Sharing in your sadness as you remember your mum, grandmother and a friend to so many. Wanting to follow in my sister Deborah’s footsteps, Marion encouraged me to talk - count to 16 and I’ll teach you too, she said. Our mum Dorothy says I was back the following week and I didn’t stop talking thereafter. Deb remembers Bill’s swords on blocks; I remember the crossed sticks she put up my back to keep me bending too far over the swords. But Marion was much more than a dancing teacher. She was a mother figure and then also a great friend. I cherish the many years she encouraged me, gave me confidence in helping to teach her pupils when I was at Massey, and guided me at the start of judging. Encouraging, patient, kind and giving, she also had a great sense of humour. Dancing days were special with Marion, Aunty Ina and Mavis. Always remember the laughter, camaraderie, and joy we had. Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam. Linley MacKenzie

We were saddened to hear of Marion’s passing but pleased that she is no longer in pain. Ferg and I enjoyed our afternoon with Marion catching up and reminiscing when we were last up in Auckland. She was busy with her knitting and keen to fill us in on her lovely family and hear about ours. Marion was so much more than a dancing teacher! Those big group dancing lessons at Newcastle Street over Bill’s wooden swords (on blocks!) So many wonderful dancing memories - thank you😊 Love to Karilyn, Vinessa, Brett and families. Deb McNaught and family.

Very sad to hear the news. Such a well loved and very special person. My thoughts are with you all

To the family Sending lots of love and healing at this sad time. Time will heal your hearts. Hold onto the memories. Marion was so proud of you all. Love Anne Payne

My darling friend Marion, You were one of a kind. A genuine loving friend. Thank you for all the great memories and always being there for me and my family. Fly high, you beautiful lady. May you rest easy. Lots of love Anne Payne

A long time friend over decades firstly in Palmerston North. Firstly as a highland dancing student that continued through the years with friendships with Aunty Ina and close families. Bruce as a highland dancing piper became known to the girls as they danced. Fond memories through these years are special to us both, Our last visit in January we will remember especially as she insisted making us a cuppa - with laughs. May the sadness lift in time and memories be comfort to you all. Sadly we cannot be there today but will enjoy the live streaming of the service. We will catch up with you when we go north in the New year. With love to all the families from Bruce and Cleone Cawood

So sorry to hear of Marion's passing So many happy memories of time spent with her traveling to dancing competitions, etc. Such a wonderful lady. Love and condolences to all the family Morag and Dougie xxxx

We are so sorry to hear of Marion’s passing she has been so brave over the last 12 months, it was time for her to now rest in peace .we have been friends for over 50 year, have always kept in touch, I will certainly miss our phone calls and hearing the news of the family It has been 30yrs since Bill passing, it is a long time to be on your own, she has done so well with the help from the family, who have been just wonderful Please accept our condolences, sorry can’t be with you for the funeral ,but will watch it all on live stream and feel part of it Love from Joan Lissington, Peter and Jenayre, Robert and Alison, Mark and Tracey and families Palmerston North

Miss you already long time dear friend. Lovely memories of early morning work starts. Sharing recipes. Talking dancing and exchanging hugs. Lots of laughter and happy memories. My very sincere condolences to the family. Always remembered, never forgotten.