Obituary of Marilyn Jean Van Hoegarden
Marilyn Jean Van Hoegarden (née Keto)
Marilyn Jean Van Hoegarden, age 78, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, in Escondido, CA.
Marilyn was born in Joliet, Illinois, in 1947 to Bernadine (Meyer) Keto and Stanley Keto. She graduated from St. Francis Academy in Joliet with the Class of 1965. Marilyn devoted her entire professional career to Argonne National Laboratories, where she built lasting relationships and took pride in her years of service.
Formerly a resident of Carillon retirement village, Marilyn spent the last eight months of her life in Escondido, California, where she moved to be near her brother Richard and his wife Janet, and her nieces, Melanie Burl and Allison Cohen.
Marilyn and Frank especially enjoyed traveling during the early years of their marriage. They treasured visiting historic sites overseas, including places connected to Frank's service during World War II. Marilyn found joy in simple pleasures and close relationships. She was devoted to her beloved pets, Maddie and Muffin, and looked forward to neighborhood gatherings and lunches shared with dear friends.
Marilyn is survived by her brother Richard; her nieces, Melanie Burl and Allison Cohen; their children; and numerous cousins and extended family members who will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Van Hoegarden; her parents, and her nephew, Nicholas Keto.
Marilyn will be remembered for her devotion to family and friends, her affection for animals, her lifelong work ethic, and the many quiet connections she maintained throughout her life.
Visitation for Marilyn Jean Van Hoegarden will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a mass of Christian burial to be celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville, Illinois.
For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you may leave an online condolence or share a favorite memory.
