Marilyn Ann Waggle

Marilyn Ann Waggle, 83, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Stormont Vail Hospital, in Topeka.

She was born September 27, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Harold and Betty (Brewster) Cole.

She grew up in Osborne, Kansas and graduated from Osborne High School.

She married Don Waggle on October 1, 1960, in Osborne. Don was in the Navy and the family was stationed, first in San Diego. Later moving to Hawaii and finally Treasure Island, before settling in Kansas in the early 1970s.

Together they owned an operated WH Scale Company. They celebrated 47 years of marriage before his passing on May 4, 2008.

Marilyn was the Event and Catering Director at The Holiday Inn West Holidome in Topeka, through the 1990s. She used her talents to feed the Jr. Drag Racing community at many events throughout the years where the family participated.

Marilyn was lovingly known as “The Halloween Lady” by many throughout the community. Halloween was one of her greatest joys, and she eagerly looked forward to decorating her home and sharing that joy with others each year. Near 17th and Belle in Topeka, her elaborate displays and generous spirit brough smiles to thousands of children, families and visitors who came through year after year. For Marilyn, Halloween was more than a holiday, it was a way to bring happiness, create memories and make everyone feel welcome.

She loved taking care of and spoiling everyone she cared about. Including the neighborhood stray cats and dogs.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, Don Waggle, her parents Harold and Betty Cole, her daughter, Angela Waggle, and a granddaughter, Jessica Waggle.

Survivors include a son Jim Waggle and wife Staci. Grandchildren, Duane Waggle, AJ Waggle, Austin (Jamie) Toy, Porscha (Mike) Stous, Amber (Eric) Leonard, Megan Kempin, Melissa (Dan) Freeman, Trenton (Kelsey) Joice, Presley Joice, Jonathan Joice and Kenna Joice-Waggle. Great-Grand Children Jonathan Waggle, Anthony Ramirez, Alec Waggle, Alexis Leonard, Christian Ramirez, Eli Freeman, Eli Leonard, Jameson Toy, Holden Toy, Peyton Nichols, Conner Kempin, Allie Freeman, Ruger Nichols, Drake Kempin, Harper Joice, Myles Joice, and Logan Freeman.

Services will be private.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Topeka Cat Association and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, Kansas 66603.