Marilynn Rose Fortin- Sparks

Beloved daughter, sister, mother and Aunt Marilynn Rose passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, March 29, 2015 at the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing. Marilynn was 75 years old. The daughter of the late Willard and Elsie Fortin was born January 20, 1940 in Bay City, Michigan. Marilynn was retired as a Registered Nurse from Bay Regional Medical Center and was formerly employed at the V.A. Medical Center in Ann Arbor. Marilynn had a passion for our Veterans as she supported the Disabled American Veterans as well as The Southern Poverty Law Center and Hospice. She believed in equality for all people. One time she spent the night locked inside Bay City Hall demonstrating for low income housing. Her career as a psychiatric nurse was dedicated to helping people heal and find meaning in their lives. Marilynn's spirit overflowed with abundant compassion and love for her fellow human beings as well as all of God's creatures, especially the dogs in her life. Marilynn never wavered in her convictions and was loved and admired by many. Left behind to cherish her memory are two sons; Mark G. McKenzie of Lansing, MI and Christopher M. McKenzie of West Orange NJ, two brothers: David A. (Kim) Fortin and Christopher J. Fortin, her brother-in-law and sisters-in-law and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by her brothers and sister; Dale Fortin, Madonna Ciccone, Earl Fortin, Mickey Fortin and Gary Fortin. Funeral Services will take place Saturday, April 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Officiating will be Rev. Fr. George J. Serour with the Rite of Committal following in Calvary Cemetery in Kawkawlin. The family will be present at the funeral home on Friday April 3, 2015 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services to receive family and friends. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donations to the Disabled American Veterans. www.gephartfuneralhome.com