In loving memory of Marlyn Jean Knudson who passed away on May 2, 2025, at the age of 86 in Woodland.
Marlyn was born in Woodland on June 19, 1938 (Father’s Day), to Jacob and Edna Orth. She attended Dingle Elementary and Woodland High School. In sixth grade Marlyn was in the band and served as accompanist for the girls’ and boys’ choirs and played the piano for her eighth-grade graduation. In high school she was a member of the CSF, Ilex Staff, a capella choir and GAA.
Marlyn was a member of Rainbow Girls, serving as musician for many terms, and was awarded the Grand Cross of Colors. Marlyn graduated from high school in 1956 and married her first husband Kenneth Hawley in 1957.
They had three children, Michael, Brenda, and Janene and subsequently divorced in 1967.
In 1970 Marlyn met Dennis Knudson while singing in the church choir. They were married on New Years Eve, 1971. In 1972, Dennis and Marlyn had a daughter, Denise, and together raised their blended family.
Through the years Marlyn worked different jobs while raising her family. She worked for Douglas Gas/Pargas (Propane), Dr. Daniel F. Stewart, DDS, Hallmark Greeting cards, Avon and Longaberger Baskets. Marlyn was fortunate to be able to take care of six of her grandchildren in the first year of their lives. A loving gesture that rewarded her a million times over. After retirement, Marlyn and Dennis enjoyed traveling and spending time with their growing family on annual trips.
Music and the Christian faith were always a part of Marlyn’s life. Marlyn started singing in the church choir in sixth grade, played the piano for Sunday School and at age 15 began playing the organ for church services at American Lutheran Church. Over the years, Marlyn was a member of the Women’s group and Sewing Guild and played the piano at Woodland Skilled Nursing for their weekly church service. In 1990 she became the organist for St. Paul’s Lutheran church and retired after 30 years of service. Marlyn played the organ a total of 74 years.
Marlyn also served her community in several capacities.
Cub Scouts snack mom, Little League snack bar, prepared/served lunches, worked in the library and helped with Scrip at Woodland Christian School. Marlyn was a member of the Venture Club, FOE Auxiliary, Knights Landing Garden Club and Woodland Healthcare Auxiliary.
Marlyn worked for the election Department for 30 years and served two years on the Yolo County Grand Jury as well as volunteered as an AARP sponsored Tax Return Preparer for 16 years. One of Marlyn’s proudest accomplishments was her membership in TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) where she lost 100 lbs. during her 30-year membership.
Marlyn was proceeded in death by her husband of 51 years, Dennis Knudson. Marlyn is survived by her children Michael Hawley, Brenda Hawley (Scott Stewart), Janene (Shawn) Scoonover, and Denise (Tim) Prigge.
Grandchildren Elena (Christopher) Gorsett, Stephanie (Corey) Shepherd, Holly Subia, Sara and Justin Scoonover, Joshua and Tyler Prigge. Great grandchildren Izabelle Gorsett, Valen and Ivy Shepherd who lovingly called her GGma.
Visitation will be Monday, May 19th, 6:00pm-8:00pm at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 625 W Gibson Rd. Funeral Services will be Tuesday, May 20th, 10:00am at St Paul’s Lutheran Church with burial to follow at Monument Hill.
Donations in Marlyn’s memory can be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, YoloCares Hospice or the charity of your choice.