Marilyn Joy Hardina, age 79, of Wisconsin Rapids, went to be with her Lord on Friday, November 2, 2018. She passed away peacefully, at her home, surrounded by her loving husband, Bill, at her side. They were blessed with 59 years of beautiful memories together.

Marilyn was born August 6, 1939, in Wisconsin Rapids to Bernard and Marion (Kaltenbach) Kromenaker. She married William “Bill” Hardina on July 18, 1959. Marilyn will always be remembered for her kind, loving, and giving nature. Joy was her middle name, and it brought her great joy to do selfless things for others. Whether it be cooking a meal for others, knitting something special, crocheting gifts, creating beautiful unique needlepoint art, or buying something that she thought you would value, Marilyn loved to give. She enjoyed seeing and finding beauty in nature, others, or in art. The backyard picture window, with its view of the wildlife, brought Bill and Marilyn great joy. “Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.” – Mother Teresa.  May her soul be content knowing that she brought so much love and joy into the lives of her family and friends who truly knew her.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, William “Bill” Hardina, Jr.; her children: Kathy (Doug) Dillman, John Hardina, Mary Hardina, Joe (Cherie) Hardina, Julie (Barry) Weller, Robert (Kate) Hardina, and Ann Marie (Michael) Keene; 23 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her siblings: Sharon (David) Glick, Dennis (Sue) Kromenaker, and Janice Carter.  In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her father and mother-in-law, William and Clara Hardina, Sr. and a great-grandson, Cole Aaron Hardina.

The family would like to give their sincere thanks and appreciation to all the healthcare providers throughout Marilyn’s long, courageous battle with cancer.  Many valuable connections have been made over the years. Many caring people showed patience and love.  Many people will cherish Marilyn’s beautiful words – “Where there is peace, there is love.”

A private family gathering will be held at a later time.  Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family at this difficult time.