Mary Marlene Meyer

Mary "Marlene" Meyer, age 90, of Soldiers Grove, formerly of Gays Mills, passed away on March 29th, 2024. She was born on December 27th, 1933, in Pueblo, Colorado.

Marlene's life was a testament to adventure, creativity, and hard work. After graduating from Central High School in Pueblo, CO, in 1951, she pursued her passion for art, earning an Associate of Arts degree from Pueblo Community College in 1953 and a Bachelor of Science in Fine Arts degree with Highest Honors from UW La Crosse in 1976.

During this time, Marlene's path crossed with that of her husband, William "Bill" Meyer, who was stationed at Fort Carson, CO. They married on December 31st, 1953.

In 1954, Marlene embarked on the troopship "Waterman" to Rotterdam, Netherlands, to join Bill stationed in Friedberg, Germany. Together, they spent a year exploring the rich culture and landscapes.

Upon their return to the United States, Marlene and Bill settled in Waldo, Wisconsin, where they worked on the Meyer Family Orchard. In 1964, they purchased Kickapoo Orchard and relocated to the Gays Mills area with their young children, Andrew and Michael. As the co-owner of Kickapoo Orchard, Marlene dedicated herself to every aspect of the business, from apple growing to management.

After retiring from the orchard, Marlene could focus on her passion for painting. Her artwork has been displayed in local galleries, the Driftless Area Art Festival, and Soldiers Grove Health Services.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Marlene enjoyed various hobbies, including snow skiing, snowshoeing, and SCUBA diving. She shared these passions with her family, creating cherished memories for generations.

Marlene leaves behind a legacy of love and art and is survived by her sister, Peggy Schey (Summers); her sons, Andrew Meyer (Julie) and Michael Meyer (Joyce); grandchildren, Jennifer Meyer, Raquel Meyer, Kelly Meyer, Aaron Meyer, and David Meyer; great-grandchildren, Lance, Shawn, Thomas, Piper, and Declon; and her many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold Summers and Ruth Summers (Hayden): her infant daughter, Valerie Ann Meyer; and her husband, William "Bill" Meyer.

Special thanks to Julie Sleddens-Meyer for her unwavering friendship, dedication, and personal assistance, and to Marlene’s close friends for their years of support and friendship.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you support the Driftless Area Art Festival or your favorite local artist. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com.

Marlene's spirit will live on in the hearts of all touched by her kindness, creativity, and love for life. May she rest in peace.

Vosseteig Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Marlene's famliy.

123 W. Decker St.

Viroqua, WI 54665

608-637-2100