Marilyn M. Gay's Obituary
Marilyn (Peterson) Gay
July 20, 1932 – October 12, 2025
Marilyn Gay, age 93, passed away peacefully on October 12, in Waupaca, Wisconsin. She was born on July 20, 1932, in Maiden Rock, Wisconsin, to Ernest and Beatrice (Hase) Peterson.
Marilyn married Ernest Gay, on June 13, 1953, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Ellsworth, Wisconsin. Together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. In 1956, they settled in Owen, Wisconsin, where they raised their family. After retirement, they moved to Tomahawk and eventually made Waupaca their home. Marilyn and Ernest also enjoyed wintering in Alamo, Texas.
A dedicated educator, Marilyn graduated from Ellsworth High School and earned her teaching degree from UW-River Falls. She shared her passion for learning with countless students throughout her teaching career at Elmwood Elementary, Owen-Withee Elementary, and Holy Rosary Catholic School.
Marilyn enjoyed sewing, crocheting, making fleece blankets, and playing bridge. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also had a special affection for dog-sitting, especially "little dogs."
She is survived by her loving children: daughter Rosalyn (Gary) Wine of Alpharetta, Georgia; sons David (Laurie) Gay of Hayward, Wisconsin, Steven (Jean) Gay of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and Robert (Jayne) Gay of Waupaca, Wisconsin. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ernest, her parents, her brother Donald Peterson, and her sister Ardith Howard.
A Memorial Service for Marilyn will be held on November 8, 2025 at The Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca at 11:00 AM. A Memorial Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00.
Arrangements are being handled by A.J. Holly & Sons Funeral Home of Waupaca. In Lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Bethany Home Waupaca at 1226 Berlin Street, Waupaca, WI
Marilyn will be remembered for her kindness, her quiet strength, and the unwavering love she had for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of teaching, compassion, and grace that will continue to inspire generations to come.
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