Marianne Janice Lepczyk, née King passed away in the comfort of her home on June 10, 2017. Marianne was born April 9, 1942, in Cincinnati, OH, the daughter of Charles F. King and Lydia A. Davis.
In 1963, Marianne graduated from Northwestern University with a B.A. in Russian. She continued her education at Michigan State University, earning a Master of Arts in Geography in 1965 and completing all of her coursework for a PhD in Resource Development.
Marianne was a gifted musician who played French horn, guitar, and piano, as well as an inspiring teacher. While she tutored many students and briefly taught geography, it was piano in which she taught the most. Beginning in the early 1990’s and continuing for the rest of her life she taught piano to both children and adults. Beyond Marianne’s love for music, she was an adept photographer and graphic artist. Most defining was Marianne’s keen intellect and curious nature. Reading and learning brought her joy, as did the natural beauty of Michigan’s woods and waterways, which she shared with her family, friends, and girl scouts over her life.
In 1966, Marianne married Joseph Lewie Lepczyk. Together, they lived in East Lansing, MI, and operated a rare coin auction house. When Joe died in 1985, Marianne and her three sons moved to Traverse City, MI.
Marianne is survived by her sons, Chris (Jean) Lepczyk of Auburn, AL; Peter Lepczyk of Traverse City, MI; and Tim (Ruthann) Lepczyk of Conway, AR; as well as her five grand-children, Olivia, Alejandro, Isabel, Stella, and Naomi, whom she loved so dearly.
A memorial service will be held at The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, 1490 Red Drive, Traverse City, on June 24, 2017, from 12:00-3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Woman’s Resource Center in her memory.
Condolences to the Lepczyk family. Ann and I are thankful we got to meet Marianne and enjoyed her wonderful cooking and her intellect. Her love of her grandchildren is obvious. Blessing to your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bruce & Ann Thomas