Marilyn Hockersmith

Marilyn J. Hockersmith, 71, of Oakley, died Wednesday, May 30, 2018. She was born July 1, 1946, in Colby, KS, to Ralph and Armella (Lintel) Kruse. Marilyn graduated from Oakley High School. On December 27, 1962, she married Lanny Hockersmith, in Oakley. Together they made a life farming. Not only was she a wonderful farm wife, but an amazing cook, gardener, quilter, and artist. There wasn't a role she couldn't fill. Her family was her top priority, especially spending time with her grand-kids. Her home was a gathering place where she enjoyed hosting. She has taught us about unconditional love, forgiveness, strength and faith. Her selflessness was apparent to anyone that knew her, always willing to help. Much of the community remembers painting ceramics in her shop, H&H Ceramics. She also loved sharing her knowledge of gardening by working at Golden Plains Garden Center in Colby, KS. Marilyn's great strength was evident in her fight against cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones at home during her last days.

She was preceded in death by her father Ralph and grandparents, Ben and Carrie Kruse and Herman and Mary Lintel.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Lanny; mother Armella Kruse; children, Troy (Jeanette) Hockersmith, J.R. Hockersmith, Clinton (Michele) Hockersmith and September (Brent) Mariman; siblings, Karol (Terry) Swart, Rodney (Mary Lou) Kruse, Ralph (Cheri) Kruse, Connie Renner, Berny (Missy) Kruse, Janice (late Rod) Wilkening and Robert (Chan) Kruse and grandchildren, Alex Benitez, Hannah Hockersmith, Jordon (Barbara) Hockersmith, Kayla (Nick) Hanna, Kenzie Hockersmith, Corey, Carsyn and Luke Hockersmith, Tanner and Nathan Lee and Jake Mariman.

Visitation is 3-5:00 p.m. Sunday, June 3, 2018, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, with a Vigil at 5 p.m. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 4, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Oakley, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph School, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748. For condolences or information visit www.baalmannmortuary.com