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Birth: 1937 Death: 2024 Marilyn Wion, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024 at the age of 87. Born on March 24, 1937, Marilyn lived a vibrant and fulfilling life dedicated to her family, career, and community. Marilyn was born and raised and grew up on the west side of Santa Cruz at the Swiss Dairy farm and was the daughter of Fred and Mary Bilodeau and had one brother Fred Bilodeau Jr.
Marilyn graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1955 and went on to pursue a diverse and impactful career. She worked at the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office before branching out as an entrepreneur by opening Mo’s Fish n’ Chips. Later, she served at the Santa Cruz County Health Department and with special needs adults in Gardnerville, Nevada where her dedication to public service shone.
She was married to Don Keathley Sr who proceeded her in death in 2017. In 1976, Marilyn married the love of her life, Warren Wion. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared joy.
Marilyn’s family was her pride and joy. She is survived by her daughter Kim Moody and son-in-law Chuck; her granddaughter Jenifer Gibson, her son-in-law Jeremy, and her great-granddaughter Kylie; her grandson Travis Moody, daughter-in-law Sarah, and great-grandchildren Jameson and Madison. She is also survived by her son Don Keathley Jr.
and daughter-in-law Jennifer Keathley; her granddaughter Avery Hoppe, her son-in-law Jordan Hoppe, and her great-grandson Callum. Marilyn’s life was enriched by her passions. After high school, she explored her love of music by singing opera in San Francisco.
In her later years, she found joy in simple pleasures, including walking with her dear friends Zelma Ratliff and Christina Escobar. An active participant in Jazzercise during the 1980s and 1990s, Marilyn cherished staying active and connecting with her community. Marilyn’s memory will be carried forward by her devoted family and friends, who will forever cherish her warm spirit, vibrant energy, and the many lives she touched.
She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered. A crypt side service to celebrate Marilyn’s life will be held on December 13, 2024 at 10:00 am at Santa Cruz Memorial Park – 1927 Ocean Street extension. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Santa Cruz County Children’s Mental Health Division.
Honor with Flowers In memory of Marilyn Plant a Living Memorial In memory of Marilyn.
