Marjorie Lynn Gorges-Notino

Marjorie "Margie" Gorges-Notino, 69, of Appleton, passed away on March 9, 2026, surrounded by family after a brave three-year battle with lung cancer. She fought with unbreakable hope and faith that came from a relationship with Jesus.

Margie was born and raised in Menasha, Wisconsin. She lived in the New London area when she had two sons born at the New London Hospital. Her mother-in-law Phyllis worked at the hospital and ensured she received the royal treatment. Throughout her life, she worked many jobs including the Express Convenience Center where she coined their slogan "Not just in your community, but part of it" although she wasn't officially credited for it. She went back to school and studied police science where she ended up working security at Kimberly-Clark. It was there that she met JJ, the man who would become her husband and devoted partner in life. They lived in Appleton together down the road from Fire Station 1, and she could tell which truck went out on a call based on the rumble of the road.

She built a life rooted in faith, family, and resilience, creating a blended family that grew stronger and more beautiful over the years. Margie had a deep heart for others and dedicated countless hours volunteering and serving those in need. She helped organize donations and support for outreach efforts such as Project X which she loved coordinating fundraising to support families in need during Christmas time. She worked behind the scenes to be part of an "ambush of grace" -quietly gathering resources and surprising families who needed it most. Her own life experiences shaped a deep empathy for others, and she believed strongly in meeting people where they were at. She would give you the last penny she had if you were in need.

Margie found joy in life's simple moments. She loved watching bald eagles, taking peaceful walks along the river, and feeding the deer around the city. She would always pause to admire, and literally smell the wildflowers, and watch sunsets. Margie had a deep appreciation for beauty in the everyday and was known for her countless "wow" moments. Her camera roll is filled with flowers, eagles, deer and the people she loved.

She treasured traveling with family, especially trips to Hawaii and California, where she could often be found laughing as she wandered a little too close to the ocean waves-frequently getting soaked but never minding it a bit. Her laugh was the best. Her home was often filled with music playing loud enough for the neighbors to hear. Worship music was her favorite, but she also had a soft spot for 90s rock, something her family suspects was because that is what Joe and Tony liked over the years.

Margie was one of the biggest cheerleaders for her children and family, always believing the best of them and believing in their potential. She showed them what true strength and perseverance means, even through the last moments. She fought for what's right with everything in her. Her strength and hope were rooted in her deep faith in Jesus.

Margie is survived by her devoted husband, JJ; her sons: Joe (Steph) Gorges and their son Lincoln and Tony (Indy) Gorges and their children: Rhine and Keeley. She shared her sons Joe and Tony with their father, Joe Gorges Sr. She is also survived by JJ's children: Robin Monesmith (Scott Burke); Joseph Jr.; Janelle; Jeremy (Kayla) and their children: Dominic, Maxx, Rosalie, Aubrielle, and Elijah; and Josh (Katrielle) and their children: Kirin, Cayden, and Faye-who were all part of the family she loved and welcomed as her own. Margie is further survived by her siblings Linda Price; Kenneth (Becky) Price; Melody (Mark) Haase; Sandra (Craig) Wussow and Donna Price and her partner Larry Collins, as well as more than twenty nieces and nephews who were very dear to her heart.

A celebration of life and worship service in honor of Margie will be held at The Mission Church on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 2:00 pm, followed by an extended time to visit and hang out with the family after. Margie always wanted her life celebrated as a party, and we are honoring that wish. If you have a special story or memory, there will be places to write down and share with the family.