Marilyn J. Rettman

Marilyn J. Rettman, age 78, of Battle Creek died Wednesday morning, October 30, 2013 at the Bickford Cottage in Battle Creek. She was born in Battle Creek on July 3, 1935, the loving daughter of Lionel and Olive (Schanzenbaker) Purdy. Marilyn graduated from Battle Creek Central High School with the Class of 1953 and served as a bus driver with the Lakeview School District for many years.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Lori K. (Larry) Ward and Shari L. (Jerry) Pipher, both of Battle Creek; five grandchildren, Ben, Tim & Eric Ward, Andie & Cortney Pipher; four great-grandchildren, and her brother, Dr. Richard (Beverly) Purdy of Florida. She was preceded in death by her husband, Murray W. Landon and her parents.

Marilyn was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, attended First Weselyan Church in Battle Creek and was active with Ministry with Community, the Mary Martha Service Guild, was a Battle Creek Health System volunteer, donated 3 gallons of blood with the American Red Cross, and served with the ILR (The Institute for Learning in Retirement) and the Kiwanis Club. She enjoyed her Bunco Club & Verona School Group, reading, home decorating, theatre, and travel. But first and foremost Marilyn was a wonderful mother, wife, and friend to many.

A visitation will be held 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, November 1, 2013 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home, Battle Creek where funeral services to celebrate Marilyn's life will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 2, 2013. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Alzheimer's Association. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.