Marilyn Joan Cavar (nee Russell) passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at the age of 85 with her family by her side. Born on August 14, 1940, in Jellicoe, Ontario, she was raised on the family farm in Baird, Ontario. She started her early career as a Nurse’s Aide, or “Bed Pan Jockey” as she called herself.

In 1961, she married Mike Cavar and together raised seven children. She spent all of the 1960s, as she liked to say “barefoot and pregnant”, at their home on Westminster Street, before building and finally moving into their dream house on 15th Side Road in the 1980s.

Later on in life, she went back to school and obtained her GED, then continued on to receive her diploma in Social Work.

Her adventurous spirit, joyful heart, and steadfast faith were hallmarks of her life. Guided by a deep love for the Lord, she lived with devotion and perseverance, leaving a legacy of courage, faithfulness, and strength that will inspire generations to come. Family was at the heart of her life, and she treasured the close bonds they shared, cherishing every opportunity to gather and celebrate together.

Marilyn is survived by her children: Mike (Jackie), Robert (Cheryl), Steven (Deborah), Ron (Lynn), Sheri (Gavin) Swift, Lisa (Scott) Anttonen, and Shawn (Jessica). She loved and enjoyed her thirteen grandchildren: Emma, and Carl; Erica, Tim (Alyssa), and Julia (Adam) Schaaf; Shawn (Alyssa), and Kirsten (Jake) Rae; Chase (Julia) Swift, Logan (Dani) Swift, and Hayley Swift (Nick Zapitelli); John (Sydney) Anttonen, Ariel Anttonen, and Holly (Graham) Belluz. She was further blessed with six great grandchildren: Haylen, Emery, and Shiloh Rae; Ingrid Schaaf; John Anttonen Junior (JJ); Sibley Belluz, and counting.

She is also survived by her brothers and sisters: Rosalind, Jack (Pauline), Sharon (John), Darryl (Judy), Phil (Betty), Shawn (Shelley), Mary Lou (Rob), and brother-in-law Peter Olson, and their families. She was predeceased by her husband Mike Cavar, her parents Jock and Laura Russell, her sisters Kay, and Lyn, nephew Raymond, brother-in-law Mel Cooper and sister-in-law Alanna.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice or Grace Place would be appreciated.

Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com