Marjorie Ann Sullivan Memorial Music Scholarship Fund

About Marjorie Ann Sullivan

As 2nd youngest sibling growing up in Rochester MN,  Marjorie enjoyed the love of parents and close relatives in Rochester as well as the plains of North Dakota.  Music was not a primary focus, it was hard work by 2 parents with minimal education and skills other than those relating to a farming ancestry.  

Marjorie’s Mother was a self taught organist and a small organ was prominently displayed in their small 3-level home. Marjorie’s bedroom was in the barely heated basement and winters were always a force of nature. She longed to have at least piano lessons but lessons cost money and there was no extra to be had for that aspect of her desires. Reconfigured clothing and hand-me-downs were the rule of the day, a necessity for the family survival.

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As she moved from her home 2 years after high school and ready to spread her wings, she left to help care for nieces and nephews of her eldest sister in Florida. She studied hard and earned an RN degree from a community college.

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In Gainesville Florida she met the medical student Ray. It was really a soap opera connection as many friends and family opined.  After our engagement and marriage it was off to several years of his additional training, the US Navy and by then 2 sons were part of the small family. There was no time or funds for piano or other instruments for her, but she still longed for the opportunity. Our sons each took piano briefly but it was more of duty than desire. Still, no time for her own lessons.

Time flies and soon there was but a spark as she aged and became infirmed. For her 50th wedding anniversary she delighted in hearing the string quartet hired to play for that auspicious event. A big, pleasant surprise for her as it helped to keep that spark of the love of music alive.  Hubby Ray was also inspired and took up his own journey as a violinist and provided enjoyment for them both as time passed. Even to the end of life she delighted in hearing others play their violins, violas and pianos. This Music Scholarship honors Marjorie for all that she meant to her family and to encourage others for the opportunity to add a musical talent to their own life’s journey. 

By her husband, Raymond Sullivan, MD