Although nearly completely paralyzed, she remained aware of her surroundings until the very end.

Born in Detroit on Jan. 13, 1932, she was adopted shortly after birth by Roy and Margaret Carlson. She was their only child. Marilyn was a graduate of Kalamazoo State High School, where her sunny disposition brought her many lasting friends.

She then attended Western Michigan University for one year before marrying Reg Sprik on Aug. 24, 1951 in Kalamazoo.

When her children were well along in school, Marilyn resumed her education, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree and elementary teacher certification from Western Michigan University. She then taught elementary children for 18 years before retiring at 57. During her early teaching days, she taught for two years at a one room country school.

A few years prior to her retirement, along with her husband she began running three-mile and longer road races. A highlight of her athletic achievements was running the eight-mile road race around Mackinac Island. Some of her most enjoyable times took place during the nine years she, Reg and the children lived on their 41-acre farm with horses and assorted farm animals. Marilyn was a private person who loved to read. She also greatly enjoyed watching her children participate in school and college athletics and cheerleading.

Marilyn particularly enjoyed attending church services with her family, southern gospel music concerts and big musicals on both stage and screen. She also loved to camp, and along with her family, enjoyed two memorable camping excursions through the Dakotas, Wyoming and Montana.

Marilyn is survived by Reg, her husband of 56 years. Also surviving are her children, David (Cheryl)Sprik of Central Lake and Orlando, Fla.; Robert (Robin)Sprik of Lowell; Jan (Bill)Bock of Bellaire; and Nancy (Jim)Vanden Broek of Bellaire. Also surviving are eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents and two grandchildren.

Marilyn's final resting place is in the Arlene (Caldwell Township)Cemetery, located between Manton and Lake City, where she and Reg have reserved space in the Sprik family plot.

Should you wish to pay tribute to Marilyn's memory, please donate to the Cadillac Area Land Conservancy, 2604 Sunnyside Drive, Cadillac, MI 49601, or Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, 3860 North Long Lake Rd., Suite D, Traverse City, MI 49684-9601.

No services are planned, but a celebration of Marilyn's life will be announced at a later date. Marilyn - Mom - Grandma - We love you. We love you beyond words.

Arrangements by Young Funeral Home of Lake City.