Marilyn Jo Maxum

 Marilyn Jo Maxum 

 March 6, 1936 - August 25, 2024

Marilyn Jo Maxum, 88, of Arroyo Grande, CA died peacefully at the home where she was living in Issaquah, Washington, and went to be with her heavenly father on August 25th, 2024.  All five of her children were at her side, surrounding her with love and prayers the week leading up to her passing. She was the wife of Bernard J. Maxum with whom she shared 63 years of marriage before his passing in 2022. Marilyn was an outgoing, classy woman; a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother; and a dear friend to everyone who knew her. She was known for being thoughtful, caring, and fair; for being a great listener and giving exceptional advice; and for her organizational and leadership abilities. 

Marilyn was born in Helena, Montana to Gordon Edward Bruce and Veronica Elaine Howell Bruce.  She was the eldest of 4 girls.  She loved school and was involved in every after-school sport offered, played violin in the orchestra,  joined clubs, and served as the student body president at Edmonds High School where she graduated in 1954. She entered the University of Washington School of Nursing right after high school. Unfortunately, after her junior year she became ill and was not able to complete her studies.  When she recovered, she took a medical assistant job with the hope of returning to school to finish her nursing degree the following year; however, her plans took a different turn. It was during this time that she met Bernard, and discovered their shared interest in skiing, traveling, dancing, and their Catholic faith. She never finished her degree, as she and Berne were married in June 1959, moved to California, and started their family.  They had 5 children over the next 7 years.

Marilyn loved being a homemaker and stay-at-home mom. She was highly organized and enjoyed planning vacations and fun activities.  She volunteered, helped with Girl Scouts, taught catechism classes at church, played bridge, loved to knit, took painting classes and got involved with the Ramblin Rogues square-dancing group. As her children grew older she was able to pursue her love of nursing and returned to work as a medical assistant in a family practice doctor’s office. Marilyn retired in 1992 when they moved to Texas where Berne accepted a professorship opportunity at Lamar University. Once again Marilyn quickly got involved and joined the Lamar University Women’s Club, a Lamar book club and the American Contract Bridge League where she became a Life Master in 2004. University life suited her and she hosted many events for staff and students alike.

Traveling and family vacations continued to be a priority for Marilyn. She and Berne took many trips and cruises to wonderful and various parts of the world. She planned wonderful family reunions and even special, memorable trips with each of their grandchildren.  Marilyn and Berne moved to Arroyo Grande in 2008 after retirement from university life. She continued to be active well into her 80’s: playing bridge, leading line dancing classes, attending book clubs and serving in her church. 

Marilyn is survived by her 5 children: Laurie Ingham, her husband Doug and their children Alissa, Katie, and Reina; Linda Sovie and her husband Lee; Mike Maxum, his wife Robyn and their children Kelsey, Ryan, and Kyle; Karen Pater, her husband Paul and their children Scott, Kyle, and Erika; Kristi Kratochvil, her husband Joel, and their children Anna, Leah, and Jenna; her 5 great grand-childen Wyatt, Eliana, Lydia, James, and Juliette; and her sisters Carol Van Parys, and Toni Florimonte.

A Memorial Mass will be held 1pm on Friday, September 27th, 2024. There will be a Rosary at 12:30pm for those who wish to attend. 

St. Patrick’s Catholic Church

501 Fair Oaks Ave. 

Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

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