Born in North Battleford, Saskatchewan to Francis and Katherine Mills. The family moved to Victoria BC where she lived and attended school. Marlene raised her four children Birnie (Carol), Kellie (Ian), Lani, and Michael in the Village of Sayward BC She was employed as a secretary for the municipality and was a volunteer dispatcher for the fire department. Marlene moved to Nanaimo and attended Malaspina College in 1987 to receive her diploma as a Registered Care Aid. In 1988 she met the love of her life, Albert Gasper, at the Nanaimo Civic Arena while dancing to the music of The Platters. Their blended family now included Wanda, Twyla, Maria (Bert), and Serena (Brandon). Marlene had worked as a RCA at Malaspina Gardens Lodge, retiring in 2003. She loved her career, making many friends as she shared herself with her colleagues and the residences.
Albert and Marlene have 14 grandchildren, Melissa, Ian, Robert, Kevin, Nikita, Kyree, Rachel, Amanda, Waylon, Hunter, Victoria, Spencer, Joshua, Emma and 10 great grand children. Her family was her biggest pride and joy. She showed her love by her many family dinners and gifting of her crafts, sewing and paintings. What was cherished the most by her family was her time she gave and her heart felt advice mixed with her exuberant humour. The memories of her will be cherished and she will be greatly missed.
Marlene was predeceased by her parents Francis and Katherine, daughter Kellie and step-daughter Wanda.
A funeral service will be held at Sands Funeral Chapel in Nanaimo on Friday March 13th. A viewing is being held at 11:00 with the service at 12:00 noon followed by a reception with the family.
Sands Funeral- Naniamo