Marilyn Gagen
Obituary
GAGEN, Marilyn….
Marilyn Gagen (née Smale) of St. Thomas passed away peacefully with her family by her side on March 16, 2026, in her 86th year.
Beloved wife of the late Bill Gagen, Marilyn is reunited with him and with her cherished daughters Kim Gagen and Kathy Bowering, who predeceased her.
Loving and devoted mother of Karen Webb (Scott), Kelly Sutton (Brian), Kris Dowler (Bart), and Paul Gagen (Kelly). Marilyn was a proud and devoted grandmother to 14 grandchildren and a treasured great-grandmother to 13 great-grandchildren. She loved her family deeply, and
nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by those she held dear.
Marilyn will be remembered as a smart and spirited woman who always stayed up to date on current events and never missed watching the news. She had a deep love for life’s simple pleasures-singing, dancing, reading, and movies. She was an avid fan of curling, tennis, hockey, and baseball, often cheering from the comfort of her home.
She cherished her friendships deeply. Her evening tea time with her dear friend Joan-watching Bull, Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune-was a treasured daily ritual. She shared a special bond with her best friend Donna, affectionately known as her “BFF.” Together they enjoyed many laughs, indulging in ice cream and apple fritters, a testament to Marilyn’s well-known sweet tooth and love of good food. In fact, whenever anyone mentioned travel, Marilyn’s first question was always, “What was the food like?”
Marilyn will be fondly remembered for her quick wit, strength, determination, and resilience. She was a true fighter, generous to her core, and an example of perseverance to all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, laughter, and devotion to family and friends that will continue to live on through all whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A special thank you to the VON EShift support, doctors and St. Elizabeth nurses for being so amazing.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 1-4 pm at 25 Rodney Crescent, St. Thomas. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com
Paul, Kris, Karen and Kelly, Marilyn was a champion through and through! May you find comfort in the knowledge that she is finally resting in the arms of your father, pain and worry free. The memories you shared will always be in your heart ready to lift you up.. She is finally at peace, watching over all of you.
Thinking of you and wishing you strength and peace in the days ahead.
Love
Judy
My deepest condolences to Kelly and Brian on the passing of Marilyn. I remember her from years ago spending many nights at Kelly’s house. Rest in peace Marilyn. Big hugs to you Kelly. Xox
My deepest sympathy to Paul & Kelly in the passing of Marilyn. May she rest in peace now.
Hugs & love
Pat
So sorry for the loss of your dear Mother.
My thoughts are with you during this sad time.
I had the extreme pleasure of knowing Marilyn later in her life and benefiting from her words of wisdom during our times together..she was a gem and a loving soul .
My condolences to Marilyn’s family. Hugs to Karen and Kris. It was an honour to meet and help your mom.