Marilyn Balius was born on 8/18/1936 in Webster City, Iowa and was returned home to our Savior Jesus Christ on 8/15/2020. She moved to California in her early 20's where she met the love of her life Charles working at Dodger Stadium. They married in 1961 and had many happy years together, welcoming children into the world as well as fostering, loving and caring for many children. As a result, they adopted their youngest son, Johnathan. Shortly after moving to Iowa, Charles passed in 1990 after a battle with cancer.

Living in Blythe California, Marilyn lived a very active life and was involved in a variety of hobbies. She had a passion for quilting and won several awards at the Colorado River County Fair. She loved baking and always made the most beautiful cakes for anyone and everyone's special occasions. She volunteered for many years at Blythe Blue Grass Festival. She also stayed a part of the Red Hat Society for many years where she made friends that became family. Marilyn was well known in the town of Blythe for her bounteous volunteer work, caretaker tendencies and tasty treats.

Her last two and a half years were spent in Phoenix Arizona near her daughter Cindy, at a memory care facility due to her progressing Alzheimer's diagnosis. There, she was very active and continued her role as "caretaker" for other residents. She was known around her facility as the "mother hen".

She is preceded in death by her Husband Chuck, her siblings Gary Carnell and Barbara Anderson, as well as her Grandson Brody Ross.

She is survived by her sister Alice Harskamp; Her children, Cindy (Mike) Farrage, Theresa (Dave) Carney, Robert (Melody) Balius, and Michael (Lisa) Ross and Johnathan Balius; Her grandchildren, Natalie (Darien) Dir, Danielle (Erik) Lara, Trevor Farrage, Courtney (Tyler) Rajec, Ryan Carney, Madilyn (Levi) Parker, Robby (Jamie) Balius, Jordan Balius, Amy Ross, Alicia Ross and Joab Balius; Her great grandchildren, Nevin, Kenzi and Jaden Dir, Chase Lara, Madisyn, Dominic, Brooklyn and Taylor Parker, Linda, Emily and Robert the III.

Marilyn will be remembered by all for her kind, and sweet nature. Along with a laugh that traveled a thousand miles and a smile that would light up a room.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association in honor of Marilyn Balius.

Services will be held on Tuesday, August 25th at Frye Chapel with visitation beginning at 9:00AM and funeral service starting at 10:00AM, with burial following at Palo Verde Cemetery.