Marlene Hazel Wilson

Marlene Hazel Wilson, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and educator, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024, in Cheyenne, Wyoming at the age of 82. Born on November 9, 1941, in Medina, New York, Marlene lived a life filled with joy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to her family and profession.

Marlene dedicated over 34 years of her life to teaching, primarily the 5th grade, where she inspired countless students. Her love for education extended beyond the classroom, as she relished annual field trips to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and volunteered at the Holiday Cookie Sale at Frontier United Methodist Church. She continually sought opportunities for professional development, including a memorable in-service class that took her to ghost towns of the California Gold Rush.

Outside of her teaching career, Marlene had a passion for creating. She took delight in making handmade crafts and briefly ventured into business with “R&M Enterprises.” In addition, her weekends often found her immersed in compelling mystery novels or baking delightful Spritz cookies that added a special warmth to the Christmas season.

Her personality radiated kindness and compassion. Marlene was known for her infectious giggle, and her children and grandchildren often described her as supportive and understanding. She created a home that was always welcoming and safe, and her friends remembered her as a gentle spirit who greeted life with a smile.

Marlene’s adventurous spirit was evident in her love of nature. She cherished camping trips to beautiful national parks, including Kings Canyon, Pinnacles National Monument, Mount Shasta in California, and Zion National Park in Utah. Her spiritual life was also significant to her; she enjoyed attending Bible study classes and was engaged in writing curriculum for Sunday School.

Among her proudest accomplishments were raising her children, Robin and Dale, and nurturing a long, fulfilling teaching career that left a lasting impact on many lives.

Marlene now joins her beloved husband, Marvin R. Wilson, and her parents, Donald and Helen Munzel, as well as her granddaughter, Colene Rasmussen, in eternal rest.

She leaves behind her cherished children, Robin Piccirilli (nee Wilson) and Dale Wilson, son-in-law Dr. Ronald Piccirilli, daughter-in-law Karen Wilson, grandchildren Ariana Piccirilli, Marcus Piccirilli, Cody Wilson, Paige Wilson, and great-granddaughter Odessa Brumage. She is also survived by her sister, Meredith Szustak, and brother-in-law Art Szustak.

Marlene Hazel Wilson's legacy of laughter, love, and learning will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be profoundly missed but remembered with great affection.