Obituary of Marilyn Sue Rigel
Marilyn Sue Briggs was born on April 13, 1933 in Adrian, Michigan. She was one of four children born to Owen and Evelyn (Raymond) Briggs. Marilyn graduated from Dundee High School with the Class of 1951 where she was the class salutatorian, a cheerleader and member of the basketball team. She was employed as a secretary at Dundee Middle School for thirty years before retiring in 1985. During her time there, she often took children in need under her wing, buying their lunch and providing them comfort and encouragements. Marilyn later sold real estate with Britton Realty in Dundee.
Marilyn was active in her community, serving as a trustee on the Dundee Village Council for twelve years and was secretary and treasurer for several years for Post 72 American Legion Auxiliary.
Marilyn continued her love of sports into adulthood. For many years she participated in a bowling league at the lanes in Dundee and enjoyed hitting the links at the golf course whenever she had the opportunity. Marilyn also loved watching golf tournaments on television and cheering on the University of Michigan football and Detroit sports teams. She also loved horse racing especially the Kentucky Derby with all of the festive hats and enjoyed a trip to Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby Museum with her children. She loved to challenge her mind, and never missed an episode of Jeopardy. She also had a knack for completing crossword puzzles.
Marilyn had long aspired to be a teacher and children’s author. She enjoyed reading mystery novels and had recently begun handwriting her autobiography with her signature, beautiful penmanship. Marilyn had an independent spirit and was never afraid to learn something new. She quickly picked up email to keep in close contact with her family. A social person with an invariably pleasant demeanor, Marilyn was always thinking of others before herself.
Marilyn Sue Rigel, age 88, of Dundee, Michigan passed away peacefully in the presence of her family on Tuesday; March 1, 2022. Her passing was preceded by her parents, her first husband and father of her three children: Dale Rigel whom she wed in 1953; her second husband: Wayne Rigel whom she married in 1992; a brother: Bob Briggs, and step-daughter, Kelly Rigel.
To cherish her memory she leaves a son: David (Linda) Rigel of Dundee; two daughters: Pat Rigel of Dundee and Barb Rigel of Denver, Colorado; a step-son: Danny (Donna) Rigel of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; three grandchildren: Matthew (Mary Kathryn), Daniel (Erin), and Andrew Rigel; a sister: Joann Carter of Vero Beach, Florida; a brother: Frank (Judy) Briggs of Dundee; several nieces and nephews; and numerous friends from over the years.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Hampton Manor who cared for Marilyn since moving there in November. They are also grateful to Careline’s medical staff and NetCare for their hospice care in her final days.
Friends may gather on Saturday; March 5, 2022 from 10:00am until 2:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156. A Worship Service Celebrating Marilyn’s Life will begin at 2:00pm also at Merkle’s. Cremation will take place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan. Private inurnment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Dundee at a later date.
In lieu of flowers the family has suggested that donations may be made to Dundee Public Schools Free Lunch Program, Dundee Caring and Sharing Program or to the donor’s choice. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.
