Marlene May Kane

Marlene May (Burke) Kane, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, went home to be with Jesus at the age of 88 on July 2nd, 2024.
Marlene was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on May 19, 1936, to George and Lillian (Coleman) Burke. She graced the world with her presence and attended Plymouth High School before pursuing Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. On July 11, 1959, she married John "Jack" Kane at St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral in La Crosse, WI. Together, they made their home in the beautiful bluff country of Winona, MN, on the banks of the Mississippi River, raising their three children.
Marlene was known for her unwavering passion for others and her career in English and Physical Education. Marlene taught at the College of St. Teresa and Winona State University. Notably, her impact as the Women's Head Tennis Coach at the College of St. Teresa was profound, and her dedication to mentoring young players earned her a special award from the Alumnae Association for being an Outstanding Role Model.
Marlene's love for sports and nature reflected her adventurous spirit, finding solace in outdoor activities, especially in the presence of yellow flowers, symbolizing joy and friendship. Her life was brimming with love for her family and grandchildren and abiding faith, which she generously shared with her community.
In her final years, Marlene resided at McKenna Crossing, leaving an indelible mark with her humor, "can-do spirit," and punctuality with her "on-time activities." She will be remembered for her strength and warm smile as she greeted each person by name.
Marlene was a faithful attendee of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona, MN, and Shepherd of the Lake, Prior Lake, MN. Her devotion to Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior was unwavering, and she found joy in sharing the gospel's good news with others.
Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, sister Patricia (Patsy), brother William (Bill), and her beloved husband, Dr. John "Jack" Kane (2014).
Marlene's life will be celebrated in a private family "Celebration of Life" at St. Mary's Cemetery, Winona, MN. She leaves a legacy of love and will forever be our "Sunshine," survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Marlene is survived by a son, Michael (Jacquie) Kane, Jackson Lake, GA; two daughters: Katherine (Stewart) Ballinger, Lakeville, MN, and Julezie (Michael) Kuebelbeck, Mesa, AZ; eight grandchildren: Christopher Kane, Robert Kane (Abigail), Raeann Fortin (Troy), and Steven Kane; Elijah (Amanda) Ballinger, Isaiah Ballinger, and Samuel Ballinger; and Ali May Kuebelbeck; three great-grandchildren: Amelia Kane, Lillian Kane, and Troy II Fortin.
May her memory be a blessing to us all.
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