Marlene M. Gardner, 87 passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Dove Healthcare Nursing Home in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born in Barron, Wisconsin December 7, 1938 to Matthew and Mae Selvig. She had 5 brothers and sisters and grew up outside Hillsdale, Wisconsin. She attended Hillsdale grade school and attended the Barron High School.

Marlene married Norland “Skip” Victor Garnder November 5, 1954 in Center city, Minnesota. Together they raised 5 loving children, Kathy (Joe) Jacobs ~ Jack (Donna) Gardner ~ Lori (Holt) Spence.

She had five grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren & 5 great-great grandchildren whom she loved very much.

Preceded in death by ~ Parents, Husband Norland “Skip” ~ Two sons, David and Gerald ~ Grandson, Matthew ~ Sister, Marcia.

Marlene worked at A.B.C. Furniture Company in Chetek, Wisconsin for several years. She also worked as a cook for Rose & Devis Restaurants. Other places Marlene worked was The Ben Franklin store in Chetek and at the Chetek Library.

She was a member of the Baptist Church in Chetek, Wisconsin – where you would be able to find her on Sunday mornings. She was known for being a social butterfly. She also enjoyed putting jig-saw puzzles together, playing cards (Kings in the Corner) with friends she made at the Dove Healthcare Nursing Home. She also liked to play Dirty Clubs with her sisters and friend. Marlene also loved to go garage saling.

Marlene was a very proud mom to her children and loved being a grandmother & great-grandmother. Marlene even had the honor of being a great-great grandmother that she loved and cherished very much.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 22, 2026 at the Faith Baptist Church (1475 Railroad Ave) in Chetek, Wisconsin at 11:00am with Pastor Paul Poppe officiating. Marlene will be laid to rest at the Evergreen Cemetery in Sioux Creek Township. Family and friends may gather for a visitation one hour prior to the service. Please join the family for a luncheon and continued fellowship following the service at the church.

She was a great wife, mother and grandmother and will be forever in our hearts.

Last Update: May 13, 2026 9:11 am CDT