In every community, there are individuals who act as a “spark”—the ones who bring light, laughter, and a sense of wonder to the halls they walk. At Grand Living at Indian Creek, one of our special sparks is Marilyn Nebel. A creative and musical soul, Marilyn has spent her time here sharing all her talents and joy!
A Melody Rediscovered 
One of the very first blessings we received from Marilyn was a moment of brave vulnerability. After keeping her accordion tucked away in its case for nearly 20 years, she decided it was time to let the music out again. She approached us with a simple, selfless request: she wanted to play and practice for our LUMINATIONS® Memory Care residents.
We were all so honored to witness this return to music. As she pulled the bellows and the first notes filled the air, it wasn’t just a practice session—it was a revival. Her music brought a special kind of peace and joy to the whole community, reminding us all that it is never too late to rediscover a passion.
The Gift of Laughter
Marilyn’s talents aren’t limited to music; she has a sharp wit and a gift for performance. Over the years, she has written and produced several hilarious skits that have become legendary at Grand Living. By recruiting staff members to join her on the Forum Theatre stage, she creates a bridge between the residents and the team, turning daily life into a comedy show. Her skits are so popular that we are already preparing for another one! Watching her perform is a reminder that the best way to entertain a community is to involve everyone in the fun.
A Card for Every Occasion
When Marilyn isn’t out leading a skit or playing a tune, there is usually a very good reason. If you pass by her door and hear the quiet snip of scissors or the rustle of paper, you know she is at work on her next masterpiece.
Marilyn creates beautiful, handcrafted greeting cards. What started as a hobby has turned into a community staple. She has created hundreds of these cards, eventually opening a “little shop” right here at Grand Living. Her work is so exquisite that residents, staff, and even families from outside our walls have been coming to Marilyn ever since. Every card is a tiny piece of her heart shared with the world.
Our Resident Diamond
Marilyn Nebel is more than just a resident; she is a true gem. Her journey from the accordion to the stage and the card shop shows a woman who is constantly looking for ways to give back. We often say our community is built on the lives of those who live here; if that’s the case, we are incredibly lucky to be built on a foundation as strong and beautiful as Marilyn. She truly is one of Grand Living’s diamonds.
Voices of Grand Living: In Marilyn’s Own Words
Hi, my name is Marilyn Nebel. I am 81 years old. My husband, Bob, and I live at Grand Living at Indian Creek and love being here. There is so much we love about the community, but I was asked to write about myself, so I will focus on that!
I had the best parents ever and was the youngest of six children. When I was 12, my parents adopted a girl just five days younger than me, and a year later, they adopted two boys from Germany. We were a loving family with four boys and five girls. There is so much about my childhood that I loved—music being at the top of the list! Over the years, I have played five instruments: piano, church organ, accordion, saxophone, and the large keyboard.
A Life of Performance
When I was 10, my three older sisters and I would play our accordions and sing on stage. We entertained a lot until my two oldest sisters got married. We also belonged to the large Washington accordion band. In high school, I picked up the saxophone. I loved it; I played first chair and was involved in six different bands: concert, marching, jazz, pep, honor, and dance band.
Before graduation, I was offered a $2,000 scholarship to art school in Chicago, but I was also offered a job at the McCleery Cumming Calendar office. I chose the office job and started in June 1962. While I loved the work, my music was put on hold for a while. That same year, I bought my first car: a 1962 Chevy Bel Air for $2,549.85. That was a lot of money back then!
In 1964, I was selected as a queen candidate for the town’s 125th-anniversary celebration. Out of 65 women, I won the title of “Anniversary Queen.” During the “Washington Way” pageant, I introduced my court and gave a speech every night. I participated in parades and style shows and even had lunch with area mayors.
Family and Career
On June 4, 1966, I married my wonderful husband, and by 1967, we started our family. We are blessed with two sons and two daughters. While I was home with the children, I stayed creative—I built a life-size wooden kitchen set (stove, sink, and cabinet) and a dollhouse for our daughter. I also designed sweatshirts, made pillows, and created “quiet books.”
When my youngest started school, I returned to work. In 1988, while working at Seifert’s, I was awarded the “Toast of the Office” award. I even played my accordion at the company Christmas party! Later, I worked at Halcyon House in the kitchen. I wasn’t sure I’d like it at first since I wanted an office job, but I grew to love it. On my days off, I would come in to entertain the residents. I stayed there for over ten years until my health forced an early retirement.
Finding a New Home
More recently, I’ve stayed busy with my crafts. I hand-sewed a quilt for my granddaughter with 183 squares and have completed 76 scrapbooks. I love making greeting cards for the staff and residents; this year alone, I made 118 Christmas cards!
Moving to Grand Living happened fast. We hadn’t planned on leaving our condo, but after our daughter told us about this place, we moved in within eight days. We love it here! The staff is remarkable, the food is good, and the activities keep us busy. I left my piano behind, but my son insisted I bring my accordion.
Somehow, Larinda, the Director of FACETS® found out I played. I hadn’t touched it in 20 years, but when I finally started again, it was wonderful to see the residents enjoying it. Whether I’m doing a skit or playing a tune, each performance is a blessing for me, too. To hear a resident say, “You made my day,” makes my day.
I have been blessed all my life, and I am still blessed here. My family taught me to cherish who I am, and at Grand Living, I get to do exactly that.
Stay tuned for more of our Resident Spotlights to meet the incredible people who put the “Grand” in Grand Living.
If you’re ready to experience this vibrant culture for yourself, we invite you to click here to schedule a tour and see what makes our community truly shine!
