Marianne Oates August 12, 1933 - May 28, 2026

Marianne Oates

August 12, 1933 – May 28, 2026

Marianne Oates went home to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 92 on Thursday, May 28, 2026, with her family by her side. Marianne was born in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on August 12, 1933. In 1945, Marianne and her parents, C.J. and Florence Ellis, moved to California and settled in the Bay Area. A few years later, Marianne met the love of her life, Herb Oates, and they were married in 1950. Together they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage until Herb’s passing in 1993.

Marianne’s parents found their way to Hilmar in 1961, and Marianne and Herb followed shortly afterward in 1962. There they built a life centered on faith, family and hard work. They began raising dairy cows and later operated a steer ranch on their family farm. Marianne spent 37 cherished years on the farm she loved so dearly, creating a home filled with warmth and love.

In 1999, Marianne moved to Turlock, where she spent the next 27 years continuing to bless those around her with kindness, generosity, and a servant’s heart. She found great joy gardening, canning, sewing, cross stitching, quilting, crocheting, and being a homemaker. Marianne was dedicated to serving others. She spent 32 years volunteering and being of service with the Salvation Army, and she was recognized when she was named the Salvation Army Volunteer of the Year in 2002. In 2019, she was honored as Turlock’s Diva on Broadway, a reflection of the countless lives she touched through her compassion, grace, and community involvement.

More than anything, Marianne loved her Lord and Savior and treasured her family. Her unwavering faith guided every aspect of her life and served as an example to all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, generosity, and devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends for many generations to come.

Marianne is survived by her daughters Linda Falke (Dave) and Judi Baballe (Jim). She is also survived by her four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Burial is at Hilmar, North Cemetery at 9:30am. Memorial service to follow at 11:00am at the Salvation Army Chapel in Turlock, CA. There will be a luncheon immediately following the service held at the Salvation Army.

Donations in Marianne’s name can be made to:

Turlock Gospel Mission

P.O. Box 432 S. Broadway

Turlock, CA 95380

Or

The Salvation Army Turlock Corp.

P.O. Box 3576

Turlock. CA 95380