Marlene Ann Brinker

Marlene was born on April 12, 1934, to Bernard Charles and Marian Bertha (Crimmings) Dailey, in Greene, Iowa. After graduating high school, Marlene studied nursing at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minn. She worked in the nursing field for many years in locations such as the VA Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa; Mason Clinic, Seattle, Washington; and United States Public Health Service Hospital, Staten Island, New York.

While studying at Rutgers University, Marlene developed a love for geology and received her Bachelor of Arts in 1975.

Later, Marlene became a businesswoman and consultant in the home health care industry, working for Kelly Health Care. Marlene was a member of the Board of Directors for Visiting Nurse Association of Huron Valley; a member of Michigan Home Health Assembly; member of National Association for Home Care; and a member of the American Association for Continuity of Care.

In 1956, Marlene met and later married Ray Brinker on January 12, 1957. Their children include, Sally Jean Brinker Barnes, Marc Henry Brinker, Sheri Louise Brinker, Sara Jane Brinker Kruger, Lisa Ann Brinker, and Renee Fornshill.

Marlene was predeceased by her parents, husband and brothers, John Charles Dailey and Thomas Dailey.

Marlene has eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Marlene had a love for life, enjoying world travel, or just sitting and reading a good book. She is known for her generosity and being with others at BINGO Night at the Knights of Columbus. In retirement, she enjoyed water aerobics and teaching at a local homeschool cooperative. She will be greatly missed.

Per Marlene’s request a traditional Irish Wake will be held at the family residence on March 7, 2024. A Funeral Mass will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria, VA, on March 8, 2024 at 11:00am. The mass shall be livestreamed via https://youtube.com/live/9ZVH6JQwHXE.