Marilyn Chamberlain

1933~2014 Holladay, UT - Our loving mother and grandmother passed away on November 19. She fought a courageous battle against cancer with smiles and gratitude for all who helped her. Marilyn was the youngest of three daughters born to Eldon and LaVerne Tullis Wittwer on September 12, 1933. Born in Boston MA, she lived a few years in Akron OH, but spent most of her growing-up years in Reno NV. Upon graduating from Reno High School (1951), Marilyn attended University of Nevada 2 years, and then completed her degree in Elementary Ed from Brigham Young University (1954). She received a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Nevada (1955). She moved to Berkeley, CA (1956) to teach school. On August 26, 1957 Marilyn married Grant Chamberlain in the Salt Lake LDS temple. Together they raised 5 children in Berkeley, CA with love and happiness and taught the principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in their home.

After 20 years raising children, Marilyn returned to teaching elementary school in Albany, CA. She received numerous teaching awards and was loved by her students and colleagues. She continued teaching music in elementary school even after her retirement and was a vital academic resource for her children and grandchildren.

A life-long member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Marilyn served as chorister, Primary President, Relief Society President, Scout Committee Chair and supported her husband as Bishop and District President of the Oakland Asian District. Additionally she arranged and coordinated musical groups and performances at the ward and stake church level for various holidays and activities.

Marilyn loved living in the California Bay Area for 57 years enjoying the unique variety of cultures, places, activities and her wonderful friends there. She will be remembered for her love of learning, music, sports, and nature. Marilyn and Grant enjoyed traveling and experiencing other lands and cultures. As a child she set a goal to travel to distant lands and see the 12 wonders of the world. Grant and Marilyn enjoyed their last foreign trip together to visit India and the Taj Mahal.

Her greatest legacy is her love and devotion to her husband and children. She spent her life promoting their welfare and found great joy providing opportunities and experiences for the development and enjoyment of her family. Her constant example of optimism, encouragement and selfless service are proof of her testimony of Christ. She lived life with an intensity that was admired and brought blessings to all those around her.

Her husband, Grant Chamberlain, and son, David preceded her in death. She is survived by four children: Alyce (Michael) Todd of Park City, UT; Marilee (Howard) Olson of Lindon, UT; Cathy (Randy) Cribbs of Taylorsville, UT; and Brian (Janet) Chamberlain of Las Vegas, NV; Patti Chamberlain (Dave’s wife); 21 grandchildren; and sisters LeNore Knudsen and Donna Tanner.

Funeral services honoring her will be held Wednesday, November 26th, at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT at 2 pm with visiting from 12:45–1:45pm. Interment will follow.