MENOMONEE FALLS- (nee Cleary) Born to Eternal Life Saturday, February 10, 2024.  Age 86.  Beloved wife for 65 years of Jim Gauger.  Dear mother of Karen Carpenter, Kristie (Joel) Jorgenson and Jeff (Kathi) Gauger. Loving grandmother of Chris (BilliJo) Carpenter, Marcus (Rebecca) Carpenter, Liz Carpenter and Katie (Bill) Holland; Jack (Valerie) Jorgenson, David (Kristen) Jorgenson and Jenna Jorgenson; Ashley (Matt) Erickson, Mollie (Adam) Borucki and Gracie Gauger; and great-grandchildren, Anna, Lauren, Harrison, Xavier, Faith, Sienna, Micah and  Lucy. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by her sisters, Faith Hempel and Janet Orlando; and her son-in-law, Jeff Carpenter.

Visitation Saturday, February 17, 2024, from 11:00am until Time of Service at 12:30pm with a Reception to follow at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, W196 N9525 Cross View Way, Menomonee Falls.  Rev. Joel Howard officiating. Private interment Wisconsin Memorial Park, Brookfield. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Grace Ev. Lutheran Church appreciated.

Marlene Cleary, born on October 26, 1937, grew up in Milwaukee, where she graduated from Riverside High School and later married Jim Gauger on May 24, 1958. After raising their children, Karen, Kristie and Jeff, Marlene devoted herself to serving as the secretary for Abiding Savior Lutheran Church for many fulfilling years. Beyond her dedication to her family and work, Marlene found joy in various hobbies including bowling, exploring new destinations, playing the accordion, and singing. Her deep faith was evident in every aspect of her life, and she shared her warmth and laughter with a wide circle of friends. For the past four years, Marlene resided happily with Jim at Grace Commons, surrounded by compassionate care from the Grace Commons staff. She touched the hearts of everyone she encountered leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will be cherished forever.