Community Spotlight

Marilyn Nicholson was born in the farming community of Lake Odessa, MI, the last of six children. She graduated from Lake Odessa High School in 1952 and continued her studies at Western Michigan University for one year before marrying her husband, Bob, who served in the Army for two years stationed in Alaska. They enjoyed 48 wonderful years together.

Marilyn and Bob were blessed with three daughters and one son (two of which are twins!), 14 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. While the children were young and Bob was pursuing his education degree at WMU, Marilyn did not work outside the home. As the children grew older, she began working at the Salvation Army office in Battle Creek as a Social Service Director. She was there for nine years and enjoyed sharing her self-taught practice of caring and compassion.

Marilyn also dedicated 20 years to the Kellogg Company as Executive Secretary in the Market Research Department. Upon retiring, she worked part-time at Macy's for 4 years. Because her husband had passed from cancer, Marilyn was drawn to serve those suffering with the same disease. She ended up volunteering in the Bronson Oncology Department for ten years. Marilyn also became a member of the Cereal City Ringers, an English Handbell group consisting of ten ringers. They performed at many functions throughout the area as well as interstate travel for competitions.

Marilyn is a member of Free Methodist Church and First Wesleyan Church, where her son was pastor for many years. She enjoys gardening, puzzles, euchre, dominoes, reading to children at school, and is an active member of Lakeview Welcome Committee.