Marilyn Kay MacKenzie Burbank went home to glory on Sunday, December 9, 2018 at the home of her son in Hollister, California after a mighty battle with cancer. Born in July 1940 to William MacKenzie and Francis Peters MacKenzie in San Mateo, California, Marilyn was raised in San Jose and Los Gatos with her brother James.
Marilyn graduated from Los Gatos High School in 1958, hoping to be a veterinarian but instead fell in love and raised three boys—Michael Barry, David Lee, and Shennon Doa—with L. Barry Wells. She helped feed, clothe, and roof these growing boys by working at County Bank of Santa Cruz for 19 years.
In 1984, Marilyn moved to Wimer, Oregon on a ranch where her parents had retired. There she met and married Harry Burbank, whom she adored. They spent time hiking and roaming about Oregon until Hars succumbed to lung cancer in 1996.
Marilyn’s life was full of activities, talents, volunteering, and critters. Even when health issues crippled her body, Marilyn continued to serve others. This lady could not be conquered nor her generosity contained. With all her good qualities, Marilyn had a fierce streak. Humans and critters alike knew they must yield to the mighty finger!
A celebration of this amazing woman is planned for Summer 2019.
Marilyn Burbank: fierce, generous, alive. Thank you for a life well lived.
