John Marion

John Marion, age 72, of Fond du Lac, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. 

John was born on May 7, 1954, in Leroy, Wisconsin, to Harold and Marie Marion. He graduated from St. Mary Springs in 1972. At the age of 17, he began working as a dishwasher at Everix Bakery and eventually worked his way up to head baker. He spent most of his baking career there before retiring from Festival Foods.

On June 27, 1980, he married Pamela, beginning a 46-year marriage filled with love, family, and countless memories. Together, they built a loving family of five children; a true “yours, mine, and ours” family that remained at the heart of John’s life. Despite the chaos and unexpected adventures, John and Pam remained committed to one another, and to their children.

John was a man of deep faith, which guided the way he lived and loved. John and Pam joined Community Church in 1981 where they found a church family that walked with them through many seasons of life. Although John learned about the Bible and how to have a relationship with Christ, it wasn’t until John had a near-death illness in 2018 when he said his faith “moved from his head to his heart.” Each day thereafter, John cherished spending time with Jesus by reading his Bible, journaling Scripture, and praying for friends and family throughout the day. There aren’t many pages in his Bible that are left unmarked or not underlined, as he meditated on the Word day and night.

John had a passion for sharing his heart for Jesus by mentoring other men and served for several years as an elder at Community Church. He had the privilege of baptizing his son-in-law and grandsons. He and Pam hosted countless groups in their home and led many studies and support groups for over 40 years. John was lovingly called a “walking billboard for Jesus” because he wanted all to know Christ - our living hope. His desire was for others to make disciples of Jesus Christ, and he did just that. 

He shared his faith with whomever he met - whether it be with phlebotomists to doctors, to CNAs to neighbors. People who were even acquaintances of John knew where his heart was, as he shared his faith openly and in a practical way. To know John was to know the Truth, coupled with grace. 

John’s favorite activity was simply spending time with his family. Many afternoons were spent playing cribbage, Wii bowling, grilling out, or watching the Brewers. He showed his love through service, always looking for ways to care for the people he loved. He especially loved taking care of his wife, Pam. Whether doing the dishes, preparing a meal, or tending to the little things that made her life easier, John lived out his belief in loving his wife as “Christ loves the Church.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Marie Marion, and his sister, Judy Rake. 

John is survived by his beloved wife, Pam; his siblings, Kathy Emmer (Bill), Richard Marion (Diane), Betty Baker (Rick), and Sue Brefka; his children, Angela Roltgen (Peter), Tim Roltgen (Sara), Jason Marion (Nina), Amanda Cords (Jason), and Emily Zbaracki (John); along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Generations Hospice, as well as all of the caregivers and nurses, for their compassionate care and support.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Community Church in Fond du Lac. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM with luncheon to follow.

“All glory to God!”