Marilyn Ott

Marilyn M. Ott (Hicker), age 93, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, tradition, and a family that was the absolute center of her world.

A true matriarch in every sense of the word, Marilyn’s life revolved around the multiple generations she helped raise and guide. She poured her heart and soul into caring for her children and grandchildren. She married the love of her life, Harvey J. Ott, on June 23, 1951, and they shared 57 beautiful years together before his passing.

Marilyn loved playing cards with her family, being ready to play King’s Corners at any time and “betting the pot” in Acey Duecy every New Year’s Eve. She was a great cook and loved to bake; she always made enough for everyone and ensured there were leftovers for them to take home. She was renowned for her Chocolate Texas Sheet Cake, and her 'Family Cookbook' stands as a treasured guide for the generations she taught. One of the family’s most cherished memories is the annual making of Christmas cookies that included decorating them late into the night.

Outside of the home, Marilyn cherished her annual trips to Naples, Florida. Nothing brought her more joy than a day spent under the Florida sun, perfectly content floating in the pool or tanning on the beach. Socially for years, Marilyn was a part of a Bunco Club which formed lifelong friendships. She was always known for her welcoming personality and generosity to others and will be greatly missed by those who knew her.

Marilyn is survived by her daughter, Jeanette (Randall) Cowell; son-in-law, Paul Wohlfarth; five grandchildren: Heather (Mark) Wood, Stacey (Michael) Davis, Nicholas (Alicia) Wohlfarth, Christopher (Heather) Wohlfarth, and Chase (Rachel) Cowell; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey Ott; her daughters, Adele Zalewski and Charlotte Wohlfarth; her sister, Corinne (Bill) Fischer; and her parents, Bernice (Walter) Zumbrunn and Golden Hicker.

The family will receive friends at Reeb Funeral Home, Sylvania, on Thursday, May 14th, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at the same location on Friday at 11:00 AM.

The family suggests tributes in the form of contributions to Swanton Valley Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, 401 W. Airport Highway, Swanton, OH 43558.

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