Marilyn Ulm Swegle, 85, of Galesburg, passed from this life at 6:30 a.m. Friday, February 12, 2021, in Seminary Manor.
Marilyn was born February 3, 1936 in Farmington, the daughter of William A. and Aura (Voorhees) Ulm. She married Arthur Wilson on August 24,1952 in London Mills. She later married Charles Swegle on November 25, 1979 in Galesburg. He preceded her in death on July 12, 2011.
She is survived by three children, Scott Wilson of Fairview, Randy (Debbie) Wilson of Durham, North Carolina, and Candi Moulton of Galesburg; step-children, Tom (Sylvia) Swegle of Springfield, Sue (Rick) Welty of Galesburg, and Kathy (Tim) Joannides of Cheyenne, Wyoming; nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; a sister, Ellamae Miyashiro of St. Petersburg, Florida; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, Marshall, Lawrence, Duane, Bernie, and Paul; and two sisters, Dorothy Strayer-Zuck and Frances Overcash.
Marilyn spent her younger years in London Mills before moving to Abingdon. After 15 years in Abingdon, she moved to East Galesburg in 1978. She worked in the office as a bookkeeper for the Abingdon Milling Company for 20 years. After that she worked in the office at Bergner’s, Lakis Ford, and Grace Anglican Church.
Marilyn was a member of the Junior Women’s Club in Abingdon and the Illinois Federation of Women’s Clubs, serving as Junior Director for District 15. She was a volunteer and board member at the Galesburg Rescue Mission for many years and was instrumental in helping to start the Garage Sales. She received the Sylvester Sanford Service Award. She was an active member of the Grace Anglican Church in Galesburg.
Marilyn loved to entertain at her home. She created wonderful memories for her blended family every Christmas and always included any extended family or friend. She hosted many New Year’s Day gatherings for the Will Ulm family which happened for over 50 years. She was the best “grandma Marilyn” for her grandkids and the many kids she nannied through the years. Her favorite advise to her family was “Be kinder than you need to be” and she lived that all her life.
Cremation will be accorded. Burial will be in West Midway Cemetery in London Mills. A celebration of life will be planned for a later date when it will be safe to gather. Memorial contributions may be made to the Galesburg Rescue Mission, Grace Anglican Church or the Alzheimers Association. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is honored to serve the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
