Marilu Rose Fanning

Marilu Rose Fanning, 73, passed away on March 15, 2026. She was preceded in death by her son, Shawn Fanning (2024), and her father, Donald Wilbur Fanning.

She is survived by her mother, Eleanor Fanning (nee Damm); her daughter, Dawn Baldwin (nee Fanning) and son-in-law Daniel Baldwin; her sister, Dorothy Fanning and her spouse, Ernie; her grandchildren: Shawn Helton, Paige (Amethyst) Fanning, Kyle Cuevas, Lilith Baldwin, and Ethan Martinez; and her nieces and nephews: Michael Hopper and his spouse, Christine, Christina Barr (Hopper) and her spouse Mike, and children Gavin and Breanna Ebert.

Marilu was a musician, writer, activist, and public speaker who spent her life sharing her creativity and voice with others. Known for her warmth, humor, and honesty, she had a gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome. She was deeply devoted to her family and fiercely protective of those she loved.

In later years, Marilu became a passionate advocate for the transgender community, offering support, guidance, and encouragement to many. She will be remembered for her authenticity, generosity, and the lasting impact she made on those around her.

She will be deeply missed.

Services will take place on Sunday, March 29, at 1:00pm, at the Steger VFW, 3332 Chicago Rd, Steger, IL 60475. Please wear something pink, white, or baby blue in honor of the battle that she fought.