Marlene M. Strausser, age 78, passed away peacefully in her sleep after a long illness on December 15, 2021. She was blessed to be able to spend her last hours here on earth in the home she shared with her beloved husband William Strausser. They were married for 35 years and she has survived being separated from him since 2010.
Marlene was born in Ravenna, Ohio on September 4, 1943 to Walter Eugene and Helen Kathryn (Pittman) Sisley. She remained in her hometown most of her life with some brief years in Germany, Florida, and Kent, OH. Marlene spent her childhood in the house her father built on St. Rt. 14. She was active in school with friends and extracurricular activities and her mother, Helen, could be counted upon to sew beautiful dresses for dances at Ravenna High School. Marlene often told of summers riding her horse up to A&W Root Beer and visiting friends. She was 3 of 4 children and was a member of First Christian Church in Ravenna, Ohio.
Much of her adult life, Marlene worked in the secretarial or customer service field. She had 2 beloved children, Jack (Jody) Herman, Jr. and Shannon Saxon. She is survived by her daughter Shannon and daughter in law, Jody, as her son, Jack, passed away suddenly in 2014. She is also survived by grandchildren Justin Herman, Michael (Alicia) Herman, Jaylen Saxon, Sydney Saxon, Rachael Herman, Sophia Saxon and Gianna Saxon along with 2 sweet little great-grandsons, Jasper and William. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Bonnie Sisley of Ravenna and RuthAnn Lawrence of TX and brother James (Bev) Sisley of Ravenna, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by brother Walt Sisley and her beloved sister Bernice Klohn.
Marlene had a quick wit and enjoyed spending time with family, laughing and reminiscing. At 41, she was a young grandmother and got to pour her energy into her active grandsons. She understood anxiety and always seemed to try her best to help people feel comfortable whether it was offering up a cold glass of pop or a soft place to sit. But most of all she always tried to have a warm smile and hug for those whom she loved dearly. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh and especially enjoyed being at the beach in the warm sun.
A special thanks to Bonnie Sisley for being such a good sister to Marlene, providing help and guidance in these challenging last years. Marlene had great neighbors who loved and cared for her and a special thanks to grandchildren Mike and Alicia who would come on short notice, help with errands but most precious, just spent time with her.
It was Marlene’s request that there be no calling hours or funeral. However, in this holiday season, as we celebrate with our friends and family, may we have fond memories of those who have passed before us and may we know that peace and true rest are attainable here on earth. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.
Condolences and memories be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com.
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