Marilyn J. Kanerva

West Boylston - Marilyn (Martone) Kanerva, 87, of West Boylston, peacefully departed this world in the early morning hours of Friday, March 22, 2024, at Leominster Hospital, surrounded by her loving family after complications from a recent surgery. Her husband of 68 years, Ronald H. Kanerva, predeceased her in 2023.

Born in Worcester on October 20, 1936, Marilyn was the second oldest of nine children born to Nicholas and Angela "Rose" (Tortorino) Martone. West Boylston was her lifelong home, where she lived, loved, and left her mark.

Marilyn is survived by her sisters, Sandra Penny and Deborah Martone, her sisters-in-law Mary Grace Martone and Barbara Martone, her sister-in-law Jolynne Kanerva and her partner, Mona Prescott. She is also survived by her children: Wayne Kanerva, Lynda Grady and her husband Michael, Kim Hopewell and her husband Mark, and Gina Bengtson and her fiancé Bob Christopher. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jessica Andersen, Jaquelene Kelly, Matthew and Daniel Hopewell, and Angela Perron, as well as her great-grandchildren, Octavian and Zachary Hopewell, and Jake Brown. Marilyn was the cornerstone of her family, a guiding force for her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Ron, Marilyn is predeceased by her siblings: Anthony Martone, June Leonard, Ernie Martone, Marie Ovian, Loretta Sclafani, and John Martone.

In her younger days, Marilyn worked at Denholm's in Worcester, showcasing her charm as a sales associate and model. Later, she spent many years as the office supervisor at the Municipal Lighting Plant in West Boylston. Marilyn had a knack for art, passing on her talent for drawing and painting to her family. She enjoyed bowling, card games at the American Legion, and memorable vacations with Ron in Newport and Cape Cod. Community-minded, Marilyn volunteered with the Friends of the Council on Aging and took part in town elections. Her Italian heritage was a source of pride, especially evident in her famous meatballs and gravy.

Marilyn's heart overflowed with love and pride for her family, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marilyn's life during Calling Hours on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and her Funeral Service on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Both gatherings will be held at the Miles-Sterling Funeral & Tribute Center, 100 Worcester Road, Sterling, MA 01564. Marilyn will be laid to rest at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in West Boylston following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Marilyn's memory. Contributions can be sent to 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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