Marilyn (nee France) Van Pelt, local artist, 74, died Saturday, November 20, 2010 after long illness. She was born in Fall River, the second of four children of the late Walter and Florence (Manchester) France, and a 1954 graduate of Somerset High School.
In 1956, Mal married Jim Van Pelt, a former Naval officer bound for the Protestant ministry. They had three children. Mal started Heirloom Designs and Van Pelt Studios and exhibited at art shows and fairs in MA and RI during her many years there. She continued to make art until her death.
Marilyn is survived by her husband Rev. James E. Van Pelt of Beacon Falls CT, and 3 children Jovonna and spouse Robert, Jennifer, Dirk and spouse Dianne; grandchildren Erika, Sarah, and Collin Van Pelt; sister Shirley May Setters of Fall River MA; sister Carla Phillips of Perris CA; brother John W. France and spouse Diane of Punta Gorda FL; many nieces and nephews; and a large extended family.
Public visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 26, 2010 from 5:00 to 8:00PM in the Waring Sullivan Funeral Home of Memorial Tribute at Rose E. Sullivan, 866 County St., Somerset MA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your local animal shelter or humane society. Burial private.
