Marilyn Hendry

Marilyn Hendry (1957- 2021)

Marilyn Hendry “Melsie” was born on August 30th, 1957 in San Diego, California ,. She went home to the Lord on January 31, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Helen Hendry and one brother, Bernard Hoffman. She was the youngest of eight children. She is survived by siblings James Hoffman, Tacoma. WA. Judy Hoffman, Yelm, WA, Susan Stowman (Keith), of Elma, WA, Sharyn McClure (Ron) Davenport, WA. Sandra Robinson (Steve) Bucyrus, Ohio and David Hendry, (Cindy) McCleary, WA. and many nephews and nieces who loved her dearly.

We would like to thank Assured Hospice, Dr. Fred Reed, and our friends and family members for their cards, flowers and words of comfort. A special thank-you to Mike Strite at Strate Funeral Home.

Dear Melsie,

You left us so suddenly on that Sunday morning. We were not ready to say goodbye.

You were always the child, always the teacher. You came to our family as an innocent tiny baby and you died 63 years later just as innocent. Your mission was completed. While you never had any idea about hate, or war, divorce, or death, you taught us so much about life. You brought us the gift of laughter. You could tax us to the utmost with your teasing, you cracked us up at times because you were so silly, and sometimes you brought us to tears. We marveled at you. Could anyone ever love diet Coke or ice cream more than you? We wondered.

Some may think that you were extremely disabled. But we know that you were the perfect gift from God. Our family adored you. We were in agreement that there was nothing tragic about your life. We believe that those born with Down Syndrome always have a mission. God makes sure of that.

We miss you. You really did teach us about life and especially about our own imperfect humanity. You are now dancing in heaven, free from pain. We will see you again. Until then, we rejoice that you graced our lives. We have so many memories to cherish. There is a lot more laughter in heaven now. I am not sure if there is diet Coke up there, but there has to be ice cream. Heaven undoubtedly has a million flavors.

We love you.