Marilyn Michel Kossik

Marilyn Michel Kossik (née "Mimi" Michel) passed away on November 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 61 at her home on Bainbridge Island, WA after a courageous 12-year battle with ovarian cancer. 

Marilyn was born on January 18, 1963, in Walla Walla, WA, and grew up in Roseburg, OR, where she developed a deep love for animals, sports, and the outdoors. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Nursing from Western Washington University and spent most of her career as a Critical Care Nurse at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, WA, where she cared for countless patients with compassion and expertise.

Marilyn was married to Rick Kossik, with whom she raised their two children in Sammamish, WA: Dr. Madeline Kossik of Seattle; and Marek Kossik of Bainbridge Island. She also is survived by her mother, Marlene Michel (née Heuberger) of Eugene, OR, and her siblings: Mike Michel of Springfield, OR; Denise Michel of Santa Cruz, CA; Therese Michel of Springfield, OR; Joe Michel of Corvallis, OR; and Nick Michel of Milwaukie, OR.

Throughout her life, Marilyn was known for her passion for animals. She fostered kittens, volunteered at an animal rescue farm (she especially loved being around horses), and leaves behind her beloved golden retriever, Blue, and her fearless cat Toothless. She also loved viewing wildlife and was awed whenever the orcas passed by her house on Bainbridge Island.

Marilyn had an athletic spirit and excelled in sports throughout her life. As a child, she was a tournament-level tennis player and cross-country runner, and as an adult, she enjoyed hiking, skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing, snorkeling, and open-water swimming. She participated in all even while battling cancer. She also enjoyed traveling with her husband and children to places such as Australia, the Galapagos Islands, and Hawaii. Closer to home, her favorite places were Cannon Beach, San Juan Island, and Santa Fe.

Marilyn will be remembered for her warm smile, love for her family, friends, animals, and the outdoors, and her courage, strength, and determination in the face of her illness.

A celebration of her life will be held on her birthday at the Stan Pocock Rowing Center 301 Shannon Drive SE Bainbridge Island, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 2 PM. If you plan on attending, please RSVP here.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to either the West Sound Wildlife Shelter or the Cancer Research Institute.

Marilyn’s family is deeply grateful for the love and support they have received throughout her journey.