Marlene J. Parkhurst, age 78, of Eau Claire, formerly of Ashland, WI, died Sunday June 12, 2016, after a battle with brain cancer at Dove Healthcare West, Eau Claire. She was born in Eau Claire County on December 22, 1937, a daughter of Allen and Evaline (McMahan) Parkhurst. Marlene earned her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, her Master's Degree from the University of Minnesota and her Doctorate from the University of Oregon. She taught at a military base in Japan and Germany. During her time in Japan and Germany she spent her spare time traveling the near-by countries. Besides her family and friends, some of her most prized possessions came from those travels. Marlene was the Athletic Director at Northland College in Ashland for 30+ years. While at Northland College, she met many lifelong and very dear friends. Marlene spent much of her time outdoors whether it be golfing, skiing, camping or hiking. She took many trips around the country to golf, ski and visit her many family and friends. Marlene also enjoyed reading as well as playing cards. Many memories were made sitting around the table playing cards. Another deep love of Marlene's were those Packers and Cubbies. She had a special place in her heart for College teams – whether it be Wisconsin or Oregon. Marlene was a member of the United Methodist Church of Ashland and Lake Street United Methodist Church in Eau Claire. She was very active in church groups and as well as many community volunteer activities such as Meals on Wheels, Senior Transit and blood donation. Marlene is survived by her sister, Audrey Simonson; niece, Janice (Steve) Harrison; nephews, Dennis (Sandy) Simonson, Lee (Kim) Simonson and David Simonson; great-nieces, Robin (Robert) Knudtson, Dawn (Brian) Messing, Jessalee Simonson and Kaylee Simonson; great-nephews, Paul (Zara) Simonson, Tyson Simonson, Timothy (Amy) Harrison, Scott (Mandy) Harrison, Cole Simonson and Caullin Simonson; great-great-nieces, Jordyn Messing and Piper Harrison; great-great nephews, Ryan Knudtson and JohnE Harrison; her Aunt Leona Winter; many special cousins and friends. Marlene is preceded in death by her parents; her brother-in-law, Elmer Simonson; and great-niece, Callissa Simonson. The family wishes to thank Marlene's caregivers at Dove South, Dove West, Mayo Home Care and Hospice, and all those who have checked in and prayed for Marlene during this difficult time. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 27, 2016, at Lake Street United Methodist Church, 337 Lake St, Eau Claire, with Pastor Cherie Forret officiating. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. prior to the service at the church with a luncheon to follow. Burial will be in the Union Cemetery, across the road from the Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church.

Service Information

Cemetery

Union Cemetery Hillview Road Strum WI 54770

Visitation

Monday, June 27 2016 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Lake Street United Methodist Church 337 Lake Street Eau Claire WI 54703

Memorial Service

Monday, June 27 2016 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Lake Street United Methodist Church 337 Lake Street Eau Claire WI 54703