Marilyn J. Hensel, 83, of Deerfield, passed away at home unexpectedly on Friday, January 1, 2016. Marilyn was born in Utica on January 22, 1932, a daughter of Arthur and Annabell (Varette) Hensel. She was 1949 graduate of Whitesboro High School and a 1952 graduate of St. Elizabeth’s School of Nursing. Marilyn started her working career in the Obstetrics Dept. at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. She then relocated to New York City and specialized in the Labor and Delivery Dept. at Columbia Medical Center. Upon returning to Utica, Marilyn worked at the old St. Luke’s Hospital on Whitesboro St. in the Medical Surgical Ward. She was instrumental in helping transfer patients to the new hospital on Champlin Ave. and worked there for 10 years on the Medical Surgical floor. Marilyn, then furthered her education attending Oneonta State and earned a degree in School Nurse Teaching. After receiving her degree, she taught Practical Nurses at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital and at nights pursued a Masters of Health Education Degree from Cortland. Marilyn went to work at New York Mills Jr. Sr. High School, where she retired after 20 years of service. Marilyn was a parishioner of St. Peter’s Church, North Utica and was a volunteer at the Stanley Theater. She enjoyed playing cards and bingo and was an avid golfer, having achieved seven holes-in-one throughout her life. Marilyn was predeceased by a brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Helen Hensel. She is survived by her nephew, Stephen Hensel and his wife, Linda, and their two sons, Stephen and Christopher. Marilyn is also survived by many cousins, especially acknowledging Nancy Hensel Hudson, whom Marilyn considered a little sister, and Ray Hensel, her pitch partner and also many good friends, but a special thanks to a few, Meg, Pat and Ellen. A Memorial Mass for Marilyn will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 10:00 at St. Peter’s Church, North Utica. There are no calling hours. A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Those so wishing may make a donation to Stevens-Swan Humane Society or a charity of your choice in Marilyn’s memory.