Marlene Gertrude Messer

Waynesville-Marlene Gertrude Messer died in her home on December 19, 2009 surrounded by her family after an extended illness. Preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Rosa Mikula, Marlene was raised in Traverse City, Michigan. On March 12, 1953 she married Ralph F. Messer. Marlene moved often with Ralph and their family while he served in the U.S. Air Force. In 1974 when Ralph retired, Marlene and Ralph settled in Waynesville, North Carolina. Marlene was a member of Maple Grove United Methodist Church and was active with the United Methodist Women's Group and prayer circle. She was also an active member of the Eastern Star for over forty years and served as Treasurer for the past 20 years. Marlene volunteered for many years at the Veterans Hospital in Asheville and was well known in the community to be one of the first to help when someone was in need. Marlene will also be remembered for her love of quilting and her helping hand at her Thursday morning quilting group. An avid traveler and camper, Marlene and Ralph traveled extensively, witnessing the natural beauty of the United States. Marlene's greatest joy was her family. Marlene is survived by her husband of almost 57 years Ralph F. Messer; her son Andy Messer of Spotsylvania, Virginia and his wife Carolyn and grandson Nicholas Paul Messer of Clemson, South Carolina; her daughter Cindy Messer-Carey of Virginia Beach, Virginia and her husband Paul Carey and grandson Paul Eugene Carey. Also surviving are sisters Donna Strait (Leo), and Barbie Powell (the late Neil); her brother Ray Mikula (Phil) all living in Michigan. Marlene is also survived by a very special sister-in-law Gertrude M. Fulbright of Clyde as well as several nieces and nephews. The family would like to express a special note of gratitude to all her nieces especially Phoebe and Diane who selflessly helped Ralph care for Marlene in her final weeks as well as Haywood County Hospice and other special family members and friends. The family will receive friends at Garrett Funeral Home from 6-8 PM on Monday, December 21, 2009, and services will be at Garrett Funeral Home Chapel on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at 2:00 PM with the Dr. James Mackey officiating. Burial will follow in the Panther Creek Cemetery in Fines Creek. Pallbearers will be Bruce Burleson, David Baker, Ralph W. Messer, Terry Messer, Nicholas Messer and Lewis Inman. Honorary pallbearers will be all the nephews. Memorials may be made in Marlene's name to the Panther Creek Cemetery in care of Pearlene Brown 5140 Panther Creek Road, Clyde, NC 28721 or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences maybe made at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com