Marlene Ann Sterling

Marlene Ann Sterling (née Simonis) entered this world on April 28, 1955, as a spirited and compassionate soul who touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Known for her fierce loyalty, unwavering integrity, and strength of character, Marlene spent her 69 years devoted to family, friends, and the values that guided her life.

Born the middle child in a close-knit, modest household, Marlene was shaped by the traditions and experiences of her upbringing. Sunday family dinners at the farm were a cherished ritual, and the simple joys of swinging on the porch during thunderstorms left indelible marks on her character. Her older brothers, Dennis and Norman, often found themselves at the center of youthful mischief, while Marlene quietly observed and learned. This early exposure to the dynamics of family life prepared her to be a loving mentor to her younger sister Carol, who had cognitive disabilities, and her youngest brother Terry. From an early age, Marlene balanced the roles of mother and best friend, a skill she would carry into her adult life.

Marlene's adolescence was marked by the typical trials and triumphs of youth, including memorable moments like accidentally shifting a car into neutral and hitting the garage or running to the local store for candy and cigarettes. Yet, even in these small misadventures, Marlene’s kindness and compassion shone through. She had a deep love for animals and fond memories of sharing an Orange Crush Soda with her father at the local tavern.

Nicknamed "Semo," Marlene was an active participant in her community’s social scene during her teenage years. She was involved in the “Brotherhood Singing Group” and spent her time cheerleading for Pacelli High School, where she made lifelong friends. It was during this period that she met David, the love of her life, in what would become a love story grounded in shared values, security, and honesty.

On October 6, 1973, Marlene and David were married, beginning a journey that would take them across the country and around the world. They visited 49 states and numerous international destinations, yet home remained the small town where their story began. Together, they raised three children—Jason, Scott, and Jessica—with Marlene dedicating herself to their growth and well-being. Her role as a mother was her greatest passion, and she always made decisions with her children's best interests at heart.

In her early years of motherhood, Marlene chose to stay home, but as her children grew, she found ways to contribute to the family while still being present for them. She worked at Scandia Spa, created ceramics, and even spent time at McDonald’s, all while maintaining her focus on her family. Friday nights were a special time for the family, marked by the simple joy of sharing a soda and snacks while watching television together.

Marlene’s culinary skills grew over the years, evolving from early missteps, like the infamous frozen chicken episode, into legendary meals that her family would cherish. Her Christmas cookies, lasagna, cheesecakes, and homemade pizza during Green Bay Packers games became family traditions.

As her children grew older, family vacations became a central part of their lives, with memorable trips that spawned humorous stories and deepened their bond. Marlene and David dreamed of spending their later years traveling in an RV, exploring the country at their own pace, but those plans were unexpectedly altered in 2005 when Marlene received a challenging medical diagnosis.

Despite the grim prognosis, Marlene defied the odds, living 19 years longer than expected. She faced her challenges with grace, never allowing her struggles to define her. Marlene continued to inspire her family and friends with her positive attitude, even as her mobility and memory declined. Her legacy is one of strength, love, and an enduring commitment to those she held dear.

Marlene Ann Sterling's impact will be felt for generations through her husband David, her brothers, her children and their spouses, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchild. As we celebrate her life, we are reminded of Robert Greenleaf’s words on leadership: “Behind every great achievement is a dreamer of great dreams. Much more than a dreamer is required to bring it to reality; but the dream must be there first.”

Marlene was a dreamer, a doer, and a beacon of love and strength for all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A memorial service and celebration of her life will take place on Friday August 16, 2024, at 11:00am at Wichmann Funeral Home-Tri County Chapel, 1592 S Oneida St, Fox Crossing. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 9:00am until the service begins. Marlene will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton.