In Memoriam
April 18, 1939 – September 4, 2024
Marlene Emma Howell was born in Cortez, Colorado, the youngest child of LaYvonne and Raymond Partridge. LaYvonne moved Marlene and her sister, Alice, to California in 1944. Marlene met Donald Howell in California and they married February 2, 1957. They shared an amazing love for 48 years before he left this world on June 4, 2005. Together they raised five children: three sons Marvin, Mark, and Donny; and two daughters, Darlene and Doreen.
In 1969 they moved their family to South Dakota. Marlene loved it there. She had not attended high school in California. In Wall, S.D. Marlene completed high school and graduated with her daughter, Darlene in 1976. Marlene was mom to all the students. She had a big heart and a sympathetic ear for anyone in need. Everyone knew Marlene and Don. They attended all the high school games, dances and even prom. They enjoyed being “kids” again. In 1978 they moved back to California, later living in Tennessee and Colorado. They both spent their final days with Doreen’s family in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Marlene worked as a waitress and cook in her younger days. Later she worked as a grocery clerk. Her favorite position was later in life caring for her grandchildren when they were little. Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma and GG were the names she loved. Shortly before she passed she was happy to learn she was going to be a great grandmother again next year. Marlene enjoyed time with her family.