Marilyn G. Clysdale

Marilyn G. Clysdale passed away November 6, 2024 in Kalamazoo with her children by her side. She was 95. Marilyn is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pat, who she was married to for 69 years. Marilyn is survived by her three children: Pam (Matt) Means, Tim (Linda) Clysdale, Jane (Gerry) Feldman; her grandchildren: Lauren (Justin) Brock, Kayla (Joe) Pearcy, Madeline Means, Patrick (Melissa) Clysdale, Becca (Thomas) Sible, Natalie Means, Camille (Kyle) Friberg, Olivia (Nick) Ashbay and nine great grandchildren: Jayden, Chase, Calvin, Claire, Jack, Tate, Bobbi, Maren and Wesley. 

Marilyn was born in Detroit on February 15, 1929. She graduated from Mackenzie High School in 1947. She worked in downtown Detroit in the fashion department of J.L. Hudson for four years while Pat attended WMU. Pat and Marilyn were married in 1951. Pat went on to serve in the US Army from 1953-1955 in Maryland. While stationed there, Marilyn worked for the US Patent Office. When they finally landed in Kalamazoo, Marilyn worked for Mike Gary in the WMU Athletic Department. Eventually, Marilyn focused on raising her family. She was a great cook, had a love of singing (WMU Dames), enjoyed golf with Pat and friends, and mostly loved being a mom. Marilyn spent the last several years of her life at Friendship Village where she made and enjoyed dear friends, whom she loved. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that, if you’re so moved, you make a donation to the Pat and Marilyn Clysdale WMU Student Athlete Scholarship, which was established in Pat’s memory at the time of his death. Please make checks payable to: WMU Foundation. Please include in memo line: Pat and Marilyn Clysdale WMU Student Athlete Scholarship, and remit to Advancement Office, WMU, 1903 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign her guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. 

The Clysdale family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269)344-5600.