Marion Burnham

Marion Burnham was born on October 4, 1954, in Lamar, Colorado, to Burton and Eleanor Starcher. An only child, she cherished her cousins as siblings and often spoke with deep affection of the memories they shared. At a young age she moved with her family to Hobbs, New Mexico, where she attended school and worked alongside her father on rental properties, gaining practical skills she would draw upon throughout her life. She held fond recollections of family trips, UMW events, and reunions.

Marion attended Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas, where she joined Alpha Chi Omega sorority and, for the first time, found herself surrounded by sisters. She embraced the opportunity to step beyond her quiet upbringing, forming lasting friendships and meeting her future husband, Robert Burnham. After earning a degree in music education, she continued her studies in music therapy at the University of Kansas. Marion and Bob were married on August 21, 1976, and began their life together as house parents in the sorority house, an experience she later recalled with both amusement and warmth.

The couple lived in Arlington, Virginia, where Marion worked as a park ranger and enjoyed her time at the Washington Monument, before returning to Hobbs, New Mexico, for the birth of their son, Robin. They later settled in Arvada, Colorado, where Marion taught piano lessons, directed bell choirs, and devoted herself to scouting, youth groups, and especially to motherhood. She found her greatest joy in supporting Robin’s activities and volunteering for the causes she held dear.

After Robin graduated from high school, Marion and Bob moved to Idaho Springs, where she continued sharing her love of handbells and music, remained active in scouting and church, and traveled extensively with Bob and their friends. She delighted in hosting loved ones at their cabin, playing games, and working on puzzles. Above all, she cherished her role as Mimi to Kennedy, Wyatt, Tehya, Garyn, and Edwyn, and as great-Mimi to Everlee and Sophia. The children treasured her handmade gifts, holiday cards, and the musical moments she created with them. She also embraced many other children as her own, traveling to be part of their lives.

Marion passed peacefully at her home on March 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends who had gone before her. She is remembered with deep affection by her husband Bob, her son Robin, and all those whose lives she touched through her music, her kindness, and her generous spirit.