Mary Marlene Stillwell, 89, of Ottawa, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at the Pavilion of Ottawa. She was born on March 31, 1936, in Ottawa, the daughter of Harry Frederick and Catherine (Kettman) Clark. Marlene lived a full and vibrant life that spanned nearly 90 years.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 1, from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 2, at 10:30am at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the Ottawa Avenue Cemetery.
Marlene graduated from Marquette High School in the class of 1954. For 45 years, Marlene dedicated herself to her career at LOF. In addition to her primary job, she also found joy in running Tequilla Eddies in Naplate with her partner Chuck, bartending at the Knights of Columbus and working at the Butcher Block and Deli.
Marlene was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where she actively participated in the Alter and Rosary Society and the church choir. She was also a proud member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the American Legion Auxiliary, and Campfire, where she made many lifelong friends. She loved dancing, bowling, hiking, skating, and spending time at Indian Acres.
She is survived by her lifelong companion, Charles “Chuck” Geiger, and her beloved son, Jeff (Juli) Stillwell; her grandchildren, Harley Stillwell, Jennifer Lancaster, Melissa Harden, Dawn Jacobs, Laura Goebel, Amy Anderson, and Heidi Geiger; 13 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Harry Eugene (Eileen) Clark.
Marlene’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith will be remembered and cherished by her family, friends, and community forever.
The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to her nieces Kim and Tina for the love and care they showed her over the years.
Pallbearers will be Harley Stillwell, Chris Clark, Rick Navarro, Tim Lingle, Nick Mangiaracina, and Drew Ferracuti.
The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com