Marilyn J. Barnes, 89, of Topeka, KS passed away Thursday, June 27, 2019 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. She was born November 23, 1929 in Soldier, the daughter of Forest and Mary (Wykert) Vanderwall.

Marilyn attended Soldier High School, graduating in 1947. She worked for the State of Kansas, Board of Agriculture and Kansas Museum of History for 25 years.

She was a former member of the Soldier Christian Church, Delia Presbyterian Church and Rolling Hills Christian Church, Topeka.

Marilyn married Ronald “Ronnie” Barnes on March 14, 1948 in Soldier, KS. They shared 57 years of marriage before Ronnie passed away on February 21, 2005. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Doris Vanderkolk and three brothers, Richard, Wayne and Harold Vanderwall.

Survivors include a daughter, Vicki Lesser (Bill) of Topeka; three sons, Jack Barnes (Darla) of Morrill;  Terry Barnes (Debi) of Topeka; and Ray Barnes (Julie) of Topeka. She is also survived by her 12 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Soldier Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Rolling Hills Christian Church or the Midland Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.