She was a great mentor to me in the education field.  I was trained under her.    I just found out about her passing.  I want to still pay my respect to the family and say She was the sweetest woman ever.  I thank God for her and I honor her life.

I first met Marion Alan in 1989. I couldn’t give an exact date, but I believe it was in the spring. It started with a conversation I had with her young daughter Diana. I mentioned that I was a singer in need of a voice coach, and she informed me that her mother gave voice lessons. I took Diana’s advice and called Marion. Marion had a very special skill. It took me a number of years to understand this, but she knew how to give students as much as they could handle without being overwhelmed and thus becoming discouraged. I think that’s the reason why I ended up auditioning for the Michigan Opera Theatre. I had just enough skill and I managed to pass the audition because Suzanne Acton needed to replace a few chorus members. 
None of it would have happened if I hadn’t called Marion in the first place. Marion would schedule student recitals and Give singers a chance to express themselves regardless of age or their level of experience. I recall that the recitals were a positive experience for everyone. I ended up singing for the MOT chorus for 25 years. I also sang with the Detroit Concert Choir and the Rackham Symphony Coir. I sang for churches and became a ringer for Temple Kol Ami in West Bloomfield. 
Another of Marion’s students, Terese Rose Harville, had a similar experience. She sang with the Rackham Symphony Choir and sang in a production of Aida. T. Rose sings with the St. Claire Shores community choir where her skills are greatly appreciated. 
I didn’t intend to focus on my experiences, but I think they reflect the sorts of things other singers experienced as well. Marion Alan was a giver. She gave her best without expecting very much in return. Her reward was in seeing others succeed. Watching her students shine brightly gave her the greatest joy.  Patrick Jay Clampitt


I am so sorry for your loss. Marion was such a wonderful kind generous person with love for all. I miss her.  With love. Nancy 

I vividly remember Marion, my neighbor across the street on St. Joan.  She always had a pleasant smile and warm greeting whenever we spoke.  So sorry for Hannah’s loss; whom I also remember very fondly.
  Joe Wilk

My sincere condolences to the family and everyone who knew and loved Marion E. Alan. She was more than just my friends grandma. She was a grandma to me in my mind and heart. I loved surprising her with a visit and us both light up at the sight of each other, she taught me to be kind and patient. I will never forget the lessons given and will always carry on her memory.

Marion was my very first voice teacher who got me started on my singing journey. She was quite the character with a great sense of humor. There sure were a lot of laughs in my lessons. I pass on what Marion taught me to my voice students.  May she rest in peace.

Marion was a member of the Detroit Alumni Chapter of Mu Phi Epsilon and a dear friend to us all.  She was the Chapter President from 1993 - 1996 and again from 1999-01.  She also served as our Ways and Means Chair for many years as well as the Chaplain of the Chapter.  She worked tirelessly to bring others into the Fraternity and to sell Terri Lynn nuts to raise money for our Scholarships. She led sing a longs in area nursing homes and inspired us to get a grant and create song books for Senior Centers. She was trained for singing in operas and after marriage and children took her away from the stage, she continued to teach her musical skills to many others.  She taught vocal music privately and also in her classrooms in the Detroit Public Schools.  Marion will best be remembered for being a kind, helpful member of our Chapter.

RIP dear grand lady ! So many positive memories of her and her family! Will
Make May 6 2023 memorial RANDA Bill Nick Ball Kathy Meagher and Dr Andrew Meagher❤️

I have so many happy memories of Marion.    I was her accompanist for some of her private voice students, many years ago, when I lived in Harper Woods.   She was such a sweet and caring friend, and I enjoyed the music she picked out for her students.   Playing at her voice recitals was also such a joy for me, as well.   She always appreciated everything that anyone did for her, and I always felt so welcome and cared for, at her home.    I pray God will grant her a great reward in heaven, for all the happiness and love she gave to others.   My prayers are for Diana, the grandchildren,   and for  all the family and friends that were touched by this dear lady.   🙏🕊️❤️‍🩹

God bless you Mrs Alan! You were a wonderful neighbor and friend. May the Lord Jesus welcome her into his kingdom Amen 

OBITUARY

Marion Estella Alan

December 17, 1935 – April 11, 2023

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