June 11, 1946 – September 25, 2024
After facing a series of health challenges over the past year, followed by a brief hospital stay, Marilyn Blight of Waterdown has finally found peace. On September 25, 2024 at Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, this kind, gentle soul departed the world. Marilyn will be lovingly remembered by her sister Patti Altridge (John), brother-in-law, Peter Laycock (Geraldine predeceased), numerous cousins and a multitude of friends.
Marilyn was tiny but mighty. Those who met Marilyn realized quickly that there was a strength within her that transcended that 4’11” frame and that she was a force to be reckoned with in life. Born in Jarvis Ontario in her grandmother’s house to parents Ruth Elfhild (Nordstrom) and Gordon Patterson Blight (both predeceased), Marilyn made the world a better place with her large caring heart and the willingness to share all that she had with others. One of her best friends, her sister, Gerrie, was born only 13 months after Marilyn’s arrival and they would share confidences and a bond that could never be broken.
Always trying to help others, Marilyn studied social work at McMaster University. From there she attended Teacher’s College, and eventually joined the Hamilton Wentworth Board of Education where she taught a variety of grades and touched many young lives with her love of learning. Marilyn also made numerous long-term friends with her co-workers who she kept in touch with throughout all of her life.
In 2000, Marilyn took early retirement from teaching. However, she was not one to sit back and relax. Marilyn jumped into volunteer work with driving for the Red Cross, and was always seen at the Canadian Blood Services clinic in Waterdown. Being an active part of the Retired Women Teachers of Ontario group, she participated in numerous events and functions and received the Cora Bailey Award in 2014 with her best friend Gwen Fitzpatrick for their years of dedication and hard work. Besides volunteering, Marilyn joined book clubs where she would discuss with friends a variety of topics and literature. She could discuss politics with the best of people and debate issues. This would continue with her ladies coffee group meeting every Thursday morning. At the onset of Covid, the group stopped but later resumed outside on the driveway of her townhouse and during inclement weather, in the garage.
Marilyn loved to travel both with friends and family. She loved learning about different cultures and enjoyed travelling to exotic places like Egypt as well as places within Canada. However, her greatest wish came true when she travelled to Disney World for her 60th birthday. Upon arrival at Orlando airport Marilyn accidently tripped and fell on the ramp leading out of the plane. Her glasses broke and she sustained a nasty gash just above her eye which brought two big paramedics running. Trying to coax her to accompany them to the hospital by helicopter, this tiny soul pulled herself up and told them in no uncertain terms that she was going to Disney World and that was the end of discussion! And so, she did. Even in the hospital during the last days, she remembered Disney World as the happiest place in the world.
The holidays were special to Marilyn. She always decorated the entire house according to the appropriate theme whether it was Easter, Hallowe’en or Thanksgiving. However, Christmas was her absolute favourite time of the year. Bag after bag of decorations had to be brought up from the basement to decorate the house for the season. The spirit of giving shone in her and she could make everyone feel the joy of this special time.
Family and friends were at the centre of her life. Her immediate family was very important to her including her dear feline friends, Sherlock, Cricket and Spenser who brought her much joy over the years.
The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to Marilyn’s long-time home caregivers, Suleeka Nuh and Farrah Mursal. They would also like to thank the wonderful people at Park Avenue Manor, particularly Rose M. Kamila T., Zoila P, Angela F, Ewa W, Muni Wahid, Sukhpal K, Jinkal D, and Emmanuella for their help and kindness this past year. Gwen Kirkpatrick, Marilyn’s best friend, thank you for your friendship and for always being there for her. To the coffee group, Rosemary Mills, Pat Edwards, Pat Dickinson, Connie Rusynyk, Margie Anyan, Donna Czukar, Earlene Nicholson and Gwen Kirkpatrick, thank you for being such special and loyal friends to Marilyn.
Finally, to all of Marilyn’s friends, neighbours, and past colleagues, the family thanks you for your kindness and support.
Cremation has taken place and a private family funeral will take place graveside in Jarvis. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Canadian Cancer or Arthritis Society.
Please sign the Tribute Wall at kitchingsteepeandludwig.com to leave condolences for the family.
