Marilyn Kathryn (Harler) Wilken, 89, of Vancouver, Washington, passed away peacefully at her home on October 3, 2026. She was preceded in death three months earlier by Dale, her loving husband of 68 years, with whom she is now reunited. Marilyn was a beloved mom, grandma, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Marilyn was born on December 7, 1936, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Russell and Isabel Harler. After completing her training as a registered nurse at St. Francis Hospital in Peoria, Illinois, she began a long and rewarding career in nursing. She worked in both hospitals and later as a home health nurse. During her long career she worked in Illinois, Oregon, Washington, Virginia, and Texas as the family moved across the country. Marilyn was passionate about her profession and genuinely loved helping and caring for others, a dedication that remained with her throughout her career until retirement. Along the way, she also managed a busy household, raising three children and embracing all the joys and challenges of watching them grow into adulthood.
Marilyn will be remembered for her outgoing personality, her ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, and her willingness to lend a helping hand. She enjoyed spending time with friends and relatives, especially her grandchildren. She loved to travel, exploring the United States and the world, meeting new people, and experiencing new places. She enjoyed playing dominoes with her grandchildren, square dancing, playing mahjong with friends, and doing yoga. She volunteered for several years at Bloodworks NW. Her faith was always an important part of her life. She was an active member of the Lutheran Church in every community she called home, most recently at Family of Christ Lutheran Church.
Marilyn is survived by her daughter, Marci, of Keizer, Oregon; her sons, Brian, of Munich, Germany, and David, of Ridgefield, Washington; and her four grandchildren, Patrick, Andrew, Tim, and Emily.
A memorial service celebrating Marilyn's life and honoring her memory will be held at 11 am on October 24, 2026, at Family of Christ Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to:
Bloodworks Northwest
Development Office
c/o Molly Donahue
921 Terry Ave.., Seattle, WA 98104
Bloodworks Northwest Tax ID: [EIN] #91-1019655
