Marilyn Jane Sterk

JANESVILLE-Marilyn Jane Sterk, age 78, of Janesville, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012, surrounded by her children after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born on Jan. 11, 1934, in Elkpoint, S.D., the daughter of William and Myrtle (Moe) Baxter. Marilyn married James E. Sterk on Feb. 14, 1956. She lived most of her life in Janesville, where she raised her family. Marilyn was devoted to her family and was proud to be a grandma and great-grandma. Marilyn expressed her creativity through activities ranging from quilt-making to gardening, and loved traveling to visit her family. Marilyn is survived by her children, Deb (Bill Gainey) Sterk, Jamie Sterk, Linda (Mike Webster) Sterk, Patti (Randy) Arneson, James (Jenny Padden) Sterk, Jr., Sue (Jim Zahn) Sterk, and Kathy (Mark) Mielke; 11 grandchildren, R.J., Aimee, Jessica, Joshua, Matthew, Kathryn, Sara, Jenna, Jacob, Julia, and Justin; and four great-grandchildren, Hayden, Cassidy, Milo, and Chloe. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her parents; a brother; and a sister. A Memorial Service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL HOME, 2950 Chapel Valley Rd., Fitchburg, at 6 P.M. on Wednesday, August 29, 2012, with Chaplain Steve Zwettler presiding. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 5 P.M. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to a favorite charity in Marilyn’s name. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Homestead Living and Agrace HospiceCare for their compassionate care. Memorial contributions may be made to a favorite charity in Marilyn’s name. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 5 P.M. until the time of service. A Memorial Service will be held at GUNDERSON FITCHBURG FUNERAL HOME, 2950 Chapel Valley Rd., Fitchburg, at 6 P.M. on Wednesday, August 29, 2012, with Chaplain Steve Zwettler presiding.