Marion John Bahlinger died surrounded by his family on Saturday July 27, 2024 at the age of 98. Marion was born on August 29, 1925. He is survived by his children Ann Bahlinger Bernard (Tommy), Katherine Bahlinger Surek, and John Bahlinger (Jo Ann). Six Grandchildren, Mary Katherine and Michael Bernard, Mary Jo, Katherine Lee, Claire and Jack Surek. He is survived by his sister Barbara Bahlinger, Caritas Religious and Sister-in-law Claire W. Bahlinger. He is preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth (Betty) Klein Bahlinger, his parents J. Andrew Bahlinger, Jr and Mathilda Fabacher Bahlinger, brothers and sisters-in-law, Julius and Francis Mae Bahlinger, Vernon and Helen Bahlinger, Charles and Vera Bahlinger, Brothers Reggie, Harold and Fr. Donald Bahlinger, SJ, and sister, Sr. Kathleen Bahlinger, CSJ.
He attended Sacred Heart and graduated from Catholic High in 1942. He began his studies at LSU before serving his country from 1943-1945 in the 106th US Infantry. He was captured in the Battle of the Bulge December of 1944, held in Stalag 4-B in Mulburg, Germany then moved to a work camp in Zietz, Germany until he was liberated April 13, 1945. Upon returning from WWII, he graduated from Spring Hill College, completed post graduate studies at St. Louis University as a Jesuit novitiate until leaving to marry his high school sweet heart, Betty Klein. He then worked as a buyer and co-manager of Kornmeyer's Furniture Store until retirement in 1991. He served as president of Community Concerts, a member of the Lions club, Red Stick Chapter of X-POWs, 106th Infantry Division Association, American Prisoners of War Association, and a member and past treasurer of Baton Rouge Assembly. He was a friend of St. Agnes Catholic Church and a member of St. Aloysius Church.
A visitation will be at Rabenhorst, 825 Government St. Wednesday July 31st from 5-7pm. Visitation continues at St. Aloysius Church 2025 Stuart Ave. on Thursday, August 1st from 9:30 am until mass at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Baton Rouge Food Bank, Catholic High School, St Agnes Church or St. Aloysius Church.
