Marilyn Jean Calkins

Calkins, Marilyn Jean (Hook) On Sunday April 9, 2017, Marilyn Hook Calkins completed her valiant battle with Alzheimer's disease and left her earthly home. She was able to be with us for more years than expected due to the loving care of her dearest friend and caregiver, Doris Herlein who provided loving care for Marilyn until her own passing on March 16, 2017. Marilyn's intellect, talents and kindness were immeasurable. She was born on September 27, 1939 to Charles Jr. and Cora (Stebbins) Hook. She was a lifelong resident of Grand Rapides and she was especially proud of her Scottish heritage. She earned her undergraduate degree from Albion College, her graduate degree from Michigan State University, and an additional education certification from Calvin College. She had an intense interest in history, political science, arts, music and all things literary and academic. She taught history at the original Ottawa Hills before starting her family with her former husband Richard Wayne Calkins. She held several positions through her varied careers with time spent in education, the Village Bike Shop, stable grooming, Meijer security and entrepreneur and business partner with an imprinted sportswear business known as Sunrise Designs. This was rewarding to her as it allowed her to showcase her art talent in a unique way. She was accomplished at horsemanship and loved animals of all kinds, especially her appaloosa, Ziggy, her most precious Spunky cat and her dogs Shadow and Blazer. Marilyn also loved to travel and learn all she could about history and the unique character of every place she visited. Her family wishes to acknowledge the beautiful and courageous life she lived, and we thank the Lord for the opportunities given to have known her and loved her. She will be dearly missed by her sister Barb (David) Kuiper; her daughters, Lori (Scott) Sanders, Sue Dobbs and fianc William Lyle; and her grandchildren Nate and Emily Sanders, and Jared and Tyler Dobbs. Her extended family includes several cousins, nieces, and nephews as well as members of the extended Herlein family. We also thank the nurses and care providers who helped with her care in these final weeks. We especially appreciated the care and support given at Harbor Hospice Poppen House in Muskegon, Michigan. Funeral Services for Marilyn will be held Friday 11:00 am at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance NW where her family will receive visitors Thursday 6-8 pm. Interment Rosedale Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made in Marilyn's name to Harbor Hospice Poppen House or Noah's Project (for homeless pets).