Marilyn Orlando

Marilyn Faye Orlando, of Warsaw, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Parkview-Whitley Hospital in Columbia City, at the age of 86. A devoted follower of Christ, Marilyn is now rejoicing at her eternal home in heaven.

She was born on Sept. 14, 1937, in Shelby, Ohio, to Mildred (Patterson) and Donald Eugene Vnasdale. Marilyn graduated from high school in Mansfield, Ohio, in 1955.  She moved to Warsaw in 1966 and lived the rest of her life in the town she made home. She worked as a secretary at the Grace Brethren Home Missions Council in Winona Lake for many years. One day she met a very kind man by the name of Charles “Chuck” Marlin Orlando. They were married in Mansfield, Ohio, on Oct. 2, 1971, and were blessed to share the next 52 years together before she passed away.

She loved to walk everywhere, no matter the weather. A brisk walk in the cold of winter never bothered her and many times Chuck was walking alongside her. She found immense joy in being outdoors and experiencing nature all year round with her daily walks and time of reflection. Marilyn also loved her many cats; they always brought a smile to her face, and she enjoyed caring for them over the years. Marilyn and Chuck did everything together throughout their lives, especially worshiping alongside their church family at Winona Lake Grace Church. Marilyn was a faithful woman who loved the Lord, her family, church and community.

Marilyn leaves behind her best friend and husband, Charles “Chuck” Orlando, Warsaw; brother, Lester (Ruth) Vnasdale, Mansfield, Ohio; and her sister, Becky McCleary, Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother; and one sister.

Friends and family are invited to visit prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. Marilyn’s life will be celebrated with a service at 1 p.m., which will be officiated by Pastor Kip Cone. She will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery of Warsaw.

Memorial donations may be directed to Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 in memory of Marilyn.

Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.