Marilyn Ann Willits

Marilyn Ann Willits, 67, of Lewiston, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, February 24, 2025.

Born June 9, 1957, in Saginaw, Michigan, Marilyn was the daughter of Michael and Theresa (Zdrojkowski) Haley.

Marilyn grew up in Saginaw and graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1975. It was during her high school years that she met the love of her life, Charles A. Willits. The two became high school sweethearts and were married in Saginaw on August 5, 1978.

In 1985, Marilyn and her family moved to Gaylord. In 1988, the family made their final move to Lewiston, where Marilyn began working at Jim Wernig Chevrolet in Gaylord. She dedicated 37 years to her role as the office manager.

In the early years of her marriage, Marilyn developed a passion for drag racing, a hobby she shared with her family both at the track and on television. Her love for top fuel racing was especially strong. As the years passed, Marilyn’s greatest joy became her role as a grandmother. The arrival of her grandson, Branson, brought her immense happiness, and she was a proud and doting Nana.

Outside of work, Marilyn found joy in the simpler pleasures of life. She loved spending time camping, particularly at Clear Lake State Park, and enjoyed fishing and relaxing by the pool at home. Marilyn also cherished spending time with her mother, especially going shopping together, exploring craft shows, and visiting Shipshewana, Indiana. She was always great at finding those bargains.

Marilyn is survived by her husband of nearly 47 years, Charlie; her son, Michael Willits, and grandson, Branson Willits, all of Gaylord; her brothers, Patrick Haley and Thomas (Jodi) Haley, both of Kawkawlin; and her step-niece, Nicole (Brandon) McGraw of DeWitt. She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Theresa Haley, and her brother, Daniel Haley.

A memorial service to celebrate Marilyn’s life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, Marilyn would be honored to have memorial contributions made to support her grandson Branson’s education. Donations can be made payable to Charles Willits.