Marilyn Pet

Marilyn Pet, born in 1937 in Baltimore, Maryland, lived a life defined by humility, intellect, creativity, and quiet strength.

She married her high school sweetheart, Donald Pet, after completing a year of study at Barnard College. Together they began building their life and family while Donald pursued his medical education. As the devoted mother of three sons, Marilyn balanced the demands of raising a young family with her own deep commitment to learning. Her educational journey followed her husband’s career, spanning several institutions and culminating in a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Kentucky. Later, when her sons were in high school, she returned to school once again, this time earning a Master’s Degree in Communications from the University of Connecticut.

Marilyn worked for several years within the CT Probate Court system, where a mentor judge recognized her sharp mind and encouraged her to pursue law school. In her late 40s, she boldly returned to the classroom to earn her law degree. A good friend once teased her with a sign proclaiming, “Oldest Law Student Ever,” but Marilyn embraced the challenge with characteristic determination and grace.

Following law school, she practiced as a conservator for probate clients and served as counsel in the family’s real estate business. She was truly the “Mom” in a successful Mom & Pop enterprise alongside her beloved husband, Don.

Her commitment to community extended into public service, where she spent over a decade as a respected and popular member of the East Hartford Board of Education. Marilyn also nurtured a lifelong love of art, dedicating countless hours to refining her painting and drawing skills. Her artwork adorns the homes of her children and grandchildren and was featured in many local art shows.

Marilyn was predeceased by her husband, Donald; her parents, Nathan and Kaye Levin; her brother, Howard Levin; and her sister, Ann (Levin) Ohl. She is survived by her three sons, Obbie, Pacey, and Russell Pet; her daughters-in-law, Su Lin Han, Sue Pet, and Karen Pet; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Marilyn left her mark on the world through her remarkable kindness and quiet resilience. She rarely complained, never spoke ill of others, and unfailingly answered “fine” when asked how she was doing. Even in her final weeks, she bore her illness without complaint. The positive example she set casts a long and loving shadow over her family and friends.

We miss you, Mom.