Obituary: Marilyn Stautz

Marilyn Stautz July 17, 1928 - June 24, 2021

Marilyn Stautz, 92 yrs old, passed away June 24 at Resthaven Care Center. She was born on July 17, 1928 to Thomas and Mildred Godfrey in Adrian, MI. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bud” Stautz in December, 1998.

She is survived by her five children: Doug (Gale) Stautz of Battle Creek, Tom (Bev) Stautz of Springfield, VA, Ken Stautz of Marshall, Allen Stautz of Three Rivers, and Carol (Greg) Potts of Holland; 11 grandchildren: Lisa (Lee), Margo (Sean), Sean (Megan), Lance (Heather), Robert (Haley), Laurel (Steven), Eric, Caleb (Jordan), Kelsie, Alec, and Brian; and eight great-grandchildren: Addison, Bailey, Finn, Rian, Kruso, Shaylin, Killian, and Hudson.

After graduating from Adrian High School, Marilyn spent time in South Haven, working as a telephone operator. She went on to attend Jackson Business College, where she received a business degree. The next couple years were spent working as a secretary, traveling with her friends and being part of a dance group (which she could always tell an interesting, fun story about!). In 1952, Marilyn married Robert “Bud” Stautz. They were married 46 years before he preceded her in death. During most of those years, she was a homemaker, helping on the farm, and, of course, tending to her children.

After raising her five children, she spent nearly 20 years working at Das Dutchmen Essenhaus bakery as a pie-maker, a perfect job for her! Marilyn was such a loving and devoted Wife, Mom, Grandma, and friend to many. She had the gift of hospitality, always making others feel loved and cared about. Over the years, she welcomed many into her home, always providing a warm welcome, delicious food, and great conversation with laughter included. She was able to foster meaningful relationships with those around her by being a good listener and focusing on others. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her!

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, June 29 at 11 am at Eineder Funeral Home- Manchester Chapel (207 E. Duncan St. Manchester, MI 48158) Gathering to begin at 10 am. Burial of ashes to follow at Riverside Cemetery in Clinton, MI. In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation to Resthaven Home/Community in Holland, Michigan (https://resthaven.org/donate) or Hospice of Michigan (Home-Hospice of Michigan).

Please leave a message of comfort or sign Marilyn's guestbook at www.EinederFuneralHomes.com

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.