Margaret Louise Marinis' Obituary
Margaret Louise Marinis passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family, on
July 19, 2025. She was 90 years old.
Margaret was born to Alfred and Ruth Zirbel on August 3, 1934. She was the third of ten
children and was raised on the family farm outside of Clear Lake, Iowa.
In 1955, Margaret married James Marinis. They welcomed their first child, Mary, before Jim
accepted a teaching position at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico. After teaching in
Puerto Rico, the family moved back to Iowa, where they welcomed their second child,
Michael. Jim then secured a teaching position in San Bernardino, California. Margaret made
the cross-country journey while pregnant with their third child, Anthony.
Margaret primarily worked as a waitress in the evenings while her children were young.
Later, she worked as a secretary in the school district. After retiring in 1994, Margaret
enjoyed gardening and refinishing furniture in her free time. Jim would often surprise her
with “mystery trips” around the world. Together, they traveled extensively to many countries
and continents.
Outside of her recreational activities, Margaret was a constant presence in her
grandchildren's lives. For many years, it was rare to find a day that didn’t include several
grandchildren spending afternoons at her house after school, waiting for their parents. This
often led to spontaneous family gatherings when Margaret would feed each family member
as they walked through the door.
Margaret is survived by five siblings: Rachel, Paul, David, Mark, and Doreen; her three
children: Mary, Mike, and Tony; her three grandchildren: Sean, Scott, and Stephanie; her
two great-grandchildren: Zoë and James, and many great friends. In passing, Margaret is
reunited with her beloved husband James, her four siblings, and two grandchildren. Her life
will serve as a reminder to those whom she touched of the importance of love, compassion,
and the value of helping others.
What’s your fondest memory of Margaret?
What’s a lesson you learned from Margaret?
Share a story where Margaret's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Margaret you’ll never forget.
How did Margaret make you smile?