Marilyn Brandel Ziskin

1924 - 2015

August 6, 1924 - November 29, 2015 Marilyn Brandel Ziskin, "an elegant lady" passed away peacefully on November 29th, surrounded by her husband of 72 years, her children and grandchildren. Marilyn was born on August 6, 1924 to Orrin and Sadie Brandel in Los Angeles. She was the youngest of 3 children with older brothers Milroy (Bud) and Stuart. Marilyn attended Hamilton High School, winning academic honors, but forewent college to work in the war effort. Smart, stunningly beautiful, and athletic, she easily attracted the attention of dashingly handsome young Navy dive bomber pilot, Herschel Ziskin. That was the beginning of an incredible love story lasting 73 years. Married during the war, on July 21, 1943, they went on to raise 4 children, Darrel (dec), Bruce, Donald and Robin. Loved and admired by all who knew her, Marilyn was Den Mother, Brownie leader, PTA volunteer, Little League mother, painter, potter, seamstress, tennis player (until she was 90), square dancer and savior to any stray animal to cross her path. Marilyn was the ultimate wife, mother and home maker, raising her children in West L.A. and Cheviot Hills. When her children were grown, she became the ultimate grandmother and great grandmother. In 1988, Marilyn and Hersch built a new home in Manhattan Beach, where they lived out the wonderful act 3 of their life. Together, they enjoyed the beach life, tennis, square dancing, volunteering for the Beach Cities Health District, traveling, and most of all, their 3 children, 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Marilyn had a unique ability to connect with everyone she met. She was the most classic of family matriarchs and the glue that connected her family from far and wide together. Her unconditional love and support inspires all in her family to be the best they can be. Friends, family and neighbors will deeply miss her gift of love and energy which cannot be replaced. She is survived by husband Herschel, sons Bruce (Karen), Donald (Denise), daughter Robin, grandchildren Matt (Chelsea), Jamie (Craig Emmons), Kristopher, Joshua (Wendy), Tyler, Aaron, great grandchildren Natalie, Jack, Duke, Bo, brother Milroy. Marilyn will be interred in a private family service at Hillside Cemetery and a celebration of Marilyn's life for friends and family will take place at a later date. In honor of Marilyn's generous and philanthropic spirit, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to TempleEmet.org, SmileTrain.org or BestFriends.org.