Obituary of Marilyn Mitchell

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marilyn Alice Wills, beloved mother, a wonderful woman and cherished friend. She peacefully went home to be with the Lord on December 22, 2024 surrounded by her loving sons and other family. 

Marilyn was a loving and nurturing Mother to three adult sons, and known as Gramma Lynn to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois in 1935 in “Andersonville”, Marilyn was a well-loved only child to her parents, Alice and Walter Wills. She grew up learning to sail and developed a love for fishing with her parents on Lake Michigan, and then later in life on Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota. She loved swimming, boating, and fishing when she lived at her homes in Excelsior and Shorewood, and later in Chanhassen. 

In 1960, her husband’s job brought them from Salt Lake City, UT to purchasing a home in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and then again another move to Eden Prairie in 1965, where all three of their boys eventually graduated from high school. Marilyn was a devoted in-home Mom to her sons, supporting them through their church involvement, sports activities and typical family life in the 60s and 70s.

Marilyn loved family life, church life and travel. She enjoyed trips to Spain, Jamaica, Virgin Islands and Hawaii. She especially loved Hawaii, the culture and the music. Her favorite CD was one of Hawaiian music and we will always think of her whenever we hear it.

Marilyn worked for many years as a dental assistant, enjoying both the technical aspects of helping people and employing her friendly, lighthearted conversations with patients and coworkers, for which she was well-known.

Later in life, Marilyn worked for companies that provided compassionate in-home care and transportation services for the elderly. She received a recognition from Carver county for her dedicated service. 

Entertaining friends and family in her home, playing Phase 10 while serving good food and laughter was something she really enjoyed, especially board games with her grandkids. She will always be remembered for her playful teasing and willingness to help whenever asked. She taught many valuable life lessons to her children and extended family. She will forever be remembered for her loving, sweet and gentle nature, and quiet but steady faith in Jesus, her Rock. Her memory will be forever cherished by family, friends and neighbors.

Marilyn is survived by her three sons, Bruce Eaton of Tonka Bay, MN, Glen Eaton of Tucson, AZ and Jeff Eaton of Blaine, MN. 

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be privately held after late spring of 2025.