Marilyn Anderson Gilmore, 89, died peacefully on January 26, 2014 surrounded by the love of her family and friends from around the world.

She lived in Pennsylvania, but spent her year waiting to return to one of her favorite spots on earth, Squirrel Island.

Born in Minneapolis, Minn., on the Fourth of July 1924, she thought the country celebrated her birthday in a grand way. Her childhood illnesses often kept her indoors, and she developed ways to pass the time by sewing, knitting, piano, cooking and reading. Talents she used throughout her life creating beautiful items for friends and family.

Marilyn overcame great losses and kept a positive attitude throughout her life.

Her smile was infectious, lifting the spirits of all who knew her.

She had a spark of whimsy, strength of character and was always thinking of others first.

She was a consummate hostess and her apple pie and blueberry crisp were legendary.

Her first husband, David Walradt, brought her to Squirrel Island in 1948.

Widowed in 1969, she later reconnected with a childhood sweetheart, Dr. James Gilmore, and they married in 1972, returning to the neighborhood where she grew up. In Pittsburgh she was reunited with her sister, and many relatives of several generations. She was blessed with lifelong friends she knew from elementary school through college and beyond, and was fortunate to travel the world. Thinking of rocking on her Squirrel Island porch, listening to seagulls overhead and foghorns in the distance sustained her through the winter months.

Family was everything to Marilyn. She cherished the times spent with her two children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren from South Carolina to the coast of Maine.

She is survived by her children, Janet Danforth of Belle Mead, N.J. and David Walradt of Myrtle Beach, S.C. and their spouses, Steve Danforth and Karen Walradt; five grandchildren, Christopher Danforth, Laura Peet, with spouses Kate and Eric, Mark Walradt, Jennifer Walradt and Ryan Walradt; and her three great grandchildren, Harper and Afton Danforth and Hadley Peet, who are seventh generation Squirrel Islanders.

Marilyn’s kind nature, concern for others, and ability to carry on through difficult times are all lessons we cherish.

Donations may be made to the Squirrel Island organization of your choice.

Arrangements were handled by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Pittsburgh, Pa.