February 21, 1936 – June 9, 2015
We sadly announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother after succumbing to cancer.
Marlene was predeceased by her father, John; mother, Ruth and a son, Douglas. Left to cherish the memory of this wonderful woman is her husband, Bob; her daughter, Sue (Paul); her son, Steven (Patricia) and grandchildren, Ashley, Brendan and Evan.
There is no doubt that Marlene was the rock and foundation of our whole family. Her love and attention to all of us knew no bounds. She made sure that every member knew that they were important and always had a loving friend. No husband has ever been luckier in his possession of a mate than Bob.
To Marlene, the world was a wonderful place to explore. She was an excellent athlete who excelled in badminton and tennis. In badminton, her achievements included: championships in Vancouver, the Island Open Championships and Victoria City Mixed Doubles with husband, Bob, remarkable wins in the North American Masters Ladies Doubles with Maureen Hibberson and in the North American Masters Mixed Doubles with Warren Kilpatrick. She loved playing tennis and there surely will be a big gap for her cherished friends.
To Marlene, travel to various faraway places was so exciting and important. Her trip to Italy with her thirteen year old granddaughter was most memorable as were visits to Portugal and Morocco with her son and daughter-in-law. No member of the family living in other places was ever ignored, so trips to Vancouver and Phoenix were common occurrences.
Marlene also loved gardening and at all of our homes she touched the soil with special skill and attention. She spent countless hours creating and maintaining works of art that were simply amazing.
And so, we said goodbye to a special person. Marlene, wherever you are, know you are so loved and our arms and hearts will always be around you to keep you safe.
Marlene has requested no formal service.
Our deepest thanks go out to the special people at Saanich Peninsula and Victoria General Hospitals for their care of Marlene. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
16 Responses
Look at her garden and remember the beautiful woman she was. She was so proud of you all.
Paula, Rebecca & Neil (McDonald)
Bob, I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Marlene. I will always remember her grace and warmth. Such a very special lady. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Denise
P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter AR would like to extend our condolences.
Marlene was a vital member of our chapter, and is fondly remembered with happy memories
We wish you, her family, Peace.
Treasure the wonderful memories she gave you.
What a wonderful tribute you gave to Marlene. We played tennis together and now and again I would meet her in Thriftys and have a chat. My thoughts are with you, I lost my dear Ted Dec.13th last year, we had just celebrated our 70th anniversary on Oct. 14th. Joan
Sympathy and condolences to beloved family of Marlene. Her warmth and hospitality was a gift to her friends. She shared her talents and knowlege generously, and often helped me choose plants for our garden. She was a keen bridge player, and always served the best treats! She had many interests, but we all knew her family came first & was the most important.
There will be an emptiness and sorrrow along with treasured memories for me.
In loving friendship,
Phyllis
Dear Sue:
We are so shocked and sorry to learn of your Mom’s passing. We had such a nice visit and chat with her at the Sports Hall of Fame dinner last Oct.
Know what a special lady she is to all of you. We are blessed that we were able to meet her in life also.
Our Sincere Sympathy to you and your Dad and all your Family.
John and Marilyn Bate
I am so sad to hear about Marlene. I was always amazed how she remembered me! Big hugs to all the family especially my favourite teacher, Bob.
Sue, I’m so sorry to hear about your Mum!! I don’t really even know what to say. She never mentioned that she was ill. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Bob,
Darryl and I were saddened to hear about Marlene’s death: I know how close you were and can imagine how much you will miss her. Our thoughts are with you.
Penny and Darryl
Bob, we are so sorry to hear about Marlene. What a shocker. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love Dennis and Wendy