Marlene Grace Fuller

Marlene was born on May 21, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to Ernest and Helen Sauer. She grew up and went to school in Detroit, where she developed the loyalty, faith, kindness, and quiet strength that shaped her throughout her life. It was also there that she met and married the love of her life, Richard Thomas Fuller, beginning a partnership marked by humor, steadiness, and unwavering support. After 66 years of marriage, they were apart for only 106 days before being reunited.

Marlene and Richard spent their years together in Michigan, Texas, and Louisiana, building a full and happy life as they raised their four children. She supported her husband and children with steadiness, love, and devotion. In 2024, Marlene and Richard moved to Utah to be closer to their sons.

She is survived by her sons Andrew, Thomas (Gloria), and Michael (Jennifer); her son-in-law Wayne Osburn; 13 grandchildren—Brian (Heidi), Evan, Matthew, Eric (Amy), Kevin (Addy), Georgia, Sage, Eden, Olivia, Ruby, Madison (Bryce), Nathan, and Sara (Robert); and six great-grandchildren—Benjamin, Sarah, Isla, McKenzie, Adam, and Samuel. She is also survived by extended family members and many dear friends.

Marlene was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Richard Thomas Fuller; her beloved daughter, Elizabeth Ann Osburn; her parents, Ernest and Helen Sauer; and her siblings Clarence, Bernice, Ernest, Dorothy, and Nancy.

Marlene loved her family deeply. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a great sense of humor and a way of putting people at ease, often lightening difficult moments with a quick wit or gentle laugh. She made a lasting impact on her family, and being with them brought her genuine joy. She took pride in their lives and accomplishments and cherished every moment she spent with them.

She also had a special knack for finding hidden treasures, spending many happy hours exploring thrift stores and garage sales in search of the perfect bargain. She delighted in a good deal and took pride in the stories behind the things she found.

Generous with her time, Marlene also found meaning in helping others. She volunteered at a local hospital and senior center, offering kindness and companionship to those who needed it. Her gentle presence, paired with her quiet strength, touched many in her community.

Marlene lived a full and meaningful life with resilience and a warm spirit. She will be remembered for her humor, her strength, the love she shared with her family, and the meaningful ways she enriched the lives of those around her.

The family extends a special thanks to her companion and caregiver, Paloma of Cornerstone Caregiving, whose kindness and devoted care made a tremendous impact on Marlene’s life. They will be forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the National Breast Cancer Foundation.