Marilyn K. Kotel
GWINN, MI-Marilyn K. Kotel, age 87, of Gwinn, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at Eastwood Nursing Center.
Born on January 2, 1938, in Princeton, Michigan, Marilyn was the daughter of Desmond and Dorothy (Larsh) Connors.
A lifelong resident of the Gwinn area, she was deeply rooted in the community she loved.
Marilyn married Martin Kotel, and together they built a life together. Over the years, she held various jobs that reflected her strong work ethic. She worked in housekeeping at the Gwinn Inn, kept floors spotless at Jemma’s Sub Shop, and spent many years in retail at Froberg’s Clothing.
Marilyn was also active in the VFW Auxiliary for several years, proudly supporting veterans and their families. She will be remembered for her strength, pride in her work, and her unwavering commitment to those around her. She was also a volunteer at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Gwinn.
Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Julie (Donald) Kotel, Alice Curtis and Robin Kotelowski; grandkids, Staci, Melissa, Jody, Jamie, Christopher, Emma and Audrey; several great-grandkids; siblings, Carol Connors, Janice Boogren, Dawn (Burt) Senne, Darlene (Norm) Meden, Gary (Mary) Connors and Jill Leferink; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Martin Kotel; daughter, Darla Filizetti; son-in-law, Gary Filizetti; and siblings, Edwin Connors, Wayne Connors and Jerry Connors.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 5 until 7pm at Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services. A prayer vigil will begin at 6:30pm. Marilyn’s family will also greet relatives and friends on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at St. Anthony Catholic Church beginning at 12 noon. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1pm in the church with Rev. Sebastian Oppong officiating. A luncheon will follow the mass. Burial will take place in the Gwinn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 280 Boulder St., Gwinn, MI 49841.
Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting Marilyn’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com