Marlin Ball Robinson
Former editor of the Wilson World, Marlin Ball Robinson, 90, quietly passed away Oct. 14, 2015 at his home in Wilson, where he printed the weekly paper from 1954 until 1974.
He was born the third child to Robert E. and Elsie Robinson in Tonganoxie, Kan. on Sept. 12, 1925. Marlin attended Tonganoxie schools First through 12th grades. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps serving in World War II in the European Theatre. When he returned home he took up residence in Appleton City, Mo., helping his brother run a weekly newspaper. He continued to work in the printing business in Sedalia, Missouri and Topeka, Kan. before moving to Wilson.
While in Appleton City he met and married Louanna Ellis on May 15, 1948. Together they purchased the Wilson World and brought their three children to Wilson, Kan.
Marlin was an entrepreneur who created several new business adventures. After selling the paper, they started the Wilson Ribbon Company in 1974, owning and operating it until 1990. In the mid 1980s, they purchased their first oil well, establishing Mar Lou Oil Company, where Marlin continued to work daily until weeks before his death.
Marlin is survived by his wife of 67 years, Louanna, of the home; sons Roger (Sandy) of Wilson, Creighton (Sharolyn) of Evanston, Wyo.; a daughter, Marlena (Ken) Kjelland of Temple, Texas; eight grandchildren, Casey Robinson, Bret Nichols, Kaci Nichols, Shawn Naegele, Justin Robinson, Heather Robinson, Matt Kjelland, Christopher Kjelland and seven great- grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Bob; a siste, Millicent Wingrove; and an infant brother John.
Marlin greatly enjoyed his family and all sports, especially University of Kansas basketball. He spent countless hours watching his children and grandchildren play and coach all sports. He was a longtime member of the Wilson Lions Club, Wilson Volunteer Fire Department, Msgr. John F. McManus American Legion Post 262, Russell V.F.W. Post 6240, and Russell Elks Lodge.
A Celebration of Marlin’s Life will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at the First Presbyterian Church in Wilson with Pastors Becki Stredney and Ron Lowry officiating. Interment will follow at the Wilson City Cemetery with Military Honors performed by Ft. Riley Honor Guard, American Legion Post 262, and Russell V.F.W 6240.
Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday with family present to receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Foster Mortuary in Wilson.
Memorials have been established with the First Presbyterian Church or Msgr. John F. McManus American Legion Post 262 and may be sent in care of the funeral home P.O. Box 533 Wilson, Kan. 67490.
