We Remember

MARTIN, MarlaLee (née McFayden)

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The family of MarlaLee had to make the decision to postpone her Celebration of Life (the new date has not been decided yet).
In Loving Memory

Mom’s journey on this earth came to a gentle close on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, as she embraced the waiting arms of Jesus after a very brief battle with ALS.  Her absence leaves an emptiness that cannot be measured, a hole in our lives that no amount of time can ever fill.

MaralaLee leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 54 years, Don; children, Dawnalee (Phil) Croteau and Lane (April) Martin; grandchildren, Logan Martin, Laisa (Scott) Viala, Tevin Ebanks, Tristan, Karleigh and Keegan Martin; great-grandchildren, Treyson and Ozzy Viala; and best sister-friend of 70 years, Judi Madge.  She is also survived by her brother Torry (Renita) McFayden and a large and loving extended family, whom she loved so dearly.

Mom was a beacon of warmth and compassion, her heart overflowing with a love that knew no bounds. Her greatest joy in life was found in the laughter and smiles of her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who held the key to her heart.  She was known for her boundless energy, charity, kindness, and social grace.  Her unwavering dedication to her family and God were the constant in her life.

A woman of faith, Mom’s love for Jesus shone through her smile and her eyes.  Her life was a testament to the transformative power of love, as she touched the lives of countless individuals. She poured her heart into serving others, particularly through her gifts of mentorship and music: from helping shape the lives of dozens of young women to forging connections with hundreds of children as their kids’ choir teacher, who, now as adults, still cherish the bond they shared.

Though Mom may have bid farewell to this world, her spirit lives on in the innumerable lives she touched. Her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and though she may be gone from our sight, she will forever remain in our hearts, a guiding light and a source of comfort in times of need.

The family sincerely thank the staff at KGH 4 East, and at the Kelowna Hospice House where her final days were attended to with respect, serenity and loving care.

As we mourn the loss of MarlaLee, let us also celebrate the life of our remarkable Mom.

In honour of Mom’s memory, the family has created a team to participate physically and virtually in the “Move to Cure ALS” on June 9, 2024. Donations can also be made to the Central Okanagan Hospice Association.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in MarlaLee’s name to the cause of your choosing; honouring her memory and supporting research towards finding a cure for this devastating disease.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Condolences

  • Sharlene Gray says:
    March 9, 2024 at 4:32 pm

    A sudden passing of a wonderful person is especially difficult. Our condolence to all family members.

    Reply
  • Charlene Cameron says:
    March 9, 2024 at 5:45 pm

    We girls will surely miss her at the coffee times.
    We will see her again some day.
    Prayers of peace and strength for the family during this time.

    Reply
  • Al'deen HELWING says:
    March 9, 2024 at 7:16 pm

    It is with shock that I read of MarlaLees’ passing. She was always so sweet and friendly. We did not know each other well but we knew each other enough to say “Let’s meet for coffee”. I always enjoyed meeting MarlaLee in town, in the mall, wherever. It is a great loss to lose someone like her. My condolences to to loved ones and family.

    Reply

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Testimonials

They took care of me like family.

Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke