Marilyn J. North Obituary (1934

Marilyn J. North, 91, passed away peacefully in her beloved home where she lived for 73 years, on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 9:25 a.m. in El Paso, IL. Marilyn Jean North was born to Alvin and Helen (Johnson) Kohlhagen on February 27, 1934, in Joliet, IL. She married George North of El Paso, IL on May 25, 1952. He died July 26, 2001. Surviving are her three children, Bruce (LaRae) North, Brian (Sally) North, and Barbara North; six grandchildren, Karynn (Tyler Armstrong) Graham, Michelle (Eric) Wahls, Valerie (Evan) Easter, Melissa (Jason) McKee, Drew North, and Samantha (Damond) Armstrong; thirteen great-grandchildren; two great, great-grandchildren; 8 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Don (Qhuonetta) Kohlhagen; her husband, George North; sisters in-law, Paulita (Al) Janssen and Marjorie (Edward) Hoag; in-laws, Paul (Helen) North. She grew up in the city of Bloomington, IL and after graduation, she met the love of her life. She and George married and she moved out of the city to his family farm where they worked alongside each other and raised their children. She loved working on the farm with her husband and took pride in the life they built together. Even after her husband passed, she continued helping on the farm alongside her son, Brian. She wasn’t a stranger to any of the heavy farm machinery and was passionate about working hard. She was an avid card game player and enjoyed being a part of a group of ladies who played bridge several times a week. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, watching golf and baseball (especially if the Cubs were playing) and Price Is Right. She adored her home and her family; she was proud of her children and all her grandchildren & greats. She will be deeply missed. In accordance to Marilyn’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and a private Inurnment will be held at Evergreen Cemetery, El Paso, IL. Calvert-Johnson & Froelich Memorial Home, El Paso is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family request memorials be made to the El Paso Emergence Squad or to Carle Hospice.