Marilyn Joan Cavar (nee Russell) peacefully passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 14, 1940, in Jellicoe, Ontario, and grew up on the family farm in Baird, Ontario. She began her career as a Nurse’s Aide, affectionately calling herself a “Bed Pan Jockey.”
In 1961, she married Mike Cavar and together they raised seven children. As she would often say about the 1960s, she spent those years “barefoot and pregnant” in their home on Westminster Street before they built their dream house on 15th Side Road in the 1980s.
Later in life, she decided to return to school to earn her GED and then went on to get her diploma in Social Work.
Her adventurous spirit, joyful heart, and strong faith defined her life. Driven by her love for the Lord, she lived with dedication and resilience. She left behind a legacy of courage and strength that will inspire many generations ahead. Family was central to her life; she cherished their close connections and loved every chance to come together and celebrate.
Marilyn is survived by her children: Mike (Jackie), Robert (Cheryl), Steven (Deborah), Ron (Lynn), Sheri (Gavin) Swift, Lisa (Scott) Anttonen, and Shawn (Jessica). She adored her thirteen grandchildren: Emma and Carl; Erica; Tim (Alyssa); Julia (Adam) Schaaf; Shawn (Alyssa); Kirsten (Jake) Rae; Chase (Julia) Swift; Logan (Dani) Swift; Hayley Swift (Nick Zapitelli); John (Sydney) Anttonen; Ariel Anttonen; Holly (Graham) Belluz. Additionally, she was blessed with six great-grandchildren: Haylen; Emery; Shiloh Rae; Ingrid Schaaf; John Anttonen Junior (JJ); Sibley Belluz-and counting.
She is also survived by her siblings: Rosalind; Jack (Pauline); Sharon (John); Darryl (Judy); Phil (Betty); Shawn (Shelley); Mary Lou (Rob); brother-in-law Peter Olson-and their families. She was predeceased by her husband Mike Cavar; parents Jock and Laura Russell; sisters Kay and Lyn; nephew Raymond; brother-in-law Mel Cooper-and sister-in-law Alanna.
The family wants to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice.
Cremation has already taken place. A Celebration of Life will be organized at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice or Grace Place would be greatly appreciated.
Condolences may be shared through www. nwfainc. com
