MARILYN BURDICK

Marilyn J. Wiggins Burdick, 91, passed away peacefully January 24, 2018, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Marilyn was born in April 17, 1926, in Alhambra, California. Her father, Louis J. Wiggins, was Chief of the El Monte Fire Department. Her mother, Margaret Fanning Wiggins, was a homemaker. Marilyn had one sibling, Charles E. Wiggins, who had a career as a Republican congressman and Federal judge. Marilyn attended the University of California-Santa Barbara to study music and was the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree. A highlight of Marilyn’s college life was that she was chosen as an alternate singer for the Andrew Sisters, known for their song, “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” Marilyn married Bill Burdick and both worked as grade school teachers in Long Beach, California. Bill began a career with Sperry and Hutchinson and the family relocated as his responsibilities grew. Marilyn’s fondest memories were of Jacksonville, Florida. The family had wonderful neighborhood friends and spent many Sunday afternoons at the beach. They retired in the 1990’s to Las Vegas. Marilyn jumped into her music and wrote and directed several plays for the over 55 age group. Marilyn also enjoyed playing the organ for a large church, as well as directing singing groups. As Marilyn’s health declined, she moved to be near her daughter, Julie, and ended up in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Marilyn enjoyed her time at Methodist Health and Rehab, having a staff that has truly cared and loved her. Marilyn continued to play the piano for most of her time at Methodist. Marilyn is survived by her three children, Barbara E. Burdick, John B. Burdick and Julie L. Burdick; four grandchildren, Justin J. Burdick, Katherine A. Heil, John Michael W. Heil and Allison J. Heil; and great-granddaughter, Elizabeth A. Heil. Marilyn will be buried next to her father in Rosemead, California, Savannah Memorial Park. To share a memory, send a condolence or light a candle, visit the tribute wall at www.billowfuneralhomes.com Billow Fairlwan Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH 44333, (330) 867-4141.