Marilyn McLain, 86, of St. Marys, died 7 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at Vancrest of St. Marys, following a brief illness.

She was born June 1, 1938, in Bellevue, Ohio, the daughter of Walter and Mabel (Bordner) Hansen. She married Frank McLain on April 5, 1959, in Bellevue, and he preceded her in death on November 12, 2022. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Together they went to OSU football games for over 50 years.

She is survived by her daughters: Allison (Tom) Craft of New Bremen, and Elaine (Perry) Walker of St. Marys.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Ashley Yahl of St. Marys; Shanen (Jacob) Oldiges of Sidney; Sarah (Dave) Burden of Venedocia; by her great-grandchildren: Tricia Yahl; Toby Yahl; Asher Craft; Gwendalyn Oldiges; Desmond Oldiges; Lillianna Burden; Hailey Burden.

She is survived by her siblings; Iola Debolt of Galion; Marjorie Hansen of Bellevue; Carolyn Thiede of Columbus; Evelyn Gilbert of Sandusky; by her in-laws Jeanette Hansen of Clyde; Mary Ellen Hansen of Greenfield, Mass.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, her siblings: Pauline Joseph, Charles "Mike" Hansen, Howard Hansen, Cecil Hansen; Arthur Hansen.

Marilyn was a graduate of Thompson High School in Bellevue. She studied home economics at The Ohio State University. She was a homemaker and enjoyed decorating cakes for friends, family and many people throughout the community, including weddings, graduations and birthdays. She was fondly known as the cake lady. She was an excellent baker and cook.

Marilyn was a loving and nurturing person who enjoyed attending her grandchildren and great-grandchildren's many events and activities. To her, their hugs were the best.

She was a talented quilter, taught quilting classes, and won numerous awards for her work. She was invited to display her quilts at the local library each season. She also enjoyed flower gardening, bowling and had served as a 4-H advisor and Girl Scout leader for many years. She was an excellent seamstress and crocheted many pairs of slippers that were loved and cherished by many family members.

The family wishes to thank all the staff at Vancrest St. Marys for all of their love and special care. Also, thanks to the caring staff of Mercy St. Rita's Hospice.

Funeral rites will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at the Miller Funeral Home, 1605 Celina Road, St. Marys, the Rev. Rhonda Hainer and the Rev. Jeannette Tangeman, officiants. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial gifts may be given to the Grand Lake Cancer Center.

Memories and condolences may be sent to Marilyn's family via Millerfuneralhomes.net.