IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Marlene

Spellman

August 11, 1933 – February 5, 2024

Obituary

On February 5,2024, with loving family at her side, Marlene Guitard Spellman, peacefully entered into eternal life to be reunited with loved ones who passed before her. Marlene was born August 11, 1933 in Old Town, Maine, the loving daughter of the late Alphonse and Hazel Preble Guitard. Marlene was a lifelong resident of Old Town until the passing of her husband Jimmy, in 2016, spending the remainder of her time with her daughters. Growing up, Marlene developed a love of music and dancing. She was enrolled at the Polly Thomas School of Dance, where she excelled in tap dancing. She was an outgoing child and made many lifelong friends as a member of the Brownies and Girl Scouts and later as a cheerleader. Marlene loved card games, crossword puzzles, watching westerns and comedies, especially I Love Lucy. You heard her laughter throughout her home with each episode. As an only child, Marlene hoped to one day have a large family of her own. When mutual friends introduced her to a young man named Jimmy, she quickly saw hope for those dreams to become a reality. The two were married on February 3, 1951 and together, in her childhood home, Marlene and Jimmy raised six children: Michael, Sharyn, Pamela, Richard, Lisa and Timothy. After years as a loving and devoted Mother, Marlene went back to school to get her diploma. Taking classes among the much younger students, Marlene earned her high school diploma in 1965. Marlene began working at the University of Maine shortly after. Working her way through various positions, she eventually became an Administrative Assistant at Cutler Health Center—a position she loved, as it allowed her to interact with the students who enjoyed her personality and her caring ways. Outside of work and her true love and nurturing of her family, many additional passions kept Marlene busy. Faith being a central part of her life, she was a parishioner of The Resurrection of the Lord Holy Family Church Old Town Maine. She was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, Daughters of Isabella and the Red Hat Society. Marlene had a passion for staying active, "no grass will grow under my feet" was her motto. She persuaded Jimmy, who was not particularly fond of dancing, to sign up and take disco, ballroom, line, and square dance lessons. Marlene never passed up an opportunity to hit the dance floor. She was also a remarkably vibrant and stylish individual, someone who knew how to dress for every occasion, event or theme. Marlene enjoyed summers "upta" camp at East Grand Lake where family and friends gathered over the years, creating lifelong memories, especially the 4th of July with spectacular fireworks displays. After 35 years, with the University, Marlene retired. She and Jimmy became snowbirds, enjoying fun in the sun in Florida during the winter months and traveling. Marlene's love of travel enabled her to visit Hawaii, Ireland, the Caribbean, trips throughout the United States, along with several trips to Canada, the most memorable being Petit Rocher New Brunswick to visit the birthplace of her father. It was important to Marlene to nurture and maintain her many lifelong friendships. and her door was always open for loved ones and friends to gather for social and special occasions. Her family was always at the center of Marlene's world. Spending time with them was her greatest joy, and they will miss her dearly. The treasured memories she created for each of them will live on in their hearts forever. In addition to her parents and her husband, Marlene was predeceased by her sons Richard and Timothy; grandson Adam; and granddaughter Lauren. She is survived by her son, Michael and his wife, Caroline; daughter Sharyn and her fiancé, Jim; daughter Pamela and husband, Gene; daughter Lisa, and husband, Bob; grandchildren Christina, Melissa, Shayne, Molly; grandsons, Ryan and Zachary; great-granddaughters Madison, Payton and Hadley; sister-in-law Lois Spellman; and many nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024 from 4-7 pm at Birmingham Funeral Home. 438 Main Street Old Town, Maine A Mass of Christian burial will be Celebrated at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at The Resurrection of the Lord, Holy Family Church. 429 Main Old Town, Maine Anyone wishing, may donate to St Jude's Children's Research Hospital in Marlene's memory. Of all the special joys in life, The big ones and the small, A mother's love and tenderness Is the greatest of them all.
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