Marilyn Lois Nichols (Rykse), age 93, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 16, 2023. Marilyn formerly lived in Grand Rapids and Edmore, Michigan and Naples and Ft. Myers, Florida.

Marilyn was born the oldest of three children to Andrew and Celeste Rykse on November 24, 1929 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was a 1947 graduate of South High School in Grand Rapids and held a Master of Education degree from Central Michigan University.

Marilyn was married to Roy Calvin Nichols, Sr. for 58 years. Marilyn loved her role as a stay-at-home Mom for her five kids. As her children grew, she earned a Master of Education degree from Central Michigan University and taught advanced mathematics and computer skills at Central Michigan University and at Montabella High School.

Marilyn and Calvin loved their life together on Skegemog Lake and spent many wonderful summers at the cottage they built in 1971. She was an avid bridge player, winning numerous bridge tournaments and achieving the title of Life Master. They loved to travel and she used her talents to teach bridge on cruise ships while seeing the world.

They spent their retirement years between Naples and Traverse City. They spent many wonderful days at the bridge clubs and making new friendships.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband Roy, son Jack, brother Bob and sister Elaine (Stroo). She is survived by her children Roy Jr. (Elizabeth), Steven (Julie), Kenneth (Mary), and Kathryn Good (Glenn), eight grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was loved by her family and was a foundation of strength to encourage her family to set and achieve goals.

A celebration of Marilyn's life will be held later this year.

Those wishing to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to Elk-Skegemog Lakes Association, P. O. Box 8, Elk Rapids, Michigan 49629.