DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Induction Year: 2005 | Graduation Year: 1953

Although born in Springfield, Ohio Marilyn spent nearly all of her life in Bethel Township, attending Medway Elementary and New Carlisle Junior High. She graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1953, where she participated in numerous activities including choir, glee club, class vice-president, the annual staff, y-teens, basketball, and was the most energetic cheerleaders of her time. Even though Marilyn graduated in 1953, she never really left Tecumseh High School.

She has been a fervent participant in Tecumseh athletic and educational programs her entire adult life. She became active in the Tecumseh Athletic Boosters Club participating in many fund-raising activities. She could be seen at most home football games and many, many basketball games. She was a founding member of the Tecumseh Athletic Hall of Fame Committee. And was most persistent in making sure elected members were in attendance at all functions. As owner of Graphic Printing she published the yearly athletic program booklets for Tecumseh at bargain prices.

Marilyn was also a member of the Tecumseh Education Foundation Committee which supports educational programs through grants to teachers and scholarships to students. She also participated in the Ohio Reads Program at Donnelsville Elementary helping yourn people improve their reading skills.

Marilyn’s community activities were numerous. She was a founding member of the Tecumseh YMCA Board, a Mercy Medical Hospital Volunteer, New Carlisle Community Chorus member, an active member of New Carlisle United Methodist Church and the Donnelsville Creek Church of the Brethern where she participated in Bell Choir, Church Choir, Sunday School, and numerous church committees, and was an active supporter of Clark County 4-H clubs.

Marilyn was married to Jim Schildknecht for 47 years and their union produced three daughters ---- Kim Janek, Kit McGinnis, and Kelly Gannon. Each of these girls also graduated from Tecumseh and have continued their mother’s efforts with strong support of their children’s school athletic programs.

Marilyn was recognized for her school and community commitments by being elected to The Tecumseh Hall of Honor in 1997. Marilyn Schildknecht epitomized the spirit of Tecumseh High School and is a worthy inductee into the Athletic Hall of Fame.