Elizabeth Ann Steinke-Marnix's Obituary
Elizabeth Ann Steinke-Marnix, 59, of North Olmsted, Ohio, passed away on May 13, 2026, after many years of serious health challenges.
She was born Elizabeth Ann Randall on August 9, 1966, the daughter of Jean Randall, later Jean Gardner.
Ann graduated from Sandusky High School in 1984, where she played clarinet in the band, and went on to attend Ohio University. She later lived for a time in West Carrollton, Ohio, and built a successful career with US Bank, starting as a teller before moving into training, human resources, and employee relations. Through hard work and determination, she rose to an executive-level role and became known for her intelligence, directness, and strong command of complex employee-relations and legal matters.
Ann married Joe Marnix on October 1, 2014. Together they made their home in Cleveland before moving to North Olmsted in 2017, where they bought a home that meant a great deal to Ann. Joe has been a devoted and loving husband, and his care, patience, and commitment helped carry Ann through many difficult years.
Ann was strong, opinionated, and never afraid to share what she thought. She loved Cleveland sports and animals, especially dogs. Over the years, her beloved dogs, including Elmo and Bella, brought her great joy, and in recent years Charli and Sam were constant companions to her and Joe.
She shared a special lifelong bond with her maternal grandparents, Robert “Papa” Wassner and Mary Wassner, who were a central part of her life from the time she was born. She was also especially close to her Aunt Beth and loved her family deeply, including her nephew Grant, who held a very special place in her heart.
Ann is survived by her husband, Joe Marnix; her stepdaughter, Beth Wilcox (Grant); her brother, Christopher “Topher” Gardner (Christina); her nieces, Ashley Lawrence (Jared Clark) and Grace Gardner; her uncle, Robert “Dave” Wassner; and other family members and friends who loved her.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Gardner; James Gardner, whom she knew lovingly as Uncle Jim; her maternal grandparents, Robert “Papa” and Mary Wassner; her aunt, Elizabeth “Beth” Wassner Gast; and her nephew, Grant Gardner.
Ann’s family will remember her strength, her love for those closest to her, her devotion to her animals, and the lasting mark she left on the people who knew her best.
What’s your fondest memory of Elizabeth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elizabeth?
Share a story where Elizabeth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elizabeth you’ll never forget.
How did Elizabeth make you smile?