TULSA, Okla. – Marlene peacefully passed away on Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, in Tulsa. She was 79. There will be a viewing from 8 to 10 a.m. at Rice Funeral Service, Claremore, Okla., 918-341-0376, followed by graveside services at 12 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, 2011, at Oakhill Cemetery, Oologah, Okla. Born Feb. 7, 1932, to Ralph J. and Irene (Pidgeon) Blow, Marlene received her education at Rice High School where she was active in drama classes, wrote, played basketball and served as valedictorian for her graduating class. Marlene and Peter N. Chagnon were married for 46 years and raised three children in addition to her son, Dennis. Marlene owned a pet shop, and was manager for Grants in Burlington. With a deep respect for the natural world, Marlene enjoyed hunting, fishing and her involvement with the animal rescue programs her daughter ran. Kim will continue their legacy. Marlene enjoyed cooking, family traditions, gardening and crafts. She was a people person and was loved by many. Beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Marlene is survived by her husband, Peter, of their home; children, Kim L. Walker and fiance, Dewayne E. Whitaker, of Oklahoma, Kathy Tuft and her husband, Todd, of Vermont, and Kenneth P. Chagnon Sr., and wife, Jamie, of Vermont; Marlene’s son, Dennis Hanlon and his wife, April, of Vermont; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and nieces, cousins and friends around the states. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Ralph Blow Jr. Marlene’s daughter, Kim, will now be adding her mother to the memorial garden which the two of them established. Contributions of perennial seeds, bulbs, plants or memories of Marlene may be sent to Kim Walker, 15388 E. 330 Rd., Chelsea, Okla. 74016, 918-789-2640.
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Published by The Burlington Free Press on Oct. 20, 2011.