Marilyn Dee Wheeler

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marilyn Wheeler, age 70, of Yreka. Marilyn passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her "sweetie," Eric and her daughter, Kim. With a touch of sunshine, yet an ache in our hearts, we say goodbye to our cherished mom, grandma, friend, and active member of the Yreka community. Known for her love of her family, talented baking skills, and spicy spirit, Marilyn made every day so much brighter, and the pants a little tighter for those around her. Marilyn was born to Gordon and Virginia Taylor in Ely, Nevada on June 17, 1953. The youngest of three siblings, she brought a radiant light into the world. She is preceded in death by her parents, Gordon Palmer and Virginia Henriod, sisters Vicky Chiaroni and Ada Toles, as well as her brother Ronald "R-Gut" Taylor. She leaves behind her life partner for the last 32 ears, Eric Himes of Yreka; daughter Kim Wheeler of Yreka; her grandkids, Kaedon Robustellini and Annabella Robustellini of Yreka, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and many many friends. Together, we have fondly recalled how Marilyn effortlessly threw birthday parties, neighborhood BBQs, swim parties, holiday dinners, and treats for her daughter's classmates, and then her students....often (actually always!) with last minute notice. She did so flawlessly. Her doors and cupboards were always open to the friends Kim would bring home. She thrived in having an open and welcoming home as she raised her daughter. Many memories were made and will forever be remembered. During her life in Yreka, Marilyn fostered an unwavering sense of community. Whether it was co-owner of The Apple Peddler Restaurant chain, volunteering first in her daughter's childhood classrooms and later in the classrooms in which she taught, being a Brownie Troop leader, catering, selling her deliciously sinful baked goods at, and then managing, the local Farmer's Market, or helping kids decorate a cookie at various community events, she truly believed in leaving the world a sweeter place than she found it. Countless lives have been touched by her kindness, enthusiasm, compassion, and talents. Marilyn's most cherished role was being the mom of her daughter, Kim, and then that of Nannie to her two grandchildren, Kaedon and Annabella. They will forever hold dear the memories of warm hugs, unconditional love, treats, and the smell of her freshly baked breads and cookies. Marilyn's passing on July 21, 2023 has left a void in our hearts. Yet, in true fashion, she has left a legacy of unconditional love, loyalty, generosity, and laughter. As we honor her memory, let us remember her grit, sprice, work ethic, generosity, strength, and the love she had for her family. While our tears may fall, they are tears of gratitude for having had the privilege to know such a strong woman. Marilyn was amazing! She lived a life having constant physical ailments from her birth until her death that were extremely difficult at times. Those ailments sharpened her mind and made her the smart, strong, and stubborn yet loving mother who showed us the way. Marilyn Wheeler will be forever etched in our hearts as a reminder to love fiercely, embrace life's simple joys, and to appreciate the beauty in each passing day. The family would like to send a special thank you to Dr. Bruce Riger, Dr. Steven Nelson, Dr. Gary Wade, the UC Davis Comprehensive Center, as well as Madrone Hospice. Please join us for one last party for Marilyn. A celebration of her beautiful life will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Yreka Community Center. We will be using recipes she was known for to share with those she loved one more time. "Rest in peace, and without pain, Mom. There is an indescribable ache that will ease in time, but you will forever be loved, respected, and missed. Time goes so fast, yet so slow. If you're lucky enough to have your mom, hold on to her, because there is just never enough time. Thank you for the legacy that you left!" - Kim

Marilyn Dee Wheeler

June 17, 1953 - July 21, 2023