Marian Louise Lannin

1936 - 2026

Marian (Scott) Lannin, age 90, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by the family she cherished.

Marian was born on February 11, 1936, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Frank and Flo (Walford) Scott. She grew up in northern Michigan and graduated from Traverse City Central High School in 1954. It was there that the roots of a life centered on family, community, and quiet dedication began to take shape.

After high school, Marian married the love of her life, James Lannin, and together they built a home filled with laughter, hard work, and devotion to their children. Marian embraced her role as wife and mother with deep pride, creating a warm and welcoming household where family gatherings, good food, and many laughs became treasured memories.

Marian’s working life reflected her dependable nature and strong work ethic. She began her career as a telephone operator with Michigan Bell, connecting people in an era when every call was made by a friendly human voice. Later, she worked as a bookkeeper at Beulah Oil Company alongside her husband, Jim, where their Imperial gas station on Highway 31 in Beulah became something of a local landmark.

Outside of work, Marian found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid gardener who delighted in watching flowers bloom each spring and vegetables flourish in summer. She always made sure the bird feeder was full and delighted in every visitor, especially the cardinals. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of homemade baked goods, lovingly prepared for family and friends. She also enjoyed knitting, bowling, reading, and many lively games of euchre. Few things made her happier than gathering around a table with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and a good hand of cards. Her sense of humor was unparalleled and unforgettable.

Marian was also a proud and active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, where she served in many offices over the years. Her involvement reflected her lifelong commitment to community, friendship, and service.

More than anything, Marian will be remembered for the love she gave so freely to her family. She is survived by: her sister, Kathie Scott; her brother, Charlie Scott; and her children: Cynthia Lannin, Kathleen (Bill) McElroy, Shelley (Bernie) Gallis, and Richard Lannin.

She was a proud grandmother to Jamie (Jason) Smylnycky, Julie (Matt) Boylan, Kristi (Michael) Drake, Karly Gallis, and Levi (Cassidy) Welch, and a loving great-grandmother to Reagan Welch and Jon Boylan. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great joy in watching each new generation grow.

Marian was preceded in death by: her beloved husband, James Lannin; her parents, Frank and Flo Scott; her in-laws, Alford and Ida Lannin; her siblings, Peg Scott Kline, Betty Scott Olsen, and Bill Scott; and extended family members, Bob and Charlene Irving, Rob Irving, Mark Irving, Patty Kline, and Debbie Kline.

Those who knew Marian will remember her gentle spirit, steady kindness, and effortless ability for making everyone around her laugh. Her life was one of quiet strength, devotion, joy, and love.

A private family memorial service will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marian’s memory to the Grand Traverse Pavilions Foundation. https:/www.gtpavilions.org/donate/

The Bennett-Barz Funeral Home, in Beulah, is in charge of arrangements. 

www.bennett-barzfuneralhome.com