Marilyn A. Grabek, 81, of East Amherst, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 17, 2024, at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Amherst, NY. She was born on January 7, 1943, the cherished daughter of the late Peter and Florence (Accardo) Vaccarella; and the beloved wife of Frederick M. Grabek, who she married on August 28, 1965 at Mt. Carmel Church in Niagara Falls, NY.

Marilyn graduated from Niagara Falls High School and earned her Bachelor's degree from Nasson College in Springvale, ME. After completing her residency at South Buffalo Mercy Hospital, she received her Medical Technologist Certification and began working at both Mount St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY, and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Marilyn and Fred then moved to West Lafayette, IN. While Fred completed his studies at Purdue University, Marilyn worked at Lafayette Home Hospital.  Following Fred's college graduation, he took an engineering position with General Motors/Frigidaire in Dayton, OH, where they began raising their two children, Eric and Stephanie. Marilyn also worked briefly in an oncology lab prior to devoting all of her time to her family. In 1984, Fred's career took the Grabek family to East Amherst, NY.

Marilyn was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling extensively with her husband throughout the East Coast.  They also spent many evenings together in their home theater listening to music and watching movies. Moreover, Marilyn was known for her patriotism and selflessness. She had a smile that could light up a room, and was full of wit, charm and grace. Her warm and relatable presence made everyone feel connected and comfortable with her immediately. Above all else, she cherished her time with family and the many memories they made together. Marilyn's legacy of love, family, and adventure will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

In addition to her husband of 59 years, Marilyn is survived by her children, Eric (Rae Lynn) Grabek and Stephanie Ludes; her grandchildren, Savannah Grabek, Caila (Nicholas) Griffo, and Kyler Krug; her great-grandchildren, Kaiden Grabek and Franklin Griffo; her brother, Frank (Carmela) Vaccarella; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 2:30 – 5:00 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings, in honor of Marilyn's deep patriotism for her country, may be made to a military charitable organization of one's choice. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.