Marlyss Gay Ouzts

She was born Marlyss Gaughran in Yale, South Dakota on December 9, 1935 to Josephine and "Jack" Gaughran. She had two siblings, older sister Meverette (Abernathy) and younger brother Michael Gaughran. The family moved to to Casper, Wyoming in 1945 where her father worked in the oil fields. Marlyss graduated from Natrona County High School in 1953 and went on to attend Casper Community College, studying accounting, advanced typing, and stenography.

Marlyss was involved in many social and community clubs. Her love of singing in choirs, both church and school, kept her busy.

Marlyss met Larry Ouzts in the fall of 1953 and were married on August 7, 1954. They were blessed with two children, Laurie (Printz) and Steven Ouzts.

The family was transferred to various places in Wyoming, Washington, and Oregon as Larry worked for Pacific Power and Light. Relocating each time, Marlyss continued to be a supportive wife and mother. She was active in various community and church clubs as well as her children's activities. Marlyss was always available to help when someone was in need, from last minute projects at school to hosting endless friends.

In 1983. Larry and Marlyss retired and became snowbirds between Neskowin, OR and Mesa, AZ. Marlyss' mother, brother, and aunt had retired down in Mesa and enjoyed living nearby. Eventually in 1990, they built their home in Sun Lakes, AZ, near dear friends from Wyoming. They all went on numerous trips together to Europe, played golf, bridge, and socialized.

Larry sadly passed away in 1998. At 63, Marlyss was a young widow. She was surrounded by many friends and family. Her daughter Laurie and family, with two grandchildren, moved down in 1994. Marlyss remained busy with her various church activities, bridge clubs, and social groups.

We will miss Marlyss' humor and her never ending sense of organization and planning. Always thinking 10 steps ahead of everyone!

Marlyss' cherished memory and legacy will live on with daughter Laurie (Randy), son Steven (Gale) Marlyss, grandchildren Nicholas Doty and Matthew Voorhees, and one great-grandchild, Violet Doty.