Marilyn Derka Obituary
Marilyn "Pretzel" Derka (Cowger)
11/10/1947 - 5/15/2024
On Wednesday, May 15, 2024 Marilyn "Pretzel" Derka passed away. She was the loving wife of 56 years to Theodore S. Derka Jr.; devoted mother of Theodore (Ted) Derka and his wife Danette Derka and Brian Derka Sr. Beloved grandmother to Brian Derka Jr., Michael Derka and his fiancé Alexsus Thornton, Alyssa Jackson and her husband Joshua Jackson, and Brieahna Derka. Dear Great-Grandmother to Jacob Derka, Zion Derka, Drake Jackson, Baileigh Derka, and Ella Jackson. Also survived by other loving relatives and friends.
Marilyn was predeceased by her parents Howie (Bill) Cowgar and Madeline Cowgar.
In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your charity of choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
7110 Sollers Point Rd., Dundalk, MD 21222
People and places connected with Marilyn
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Marilyn Derka
Tell your own story about Marilyn
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in Marilyn Derka's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
How to support Marilyn's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Marilyn Derka's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more