Marilyn Jean (Myers) Chase

In Loving Memory of Marilyn Jean Chase July 19, 1944 – April 28, 2025

Marilyn Jean Chase, 80, of Newton, Iowa, formerly of Mechanicsville, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 28, 2025, surrounded by her children at Traditions Memory Care in Newton, Iowa. Marilyn was born on July 19, 1944, in Hampton, Iowa, she was the beloved daughter of Thomas Arthur Myers and Alberta Violet Pieper.

Marilyn grew up in Mechanicsville, where she attended school and built the foundation for a life defined by resilience, kindness, and a strong work ethic. Throughout the years, she embraced many roles with dedication and grace. She worked at a sawmill, painted and cleaned homes, and provided compassionate care to an elderly woman for several years. Among her many occupations, Marilyn enjoyed her time as a custodian at Lincoln and North Cedar schools in Mechanicsville, where she found deep joy in connecting with the children.

Marilyn’s strong-willed yet nurturing personality endeared her to those who knew her. She was dependable, always willing to help at any hour, and deeply committed to her family. Her strength and determination shone in moments like her rain-soaked trip to Six Flags, where she ensured her children had a wonderful experience despite the flooded streets.

Marilyn had many passions and joys in life. She loved country music, dancing, and traveling to places like Colorado, California, Virginia, and North Carolina. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, solving puzzles, and playing solitaire. Her culinary talents included preparing beloved family dishes such as chicken and dumplings and meatloaf. Marilyn also took great pride in her collections of strawberry-themed knickknacks and salt-and-pepper shakers, which reflected her colorful and unique personality.

During her final two years at Traditions Memory Care, Marilyn continued to share her trademark humor and spirited personality with the nursing staff, fellow residents, and visitors—leaving them with many fond and lasting memories.

Above all, Marilyn loved her family deeply. She cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always ready to engage with her grandchildren and share special moments. Her warmth and compassion left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her.

Marilyn is survived by her daughter Valerie (Jim) Applegate, son Thomas "Tom" (Vicki) Wiggins, brother Thomas “Art” Myers, several grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, Thomas Myers; mother, Alberta Pieper; sister, Estella Unruh; brother, Laverne Myers; and sister-in-law, Marylyn Myers.

A graveside service honoring Marilyn’s life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Mechanicsville, Iowa. Following the service, friends and family are invited to a luncheon in Marilyn's honor at Cruise Park’s closed pavilion. Online condolences, photographs, and memories may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.

Marilyn will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.