Marlene Louise Kelly, 84, passed away on February 20, 2025 at Reed City Fields where she has resided the last two years. Marlene was born on August 24, 1940, in Detroit, to Harold and Dorothy (Moran) Durkee. She was raised by Dorothy and Glenn Genzel and graduated from Howell High School in 1958. From there, she continued on to boot camp for the United States Navy. In 1965 she made her home in Evart where she met Clayton Eugene Kelly. They were married in Reed City on January 10, 1970 and spent their winters in Florida and summers in Evart when they could.

Marlene never stopped. She loved to bowl until her knee surgery in early 80’s. There are several stories regarding her cooking being so bad -the birds wouldn’t eat it. But, the kids never starved. Marlene retired from Ventra where she worked as an assembler for many years.

Marlene is survived by: five children, Daniel (Kimberly) Boglarsky, Terence (Karen) Boglarsky, Cheryl (Randall) Babcock, James (Sherry) Boglarsky and Dawn (Robert) Vincent; one sister, Pamela (Leon) Robinson and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Marlene was preceded in death by: her husband, Clayton in December 2009; son, Glenn Kelly and her parents, Dorothy and Glenn Genzel.

In May, a celebration of life will be held for Marlene, which will include military honors and laying both Marlene and Clayton to rest, at Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart.