Marlene G. Van Eman

Marlene Genitempo Van Eman, at the age of 87, joyfully and peacefully, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior and was lovingly reunited with her Lord, Jesus Christ and her precious son, Robb on January 9th, in Austin, Texas. Her life was a testimony of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to her husband Stuart, her children and Grandchildren, and to all those she held dear.

Marlene lived boldly and loved abundantly. Her family and friends were the center of her world, and her loyalty ran deep. If Marlene loved you, you were never alone - she stood beside you, and fought for you, without question, through every season of life.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Marlene attended The Kinkaid School before following her passion for interior design at the New York School of Interior Design. Her impeccable sense of style, whether in home interiors, clothing, hair, or jewelry - was unmistakable and admired by all who knew her. True to her Italian roots, Marlene was also a gifted cook who expressed her love through food and entertaining, joyfully spoiling her children and friends with incredible seafood and Italian meals and unforgettable gatherings around the table.

In July 1963, Marlene married the love of her life, Stuart Van Eman, beginning a partnership rooted in love, faith, and adventure. Together they raised their family in Houston, Texas, before spending their last 30 years in Austin, Texas with their sons, Currin and Robb, and their families.

Marlene and Stuart shared a deep appreciation for God’s creation’s, spending many happy days on the water - whether sailing on Galveston Bay and the BVI’s, boating on Lake Travis, or floating on the River in Utopia, TX. They also cherished their time snow skiing together in Beaver Creek, CO. for the better part of 25 years, always embracing life with enthusiasm and gratitude.

Marlene’s joyful laugh and big, sparkly eyes lit up every room she entered. Her love for Jesus, shaped her life, guided her heart, and brought peace to those she leaves behind. Her family and friends are comforted by the promise of her faith, knowing she is now whole, restored, and celebrating eternal life with Christ.

Marlene is survived by her devoted husband, Stuart C. Van Eman and son, Currin J. Van Eman, grandsons Houston, Brooks, and Knox, her brother’s Donald Genitempo and Joseph Genitempo Jr. And her daughter-In-Laws Jena and Teal, Step grandchildren Sam and wife Cami Jo, and Morgen Ehlinger. And beloved cousins Dianne Boyd and Susan Bowman. She is preceded in death by her son Robb and her parents Katie Emmite and Joseph Genitempo Sr. and Step Grandson Jake Ehlinger.

A private Grave Site Prayer Service for the family, in honor of Marlene, will be held in Houston, Texas on January 26, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to The Brookwood Community in honor of Grandson, Houston Van Eman.