Marlane Evonne Stiles

Marlane Evonne Stiles, 75, of El Dorado, Kansas, passed away peacefully at her home on November 4, 2025, with her loving husband, Jack, by her side.

Marlane was born on September 27, 1950, in Albany, Oregon, to Roy Ralph and Doris Belle (Beckner) Erner. She grew up in Albany and graduated from high school there in 1968. After graduation, Marlane worked seasonally at a cannery in Albany and also did janitorial work-always known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and the quiet pride she took in a job well done.

Marlane was married for about 15 years before life took her down a new path-one that led her to the love of her life, Jack Stiles. The two met in a unique matchmaking group that connected people through anonymous letters. For six months they exchanged heartfelt notes, getting to know each other's hearts before revealing their real names. When the time came to finally share who they were, something just clicked. Around Christmas, Marlane traveled to Kansas to meet Jack in person. The two hit it off immediately, spending eight wonderful weeks together before she returned home to Oregon. The following summer, she came back to Kansas, and on July 5, 1991, they were joyfully married-beginning a love story that would last for the rest of her days.

After settling in Kansas, Marlane poured her heart into caring for children, opening a daycare called Kids Corner, which she lovingly ran for 15 years. She later worked as a one-on-one paraeducator for the local school district until her retirement at age 62. Marlane had a natural gift for nurturing others-whether it was her daycare kids, her students, or her own family-she made everyone feel safe, seen, and loved.

At home, Marlane found joy in the simple, beautiful things of life. She loved to crochet, creating warm, thoughtful pieces for those she loved. She was an incredible cook who could make just about anything in the kitchen-a talent that came naturally, as her parents had once owned a restaurant. Her fruit salad and Thanksgiving turkey were always family favorites, and her Cherry Dump Cake and Pumpkin Dump Cake were legendary at gatherings. Cooking was her way of showing love, and her meals brought comfort and smiles to all who sat at her table.

Above all else, Marlane was devoted to her family. She cherished every moment spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her gentle spirit, kind heart, and warm laughter made her the heart of the family. She had a special way of making everyone feel welcome, and her love will forever be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Marlane is survived by her loving husband, Jack; children Jay Strauser, Keith Strauser, Angela Babb, Derrick Stiles, Matthew Stiles, and Brian Stiles; grandchildren Jessica, Katie, Ruby, John Jr., and Steven; great-grandchildren Eli, Alex, and Samson; three brothers; ten sisters; and many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Roy and Doris Erner and her brother Roy Erner, Jr.

Marlane will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and compassion will live on through the many lives she touched.

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