Obituary of Marlyn Ann Balogh

March 4, 1928 – July 8, 2020

Marlyn Ann Balogh.  Age 92 of River Rouge.

Beloved wife of the late Lawrence Balogh.  Loving mother of Mary (John) Vestich, Nancy (Larry) Burrell, Chuck (Linda) Balogh, Martin (Denise) Balogh, Ruth (John) Schlaff, Patrick (Tammy) Balogh and Melanie (Joseph) Abair.  Also survived by 19 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, 1 great great-grandson and sister in law Neva Plourde.

Family Tribute

Marlyn Ann Plourde was born at 49 Elm Street in River Rouge. She shared her home with her parents Mabel and Harvey, and her brothers and sisters: Neil, Lucine, Marceline, and Merle. 

She liked to tell stories of Merle’s version of “brotherly love.” Marlyn attended Our Lady of Lourdes grade school and high school, graduating in 1946.

 
She met the love of her life, Lawrence Balogh, while in high school and married him on September 3, 1949, in Our Lady of Lourdes Church. They welcomed, raised, and dearly loved seven children. That legacy became: 7 children and spouses, 19 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great, great-grandchild. 

Mom liked to write poetry — both nonsense verses and more serious ones. She was very good at the nonsense verses. She always wanted to write children’s books and submitted several — hoping to have them published. That didn’t happen and in my humble opinion, that was the world’s loss.

Our yard and house were always full of friends. Everyone was welcome. I remember many multi-roomed tents in the backyard and basement. Summer vacations at Aunt Marcie’s were exciting with 15 kids and 4 adults under one roof. Vacations at Annie’s cottage were also a highlight. Unplanned front porch parties were the best. 

Mom was a feisty lady who supported her family and stood by her beliefs. She always had a ready ear if anyone needed to talk but didn’t offer an option or advice unless it was asked for. She was a great “sounding board.” 

As the family grew she accepted each new member with love and joy. All of the babies were showered with love — the more the merrier! 

I think that mom would like to be remembered as the matriarch of a large and loving family. 

We are all so lucky that God gave us the parents that he did. We will always remember and appreciate the constant love and support growing up, and indeed, for all of our lives, we have so many happy and precious memories that we will hold forever in our hearts! 

We love you, mama!!!