Marilyn Davis Kolber

Marilyn Davis Kolber passed away on October 5th, 2024 in Boulder Colorado after a battle with Dementia. She was an instrumental figure in the lives of many for whom she perfectly played the role of daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and friend. Known for her positivity, kindness, and generosity, her passing has left a hole in the hearts of us all.
Marilyn was born on January 23, 1946 in Bryn Mawr, PA. She was the daughter of Elizabeth "Betsy" Ristine and spent her formative years living with her beloved mother, sisters Anne, Barbara, and Lynn. Marilyn's fondest childhood memories were formed residing at the home of her Grampy Jim Ristine in Wayne. The home, called "Betsfred", is an idyllic property that Marilyn spoke fondly of even in her later years.
Marilyn married Art Croasdale and had two boys Chad and Scott who are both forever grateful for the life that they jointly provided while living in Berwyn. She later married Don Saltman with whom she had a wonderful relationship for 17 years until his passing in 1998. With her marriage to Don she was introduced to the role of being a step-mother and a grandmother for the first time. She cherished Don's children (Deb, Mark, Pat, Karl and Sue) and their children.
While married to Don, Marilyn worked as a RN before showing her entrepreneurial side by opening a store in Paoli PA called "The Gold Ribbon" with her dear friend Rene. The Gold Ribbon served as a meeting spot for friends and family who all would attest to its charm. It was an angelic store that epitomized her.
Don's kids and grandkids assured Marilyn that she was well practiced when it came time for Chad and Scott to bring Charlie, Anna, Ben, Emerson and Carter into the world. In total Marilyn had 13 grandchildren that knew her as either Grandma or Nana from the time they were born until her passing.
Marilyn married Bob Kolber in 2002 and they shared over 20 years while living in Pennsylvania, Colorado, North Carolina and Arizona. Once again, she took a genuine interest in Bob's family including his son Matt, daughter Rachel, their spouses and children.
Class, elegance, generosity, and grace define Marilyn's legacy. Her smile and warmth could light up any room. She was the glue of her extended family, transforming every house into a home with her decorating talent and kind demeanor.
In the final months of her life, she was fortunate to spend time near her son Scott in Boulder CO surrounded by the immense love that she deserved. Scott, his wife Kathy, Emerson and Carter got to visit her daily and experience the love and warmth that still shined through in the midst of a cruel disease. They helped ensure that while her lifelong memories faded, they were replaced with new ones that she cherished until she passed.
Marilyn was a remarkable woman who will continue to inspire us in perpetuity. On behalf of all she touched, thank you Marilyn, Mom, Grandma, Nana.
Please add a message for Marilyn here: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/ZvOfJ18E
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations in Marilyn Kolber's name to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration: https://www.theaftd.org/
Celebration of Life to be held in Boulder, CO on November 24, 2024. Time and exact location TBD.