Marilyn T. Wise

She was born June 3, 1935 in Buffalo, the daughter of the late Barney and Bernice (Wierczynski) Rafan.

A resident of Dunkirk for most of her life, Marilyn had been employed as a cook at SUNY Fredonia and an employee at Walmart. She was a member of the Sheridan United Methodist Church and Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church.

Marilyn was a devoted wife and mother, as well as an active community member. She was a Sunday school teacher, in the church choir, a leader in church youth groups, 4-H, cub scouts, and girl scouts and numerous other activities.

Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Edsel G. Wise, whom she married Jan. 7, 1960; three children, Darla Wise of Narrows, VA, Gary (Deanna) Wise of Vonore, TN, and Dawn (Kevin) Pawlak of Dunkirk; seven grandchildren, Nicholas Coker, Jennifer Wood, Thomas (Tori) Wise, Tiffany Wise, Ashley (Robert) Halas, Danielle Pawlak, and Austin Pawlak; four great grandchildren, Thomas Wise Jr., Matthew Wise, Emma Wise, and Damion Wise; sister, Lori (Martin) Young; brother, Gerald (Linda) Rafan; sister-in-law, Betty Rafan, and several dear nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Norman Rafan and Ronald Rafan; sister, Betty Jasczcak.

The family would also like to thank the dedicated nurses who cared for Marilyn at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Brooks Memorial Hospital, and the Town of Sheridan EMT personnel.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday morning at 10 o’clock in the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. The Rev. Jim LaBarr will officiate. Calling hours will be held Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Sheridan Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials can be made to a charity of choice.