Marilyn Heller was born on January 7, 1943, to Edgar andRuth Parker of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, and passed away on May 7, 2026, in Pleasant Prairie, WI, due to complications following a recent fall.
She was one of four children born to Edgar and Ruth Parker and grew up as part of a close and loving family. She spent her early years living in Minnesota, Illinois, and Wisconsin, where she graduated from high school.
Marilyn continued her education at Wood County Teachers College before earning her Bachelor of Education from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. It was during her college years that she met the love of her life, Charles Heller. Their relationship grew into a lifelong partnership, and they were married on August 19, 1967.
She dedicated her life to teaching and nurturing young minds. Her first teaching position was in Iola, WI, where she taught third grade. She later taught in Genoa City before ultimately relocating to Kenosha, WI. There she taught first grade at Jane Vernon Elementary School, where she spent her time shaping and inspiring generations of students, many of whom she continued to hear from on a regular basis. To Marilyn, her students were like her own children, and she invested deeply in their lives. Marilyn taught for 34 years before retiring.
She also had a deep love for animals throughout her life. She was especially fond of cats and had several furry companions whom she loved and cared for over her lifetime.
Marilyn had a deep and abiding faith and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. She carried that love and faith into every season of her life and was a long-time member of Kenosha Bible Church. She also had a lifelong love of music, singing in a church trio for many years, and she also enjoyed playing the piano.
She was a gracious hostess, welcoming friends and family into her home with warmth and kindness. An excellent cook and baker, Marilyn delighted in preparing meals and desserts to share with others.
Marilyn had a heart for people and showed her care in handwritten letters and the many cards she faithfully sent out whenever someone needed encouragement. Holidays were her favorite times to keep in touch, and she never forgot a birthday or anniversary.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Ruth Parker of Plover, WI. She is survived by her devoted husband, Chuck Heller; her brother, David Parker(Marian) of Plover, WI; her sister, Bonnie Tanner (Michael) of Eagle, ID; and her brother, Jay Parker (Ellen) of Bonita Springs, FL. She also leaves behind a nephew, Brent Parker of Fort Myers, FL; and a niece, Jill Parker of Plover, WI.
Marilyn’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, hope, and love, qualities that will forever be intertwined in her legacy. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Kenosha Bible Church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.
