was born October 10, 1935 and passed peacefully on June 27, 2017 with her loving family around her. Marlene was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Lena Macholtz. She is survived by her husband David Whitson (St. Louis), brother Walter (Donna) of Flagstaff, AZ, children Kathy (Stan) of St. Louis, Pat (Jim) of Dyersville, IA and Mike (Susan) of Cedar Falls, IA, 8 beloved grandchildren; Matt (Amanda), Ryan, Lena, Nick, Joe, Katie, Jessica (Brian), Tom, and 3 precious great-grandchildren; Brenden, Madelyn and Seamus.

Marlene worked for years as an elementary school secretary and graphic design coordinator. She was a gifted and creative seamstress and quilter. She won national awards and one of her greatest loves was to create outfits especially for her granddaughters. Her work was sought after by many, but she focused her skills on her family who were her true love. She loved and adored all especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We are so thankful and blessed to have had her for so many years and we know she had a huge smile on her face, laughed her wonderful laugh and is dancing with the angels.

Per her wishes, Marlene was cremated and family will celebrate her life on July 16th at 11am at the Lutheran Senior Service Breeze Park Chapel, 600 Breeze Park Drive, Weldon Springs, MO 63304. Memorial contributions can be made in Marlene’s honor to the National Parkinson’s Foundation.