Marilyn Zaicow

Marilyn Zaicow, age 89, of Griffith, IN, passed away on July 5, 2026. She is survived by her children, Lisa (Karl) Schulz, Lynette (Donald) Barrell, and Todd (Laurie) Zaicow; grandchildren, Kara (Christopher) Capek and Emma Zaicow; and nephews, Scott Villars, Mike Villars, and Matt Villars. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Anthony Zaicow; brothers, Bob and Gene Villars; and parents, Loren and Norma Villars.

Services will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave, Crown Point, IN, with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 pm. Burial to follow at Chapel Lawn Cemetery.

Marilyn will be remembered for her gentle spirit, kind heart, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met. She graduated from Griffith High School in 1955. Marilyn had a lifelong love for animals, was a devoted Chicago Cubs fan through every season, and found joy in country music. For nearly forty years, she was a familiar and friendly face behind the counter at Plaza Lanes in Highland, where she built lasting friendships and touched countless lives. Her sweetness, compassion, and genuine care for others will be deeply missed, but the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made either to St. Jude, or any local humane society or animal care center in Marilyn's name.