Marilee Obendorf

Marilee Obendorf, 92, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025 at Laurels of DeKalb in Butler. Born on February 7, 1932, to Lyle and Maudena Mulholland, Marilee lived a life full of love, kindness, and dedication to her family and community. Marilee worked at Cooper Tire and also enjoyed a successful 20-year career as an Avon representative, building relationships with countless people in her community. In her free time, Marilee found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved swimming, playing the organ, and tending to her garden, where she nurtured both flowers and her soul. Above all, Marilee treasured spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her endless happiness. Marilee's kindness, resilience, and love for life will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and an example of a life well-lived. She was the beloved wife of Robert Obendorf, who preceded her in death on September 8, 2011. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Diane Obendorf of Butler, IN, Robert Obendorf Jr. of Kendallville, and David L. (Tamara) Obendorf of Elkhart. Marilee was a proud grandmother to Christopher Obendorf and Christina Smith, and cherished her role as a great-grandmother to 4 great-grandchildren, Joey Obendorf, Micha Obendorf, Brynn Smith and Jordan Smith; and a sister, Shirley Blevins of Garrett. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Obendorf; sisters, Margaret Patton, Martha Amerman and June Brown; and a grandson, Jason Obendorf. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at Pinnington Funeral and Cremation Services 502 N. Main Street, Auburn. Pastor Dale Rabineau will be officiating.  Burial will be held in Butler Cemetery. Memorial donations in Marilee’s memory may be made to the Heimach Center or Dekalb Humane Society. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.

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