Marilyn Rae Kriz, 55 of Solon, died Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at her home after a long courageous battle with ALS.   A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Monday, July 21 at St. John Lutheran Church in Ely with Rev. Jeff Borgwardt presiding.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Brosh Chapel in Solon.  Visitation will also be an hour prior to services Monday at the church.

Marilyn was born January 10, 1953 in Cedar Rapids, the daughter of Marvin G. and Arlene M. Devine Merck.  She married Robert J. Kriz on May 2, 1975 in Cedar Rapids.  Marilyn enjoyed gardening.  She enjoyed sewing, crafts, was a great cook, and had a deep love for her family.  She was known for her wonderful sense of humor.  Marilyn was employed for over 21 years with the Iowa City Parks and Recreation.  She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Ely.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Bob Kriz; her father Marvin Merck of Anamosa; children Heather (Bryce) Plathe of Cedar Rapids and Ryan (Kelly) Kriz of Solon; step-daughter Katie (Harry) King of Raeford, North Carolina; siblings Carol Leonhardt of Marion, Mike (Linda) Merck of Marion, and Linda (Leonard) Thompson of Anamosa; 5 grandchildren, Ryan, Delaney, Avery, Piper, and Gavin as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother Arlene Merck, a brother Nile Merck, and a nephew Jake Merck-Thompson.

Memorials may be directed to Iowa City Hospice, Muscular Dystrophy Association ALS Division, and or to St. John Lutheran Church.

The wishes to extend a special thank you to Iowa City Hospice, MDA, Marilyn and Bob's family and friends for all of their love and support over the years.