Marilyn J. (Tanttari) Somero, 85, a longtime resident of Virginia, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Essentia Health in Virginia.

Marilyn was born on May 1, 1939, in Ely, Minnesota, the daughter of Swan and Viena Tanttari. She graduated from Ely Memorial High School and Ely Junior College.

On September 3, 1960, she married Bill Somero in Ely. In 1962, the couple moved to Virginia, where she initially worked as a homemaker until their children were older. She later held positions at Maurices, The Hub, Jarmins, and Herberger’s. Marilyn was highly involved in her community, participating in organizations such as P.E.O., Ladies of Kaleva, Elks, Study Club, Hospital Auxiliary and the Red Hat Society. She was known for her volunteer work and dedication, including volunteering, chaperoning and organizing events for Girl Scouts, Job’s Daughters, the Virginia Hospital, Festival of Trees, and St. Michael’s Rehab.

A devoted member of Gethsemane Lutheran Church, she contributed significantly to church life through her involvement with the Ruth Circle, LCW, Senior Choir, teaching Sunday School, Harvest Fair co-chair, and as a part-time wedding coordinator. She and Bill were also recognized for their culinary contributions to countless fundraising dinners, particularly at Gethsemane.

Marilyn took great pride in her Finnish heritage. She was a lifelong Girl Scout who attended the very first Girl Scout Round Up in 1956. She was known as a sharp dresser who never went anywhere without her lipstick. A talented cook who enjoyed entertaining, she often hosted bridge club, sewing club, wedding and baby showers, and birthday celebrations. She loved to travel, especially trips to visit her grandchildren.

Marilyn is survived by her children, Bradley (Paige) of Phoenix, AZ, and Miriam (Nancy) of Haverhill, MA; and her grandchildren, Madison and Caleb. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held at Noon on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Virgina. A gathering time for family and friends will begin one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be at a later date in Ely. 

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Essentia-Virginia Hospital Auxiliary, or the Virginia Community Foundation.

Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia. To share condolences online, please visit: www.baumanfuneralhome.com .