About This Memory Space
This page was created for Marilyn Schuler Zur Schmiede's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Marilyn Schuler Zur Schmiede's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Marilyn Schuler Zur Schmiede. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Marilyn Schuler Zur Schmiede crafted a life of quiet grace and unwavering commitment, nurturing gardens, faith communities, and generations of family with a warmth that drew people close and left gardens blooming in her wake.
Born to Louis Joseph and Ida Zehnder Schuler, Marilyn emerged from her Jeffersonville roots with a spirit attuned to beauty and service. A 1947 graduate of Jeffersonville High School, she stepped into marriage with Joseph Christian Zur Schmiede on July 15, 1950, forging a partnership that spanned 64 devoted years. Their path led from Indiana to Indianapolis, where she immersed herself in church life and community roles. Deeply rooted in her Catholic beliefs, Marilyn found serenity amid her meticulously kept flowers and lawn, while her kitchen became a hub of generosity and her conversations a bridge to new friendships.
In Indianapolis, Marilyn channeled her organizational talents as registrar at a local trade school, supporting education and skill-building for many. Her volunteer efforts extended to St. Michael's School and leadership as president of the Women's Club at St. Michael the Archangel Church, later continuing her faithful involvement at St. Luke the Evangelist Church.
Family & Loved Ones
Cherished moments unfolded for Marilyn in the company of her daughters, Ann (Larry) Hilgert of Valdosta, Georgia, and Mary Zur Schmiede of Indianapolis, alongside six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren who brightened her days. She shared 64 years with her husband Joseph before his passing, and mourned the loss of their son Joseph K. Zur Schmiede, her parents, and 14 siblings. Known for her masterful cooking and boundless charity, Marilyn created a home filled with hospitality, where no visitor ever felt like a stranger.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from acquaintances and kin alike echo Marilyn's knack for turning everyday encounters into lasting connections, underscoring her generosity, green-thumb magic, and the serene faith that guided her path.
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