Marilyn A. Bernhardt

Marilyn A. Bernhardt, age 83, of South Lyon, formerly of Northville, passed away on March 6, 2025. She was born on May 10, 1941 in Northville, Michigan; daughter of Henry and Agnes (Meyer) Bernhardt.

Marilyn grew up in Northville and was a proud graduate of Northville High School. Following high school she continued her studies at St. John’s Lutheran College. Marilyn dedicated many years of her career as an Administrative Assistant at the University of Michigan School of Business before retiring in 2008.

Marilyn's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was deeply devoted to Christ and dedicated herself to spreading His word through various ministries over the years. She formed lasting friendships within the churches she attended and found great joy in participating in religious retreats. Marilyn was also an active member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, contributing her time and passion to its many events.

Marilyn had a deep love for nature and found great joy in God’s creation. She cherished all living creatures and appreciated the beauty of the world around her. Whether taking peaceful walks or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of the landscape, she found comfort and inspiration in nature’s wonder. Marilyn was a gifted artist who expressed her creativity through various mediums. She had a passion for drawing, often capturing the beauty of nature around her with remarkable detail. A talented woodcarver, she honed her craft under the guidance of a master woodcarver from Frankenmuth. Her intricate carvings, which included delicate leaves, roses, and religious depictions of Jesus, reflected both her love of nature and her deep faith.

Marilyn had a love for travel and cherished the adventures it brought her. She especially enjoyed visiting Niagara Falls and exploring Amish country. However, her most treasured trips were to the reunions on both sides of the family, where she reunited with her large extended family. She deeply valued the time spent together and held close the precious memories they created each year. She will be remembered for her artistic talents, her devotion to Christ, and the joy she found in life’s simple moments. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering faith leave a lasting legacy. Marilyn will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of her family and friends.

Marilyn is survived by her loving sister-in-law, Joyce Ehlert; her nieces, Michelle (Louis) Bacas, Julianne Kelley, and Melissa (Marc) Flinn; and many great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Robert Ehlert.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until Noon with a Funeral Service at Noon at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Pastor Christopher Fairbairn from St. Paul Lutheran Church will officiate the service. Ms. Bernhardt will be laid to rest at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Open Arms Hospice, 39500 W. 10 Mile Rd., Novi, MI 48375 or Living Water Lutheran Church, 200 Barker Road, Whitmore Lake, MI 48189.