Marion Piquette, 92

Marion Piquette, 92, of Woodstock, Ill., passed away peacefully surrounded by her children in her home on Tuesday, July 20, 2021.

Marion, “Manny,” was born May 17, 1929, in Barton, Wis. (now West Bend). She was the youngest child of Leona (Benn) Barens and Elmer “Sam” Barens. Marion grew up in Gurnee, Ill., where she met the love of her life, Robert, and they married on June 30, 1951. Together, the couple raised seven children.

Generally mild mannered, Marion was a hidden pistol, known to fire off a priceless zinger that cut to the chase. She was “the baby whisperer” and flourished in her role as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. The beloved matriarch of her large family, Marion was her children’s secret keeper and confidant. When not doing laundry for nine people, she spent much of her child-raising years in the kitchen preparing feasts fit for royalty. Marion had a beautiful singing voice and a heart of gold.

A voracious reader, books provided Marion a way to “hear” conversation after she lost her hearing. She embodied dignity and grace while also enduring Parkinson’s disease for over 20 years, never complaining.

She was a beacon of love and stability, and comfort … quiet in her ways, yet so powerful in her presence.

After raising their brood, Marion and Rob traveled the country with friends and family. They visited all 50 states and relished every moment. They wintered in Hawaii many times. Truly a team, their journey was full of love, and they almost made it to their 70th anniversary.

Marion is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert; brother, Gerald Barens; and sister, Joan Schrieber. She is survived by her children: Cheryl, Mike, Jed, Tito, Nick, Terry, and Laurie, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Though she will be missed tremendously, she is finally free.

Because our father passed away during the COVID pandemic, we are holding a funeral service for both our parents at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 29, at St. Mary Church in Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice. Rob and Marion donated throughout their lives to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Food for the Poor, Wounded Warriors, St. Mary Church, and others. To share a memory or condolence please visit honquestfh.com.