Marilyn Irwin

Marilyn S. Irwin (nee Hacker), age 74, of Bryn Mawr PA, passed away at home on March 27, 2020 with her beloved family by her side.  Born on September 19, 1945 in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, she grew up with her sister, Sally Steadman (nee Hacker), and parents, William and Dorothy Hacker. After graduating from Brentwood High School, Marilyn received her BA from Muskingum University and volunteered with the American Red Cross Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program in Vietnam, where she served from 1968-1969.

Marilyn met her adoring husband of nearly 42 years, Daniel Irwin, when she was seeking tax advice. Marilyn and Dan were an amazing team, cultivating friendships together, serving their community, and always making one another laugh, right up until the final hours of her life.

Beginning in her college years, Marilyn had a passion for travel that she and Dan indulged with numerous journeys around the world. In 2012 they achieved one of Marilyn’s lifelong goals--to travel to every continent--with a trip to Australia.

Together with Dan, Marilyn adored their daughter, Julia, son-in-law, Steve, and particularly their granddaughter, Erin, who they took on many trips: Italy, the Danube, and even an expedition to the Galapagos. A bit closer to home, Marilyn and Dan enjoyed spending weekends in Ocean City, NJ and cheering at Erin’s soccer games, rain or shine.

Marilyn earned master’s degrees in Public Health Administration from University of Dayton and in Human Resource Management from Widener University. She worked for 18 years at Crozer-Chester Medical Center as an administrator of WIC and Ambulatory OB/GYN programs.  She then moved into nursing home administration at Spring Mill Manor and activities coordination at Rosemont Presbyterian Village prior to her retirement in 2016.

For many years Marilyn led Great Decisions, a world affairs class, to share her love of political science with her community. She and Dan have been faithful members and volunteers at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Dan, daughter, Julia Schott (nee Stout), son-in-law, Stephen, and grand-daughter, Erin Schott.

Due to unprecedented world circumstances, graveside burial will be for immediate family only. Arrangements for a memorial service will be announced when permitted.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to, The Breathing Room Foundation, P.O. Box 287, Jenkintown, PA 19046, Camp Stomping Ground, PO Box 10731, Rochester, NY 14610, or the Penn Home Palliative Care Gift Fund, Penn Medicine Development, Attn: Kelly McBride, 3535 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104.