Marilyn L. Matter Cope passed away July 5, 2025 after having suffered brain trauma from a fall. She spent the last days of her life being loved and cared for by her four daughters and family at her home in Loveland, Colorado.
Marilyn was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She attended Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington, where she studied English and education and met her future husband John Cope. The couple moved to Gunnison as John had been hired to teach English at Western State College. There Marilyn and John raised a family and lived until the end of their lives.
In Gunnison, Marilyn taught preschool for many years. She loved working with children. Earlier in her life, Marilyn taught elementary school and before that was a camp counselor at an Easter Seal camp for kids with disabilities.
The natural world and outdoors have always been home for Marilyn. She served on the ski patrol during her college years. Gunnison winters found Marilyn and John cross-country skiing with friends. In summer and fall she enjoyed the outdoors with her women’s hiking group.
Marilyn was interested in democracy. She was involved for a time in the American Association of University Women. She also served for many years in Gunnison’s League of Women Voters.
Marilyn is survived by her daughters Ann, Mary, Amy and Gail, and their families. A celebration of life will be held in October. For details visit everloved.com/life-of/marilyn-cope/.
