Marilyn Ruth Knoll

Marilyn Ruth Knoll, 93, of Kansas City, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission. Born on June 12, 1931, to Albert and Verna Lefman in Mayview, Missouri. Marilyn grew up on the family farm in Higginsville. Notably, she graced the cover of "Successful Farming" magazine in 1939. Marilyn attended Central Missouri State College (now UCM), where she earned a degree in Education. On June 16, 1956 in Higginsville, MO she was united in marriage to Albert Knoll, who preceded her in death. Her teaching career began at the Peacock School, a one-room schoolhouse, and she later taught in the Turner School District. After stepping away from full-time teaching to raise her children, Marilyn took up substitute teaching and continued this work into her 70s. She also remained involved in the Turner Community through volunteering. She contributed as a scorekeeper for youth sports, participated in the Lions Club, and was an engaged member of the school PTA. Through the PTA, she helped establish the "Lunch Bunch," a social group that met for lunch for over 65 years. Marilyn was known for her commitment to staying connected with those around her. She made a point of reaching out via phone or Facebook to catch up with friends and family, and she enjoyed organizing events and keeping everyone updated. A dedicated member of Bristol Hill United Methodist Church, Marilyn raised her family there and taught Sunday School. In her personal time, Marilyn loved knitting, embroidery, and gardening, often creating gifts for family and friends. Family was at the heart of everything she did, including her passion for genealogy. She meticulously documented her family’s history and cherished annual vacations to Minnesota with her loved ones for over 60 years. Additionally, Marilyn and Al enjoyed spending part of the year as snowbirds in La Feria, Texas. She is preceded in death by her husband, Albert Knoll. She is survived by two children, Allen Knoll (Karen) and Sharon Grogan (Tom); seven grandchildren, Jon Knoll (Lauren), Mindi Harden (Cory), Mallory Dodson (Danny), Joel Grogan ( Krystal), Jon Sprung (Grace), Will Grogan, and Wesley Grogan (Jacey); and twelve great grandchildren, Cora, Levi, Monroe, Landon, Macy, Laney, Ellie, Aria, Jade, Emma Jean, June, and Josephine. A visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 PM with funeral services beginning at 2:00 PM Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Maple Hill Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Maple Hill Cemetery.

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Marilyn Ruth Knoll

June 12, 1931 - August 4, 2024