Marlene J. Eliason

Marlene was born on September 14, 1937, in Ishpeming, to Victor and Kathryn (Lepisto) Karvela. She was raised in Palmer and graduated from Negaunee High School with the class of 1955. After high school she worked at the Mining Journal in Marquette, until she met her future husband of 63 years Robert ‘Bob’ Eliason. They were married in August 1957, and the couple made their first home in Ishpeming, where they raised their family.

Marlene was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was always supportive and had a way of making everyone feel at ease. Simply put, she poured love into the people around her. Marlene enjoyed baking and was well known for her baked goods and Christmas cookies. She was a dedicated walker and aimed to keep active, covering up to five miles a day. A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, she enjoyed simple pleasures and spending time with her family.

Marlene was a beloved presence during her time at the Marquette County Medical Care Facility. Staff and residents alike adored her, she was like a grandmother to the team. She never missed a Sunday bingo night and treasured her weekly Saturday shopping trips and lunches with her daughters.

Marlene tended to worry-she passed that trait along to her children -but that worry came from a place of deep love and wanting to make sure her family was always okay.

Marlene’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Marquette County Medical Care Facility for their excellent and loving care during her stay there. Especially, to her special angel, Chandra.

Marlene is survived by her daughters, Lynn (Scot) Luke of Iron Mountain, and Debbie Campbell of Ishpeming; son, Craig Eliason of Minneapolis, MN; 4 grandchildren ­ Ryan (Andrea Starnes) Thorne, Derek (Jessica) Luke, Casey (Kyle) Kuenn, Corey (Alison) Luke; 5 great grandchildren ­ Benjamin Thorne, Mara Luke, Eva Luke, Jack Luke, and Cameron Kuenn; a sister-in-law, Anita (Bernie) Mattila of Ishpeming; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Robert ‘Bob’ Eliason; her parents, Victor and Kathryn; her sister, Lorraine Corlett; and son-in-law, Dan Campbell.

A memorial service will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church in Ishpeming on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with Pastor Tim Johnston officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:00pm and go until the time of service at 1:00pm. Immediately following the service, there will be a luncheon held in the Missionary Hall at Bethel Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Marlene.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends are invited to leave a note of remembrance.