Marilyn Kay Emshwiller

Marilyn K. Emshwiller, age 93, passed in her home on October 29, 2025, surrounded by family.

Marilyn was born in Petoskey on July 28, 1932, to Fred C. Friend and Nina Mae (Kahler) Friend. She graduated from Petoskey High School and later attended Michigan State University.

She married John R. Emshwiller on March 24, 1955, at the First Christian Church. They were married by Marilyn’s brother-in-law, Floyde Emshwiller, who was the churches’ pastor. John and Marilyn were a perfect match who complimented one another for 58 happy years. The pair had three children in that time: John F., Brenda K., and Eric D.

Marilyn was very engaged in her church. She was a lifelong member of Petoskey’s First Christian Church, and her faith was the cornerstone of her life. She built her life around her faith and loved her Lord. She was active in CWF, choir, prayer ministry, and acted as youth group leader. She also had a love for musical arts, becoming a member of the Northern Michigan Chorale.

Marilyn was a woman of incredible character who always tried to be considerate of others. She was thoughtful, kind, and loving. She was a “salt of the earth” woman who loved people and was always willing to share what she had or assist those in need.

Marilyn is survived by her three children: John “Fred” Emshwiller with wife Mary Ann (Kolarz) Emshwiller, Brenda K. Emshwiller, and Eric D. Emshwiller with wife Jennifer Buskirk. She is also survived by grandchildren Matthew J. Emshwiller and wife Becca Emshwiller with children Oliver III and Theodore, and Krista (Rice) Emshwiller with husband Peter Rice. She was also a loving aunt to her nieces and nephews, and a loving grandmother who was active in her grandchildren’s lives, taking them for numerous vacations and sharing fond memories.

She is preceded by her parents, Fred C. and Nina Mae, as well as her husband John Emshwiller.

A celebration of life is being planned for the Spring of 2026.