Marlene Martha (Rogalsky) Siemens went home to be with her Lord on November 4, 2021. She was blessed with 78 years, 6 months and 23 days. She was the oldest daughter of the late David and Elizabeth (Walde) Rogalsky, born on April 12, 1943 in Bassano, AB.
She is survived by her husband, (Walter) Jonathan Siemens of Lethbridge, AB; four children, Sharlene (David) Schapansky, of Lethbridge, AB; Marilyn (David) Martin of Cheyenne, WY; Darryl (Sharon) Siemens of Bethel, PA; Wanda (John) Dyck, of Salmon Arm, B.C; 27 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren; two brothers Alex (Lillian) Rogalsky, Abbotsford, B.C; Wally (Judy) Rogalsky of Keremeos, B.C; and three sisters, Lorena (Ralph) Siemens of Innisfail, AB; Elvira (Harold) Boldt of Chestermere, AB; and Kathy (Rudy) Wiebe, of Spruce Grove, AB.
Marlene grew up in Gem, Alberta, helping her parents who were busy with a farm, a store, and raising a family. She attended school in Gem and then later high school at Duchess. As a youth she gave her heart to the Lord and was later baptized in the Duchess Mennonite Church. Here she met the young man who would become her husband on June 3, 1961. Together they shared 60 years and were blessed with four children. When Jonathan was ordained deacon at the Duchess Bethel Mennonite Church at Duchess, she became a faithful helpmeet as he fulfilled his responsibilities in that office. Together they took care of the market garden, farming, custom haying, and in later years the spruce tree farm. In the spring of 2006, they relocated to Lethbridge where they would be closer to family.
In her lifetime she made many friends, reaching out to help in any way she could. She very much enjoyed the visits from her grandchildren and in recent years, her great-grandchildren. They were often blessed with a little gift at birthday time.
Mom loved the out-of-doors, tending to her many flowers and plants. This summer was a challenge as she watched others care for them. The week she took sick, she was out raking leaves and bringing in plants “to get ready for winter.”
Although she faced many health challenges in her life, God’s grace was always sufficient. We will miss her, but are thankful for her release from pain.
Oh beautiful sunrise, oh glorious morning!
Public viewing to be held on Nov.11 at 6:30-9:00 PM at Bethesda Mennonite Church, 85006 Hwy. 845 Coaldale AB. Private family service will be held.
