—In Mermoriam— Marliese Kerrigan

—IN MERMORIAM—

MARLIESE KERRIGAN

1925-2013

 

 

Long-time resident Marliese Kerrigan (fondly known locally as “Mona Lisa”) died on April 25, at the age of 87. Born in Ludwigshafen/Rhein, Germany, she studied languages and worked after WWII as an interpreter for the late General George S. Patton, when he was stationed in Bad Nauheim, outside of Frankfurt. In 1957 she immigrated on her own to the country of her dreams – the U.S.A., where she worked as a secretary for the Detroit Bank and Trust Co. and the Bank of America in San Francisco.

In 1960 she married James F. Kerrigan, her husband for 16 years, in Florida where he was an Associate Professor at Florida State University. Both loved to travel, especially to Central America, and in 1980, Marliese came to Ajijic, where she had spent her honeymoon. She continued to travel, visiting countries in Asia, Africa, Australia and Europe, setting foot in 46 different countries. Her biggest love belonged to Mexico and its friendly people, and to classical music which she had treasured since childhood. She is survived by a brother who lives in Germany. Mona Lisa, with her friendly smile, will be missed by many people at Lakeside, but especially by her beloved Mexican neighbors. In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held and her ashes will be distributed over Lake Chapala. Thank you, Dear Lord, for all her many good years in Ajijic and Mexico.

(Submitted Anonymously)

(Ed. Note: Along with many others here at Lakeside, I will miss this lovely lady whose old-world graciousness charmed everyone she met, most especially the Mexicans who loved to try out their English on her, whenever they encountered her by chance on the street.)