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Marlene Fondren Obituary
Marlene is lovingly remembered by her children, all of Wichita: Tamara (Steven) Barnes, Gary Marsh, and Michelle (Mike) Turner. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Johonna (Amar), Dalton (Angela), Devehn (Caila), Brianna (Buny), and Addison; great-grandchildren Genevieve, Dublin, Hattie, and Tennley; and great-great-grandson Theo. She is also survived by her sister Wanda Van Zandt of Ft. Worth, Texas and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bob" E. Fondren; her son Jeffery A. Fondren; her parents Theo and Hattie Callison; and siblings Bill, Elaine, and Tim.
Born in Wichita, Marlene graduated from West High School. She was kind, had a zest for life, a wonderful sense of humor, a vibrant spirit, and loved by many and all. Her irresistible laugh was contagious and brought joy to all who knew her. She had a deep love for nature and was passionate about gardening, creating some of the most beautiful flower beds in the Midwest.
An animal lover at heart, Marlene welcomed many furry companions into her life, even a skunk. She held a special fondness for wildlife including birds, ducks, butterflies, elephants, and giraffes.
Marlene was a talented pianist with a beautiful singing voice; she was often found tapping her feet and singing along to her favorite songs, especially Christmas music.
A private celebration will be held to honor Marlene's life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Marlene's memory to a charity of their choice.
A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam, and for a brief moment, it's glory and beauty belong to our world. But, then it flies on again. And though we wish it could have stayed, we feel so lucky to have seen it. - author unknown.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Marlene Fondren
Sponsored by Wichita Eagle.
6 Entries
diego dussan
August 11, 2025
Johonna, I cannot imagine the pain and heartache you´re feeling. I am praying for your peace and comfort.
LINDSEY D COTTINGHAM
August 8, 2025
My condolences to the family of Marlene Fondren. May you find peace and comfort during this time, and may the memory of your loved one live on in your hearts.
Tammy
August 1, 2025
Dear Mom, you meant the world to me and I'm beyond grateful. I'm thankful that God chose you to be my mother. Thank you for teaching me how to do so many things. You taught me right from wrong and how to be strong, to be kind and to show compassion and empathy. You taught me what it means to be a mother and how to love. I have comfort and peace thinking of all of our special memories. They will be forever close to my heart. I love you Mom. Tammy
Steve Barnes
August 1, 2025
I met Marlene after she became non-verbal, but her smile was beautiful and her eyes had a sparkle to brighten the day!
JoJo
July 31, 2025
My Dearest Grandma - I love you so much. I miss you so much. Words are never enough. I am so very sad and my heart feels broken like it will never go back together again. I am thankful for all the time we have been able to spend together, all the laughs we shared, all the hugs, the winks, the special moments. And even when you didn't have the words, I learned to understand the expressions on your sweet, sweet, face, the winks and the way you raised your eyebrows at me. But with all my grief, I am happy for you. God willing, you are welcomed by Jeff, Bob, your mama and papa, and all of those who love you that passed before. Until we meet again, you are my sunshine, and always will be. Until we meet again.....Love, your first grandbaby, JoJo.
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Memorial Events
for Marlene Fondren
Funeral services provided by:
Old Mission Mortuary & Old Mission Wichita Park Cemetery3424 E. 21st Street N., Wichita, KS 67208
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