Marlys Joanne Talidis

Marlys Joanne Talidis, 83, died April 7, 2026. Born August 4, 1942, Marlys was a beloved, hard-working, compassionate, and humorous presence to those who knew her. Marlys was a resident of Union, Illinois.

Born and raised on the family farm in Iowa, Marlys was the daughter of Harold and Astred Schwab. Her background of growing up on the farm in the 1940s and 1950s with her siblings made her an avid gardener, before GMOs and the pesticide revolution. She knew of nothing better.

In 1968, Marlys married her sweetheart, Bill Talidis, and together they built “The Mink Barn”. They had two children, Stefanie and James.

Marlys was a huge supporter of the truth, she couldn't tell a lie for anything and she always told it like it was. She cherished her black coffee and endless cigs, throughout the night and day, as she spent countless hours counseling clients in crisis over the phone.

Marlys served others in many ways throughout her life. As a licensed clinical therapist, she worked as an assault counselor in Rockford, and worked as a Registered Nurse. Marlys valued her education, having earned her Master's degree, and enjoyed a good nonfiction book.

On her creative side, Marlys achieved the title of concert pianist. She enjoyed playing her beloved Steinway grand piano, and taught piano lessons. She was a fashion icon during the 60s and 70s, always adorned with her fashionable sunglasses, and the trendiest of furs.

An amazing cook, Marlys embraced her husband’s Greek heritage and became especially known for her Spanakopita.

A proud supporter of our current president who will be dearly missed.

Above all, she was a devoted mother to her two children.

Marlys is survived by her son, James; and her sisters, Joy and Darlene. She was preceded in death by her former husband, Bill; her daughter, Stefanie; her parents; and her brothers, Duane and Dennis.

Service announcement to be made at a later date.