Marilynn Frances Jones Grutter was born on December 19, 1942 in Watertown, New York. She passed away of renal failure on March 10, 2019 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Marilynn was the daughter of Fern Roselind Blanchard and Edward Maldwyn Jones and sister of Paul Edward Jones, all of whom preceded her in death. 'Lynn possessed a sharp intellect, quick wit, strong drive, notable temper, and generous heart. She received her bachelor's degree in education from the University of Michigan and taught elementary school for several years. She married James Howell Grutter on April 15, 1967 and had three children: Julie, Lisa and Paul. She returned to teaching elementary school in the Kansas City school district in mid-life and completed her master's degree in education from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. She thoroughly enjoyed teaching and made lasting friendships with other Kansas City teachers. 'Lynn especially loved music, reading, learning, gardening, and her children and grandchildren. She was an accomplished vocalist and pianist. She performed the lead role of Anna in "The King and I," sang in a radio station choir, played or sang in church Sunday services and weddings countless times, and accompanied many school choirs at numerous events. Some of her fondest memories are of her opportunities to perform and the wonderful pianos she was able to play. Her grandchildren remember her love of cooking, sewing, creating playrooms, craft rooms and playground equipment for them, and their swimming pool. She would continue their educations during the summer by reading with them, making things, taking them to libraries, giving them workbooks to complete, and creating all around fun times and adventures. 'Lynn is survived by her husband Jim, daughters Julie Paasche (Chris Schorre), Lisa Battjes DeLaat (Dave DeLaat), son Paul Grutter (Ashley Grutter) and grandchildren: Rachel Battjes, Jason Battjes, McKenna Battjes, Maxwell Grutter, and Benton Grutter along with brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. The family is planning a small memorial gathering in the summer.