On the first anniversary of Marin’s passing, we asked everyone who ever had any opportunity to meet Marin to share their stories with us. Thank you, Brooke, for allowing us to share it with others.

How did you know Marin: I am really close friends with Kate Stuhlreyer (Marin’s cousin)

Marin was one of those people you feel lucky to have met. She was cousins with one of my best friends, Kate Stuhlreyer, and I first got to know her on their family vacation to Hilton Head. Right away, I could tell how intelligent and kind she was. We spent the whole trip hanging out, and it felt like I had known her my whole life.

One specific memory that stands out is the day it rained on vacation. We played Clue for hours, completely caught up in the game and enjoying each other’s company. When the weather was nice, we spent time on the beach, and at night, we stayed up late talking and just being together.

After that trip, I saw Marin at other family parties the Stuhlreyers hosted. Every time I crossed paths with her, she had that same bubbly, welcoming energy. It’s hard to explain, but her energy just rubbed off on everyone around her. She made people feel good, and she still has that effect even now.

I feel so lucky to have known Marin and to have spent the time with her that I did.