Marjorie A Carlson

Marjorie Ann Carlson, 80, of Rockford went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 11. She was born in Rockford on October 19, 1945, the daughter of Eugene and Mildred (Parnham) Scott. Marjorie graduated from West High School in 1964. She went on to attend the American Academy of Art in Chicago. Marjorie was an accomplished freelance artist who created countless watercolor paintings and completed numerous commercial art projects.

In addition to her art career Marjorie was a passionate mental health advocate. She was the first mental health consumer to serve as a representative on Janet Wattles Center Board of Directors on their Public Information and Educational Committee. A position she held for nine years. In appreciation of her extensive and noteworthy dedication, she received the Janet Wattles Center 2006 Distinguished Service Award. Marjorie was also a longtime member of the Stars of Light theatre troupe. Whose mission is to educate the community on mental illness.

In addition, she actively participated in Janet Wattles Compeer Program, a mentor program pairing a volunteer with a client who was suffering from mental illness. By depending on her creativity and spirituality in her own life, it became important for Marjorie to use those same gifts as well as her energy and compassion to help others. She stated, “I’ve been an artist all my life. I love people. Any way I can help someone, I get a lot of gratification from that.”

“The most important factor in my life is my faith. My strength comes from God” she said. As a long-time member of Zion Lutheran Church, Marjorie used her artistic talent by creating many pieces of religious artwork for the church. These pieces are on display and are still being used in publications. Year after year she devoted her time to Zion’s Children’s Ministries. Volunteering with VBS and WOW Wednesdays to just name a few. She described it as, “A very rich and rewarding experience. The children are thirsty for our caring heart.”

A special thank you to St. Anne’s Place for lovingly caring for Marjorie these past eight years. She became family. They loved her and she loved them. Marjorie enjoyed the simple things in life, kittens, butterflies, rainbows, flowers in her mother’s garden, a piece of paper and crayons. Her sweet smile & laughter will be greatly missed. Her kind spirit will forever live on through those she loved. She once wrote, “Happy people create joy”. And she did just that.

Marjorie is survived by her daughter, Jenny (Dan) Koenings; grandsons, Jayden and Bode Koenings; brother, Tom Scott; and two nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, special grandmother Lillian, sister-in-law Lois Scott, and former spouse and friend Ted Carlson. A private interment will take place at Scandinavian Cemetery.

Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com