Service Details
Due to the COVID 19 Pandemic, a private service was held.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, Marla’s family would ask for donations to be made in her name to Planned Parenthood, to honor her lifelong support of women’s rights.
Marla Jean Rivett, beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Mother-in-law and Friend passed away peacefully on January 20, 2021 after a battle with Covid-19. Marla is survived by her adult children, Hannah Beckwith and Zachariah Beckwith, her five grandchildren, Zoe Siegel, Zander Siegel, Zia Siegel, Hunter Beckwith and Willow Beckwith and her younger brother Allen Rivett.
Born May 7, 1950 to Eugene and Leona Rivett in Chesaning, Michigan. Marla would go on to earn a degree in Education from Western Michigan University with a subsequent degree in Woman’s Studies from Grand Valley State University while becoming a fierce advocate for women’s rights throughout her life.
Marla served as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 24 years before retiring in 2009.
Marla was a dedicated mother to her children, Hannah and Zachariah, and offered them unwavering love and support to follow their dreams. Marla’s grandchildren were a source of pure joy in her life. Marla’s kindness, humor and loving spirit along with her inclusive and welcoming nature earned her numerous friends throughout her life.
Marla was an avid fan of the University of Michigan who loved Lake Michigan and baking cookies for loved ones.
Willow Richmond (VanderSchuur) says
Marla was my midwife in 1977 when home births were not that common. We were trailblazers then. She was working for Planned Parenthood and picked the nurses brains while we prepared together for my son, Isaac’s birth. I am saddened to hear of her passing and even sadder that we lost contact for all these years. Her bubbly personality and kindness I will not soon forget.
My heart goes out to her family. I know she made a great mother and grandmother. She was just that kind of person.