Marlene Ann Waddell, 89, of Wayland, died Monday, Aug. 22.
She enjoyed working and caring for children and making them feel they had a special place in the world. Marlene worked in various office positions and later worked for nearly 20 years as the library and media coordinator for West Elementary School. After retirement, she was a dedicated volunteer at God’s Helping Hand at St. Michael’s parish in Remus.
In her final years, living in Wayland, she was affectionately known as the little lady who kept the paths in the park across from her home swept and cleaned.
She married her high school sweetheart, James Waddell, who preceded her in passing in 1991.
She is survived by her children, John and Grace Waddell, and Julie Waddell; grandchildren: Brad (Desiree), Eric, Emily, Daniel (Miranda) and James Waddell; siblings, Jean Snider and Terry (Kay) Langworthy. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and a very special friend Judy Dalimonte.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James, parents, Ruth Borstler and George Langworthy, sister, Ardith Smith and brothers, Johnny, Thomas and William Langworthy.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 8929 50th Ave., Remus, with Fr. Tom Boufford presiding. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Grand Rapids. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to God’s Helping Hand of Mecosta County and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
