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Marilyn Mae Gailhouse, age 94, of Mendon, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Thurston Woods nursing home in Sturgis. She was born on May 2, 1931 in Three Rivers, the daughter of Olin and Bertha (Brown) Bivvins. Marilyn attended Schoolcraft High School and was part of the 1949 graduating class. On May 14, 1966 she married Hank Gailhouse at the Mendon United Methodist Church. Marilyn was heavily involved with her small community, donating her time helping others. For many years, she was employed at Mendon Community Schools as a custodian, arranging concession stands, helping athletic boosters, and taking tickets for MANY Mendon Hornet athletic events. Marilyn was a longtime member of the Mendon Kiwanis Club and was particularly proud of becoming the first female president, a position she held four times. She enjoyed helping the kids of Mendon, lending a hand in the Showboat, Dust-Off, Riverfest, and the backpack program. Marilyn also dedicated her time to her church family; helping with the 4×4 Thursday night free meals, coffee hour, setting up for church luncheons, and being a member of the Miriam Circle and Parish Committee. Marilyn in her limited free time also enjoyed camping, traveling, taking trips to Boston, and enjoying the St. Joseph County Fair.
Marilyn is survived by her four children; Larry (Virginia) Baker, Beverly (James) Currier, Brenda Gailhouse, and Curt (Tammy) VanderPloeg; nine grandchildren; twenty four great-grandchildren; and a handful of great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in passing by her parents; Olin and Bertha Bivvins; brother Olin Bivvins, Jr.; husband Hank Gailhouse; son Tim (Carol) Baker; and granddaughter Samantha Baker.
Visitation for Marilyn will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 from 3 until 6pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072). Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 11am at the Mendon United Methodist Church (320 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) with Pastor Benjamin Currier officiating. Following services, burial will be held at Mendon Cemetery followed by luncheon at the church. It is suggested that donations made in Marilyn’s name be directed to Mendon Community Schools. Condolences and memories may be expressed to her family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
