Marilyn Kay (Sluder) Giddings

Marilyn Kay Giddings, passed away May 14, 2020 at the age of 82 at Faith Hospice Trillium Woods in Byron Center.

Marilyn, known to everyone as Mom or Ma, was born February 4, 1938 to Walter and Louise Sluder on the west side of Grand Rapids in their home on Broadway.  Marilyn was the youngest of four daughters.

Marilyn was the caregiver to the neighborhood while raising her children on Union in Grand Rapids.  She fed anyone that walked into the house and even some that stood outside.  From her large pots of soups to her homemade pies, she was never going to allow anyone to go hungry.  If your emotions truly come from your stomach, Ma could fix anything that ailed you.

Mom was an active participant of the American Legion post #459.  She spent many years as a bartender and later as a reliable volunteer to help raise money for “her vets” and helping provide for those without. 

In her later years, Ma lived in the retirement community of Villa Maria, making new friends, playing Polish Poker, bingo, and other activities.  To our surprise, she also baked cookies for everyone and brought meals to those that were sick or had surgery.  Her door was literally always open for anyone to stop by.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, Walter & Louise Sluder, her husband Jerry R. Giddings, her sisters Patricia Ann Stewart, Helen Eaton, and Sally J Soules, and her grandchildren Chance and Jacob Bursely.

Survived by Marilyn is her loving community of Villa Maria, her children, Kimberly (Bill) Maurer, Kyle Armstrong, Karl Armstrong, Kelley Armstrong, Gregory (Robin) Jaglowski, Thomas (Miya) Jaglowski, Tammy (Jon) Helbert, stepson Jerry VanPoppering, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mom, thank you for the laughter, the lessons, the struggles, the sacrifices but most of all, thank you for the years.  Until we meet again. Oh, and thanks for the scratch offs!

In Lieu of sending flowers, you can donate to Faith Hospice in honor of Ma for the excellent care they provided her.  Donate at www.faithhospicecare.org

Stay tuned for her celebration of life that is currently in the making.  You can be assured that Elvis will enter the building……

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