Marilyn Jean Rienstra

Marilyn Jean Rienstra, age 71, was called to her heavenly home to be with her Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, August 18, 2018.  She was born March 6, 1947 in Modesto, California to parents, Simon and Alice (Tapp) Rienstra. 

At the age of 6 months, the family moved to Washington to begin farming on the Everson Goshen Road.  Growing up on the farm presented a variety of wonderful experiences.  She enjoyed walking in the woods with her mother searching for the first ripe wild strawberries and picking bouquets of wild flowers, especially wild tiger lilies.  These initial introductions to the beauty of God’s creation instilled in Marilyn an appreciation and value of the beauty which she expressed in her art and music.

When her brother Robert was born the family returned to California.  In a few years moved back to Lynden.  She graduated from Lynden High School.

Marilyn earned a BA in English Literature and Education.  She taught in Christian Schools in California and Washington for 36 years.  She transitioned into a Banking career for 10 years as an Operational Specialist.  She worked in the Family Christian Bookstore for 1 year.  Lately, she taught at Providence Christian School, in Ferndale, Washington.  Marilyn was actively involved in church music ministry most of her adult life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Alice Rienstra; brother, Richard Allan in infancy.  She is survived by brother, Robert (Bob) Rienstra and his wife Lois; nephew, James Rienstra (Nicole); nieces, Jessica and Jennifer Rienstra; great nieces, Madeline and Isabel and a great nephew Sabastian.

A Memorial Service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 858 W. Smith Road, 11:00 AM Saturday, September 8, 2018.

Memorials contributions may be made to Providence Christian School, 5942 Portal Way, Ferndale, WA 98248 or the Light House Mission, 910 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225