Marlene Stenach Obituary

Marlene Mae Stenach, born on Jan. 12, 1962, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, passed away on Jan. 8, 2025, at home in Pleasant Valley, Alaska.

After graduating from Grand Rapids High School in 1980, she pursued her passion for helping others by completing Certified Nursing Assistant training at Itasca Community College. Marlene began her career at Itasca Memorial Hospital, as both a CNA and a custodian. In 1995, she and her family relocated to the Fairbanks area of Alaska, where she continued to help others through roles in customer service and as a home health aide. Alongside her husband, Marlene also operated Tacks' General Store, The Greenhouse Cafe, five greenhouses and a contract post office. Tragically, the family lost these ventures to a fire just after a year of operation.

A rugged outdoorswoman at heart, Marlene found joy in camping, hunting, fishing and gardening. She also cherished cooking, reading, playing games, spoiling her "grandfurs," and above all, doting on her beloved grandson.

Marlene is survived by her husband of 40 years, Richard Stenach; children, Lisa Stenach, Scott Stenach, Sarah (Rodney) Nonamaker; grandson, Ryan Nonamaker; brother, David Merchant; step-siblings, Gayle (Tim) Swenson, Kathleen (Scott Lewis) Bunes, and Curtis Johnson; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Edna; siblings, Susan and Robert; and step-mother, Lois.

Following her wishes, Marlene was cremated, with family memorials to be held at a later date.