Marlene Carol Rodenbaugh, our mother, wife and friend to all, died peacefully on July 4th, 2011, at the age of 69, surrounded by her loving family in Doylestown, PA.
Marlene was born on June 30th, 1942 in Beacon, NY. She moved to Georges Mills, NH as a young child, where she blossomed into a beautiful, intelligent and compassionate woman. She was a lifetime scholar, having graduated Colby Sawyer College in New Hampshire, following with an MBA from Farleigh Dickinson University, and recently she completed her PhD from Walden University at the age of 59.
Marlene’s career accomplishments span decades from her initial work as a laboratory supervisor in Exeter Hospital, to director of marketing for a division of Johnson and Johnson and subsequent founder and president of a successful marketing firm, Handley Group, Inc. After selling Handley Group, Marlene continued her academic and professional pursuits as an adjunct professor of marketing at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA. She was a published author, licensed pilot and was known throughout her family as a ‘world class’ knitter.
Mom’s professional accomplishments were often in the background and unknown to those around her, as she was best known for her selfless generosity and support of others, whether family, friends or complete strangers. She had a quiet power and grace that was the backbone of our family and so very often valued by her friends. Always with an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, and loving hands to lift us up, she often put her own feelings on hold to care for those in need.
Marlene is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Robert; daughter Rochelle Heath of Doylestown, PA; son and daughter-in-law, Kirk and Tara Heath of Virginia Beach, VA; brother and sister-in-law Jack and Carolyn Handley of Goshen, NH; and grandson Asher William Heath of Virginia Beach, VA. Marlene was preceded in death by her mother and father Patricia and George Baxter, sister June Hall and grandson Alexander Richard Calabretta.
Mom, you have touched our lives in so many ways, and left such positive energy in this world, you will forever be with us.
A Celebration of Marlene's Life is scheduled for August 6th, 1-3pm, Aldie Mansion in Doylestown, PA www.aldiemansion.com
In lieu of flowers, please give your time or resources to someone in need.
To share a memory or send a condolence gift, please visit the Official Obituary of Marlene Rodenbaugh hosted by Shelly Funeral Home.