Marilyn Frances Graskowiak

Marilyn Frances Graskowiak of Alexandria, Virginia was born July 7, 1947 and died peacefully on September 17, 2026 after a long, well fought battle with ovarian cancer. Marilyn spent her final weeks surrounded by the love of her family traveling in from all over the country, her niece Jennifer Winkler by her side daily, and her beloved community of friends. Marilyn is proceeded in death by her parents Benedict and Margaret Graskowiak, her sister Dolores Baumann, and long time partner Benjamin Lawless. She is survived by her brother Dennis Graskowiak (Jody); nieces Jennifer Winkler (Kenneth), Abby Valentine (Nicholas), and Katie Robinson (Chase); nephews Sean Baumann (Jennifer), Christopher Baumann (Rachel); great niece Haley Winkler and great nephews Bryce Winkler, Ansel Valentine, and Amos Valentine.

Marilyn joined the Sisters of Notre Dame as a postulant as soon as the convent would allow, then continued with her religious commitment to the Sisters. Marilyn spent many years in service to the Sisters of Notre Dame, earned her Bachelor and Master of Arts Degrees from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and taught school in Omaha. In 1988 Marilyn began a new chapter and moved to the Washington, DC area to work for the Archives Center of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Marilyn settled in Old Town Alexandria. In 1992, Marilyn transitioned to working at The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. In 2005, Marilyn became the Chair of Archives for the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. Marilyn retired after many years of service to the Smithsonian in July 2026. Marilyn built an amazing career and fulfilling life, she will be deeply missed. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Marilyn’s dear friends Muriel Forster, Mary Jo Kilroy, Anne Hampton, and Nancy Pope for their unwavering support.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026 from 10:00am - 11:00am with a Mass of Christian Burial to begin at 11:00am at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8710 Mt. Vernon Highway, Alexandria, Virginia 22309. Fellowship and a light lunch will follow the mass.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Alexandria, Virginia and the Smithsonian - National Air and Space Museum.

Marilyn will have final services and be laid to rest in Omaha, Nebraska on December 5, 2026.