan (Swarens) Wood
Mary Griffin Turner says
Marilyn and I were close friends in High School and even went to a Church Youth Conference together. We were in choir the morning they came and got Milton and Marilyn to tell them their father had been killed in an accident at a stone quarry. I had not seen Marilyn since graduation but it will be great to be together again some day…prayers and hugs