Marilyn F. Bankson

Marilyn F. Bankson, 89, of Rockford, passed away surrounded by her family on Thursday, October 13, 2016. She was born in Rockford on November 21, 1926, the daughter of Prentice and Frances (Sauber) Foster. On December 23, 1943, she married the love of her life, Donnie Bankson. Marilyn was a wonderful gardener, bringing anything she touched to life. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, reading, and had mastered the Chicago Tribune Sunday Edition crossword puzzle. Marilyn was very social and enjoyed visiting, especially with her neighbors. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, never hesitating to put her family first.

She is survived by her daughters, Pat Lamont and Sue Christiansen; grandchildren, Scott (Randae) Lamont, Tracey (Chris) Melcher, John (Michelle) Christiansen, and Cathy (Jeff) Howard; great grandchildren, Ashlyn Howard, Kayla (Korey) Vettori, Nikki Christiansen, Hayden, Joseph, and Thea Melcher; great-great grandchild, Kaleb Vettori. She is predeceased by her husband, Donnie Bankson, grandson, Jimmie Christiansen, son in-law, Joe Christiansen, her brothers, and parents.

At Marilyn’s request, there will be no funeral service and a private burial at Greenwood Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Carpenters Place. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com