Erlinda R. Marin, 76, Marion, passed away at 5:32 pm on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana in Fort Wayne. She was born in Ionia, Michigan, on Wednesday, September 22, 1948, to Jose and Aurora (Herrera) Rangel.
Erlinda was a Tool & Die Maker at General Motors in Marion, retiring on October 1, 2006. She was an avid golfer who considered the golf course her second home. Erlinda spent countless hours perfecting her swing and enjoying the camaraderie of her fellow golf enthusiasts. Her love for the game was matched only by her dedication to her Tuesday night “Girls Night Out,” a cherished tradition that brought laughter and joy to her and her friends.
A woman of many talents, Erlinda had a remarkable journey in martial arts, earning a black belt in karate. Her discipline and determination were evident in everything she did, from her culinary creations to her beautifully maintained flower garden. Erlinda’s garden was a testament to her green thumb and love for nature, and she took immense pride in nurturing her plants.
Erlinda’s furry companions, Chicky, Rosie, Albert, and Scrappy, were her constant joy, and they will miss her dearly.
Survivors include her daughters, Nelia Marin of Marion and Melissa (Mark) Kughen; son, Javier Marin of Marion; grandsons, Christopher Richards of Indianapolis, Jacob Richards of Decatur, Marcus (Sara) Richards of Decatur, Joseph (Mae) Richards of Warren, Timothy Richards of Marion, J. Mike Marin of Marion, Gabriel Brown of Marion, Lucas Kughen of Marion, Austin Kughen of Muncie, and Christian Marin of Marion; granddaughters, Elisia Marin of Gas City and Casey Marin of Marion; great-grandsons, Jakson Bombka, Asher Richards, Alexander Richards, Isaiah Carpenter, Elijah Richards, Parker Richards, Caydyn Spaulding, Rylan Christlieb, Leland Christlieb, Ryder Richards, and Lincoln Richards; great-granddaughters, Missy Carpenter, Emeriee Richards, Hazel Hodge, and Alex Richards; brothers, Jesse (Marcie) Rangel of Marion and Manuel (Petra) Rangel of Marion; sister-in-law, Elenor Rangel; and best friends, Debbie Harris, Vicky Chambers, and Sarah Babitt.
She was preceded in death by father, Jose Rangel; mother, Aurora H. Rangel; brothers, Jose Rangel, Juan Rangel, and Willie Rangel; sisters, Estefana M. Hernandez and Lupe Cruz; and best friends, Earl Purvis and Tina Crawford.
The family will receive visitors from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Erlinda’s life will begin at 6:00 pm with Father Ted Rothrock officiating.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Marion-Grant County Humane Society, P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
