Marilyn Irene Anselmi

Marilyn Irene Anselmi, lovingly known as "Lynn," passed away peacefully at the age of 95, surrounded by her devoted family. Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, she was the cherished daughter of the late Bertha May (née Parsons) & Paul Hawley Lampkin.
Lynn's zest for life began early. A spirited and athletic child, she shined in tap dancing, ballet, and ice skating. Her talent and grace led her to perform with the USO, a memory she held close to her heart. As a teenager, her love for skating led her to the original Rolladium skating arena where fate introduced her to Albert H. Anselmi, the son of the rink's owners. Though neither knew it at the time, they would soon become lifelong partners both on and off skates. After graduating from Southeastern High School, Lynn's love story with Albert blossomed, and the two were married on April 30, 1949. Together, they built a life in Waterford, Michigan, raising four wonderful children. They were not only devoted parents but also professional roller skaters who competed together, coached, and inspired generations of young skaters and future coaches. Lynn's flair for choreography and costume design brought life to countless
routines, and the honor of coordinating the annual "Past Victors" show for the American Roller Skating Nationals. Her years of coaching earned her the honor of SRSTA Teacher of the Year in 1967 and she and Albert were both inducted into the Roller Skating Coaches Hall of Fame, a testament to their dedication to the sport they loved.
Lynn's commitment to her community was as vibrant as her presence on the rink. She served as President of the Waterford Foundation for Public Education and the Pontiac Oakland Town Hall. She played a key role in developing the iconic skating badge for the Girl Scouts of America. She even lent her talents to the Hudson's Thanksgiving Day Parade, working on floats and coordinating skater performances. A woman of faith, Lynn was a devoted member of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church in Clarkston, Michigan. Her optimism, energy, and generous spirit defined her. Her beloved husband Albert often described her as "the eternal optimist," a perfect counterbalance to his more grounded nature.
Lynn's talents extended far beyond the rink. A passionate golfer and snow skier, she relished her time on the slopes of Vail, Colorado. Her rose bushes were the envy of the neighborhood, and her knack for unscripted cooking-especially her legendary soups and lasagna-were second to none. She could multitask with a grace few could rival, even mastering the art of putting on makeup and clothes while driving. Later in life, she and Albert became snowbirds, spending their winters in beautiful Bonita Springs, Florida. She loved entertaining, and nothing brought her greater joy than being surrounded by her friends and family.
Lynn is survived by her loving children: Kim (Mark) Majoros, Tobin (Kimberly) Anselmi, Holly (Mark) Shotwell and her daughter-in-law Terry: her cherished grandchildren: Terese, Anthony, Stephanie, Zachary, and Daniel Anselmi; and her adored great-grandchildren: Wesley, Axl, Violet, and Lily. She also leaves behind her dear brother Paul (Barbara) Lampkin. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Albert H. Anselmi, and her beloved son, Kurt A. Anselmi.
A celebration of Lynn's extraordinary life will be held June 6 from 12-4pm at Deer Lake Athletic Club in Clarkston, MI.
In her memory, donations may be made to the Waterford Foundation for Public Education and the National Museum of Roller Skating.
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