Marilyn J. Stork, 82

Marilyn J. Stork, age 82, of Loves Park, Ill., died Monday, June 7, 2021, in her home, where she lived proudly and independently. Marilyn was surrounded, comforted, and loved by all three of her children during her last few days in her home.

She was born Nov. 12, 1938, in Woodstock, Ill., to Edwin and Betty Lindvall. She graduated from Woodstock Community High School in 1956. While Marilyn was living in Woodstock she was involved in cheerleading and was crowned Miss Woodstock, Miss VFW, and Illinois Dairy Princess.

She graduated from the College of Medical Technology in Minneapolis on Sept 13, 1957, and began her career working for a medical pediatrician in Wilmette. She married the love of her life, Ray K. Stork, on Nov. 30, 1957. Together they raised their children in the home Ray designed when he was 24. He was an architect with Bradley and Bradley until he began his own practice in Rockford, Ill. They were both inspired by the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and the philosophies of Ayn Rand. Marilyn was a passionate artist who displayed and sold her work at art fairs across Northern Illinois. For 20 years she was a sales leader of highly successful consultants in Mary Kay, Karla Jordan Jewelry, and Weekenders clothing. She enjoyed gardening and dancing.

Preceded in death by her husband, Ray; twin infant daughters; sister, Phyllis Deichstetter.

She is survived by her daughter, Shaune (Bob) Stewart of Lake Charles, La.; son, Brad (Ladona) Stork of Varna, Ill.; daughter, Glenda (Chuck) Johnson of Cherry Valley, Ill.; and brother-in-law, Fritz Deichstetter. Marilyn was very proud of her seven grandchildren, Lindsay (Drew) Bogner, Laura (Josh) Lock, Danny (Kelley) Stork, Kira Stork, Kellen Johnson, Keith Johnson, and Elaina Johnson. She also loved holding her six great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Northern Illinois Hospice for the incredible care and compassion they gave Marilyn. Thanks to all of the special neighbors who watched over and helped Marilyn over the years, especially Sue and Johan Monsen, Bruce and Val Ellison, Vince and Monica Kelso, Dave and Shirley Frantz, Lonnie and Rhonda Barna, and Jim and Amy O’Brien.

Her passing leaves a heartache no one can heal. Her love leaves a memory no one can steal.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Northern Illinois Hospice.