Marilyn R. Luksa Witham, 93, of Topeka, passed away Friday, August 30, 2024.
She was born November 24, 1930, in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Rollo and Olive (Redmond) Shorthill. She graduated from Washburn Rural High School and later attended Washburn University.
Marilyn worked for the State of Kansas as an Administrative Assistant.
Marilyn married Donald Luksa on June 18, 1950 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on September 28, 1997. Later, she met Donald Witham and the two were married in Topeka. He preceded her in death.
Survivors include her children, Marc (Laurie) Luksa, Debra (Ronald) Bieker, Cynthia (Paul) Burgin, Tenley (Arthur) Brown, Toll (Kristi) Luksa, Jennifer (Donald) Rilinger and Todd Luksa. Marilyn adored her 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, Donald Luksa and Donald Witham, grandson, Shane Luksa, and sisters, Dorothy Weed, Jean Domann and Marian Eakes.
Marilyn was a strong and sassy woman, but also loving and generous. Marilyn devoted her life to her family. Anyone who knew the Luksa family knew their home was loud, fun and full of love, even through the toughest of times. The Luksa home was a place where everyone was welcome, a place where you were free to be yourself and speak your mind. Marilyn was the heart of that home. Marilyn’s great example of unconditional love, strength and perseverance will forever be a part of the fabric of her family’s lives. Rest in peace, our precious Mom and enjoy making up for the much-missed time spoiling and loving up our precious Shane. Until we meet again, we love you.
Marilyn's wishes were for cremation. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Dove Cremations & Funerals Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS 66610. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Meningitis Foundation of America Inc., PO Box 1818, El Mirage, AZ 85335.
To share a memory of Marilyn or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.