August 27, 1941 - December 14, 2023
Marlene Colston passed away peacefully at her home in Abbotsford, BC on December 14th, 2023. She had been dealing with a variety of serious ailments caused by a stroke in December 2012.
She will be dearly missed by her husband of 60 years, Rick 82, her brother Dale (Angelita) from Chilliwack, her daughter Cindy 54, from Lone Butte, BC, and incredibly was predeceased by her son Dean 58, only 11 days prior to her passing.
She is also survived by her granddaughter Chelsey from Williams Lake, BC, and great grandchildren Eva and Emelia as well as her grandson Taylor from 100 Mile House. Marlene had a very close relationship with her children and granddaughter. She spoke nightly with her children and weekly with her granddaughter.
Marlene was born August 27, 1941, in Vancouver, to Mildred and Wilfred (Buster) Clearwater. Grew up in the Kitsilano and Oakridge area. She attended John Oliver Secondary. Marlene was a Waltz Champion during High School.
Marlene met Rick at a house party in Grade 11. She asked Rick to dance, and the rest is history. They continued their relationship over the next 6 years while Rick went to college for 4 years in the United States. They were married on July 6, 1963. She will be greatly missed.
Marlene was in hospital from December 22, 2012, until Easter 2013 when she was finally allowed home following her stroke. She was cared for by outpatient services (Physio, Occupational and Speech Therapy) at Abbotsford Regional Hospital for several years where she progressed to using and getting around with her walker.
She always has enjoyed reading novels, she was a whiz at easy crossword puzzles, and loved watching many TV programs including Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Price is Right, and News Hour, especially KOMO TV weather.
Marlene had a big heart and was a devoted Vancouver Canucks fan. Marlene loved flowers and gardening. Her favourite saying was "Thank You"
She attended Maplewood Adult Day program during 2013 until December 2023 except for several stays at the hospital.
Marlene participated in Bible Study at the Salvation Army led by Peter Roed. She volunteered at Hospice, and the Salvation Army for many years sorting clothes. At 8 pm daily, Marlene said her prayers for many people and read the Bible for approximately 45 minutes.
The family camped and fished often when Dean and Cindy were younger, with a 25' camper with a 12' Springbok with 9.8 horsepower motor on back. Many memories were made on Vancouver Island, Long Beach (camping on the sand), Campbell River, as well as Chilliwack Lake, Deer Lake, Prince George area, Peace River, Whistler, and Vernon. The family also made a trip in the camper to Disneyland. Marlene and Rick thoroughly enjoyed their modified trailer with a cabin for 39 years at Paradise Lakes Country Club in the US. They made several great friends and enjoyed many great campfires over the years.
Marlene had serious health problems over the very recent years that finally led to her passing. We would like to thank our General Practitioner, Dr. Culkin, for all her extra time spent with Marlene.
Also, special thanks to the Abbotsford Regional Hospital, Emergency Department, Internal Medicine Department, Cardio Department, ACE, and The Seniors Clinic Internal Medicine, Dr. Davé for prolonging her life in order that Marlene could continue enjoying home life.
A special thank you to her recent Home Support Workers Nancy and Aman. Marlene looked forward to their arrival each time. Thank you to our next-door neighbour Marguerite for doing Marlene's hair on a regular basis.
A Celebration of Life for Marlene and her son, Dean will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 12:00 noon in The Fireside Room at Cascade Community Church (The Salvation Army) 35190 Delair Road, Abbotsford. A light lunch will be provided, following the service.
In lieu of flowers please donate to The Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Salvation Army, or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences can be made at www.bakerviewcrematorium.com
Service Details
12:00 PM