Marlene E. Cripe, 86, of Eau Claire, WI, went to be with her Lord and Savior on July 20, 2025. She passed away at Barron Hospital in Barron, WI.
Marlene was born in Eau Claire, WI on October 13, 1938 to parents Duane and Ethel (Hamilton) Cripe. After graduating from high school, Marlene attended Northwestern Bible College in Minneapolis, MN and then transferred to UW – Eau Claire where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She taught 2nd Grade in Racine, WI for 3 years. In 1968, Marlene began teaching in Fall Creek where she taught 1st grade for 30 years.
Marlene was awarded seven Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, which were nominated by her students. She loved her students and heard from many of them throughout the years.
Marlene was a Charter Member of Calvary Church and was very involved at the church for many years. She was called church Grandma.
Marlene is survived by foster brother Ron (Sue) Hanson, nieces Julie Hanson (David), Jenny Hanson, nephew Terrance Hanson, special cousin Carol (Ryder) Landgren and other cousins. She will be missed by family and many friends.
Marlene was proceeded in death by her parents, nephew, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Funeral services are pending.
The family wants to thank the staff at Care Partners where she resided for the last 8½ years.
Memorials in honor of Marlene can be made to Calvary Church.
Celebration of Life Service for Marlene will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church, 3036 Epiphany Lane, Eau Claire, WI at 11 am. Pastor John Van Gorkom will officiate. Visitation will be at the church at 10:00 am until the time of service. Committal service will take place immediately following the funeral at Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire.
To share your memories and condolences, please visit online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.
Hulke Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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