HAVERHILL — Mrs. Marilyn (Connor) (Gustafson) Descheneau, 85, of Bradford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 23, 2021.

The daughter of the late Elise and James Connor, Marilyn was born in Millbury, MA on August 26, 1935. She graduated from Millbury High School in 1953 and then worked as a housekeeper for 40-plus years.

Marilyn married the love of her life, Robert Descheneau, in 1976 and lovingly combined their families to embrace seven children. They shared more than three decades of honest, respectful, and devoted marriage in their beautiful Bradford home, which they built with their own hands. We will forever remember "The Farm" and our 34 years of holidays, memories, and traditions.

Marilyn was undoubtedly frugal, always counting every penny. She was also thoughtful, creative, and generous. She loved her family passionately and was a selfless caretaker, proudly volunteering at Ruth's House, helping those in need throughout the Merrimack Valley.

Marilyn was an exceptional cook, had an innate talent for crafts, and loved spending time in her garden. She and Bob spent many winters traveling to Florida for a two-month break, as well as countless summers at their cottage in Harwich on Cape Cod. Most importantly, she embraced her faith and never deviated from her beliefs. She was salt of the earth, a sensitive soul, and beautiful inside and out. She touched many lives in discrete-yet-special ways. While she will be sorely missed, her family finds peace knowing that she is again with Bob.

Marilyn is survived by seven children, Mark Gustafson and partner Christina; Daryl Gustafson and wife Elizabeth; David Gustafson and wife Katherine; Robert Gustafson and partner Mary; Judy Giannone and husband Christopher; Robert Henry Descheneau Jr.; Scott Descheneau and wife Arline; and daughter-in-law, Barbara (Gustafson) Daggett. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and her sister-in-law, Beatrice LeBlanc, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The family will announce a Celebration of Life later this summer. Arrangements are under the direction of Berube-Comeau Funeral Home, 47 Broadway, Haverhill. To send a message of condolence to the family or to share a precious memory, please visit www.berubecomeau.com .