Obituary of Marlene Dawson

Dawson, Barbara Marlene (Nee: Dietrich) July 2, 1937- January 26, 2024 On January 26th, 2024, Marlene Dawson of London, Ontario passed away at the age of 86. She is remembered by her children: Lynn (Greg) Summerfeldt and Diane (Michael) Kirton; grandchildren: Tyler Joudrey (Natasha), Cody Williams, Abigail (Wychita) Henricks, and Joshua Kirton; siblings Rob Dietrich, Ron (Kay) Dietrich, and Sharon Duquette; sisters-in-law Mavis Christensen and Pat Dietrich; as well as by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and so many other family, friends, and super incredible neighbors. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Max L. Dawson; her brother, Don Dietrich; her sisters-in-law, Helene Dietrich and Vi Dietrich; her brothers-in-law, Hank Duquette and Jack Christensen; her parents, Harold and Ola Dietrich; as well as two nephews, Tim Dietrich and Jeff Christensen. Marlene met the love of her life, Max, at Tilbury District High School. They were married 47 and a half years. Together they enjoyed trips to Florida to their vacation trailer, car races, and being loving parents and grandparents. Marlene attended nursing school in Chatham, Ontario where she met many lifelong friends. Marlene always acted with a sense of caring and compassion. Whether through her many years working as a nurse in both London and Markham, as a sister helping to raise her younger brothers in Staples, as a mother raising her two girls in Markham, and as a grandmother and aunt: Marlene was a source of endless love and support. Marlene enjoyed watching her grandson, nephews, and great-nephews play hockey, and was in the audience at every show her granddaughter performed in. Marlene was also an avid bridge player, and will be missed by the friends she made at the card table. Marlene will be remembered for her kindness and welcoming nature, as well as for her appreciation for a well-accessorized outfit and a beautiful home. Marlene was considerate, thoughtful, a trusted confidant, and had a wonderful sense of humour. Marlene touched many lives in her 86 years. She will be dearly missed. In lieu of a traditional funeral, Marlene has requested a Celebration of Life to be held in the warmer months with “lots of laughter and sweets”. Details will be shared with friends and family closer to the date. Marlene will rest beside her husband at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Memorial donations, if desired, can be made in Marlene’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give) or Colorectal Cancer Canada (colorectalcancercanada.com). Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting Marlene's Tribute Wall at www.mpcemetery.ca.