Marlene passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, in Victoria, BC. She was born on June 12, 1943, in Calgary, Alberta, and grew up in Cranbrook, BC, before moving to the Fraser Valley in 1976 and then to Vancouver Island in 1980.
Predeceased by her son, Jason, Marlene is survived by her husband, Peter; sister, Joan (Mike); son, Trevor (Katerina); grandchildren, Justin (Cynthia), Sienna (Nicholas), Ria (Michael), and Yianni; and great-grandchildren, Kalel, River, Brendan, and Kaitlyn. She will also be deeply missed by her brother-in-law, Kevin (Sue); nieces, Michelle, Robin, and Carolee; and many cousins and dear friends.
Marlene was known for her kindness, infectious laugh, and outgoing personality. She loved meeting new people and had many interests and hobbies, including gardening, reading, Gyro Club activities, and volunteering with Heritage Productions.
Although Marlene loved to travel and enjoy adventures around the world, her favourite place to spend time was at Cowichan Lake, where she cherished entertaining family and friends for many years.
Marlene had a very fulfilling professional life, working with the Provincial Court of British Columbia. The majority of her career was spent as Trial Coordinator and later as a Justice of the Peace, where she built lasting friendships and earned deep respect among colleagues. She retired in 2003.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A light reception will follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society of BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Whelan” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
25 Responses
So many great laughs..Marlene was a true mentor and I enjoyed working with her.
My heart goes out to family, friends and past colleagues.
Pete: Your Marlene, wherever her soul rests today was touched, tickled and brimming with pride listening to your heartfelt stories of your lives together, delivered with so much love and laughs at the memorial today. Well done mate. The two of you are a formidable team and a stellar example of partnership and love.
I know you will be sustained by the great memories.
I shall hoist a rum and Pepsi to the two of you.
Go well Pete.
Dennis
Don’t tell my other aunts but Auntie Marlene was always my favourite.
She lived a life rooted in love, kindness, and family, and she leaves behind so many beautiful memories that will stay with us always.
I hope she’s somewhere with her loved ones that went before her, dancing and singing Me & Bobby McGee to her hearts content.
I’m holding close so many wonderful memories and sending all my love to my Uncle Peter, my cousin Trevor, my Mom, the rest of our family and Mar’s friends during this time.
I am sad that I can’t be there to lay her to rest; but I am sending love and strength from afar.
I love you Auntie Marlene and will never forget you. xoxo
I had the pleasure and honour of working with Marlene. Like others said her laughter was infectious and unforgettable. I adored her no nonsense approach to work and what seemed like life as well. Her standing hair appointment every 6 weeks is one of those memories I will always remember because she was always impeccably poised.
Marlene was a colleague and good friend and confidante for many years. Always professional, but with a huge heart, and endless good humour. We always knew things would run smoothly when Marlene was in charge, and we always knew she was nearby when we heard that lovely infectious laugh. She was truly loved and admired by all the Courthouse staff members and judiciary.
My sincere condolences to you Peter. Rest in peace Marlene.