Marlene Mary Gilbert

Marlene Mary Gilbert (Wood) was lovingly reunited with her beloved husband on February 12, 2026, passing peacefully with her family by her side.

Marlene was born on August 4, 1937, in Six Lakes, the tenth child of Stanley and Vera (Leach) Wood. She was raised in Six Lakes and graduated from Edmore High School with the Class of 1955. Shortly after graduation, she met the love of her life, Omar Gilbert. The two were united in marriage on October 27, 1956, and together they built a beautiful life and were blessed with four children.

Marlene dedicated many years of hard work to Hitachi Magnetics before retiring in 1994. While she valued her work, her greatest joy was always her family. She cherished time spent traveling, gathering around the table for card games, and enthusiastically cheering on her Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions and for her favorite players, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether celebrating victories or weathering losses, she remained a loyal and spirited fan.

Marlene is survived by her brother, Floris (Renee) Wood of Toledo, OH; her children, Darlene Strong of Arlington, TX, Diane Gilbert of Edmore, MI, Douglas (Joyce) Gilbert of Crystal, MI, and Dana (Randy) Pierce of Six Lakes, MI. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Michael (Anna) Gilbert, Teri Gilbert, Megan (Donnie) Williamson, Jessica Strong, Amber (William) Hoyt, Alexander (Evelyn) Strong, Cayla Pierce, and Joshua Pierce. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Braydon and Bryson Williamson; Lydia and Evelyn Gilbert; Cayden Strong; Ryder and Spencer Lukens; and Luna Hoyt. Also, bonus great-grandkids Cooper & Rylee. Each of them was a source of immense pride and joy in her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Ada, Jackie, Luciene, Clifton, Dennis, Richard, Barry, Jerry, Larry and Jim; and her loving husband, Omar, who passed away in 1989.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Janowicz Family Funeral Homes in Edmore and will take place on Thursday, February 19,2026 at 11 AM, with Reverend Christina Jensen officiating. Visitation will take place from 9:00 AM to the time of service.

Marlene will be remembered for her quiet strength, her unwavering love for her family, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.