Marilyn Ruth Heape

Marilyn Ruth Heape, age 86, of Grants Pass, passed away February 13, 2019 gently at home surrounded by her children, after a long illness, complicated by a rare blood cancer.

Marilyn was born October 24, 1932 to Alice Mae Ferguson and Charles Emory Turner in Bismarck, North Dakota and grew up in Spokane, Washington. In 1959 she married Lee Heape and together they raised a family of four children. In 1994 she moved from California to Rogue River.

Marilyn taught her family the meaning of “life isn’t always fair.” She instilled in the family love, loyalty, and strength. She was like a satin doll, soft and gentle; yet strong as nails. She was always getting compliments on her beautiful flawless ivory complexion.

After Lee passed away in 2009, Marilyn’s later years were spent with Bob Phelps. They traveled together, sharing life’s stories, memories, and adventures of their own. Her other companion was Jet, her black cat, whom she loved as much as her children.

Marilyn loved to travel in her RV, always accompanied by Jet.

She was a member of the Rogue Valley Garden Club, as she loved to be surrounded by flowers.

Survivors include her significant other Bob Phelps; children Kathie Crume and husband Wayne of Rogue River, Michael Heape and wife Karen of Hemet, California, Ruth Cruz and husband Milt of Alpine, California, Kerri Neumann and husband Chuck of Alpine, California; brother Tom Hokanson and wife Deann of Washington; 11 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by husband, Clarence Lee Heape.

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