SFC Marlin Alexander Bigelow, Ret., aged 74 of Wyoming, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Jeanette Bigelow and brother, Jerry Bigelow. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Eugenia “Jeannie” Bigelow; children, Marlin A. “Andy” (Nicole) Bigelow II, John (Karen) Bigelow, Anthony Bigelow and fiance Melissa Donis, Catherine (James) Hall, Mettie Groen and Larry Bowman; step children, Earlina (Mark) Velting, Larry Lee (Linda) Bowerman; 29 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Janet (Ray) Navarro, Sandy (Bob) Dean, Dirk (Lori) Bigelow, Paulette (Keith) Burdick, Mark (Sandy) Bigelow; and many nieces and nephews. Marlin proudly served his country in the US Army and Air Force. He was a member of the American Legion for 30 years where he served in numerous positions, including Post Commander for the Neal E. Fonger Post 179, then as the 5th District Commander of the American Legion. He also served as the State Detachment Commander of the Sons of the American Legion. Marlin served as Post Commander of the VFW 702. He was a member of The 40/8 and of the 126th Regimental Association of the Grand Valley Armory. Funeral services for Marlin will be held on Thursday at 11:00 am at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park SW, Wyoming with Rev. Marlin A. Bigelow ll officiating. Interment Fort Custer National Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm and also on Thursday from 10-11 am prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Grand Rapids Home for Veterans or Humane Society of West Michigan.
Leave Your Tribute Message
June 20, 2015 7:34pm
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
- Mary Alice Navarro
June 17, 2015 3:05pm
Jennie, and Family sorry for your loss. Jennie I know it has been a hard year for you. You know were here for you. Hope you will find confort. See you when we get together again.
- Mike and Cindy Bricault
June 17, 2015 1:21pm
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts,love and prayers are with you All. Thank you Marlin for your service and sacrifice for our country. You were a great husband, father and grandfather that will always hold a special place in each one's heart. I will always remember that Beautiful smile and jokes that could make anyone laugh. So long till we All meet again. God Bless to everyone. <3
Victoria Orr
- Victoria Orr
June 17, 2015 11:50am
I would like to extend my prayers to the family of Marlin Bigelow. Thank you for his membership and support of the Sons of the American Legion.
For God & Country,
Greg Price
Past Detachment Commander 08/09
Zone 1 Commander
- Greg Price
June 17, 2015 4:50am
On behalf of the American Legion, Department of Michigan, we wish to express our condolences to the Bigelow family on the passing of your beloved Marlin. This is not only your loss, but a loss to our Legion family, as he so proudly served in the United States Army, the United States Air Force, and was Legion member for over 30 years.
Thank you Mr. Bigelow, for your service and sacrifice to our great Nation.
Rest in Peace Legionnaire.
Jim Carlin
2nd Zone Commander
Department of Michigan
- Jim Carlin
June 17, 2015 2:49am
Dearest Tony and family, so sorry for your dad's passing. No more pain for him. Just pain for you. You will meet again and you will be in a better place. Love to all your family.
- Grace Loiacono
June 16, 2015 8:41am
Jeannie, I am so sorry for your loss.
Prayers to you and the family.
- Irene Lowing
June 16, 2015 4:44am
Cousin Jeannie so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
- Hugh and Cheryl Jones
June 16, 2015 3:15am
Bret sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers. Luv Tom & Lois
- lois darrow
June 16, 2015 12:20am
I love you Gramps. Im sorry I couldn't make it sooner. I wish we could have spent more time together. You will forever be with me. I love you.
- Brandie Innocent (Bigelow)
June 15, 2015 4:50pm
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you all.
- Jennifer Mylenek (Massey)