HOWARD; Marlene Joanne (nee Gates)
May 1, 1936 - April 8, 2016
Marlene, 79, of Surrey, BC passed suddenly April 8, 2016. She is survived by her son and daughter, Douglas and Jennifer Howard, 3 grandchildren, sisters Sharon Maher and Judy Gates, and a large extended family. Born May 1st, 1936 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, she came to be the oldest of four siblings. Always clever and studious, in grade 12 her academic efforts were rewarded with selection as a Westin Girl, a place among a select group given a trip to the Queen's Coronation during which deep friendships formed. She later moved to Saskatoon, and there earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan, and went on to work at the National Research Council. A few years later she married and had children. After 12 years her love of parenting led her to pursue a Master of Educational Psychology degree and then to enjoy a career with the Saskatoon School Board until retirement.
Afterward, she moved to South Surrey, BC where she became an active member of both First United Church and the local University Women's Club as well as volunteering as a literacy tutor. These among other interests created strong connections in her community. She will be missed by many. A memorial was held at First United Church in White Rock on
Monday April 18. Donations can be made in her honour to First United Church, the SPCA, or One to One Literacy. To sign the online book of condolences visit: www.valleyviewsurrey.ca