Marilyn Kotlan ’56 Idsinga

Marilyn A. Idsinga, age 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 8, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 15, 1933, to Thomas and Lillian Kotlan in Berwyn, IL. She made her way to West Michigan with her family in her early 20’s. Upon moving here, she continued her education at Hope College where she earned her bachelor’s degree in education.

She used her degree to purpose her lifelong career of being a schoolteacher. She dedicated 30 years to enlightening the youth focusing primarily on second and third grade students. On August 26, 1976, she married the love of her life, Donald Idsinga. Together they cherished 47 inseparable years full of love and laughter. Marilyn was a faithful woman attending Montague Methodist Church.

She was a gifted musician, starting with the piano at the early age of six. From there her talents flourished, she taught herself to play the organ, violin and dulcimer to name a few. She was not only musically inclined, but she also was an artist having a passion in both painting and drawing. Marilyn was also an avid doll collector and took pride in her many cabinets filled with her lavish collection.

She will be remembered as a loving wife, amazing mother, doting grandma and great-grandma, and dear friend to many. Her generous and kind-loving heart will be missed by many. She is survived by her husband, Donald Idsinga; two daughters, Pamela Grams and Lori (Steve) Barrett; five grandchildren, Ariana Cram, Allisyn Grams, Richelle Rode, Eric Barrett and Mason Barrett; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.