Marilyn E. Wekerle

Marilyn Wekerle, 85, a long-time resident of Newburgh, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025.

She was the only child of the late Anton and Elizabeth (Koenig) Wekerle and step-daughter of the late Madeline (Hill) Wekerle.

One of Marilyn’s greatest passions was dance. Not only was she a June Taylor dancer, but she also danced with celebrities such as Liberace and Lawrence Welk. Marilyn danced in the national tour of Fiorello, stopping in nearly every state. She was also in several other off-Broadway productions. Marilyn danced in many places around the world. She taught dance to the children of Newburgh and choreographed many productions at West Point.

Marilyn also had many other talents. She began going to design school and was an accomplished seamstress, making many of her own clothes as well as costumes for some of the productions she was involved in. She was an artist who loved using watercolors as well as oils. She painted on anything she could find, including her garage door (which she covered with bright red poppies). If she was not painting at home, she enjoyed spending time in her garden. She could also play three musical instruments, including the accordion.

Marilyn traveled the world and could speak several languages. She loved photography and had beautiful photos from every country she visited.

Marilyn loved all animals and always had pets. She was a lifelong contributor to several animal welfare groups.

Marilyn had no immediate family but leaves behind two second cousins, Robert Miller and his wife, Donna and Paul Miller and his wife, Wendy. She also leaves her long-time closest friend, Brigitte Teta and friends Sharon McCormick and Carol Evans. She often recalled fond memories of her late cousin Thomas Miller and his wife Philomena. As her health began to fail, Karen Semmelrock managed her care for the past 3 years.

There will be no services. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the animal welfare organization of your choice or a local shelter.

Prospect Memorial /The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to care for Marilyn and assist her family during this time of grief. Please leave your memories, condolences, and words of comfort for her family on Marilyn's Tribute Wall on this page. 

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