Vivian E. Marlatt

Vivian Marlatt was a strong and determined woman. On any issue, it was clear not only where she stood, but usually where you stood in her estimation as well. But beneath that crusty exterior beat a heart of pure gold and anyone that got to know her, loved her. Born in Rockwood, Colorado, her hard-scrabble upbringing in the Southwest was illustrated by a note she sent as a young girl to a relative asking for 25 cents to buy some boots. Daughter Linda was born in 1942 during Vivian's first marriage. When it ended, she and Linda moved around, relying on family and friends for lodging while working wherever she could. Life changed for the better in the late forties when Linda proposed to Don Marlatt that he marry Vivian so that Mom could stay home with her. Don did so in 1950, and the couple worked hard and saved diligently to create a good life for the small family until Don's passing in 1993. Most of those happy years were spent in Alhambra, Monterey Park and Garden Grove, where Vivian lived until moving to Palm Desert to be close to Linda and the care that she needed. Vivian loved bowling and was very good at it, spending many happy hours bowling and coaching. She also loved gardening, proudly maintaining her showcase yard at her home in Garden Grove. In addition to Linda, Vivian was blessed with three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.