Marilyn J. DiPasquale

Marilyn Janet (Peeks) DiPasquale, 79, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on October 7, 2026. She leaves behind a life filled with love, learning, creativity, and a dash of stubborn independence.

Born in Marysville, Kansas, to Emil and Velma Peeks, Marilyn grew up on the family farm with her sisters, Vernita and JoAnn. She loved working alongside her father and learning the ins and outs of farm life, experiences that shaped her independence, work ethic, and curiosity.

During high school, she was known for her beautiful smile, academic accomplishments, and strong friendships. She formed lasting bonds through school and her church community, reflecting the warmth and genuine interest in others she carried throughout her life.

In 1967, Marilyn married Stephen W. Boyda, and together they welcomed: Chris, Brian, Renee, Andre, and Jamie. They shared the joys and challenges of raising a family while supporting each other’s education and careers. Their three boys and two girls each brought distinct personalities and their fair share of challenges. Through every stage of their lives, she loved them fully and unconditionally.

While raising five children, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education, along with a special education certificate, at Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. Over the years, she taught elementary grades before moving into school leadership as vice principal and principal, and later serving as a technology specialist.

Education was more than a profession for Marilyn. She believed every child deserved to feel valued and have the opportunity to succeed. An early advocate of thematic and integrated learning, she transformed her classrooms into immersive learning experiences through her innovative “Kaleidoscope Curriculum.” She continued championing this approach as principal of Fort Riley Ware Elementary School, then the largest elementary school in Kansas. Her willingness to challenge traditional methods reflected her belief that learning extended beyond the classroom and into the world around us.

In 2000, she married Vincent G. DiPasquale, whom she met on a blind date. Well known in Topeka for his Italian restaurants, Vince brought warmth and passion to their shared life. In him, Marilyn found her best friend. Their differences complemented each other as they teased one another, challenged perspectives, and brought out the best in each other. They traveled across the country in their motorhome, enjoying nature and exploring historical sites and museums. Those adventures became some of their most treasured memories. Together, they built a blended family and a partnership grounded in love, friendship, and mutual respect.

Marilyn found happiness in life’s simple pleasures and creative possibilities. An avid reader, she was often surrounded by stacks of books. She loved making things with her hands, from stained glass and whimsical fairy creatures to personalized signs and handmade cards. Most of all, she loved sharing her creations, making thoughtful gifts to brighten someone’s day, each with a personal touch.

She was never drawn to extravagance or appearances. She believed a person’s true character was reflected in their heart and how they treated others. She stood for fairness, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserved dignity and opportunity.

Above all, her family was her world. Some of her happiest moments were spent gathering everyone at the Peeks family farm, sitting around a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter, and simply enjoying being together.

Her love showed in countless ways. No matter how old her children became, she never stopped checking in and wanting to know they were safe and happy. She stood in the driveway waving goodbye until their car disappeared from sight, then waited for the call confirming they had arrived home safely. If someone needed her, she rearranged her plans without hesitation. She brought the same devotion to her grandchildren, becoming quite the texter in her determination to keep up with them.

Marilyn treasured her connection to her mother, Velma, through their shared love of hummingbirds and irises. Whenever she spotted one, she delighted in sending a picture to her family, finding comfort in those reminders of her mother.

Her life was measured not by recognition or possessions, but by the love she gave, the lessons she taught, and the shared memories she created.

Her family will miss her beyond words, but they will forever find reminders of her in the flutter of a hummingbird’s wings, the blooming of spring irises, the pages of a good book, and the beauty of something lovingly made by hand.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever Mom.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 17, at the Evangelical United Church of Christ located at 205 S. 10th St., Marysville, Kansas. Burial will follow in the Marysville City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to The Library Foundation in Topeka, honoring Marilyn’s lifelong love of reading and the countless hours she spent at the library.

Memorial donations may be made at https://foundation.tscpl.org/memorial-gift/