Marilyn Joyce Hickling was born on August 15, 1936 in Muskoka, Ontario. She lived most of her life in Toronto, with a period of time living in Durham. She spent the majority of her vacation time “up home” in Muskoka.
She was predeceased by her husband and love of her life, John Hickling, and her brothers, Barry and Brian Millward.
Marilyn will be lovingly remembered by her children: Steve (Kathryn), Susan (Scott), and Cindy (Ron). She was a very proud and devoted grandmother to Candy (Kirstan), Melissa (Matt), Danielle (Damien), Katie (Frank), Kim (Jason), Alec and Bryan (Marianne), and will be greatly missed by her great-grandchildren Chloe, Rose, Nico, Nolan, Addie and Ayla.
Marilyn lived a life marked by resilience and determination. Early in their marriage, she and John purchased their first home, only to have it expropriated by the city for the construction of Main subway station. Undeterred, they bought their second home, which was again expropriated for another building project. Marilyn firmly declared they would never buy another home and she remained true to her word, renting for the rest of her life.
She had a very strong work ethic and took pride in her independence. Once her children were in school, Marilyn returned to work and continued to work for many years, finally retiring at the remarkable age of 79.
Marilyn loved to be outdoors and, even into her late 80s, could be found going for daily walks,-shorter in later years, but no less meaningful. Even during her long hospitalization and subsequent recent move into long-term care, she continued to seek time outdoors, always wanting to feel the warmth of the sun.
Fiercely independent, Marilyn also had a love for animals, particularly dogs and cats. After being widowed at age 65, she always had her beloved cat Brandy, then Smoky, then Chance, by her side. She adored children and until her hospitalization, supported a children’s charities, reflecting her quiet generosity and care for others.
She will be remembered for her unique and slightly mischievous sense of humour. Marilyn loved a good prank- but only if she was the one playing it!- and brought laughter to those around her in her own distinctive way. In quieter moments, she found joy in reading, playing cards or bingo, and in knitting.
Marilyn’s greatest joy was her family. She will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, and the enduring presence she brought to those around her. Her legacy will live on in the generations she nurtured and the many lives she touched.
Marilyn had requested no funeral, just a cremation, followed by a Celebration of Life, at a date not yet determined. Her ashes will be scattered ” up home”, also at a later date.
