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Marilyn Alpern Gorlin

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Marilyn Gorlin Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Nov. 26 to Nov. 27, 2011.

Gorlin, Marilyn Alpern 3/27/25 - 11/24/11 Marilyn passed away suddenly 11/24 before she could enjoy her favorite oyster stuffing on Thanksgiving. She was preceded in death by Robert, her loving husband of over 53 years; her brother, Earl; & her parents, Milton & Henrietta. She is survived by her sister Claire and brother Hale of New York, in addition to children Cathy (Marshall Tanick) and Jed (Jocelyn) and grandchildren Lauren, Ross, Adeline, Rachel and Rebecca. She was born and raised in New York City and moved to Minnesota in 1956. She became an ardent Minnesotan and was active in politics including being first vice-chairwoman of the Democratic party during the tumultuous 1960's. She was the highest party officer to come out against Johnson during the Vietnam war. She later worked at the U of M as grants administrator for International Programs and later the department of Psychoeducational Studies until she retired. She remained active in the community and was an advocate for liberal and progressive causes and enjoyed spirited debates. She supported local bookstores and was an ardent Twins fan. The family will be hosting friends of Marilyn at the home of Cathy Gorlin (1230 Angelo Drive, Golden Valley) @ 7 pm Sunday, November 27th. A memorial celebration of her life will be scheduled later in December. Memorials preferred to Children's Defense Fund.

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Recent Activity

November 20, 2019

Frances Andreasen sterfelt posted to the memorial.

December 21, 2011

Frances M. Andreasen posted to the memorial.

December 5, 2011

Teresa Patton posted to the memorial.

8 Entries

Frances Andreasen sterfelt

November 20, 2019

Marilyn and Bob are much missed. No more good times together; but lots of good memories to relish.

Frances M. Andreasen

December 21, 2011

I met Bob and Lyn the first time at their wonderful home in Minneapolis on my first visit there with the man who was later to bring me to Denmark and be my husband - Jens Andreasen. The feeling that if these people were Jens' friends, then I could safely follow my heart and him. Bob and Lyn, though on the other side of the world, became very dear friends for me. Our last meeting was in Copenhagen when Bob was awarded a much deserved honorary doctorate. We three spent several delicious hours together. A precious memory. I miss them both.

Teresa Patton

December 5, 2011

Marilyn Gorlin was my boss at the University of Minnesota thirty years ago, and we remained friends ever since. I loved Marilyn's worldview but more than that, I loved how much she cared about others, from those close to her to those affected world wide by political and social policy. And she loved life. I still think often of that husky voice with a touch of a New York accent and her quick and hearty laugh. And, of course, that wonderful smile.

Marilyn may not have shared this viewpoint, but I like to think that now she is with Bob and that they are laughing and talking and reflecting on all their good times together, their children, and the love they were blessed to share. That love has been multiplied many times over in this physical world they have left behind, starting with Cathy and Jed and all of their beloved grandchildren.

Marilyn Gorlin had a huge capacity for love. She had a big impact on my life when I was a young woman, I loved her very much, and I will miss her greatly.

Jack Litzau

November 29, 2011

Jed, my condolences on your loss. We have all lost someone special.

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Bob Moilanen

November 29, 2011

I learned many things from many great people while growing up in Golden Valley. Marilyn showed me through her actions and through her articulate advocacy what the word "conviction" really means. Certainly a loss for her family, but also a great loss for the community as a whole. She will be missed.

Julie Stroud

November 27, 2011

I didn't know your mother, but saw her obituary as I as scanning for another. You painted a lively picture of her, and it sounds like she was a dynamo. I'm sorry for your loss, and for the loss for the rest of us of someone so passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

Kathy Garmezy

November 26, 2011

From the entire Garmezy family we send our love and thoughts of wonderful times with our families together. Their friendships lasted through so many decades.

Catherine Mamer

November 26, 2011

I met Marilyn through the Golden Valley DFL Women. She gave me so much encouragement and was a great mentor. She helped us all to learn how to be powerful women, just like she was. My deepest sympathy, Cathy Mamer

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