Marlene Elizabeth Schmidtke

Marlene Elizabeth Schmidtke, 77, formerly of Fallbrook, Calif., died October 11, 2013 at St. Brigid's at Hi Park. She was born December 1, 1935 in Fall River, Mass. to Willis and Louise (Anderson) Ward. She graduated from Hill House High School in New Haven, Conn. She then went to work for a metal finishing company where she met her husband of 53 years, William Schmidtke. The couple then started their own business, Ronatec West, Inc. She was a long time resident of Fallbrook and recently moved to Red Wing to be nearer to her son. She was a member of the Dorcas Circle at Fallbrook Presbyterian Church. She also loved to garden.
She is survived by her loving husband, William of Fallbrook, Calif.; her son, Rob Schmidtke of Red Wing; two brothers, Don (Carol) Ward and Bob (Ginny) Ward of Conn.; "sister" Bonnie Stang of Red Wing; stepdaughter, Terri Jackson of Nev.; God daughter, Joanne (Ross) Orr of Conn. as well as many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Louise Staley.
A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer's Association. On line condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com