On Monday October 3, Marlene lost her 4-year battle with peritoneal cancer. Both her husband Doug and daughter Chloe were with her in her final moments when she finally found peace.
Marlene was born in Moncton New Brunswick in 1955, splitting her childhood between Moncton and Brighton Ontario. After attending Acadia University in Wolfville Nova Scotia, she travelled and worked across Canada eventually ending up in the Vancouver area that she has called home for over 30 years.
Marlene was an incredibly strong and determined woman, and all those who knew her well witnessed this first-hand in her last four years. Her strength is just one of the many amazing attributes she leaves as an impact on her family and friends. She was also a kind, generous and loving woman.
Her passion for life and new adventures made her a joy to be around. Her feisty nature helped spark many of her passions, including a love of wine and baseball (particularly the Blue Jays, which she always seemed to find absolute joy in watching).
Marlene’s love for travel was contagious and a passion she passed on and shared with Doug and Chloe. Her many explorations included a pre-Chloe trip to Australia, Fiji and New Zealand where she and Doug learned how to drive a camper van on the opposite side of the road. When the joy of her life was born (so perfect, they only had one), many more trips ensued, exploring many areas of Canada and the USA. When Chloe was older, Egypt, England, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Cuba and Mexico were all memorable trips that the family took together, with too many special moments to share in a few paragraphs.
In her adult life, 3 beautiful dogs brought joy, entertainment and love into her life. One of her favourite things to do was walk and spend time with the mischievous golden Bailey, the gentle soul Abbi and the too sweet for this world Kaya.
The family wishes to thank the amazing staff of the Irene Thomas Hospice that provided exceptional care and comfort in Marlene’s final days. In lieu of flowers, donations to OVCARE are encouraged.
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Greg Hubbert
Doug and Chloe,
I have only the best memories of Marlene. Her beautiful smile, infectious laugh and her love of life and adventure truly set her apart.
I’m reminded of our many trips in Laverne… the 1967 Ford Econoline van and all of the laughs we shared.
Hold all of your memories close.
Greg and Deb Hubbert
Berwick, Nova Scotia
Stan Engstrom
Chloe and Doug,
I was shocked to read the obituary today. The Marlene I remember was a force of nature and could never leave us. My memories of Marlene are of a dedicated and loving mother of Chloe, a pair of ladies that will live in my heart forever. Marlene was always there for me and the Elgin theatre program. Her presence back stage and in the costume area was a sight I got used to for years of shows. Chloe, you were one of my best students. Your mom made so much happen, so that you and all the cast could look your best on stage. She loved you so much. I am so sorry to hear of Marlene’s passing. I know the sadness you are feeling, as I have lost my dad and sister in the last couple of years. Your sadness will pass, but your memories of Marlene will never leave you.
Sending all my love to you both,
Stan Engstrom
Robin Deering
Chloe & Doug
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Marlene. Our thought and prayers are with you during this very difficult time
Our regards to you all:
The Deering Family
Carolynn Ryan
So sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with Marlene at WorkSafeBC and always enjoyed working with her and the passion she showed in her work.
Peter Regier
Chloe and Doug,
I’m very sorry for your loss. I worked with Marlene some years back and I remember her as cheerful, determined, and very capable. She had a bright and happy spirit. And she always spoke of you with great pride and affection.
I wish you comfort from your happy memories of Marlene, and peace in time as you come to terms with her passing.
Peter Regier
Jeannie Littledale
I so enjoyed working with Marlene at WorkSafeBC. Her cheerful, positive, and upbeat personality and willingness to help and support her teammates made working with her a joy. I know how much she loved her family and my heart goes out to them. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of her family and close friends.
Kari McLennan(Schmitz)
Doug and Chloe
I used to clean house for you but it was Marlene that made it a home. A place of refuge and love for you all including Bailey. I moved away for 6 years so lost touch with Marlene but it was still a shock to see her vibrant face looking back at me in her obituary photo. Many fond memories of your family. The first people I knew that had a Mac computer. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Lynette Manton
Doug and Chloe,
I remember fondly the many hours I spent with Marlene watching softball games over the years. I will miss our semi-annual “meetings” at our favourite shoe store which gave us a chance to share family updates. I’m so sorry to hear this sad news and I offer condolences on behalf of my family.
Lyn Manton (with Shelby, Geoff and Doug)
Sherrill Clarke
Doug and Chloe,
I had the opportunity to volunteer with Marlene at Elgin Secondary and have wonderful memories of her. She was so much fun to be around and very supportive. She had great ideas and knew the best places to shop for props. She talked about both of all the time and was very proud of her family.
I am happy I got to know her. I am very sorry for your loss.