Marilyn Louise Heller-keast

SAN MARCOS, CA —

It is with deep sadness that we say goodbye to a gracious and loving mom, grandma, cousin, wife and friend.

Marilyn Heller Keast was born June 14, 1937 - Flag Day - in Long Beach, CA. After 85 fulfilling years, Marilyn passed away peacefully with her family on June 30, 2022.

In 1940, the Heller Family moved to Escondido, CA, where Marilyn attended Escondido schools and was a proud graduate of EHS - Class of 1955. She was the photography editor for the “Gong” yearbook, a cheerleader and a band majorette. Four years later, in 1959, she graduated from the University of Redlands with a B.A. degree in Journalism. She continued her passion for writing and served as the editor of the University’s Yearbook “La Letra” for three years and served as secretary-treasurer of Alpha Phi Gamma, a national honorary journalism society. After college, she was society editor for the Escondido Daily Times Advocate (1959-65) and the Vista Press, and editor for the North County and San

June 14, 1937 - June 30, 2022

Marcos Press Couriers (1967-73).

In 1957, during her time at Redlands, Marilyn met Bill Ebeling at a Marine Corp Ball and they married in 1959. They had three children and adopted two cousins. They enjoyed 21 years together with family and friends, traveling, camping and enjoying sporting events.

Marilyn began a volunteer “career” with the Escondido Girls Softball League in 1974. She served as treasurer on the board for seven years during which time she was chairman of the development of two softball complexes. The first one was built at Lincoln and Ash on donated school property. Later, Marilyn co-directed

the establishment of the softball fields at Kit Carson Park, still in use today.

Loyal to her family business, Marilyn was secretary and public relations contact at Homer Heller Ford. She was also a long-time cherished member of Chapter B PEO in Escondido, chair of the EUHS Reunion Committee and a board director for the Escondido History Center.

In 1989, she married retired Colonel Donald G. Keast, USMC from Laguna Beach, CA and they spent 32 years of additional happiness with family and friends traveling, fishing, sailing, and enjoying the arts. Her favorite enjoyment these past few years has been watching and cheering for the Padres both at Petco Park and at home.

Marilyn’s kindness and generosity knew no bounds. She was the prime example of a true friend with a big heart. Always full of life, she loved coordinating and hosting memorable family gatherings each and every holiday, and her friends and family enjoyed spending special time with her. One thing that never failed her was her wit and sharp mind. We will miss her so much. She and Don are now co-pilots in Heaven together.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Homer and Helen Heller, her daughter, Pamela Joy Ebeling (who died at age 6), her brother, Don Heller, her husbands, Bill Ebeling and Colonel Donald G. Keast this January, and her furry Lab companion, Chase.

She is survived by her children, Michael Ebeling (Tabitha), Nicole Ebeling Ball (Keith), two grandchildren, Trevor and Tiandra Ball. Adopted cousins, Bill Hill and Duncan Hill, and Duncan’s two children, Avery and Helen Hill. Stepchildren, Lori Keast Parlette (Lew), Rand Keast (Mary Ann), Brett Keast (Kate) and their seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A family Celebration of her life will be held in September. Please contact a family member for date, time and place.

We look at her passing with great sadness but her life with even greater gratitude.

Please sign the Guest Book online obituaries.sandiegouniontribune.com