Obituaries

Marilyn Joan Burton, age 89, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, passed away peacefully to heaven entering the arms of Jesus after a life well lived on April 3, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center - Sault.

Marilyn was born on August 7, 1936, in Sault Ste. Marie to Luke and Dorothy (Bliss) Flemal. She spent her life rooted in the community she loved, dedicating much of her time and energy to making it a better place for others.

Known for her wit, strong spirit, and unwavering dedication to her family, Marilyn was the matriarch of her family, a steady presence, and a source of strength, guidance, and love. She was famous for her “Grandma Bliss homemade buns” and her delicious chili, bringing warmth and comfort to every family gathering. She kept the family in line and always connected, often talking on the phone for hours to make sure everyone stayed in touch. Her quick sense of humor and sharp mind brought light to those around her, even during difficult times.

She was deeply involved in her community and took great pride in her public service. Marilyn was active in the Sault Housing Commission, the Chippewa County Historical Society, the War Memorial Hospital Board, St. Mary’s River B-PAC, and MAR-Shunk Enhancement. She also served as a city commissioner and remained actively involved in politics and public affairs throughout her life.

Marilyn had a generous heart and deep compassion for others. She supported numerous fundraisers and organizations over the years and regularly sponsored children in other countries to ensure they had opportunities for a better life.

In her free time, Marilyn enjoyed antique collecting, rock hounding for agates, camping, blueberry picking, cooking, and working on crossword puzzles. She enjoyed genealogy, reading newspapers and books, staying up to date on local and national news, and sharing her thoughts through letters. She loved watching her favorite shows, including Matlock, Murder She Wrote, and Antiques Roadshow, and especially enjoyed spending time riding in her husband’s old cars. For many years, Marilyn was a landlord, renting to many families and enjoying the opportunity to meet and connect with the people she welcomed into her homes. She managed the books for her husband’s excavating company, Joe O. Burton Excavating, which he started in 1971, helping ensure the business thrived.

Marilyn and her husband, Joe Odell Burton, shared an extraordinary seventy-five years of marriage. She raised five boys and loved their wives and significant others as her own. She took pride in keeping up with her family and as many will fondly remember, always seemed to know the latest family happenings. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who always put others first.

She treasured many friendships over the years and truly valued their conversations, laughter, and connections she shared with them.

Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Joe; sons, Robert (Deanna) Burton, Stephen (Cathy) Burton, Daniel Burton, Bruce (Colleen) Burton, and Bettina Burton; grandchildren, Aaron (Trisha), Wynter (Patrick), James (Monserrat), Alyssa (Tony), Tyler (Deanna), Nycole, David (Chelsea), Jessica (Matt), Andrea, Jordan (Dasha), Kyle, and Kaylin she also considered Adeline and Annabelle Murphy as her grandchildren; she loved all her grandchildren dearly. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Dean, Eva, Kent, Elijah, Avalyn, Jocelyn, Elayna, Amelia, Camille, Carter, James, and Kenna; brother, Robert (Brenda) Flemal; a very special niece, Deborah (Eric) Kimble; and nephews, Richard (Wendy) Flemal, Raymond (Terry ) Flemal, and Robert S. Flemal all of whom she cherished and loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Luke Flemal and Dorothy Guerrero; son, Philip Burton; grandson, Shay; and brother, Robert (Dawn) Tupper.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 606 E 4th Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 at 10:00 AM. The Memorial Mass will follow at 11:00 AM.

A special thank you to the staff at Medilodge and MyMichigan Hospitals in Sault Ste. Marie and Midland, Michigan, for your exceptional care.

Donations in Marilyn’s memory may be made to the organization of your choice, as she generously supported so many causes.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.