Marilyn UrsenbachOur Loving Daughter & SisterMarilyn Ursenbach's birth to Wayne and Bernice Ursenbach on July 31, 1959 was the beginning of a miracle that lasted 54 years, and the miracle continues after her passing on August 4, 2013. Marilyn was born six weeks prematurely with multiple birth defects including severely clubbed feet and a generalized muscle weakness that impacted every muscle action, most significantly, her ability to swallow. As a result, some of Marilyn's early caregivers labeled Marilyn as one who would never walk, ride a bike, drive or even survive. When Marilyn was a teenager, a birth defect in her brain manifest itself in a seizure disorder that would severely impact the rest of her life. Her life is a testimony that God is in charge, for Marilyn met each challenge.Marilyn was aided in her journey through life by so many who cared for her, especially her mother who was the only one who seemed to be able to coax some milk down newborn Marilyn's uncooperative throat, and who continued to care for Marilyn in such a loving way until the end of her life. Marilyn was also joined in her mortal journey by a twin sister, who chose to come to earth with her as a companion, helper and best friend. They loved to laugh together, and there is no doubt that their friendship began long before this life, and that it will resume at a future day in the eternities.Marilyn excelled in school, graduating from Cottonwood High School in 1977 and earning a bachelor's degree in psychology from BYU. She then served as a missionary (the only one of her siblings to do so!) in the Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh mission. In 1986, Marilyn went to work for Zion's Bank, first as a teller, and then as a loan specialist. Her tenure at the bank lasted until just days before her surgery near the end of April. To the end of her life, Marilyn was young at heart, though in a body which had aged beyond her actual years. Four months ago, Marilyn was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer, and her passing was a result of complications of her treatment. In addition to family and friends who will miss her terribly, Marilyn leaves behind a worn, imperfect body along with all of the accouterments (often associated with a more advanced age) which allowed her to get through each day. If there are shoes in heaven, she has already amassed a closetful and she will easily be recognized by her smile, as well as by her feet that just won't stop dancing!The family thanks all the doctors, nurses and health care providers who have cared for Marilyn through out her life. We also appreciate her employers and friends who made a difference in her life.Marilyn is survived by her parents, Wayne and Bernice of the family home; siblings Sylvia (Clay) Christensen, Bellevue, WA; Steve (Tammy) San Jose, CA; Kathy (Mike) Bertasso, Auckland, New Zealand; Brent (Kathy), South Jordan, UT; Carol (Brad) Leatham, Provo UT; and twin sister Maurine (Larry) Akin, Powell, WY; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.Funeral services will be Friday, August 9, 2013 at 12:00 noon at the Winder West Stake Center located at 4555 So. 1200 E., Salt Lake City, Utah. Viewings will be Thursday, August 8, 2013 from 6:00 8:00 p.m. at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Chapel, 4760 South State Street, Murray, Utah and also at the church from 10:30 11:30 a.m. prior to services. Interment: Elysian Burial Gardens. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.jenkins-soffe.com
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