11/11/2025
OBITUARY
Marina Helen Wismer
March 20, 1936 – November 5, 2025
Obituary of Marina Helen Wismer
IN THE CARE OF
Robert Toale & Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park
Marina H. Wismer, 89, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away in the early hours of the morning on November 5, 2025 at Tidewell Hospice House, Lakewood Ranch.
Marina was born in Michigan in 1936 to John and Nellie Sutton. Throughout her teens and twenties, she was an active member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Michigan, where she enjoyed both singing for the choir and playing the organ. Marina married her late husband, Russell, in 1965. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Jean and Jennifer, and blended their family with Russell’s children, John, Judith, and Julie. In 1971, Marina and Russell moved to Florida with Jean, Jennifer, John, and Judith, while Julie, already married, remained in Michigan.
A few years later, after moving to Sarasota, Marina began working as a receptionist for The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and, through dedication and hard work, advanced to the role of purchasing agent. She proudly remained with the Museum until her retirement at age 67. Even in retirement, Marina enjoyed staying active and connected with others. She worked part-time, first at a chiropractor’s office and later at a French boutique, where she especially loved chatting with customers.
Marina took great joy in cooking and caring for her orchids. She was especially known for her holiday au gratin potatoes, a dish so beloved that, no matter how hard anyone tried, it simply cannot be replicated, even with the recipe in hand. She kept an immaculate home, family would often say you could eat right off the floor, and it wouldn’t be an exaggeration.
She is survived by her daughters, Jean and Jennifer; her stepchildren, John, Judith, and Julie; and her grandchildren, Gillian, Lauren, Courtney, Michelle, James, and Shawn; and her great-grandchildren, Melanee, Coleman, Ayvah, Wyatt, Lana, and Kenzie. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her warmth, humor, and devotion to her family.
Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Marina’s life on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home with funeral services beginning at 12:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) in Marina’s honor.