Marilyn Sue Gonska

Marilyn Sue Gonska, 84, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, in Safety Harbor, Florida, surrounded by the love of family and the many memories she created throughout a beautiful life.

Born on November 26, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, Marilyn was the beloved daughter of the late Hazel and John Young Sr. From an early age, she carried a warmth and kindness that would become the heart of her family and a light to everyone who knew her.

While attending beauty school, Marilyn met the love of her life, Arthur Gonska, beginning a lifelong love story filled with devotion, laughter, and cherished memories. Together they built a home rooted in love, family traditions, and simple joys.

Marilyn found happiness in life’s little pleasures, the companionship of her beloved Brittany dogs, the charm of flamingos, a chilled glass of her signature white zinfandel, and sharing raw oysters with those she loved. She had a deep love for camping beneath the stars, tending to her garden, knitting with care, and surrounding herself with bright, cheerful sunflowers that reflected her own radiant spirit.

Above all, Marilyn was a devoted wife, an extraordinary mother, and a wonderful homemaker whose joyful heart made everyone feel welcome. She had a gift for bringing comfort, laughter, and happiness to others, and her gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Some of Marilyn’s most treasured memories were made at the family’s summer cottage in Howell, Michigan, where time with loved ones created moments that will forever live on in the hearts of her family.

In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Gonska, and her sister, Hannah Ellingston.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving sons, Kenneth Gonska and John (Lindsay) Gonska; her brothers, John (Peggy) Young Jr. and Michael (Jolene) Young; her cherished grandson, Joseph (Brooke) Gonska; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and love.

Though her family grieves this tremendous loss, they find comfort in knowing Marilyn’s love remains woven into every memory, every family gathering, every sunflower in bloom, and every moment of joy shared together. Her beautiful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those she loved.

A private celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held at a later date.