Passed away peacefully at Victoria Village Manor in Barrie on November 29, 2021 at the age of 91. Pre-deceased by her beloved husband Drummond and her dear parents Harold and Evelyn Campkin. Loving and devoted mother of Kevin (Susan) and Peter. Cherished Nana of Riley, Emily and Madeline. Survived by her dear sister and lifelong friend Eleanor (Lawrence Shaw). Marilyn was born in Orillia at the start of the Great Depression, to a music loving WWI veteran, Harold and his wife, Evelyn, an equally passionate lover of the arts. With access to the family piano and many books, Marilyn set her course on a life of music and literature. After completing her Royal Conservatory of Music Diploma – Solo Piano Performer, and a Degree in Music at the University of Toronto, Marilyn began her deeply rewarding career of high school (primarily English) and piano teaching.
After a few years teaching in Toronto, Marilyn returned to her high school alma mater, ODCVI. By combining her playful creative spirit, with great enthusiasm, Marilyn brought Shakespearean plays and classic novels to life for her students. After school hours, Marilyn employed her gentle supportive piano teaching style to inspire many students, the young and the not so young, on a path of lifelong learning and appreciation of the performing arts. Her devotion to Orillia and belief in community citizenship were evident in Marilyn’s fifty plus years of volunteerism with local organizations, including: The Orillia Concert Association, Canadian Federation of University Women, Mariposa Arts Theatre, Hospice Orillia, and St. James Anglican Church. An extravert and socially active, Marilyn was never happier than when celebrating life and sharing laughs with family, neighbours, and her cherished friends. Whether it be a family dinner, a neighbourhood party, or a night with lifelong friends at the theatre or a concert, Marilyn reveled in the company of those she held dear. In retirement, Marilyn enjoyed many trips, most often in the company of family members and her many friends. Marilyn’s pursuit of fun and excitement extended to her granddaughters, Riley, Emily, and Madeline. She loved to join in their games and playtime, and in particular found pleasure in sharing her love of Couchiching Beach Park with them.
Marilyn will be forever remembered by her sons and their families for her unwavering generous spirit and unconditional love and support. Special thank you to the wonderful staff members of Victoria Village Manor, for their great care and establishing meaningful connections with Marilyn. The family will receive guests at the Doolittle Chapel of Carson Funeral Homes, 54 Coldwater St. E., Orillia (705) 326-3595 on Friday December 3, 2021 from 6 pm to 8 pm. The use of a face mask and social distancing are mandatory at the funeral home and church. A funeral and service celebrating Marilyn’s life will take place the following day, Saturday December 4, at St. James Anglican Church, 58 Peter St. N., Orillia starting 11 am. Following the service, a reception will take place back at the funeral home (across the street). Proof of double Vaccination will be required to attend the reception. If desired in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada and are greatly appreciated by the family.
Online Messages of Condolence are welcome at www.CarsonFuneralHomes.com