Marilyn Jean Kanehl
December 13, 1930 - April 13, 2024
Auburn, California - Marilyn Jean Kanehl, 93, born December 13, 1930, in Denver, Colorado, peacefully passed away on April 13, 2024 surrounded by family in East Sacramento, CA. She faced the challenges of dementia and Alzheimer's in her final years with a smile, grace, humor and resilience. Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will forever be cherished by those who knew her.
Born to Herman and Clara Bradley, Marilyn grew up with a strong sense of family values that she carried throughout her life. A dedicated mother to four children, Marilyn's love continues to resonate through the family, including her two grandchildren. She is survived by her eldest son, Mike Cole, and his wife, Kathie, as well as her daughter, Crystal Gomez, and her husband, Marcus. Marilyn's two beloved grandchildren, Avina Gomez and Timo Gomez, were the light of her life.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Steve J. Cole and Tim J. Cole, her sister Joan (Joey) Demmer, and her husband Charles John Kanehl.
After a fulfilling career with Placer County, she embraced retirement with a commitment to giving back to her community.
Marilyn devoted her time to the Auburn Senior Center, where her warmth and compassion touched the lives of many. As a docent at the Bernhard House & Museum in Auburn, she shared her passion for local history. In addition to volunteering, Marilyn was a generous financial contributor to local charities and non-profit organizations, embodying her spirit of giving.
A true aficionado of the performing arts, Marilyn's heart beat in rhythm with the Sacramento Broadway on Tour and Broadway at Music Circus as an annual donor and season ticket holder. Her unwavering support for these artistic endeavors highlighted her appreciation for creativity and storytelling.
In a final act of generosity, Marilyn donated her body to the University of California, Davis School of Medicine as her contribution to advancing science.
In keeping with Marilyn's spirit of giving, the family kindly requests consideration in donating to the
Alzheimer's Association in her memory. Contributions can be made at
http://act.alz.org/goto/MarilynKanehl Marilyn Jean Kanehl will be remembered not only for her volunteer contributions but also for her generosity, kindness, humor and the love she showered upon her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the memories of those fortunate enough to have shared in the tapestry of her remarkable life.
As per Marilyns's request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.
Published by The Sacramento Bee on Apr. 27, 2024.