M. Marlene Harper

Marlene Harper, 92, formerly of New Hartford, passed away at Thuesen Cottage at Western Home Communities on Saturday, April 13, 2024. She was born March 4, 1932, in Hardin Township, daughter of George "Ward" and Neva Genevieve (Brock) Bailey.  Marlene graduated from Iowa Falls High School, then married her high school sweetheart, Robert Harper on January 13, 1951, at Grace Methodist Church in Des Moines.  In addition to working alongside Bob on their farm, she worked as a Teacher's Associate in the New Hartford Schools for 34 years, retiring in 2001.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; parents-in-law, Lyle and Clara Harper; her husband of 55 years, Bob; daughter, Kristi Gibbs; sister, Amy Smith; and sister-in-law, Joan Beall.  She is survived by her children:  Michael (Barb) Harper of New Hartford, Jack (Karolyn) Harper of West Des Moines and Karen (Jerry) Nielsen of Dike; 7 grandchildren: Amy Warnke, Matt Harper, Kandice Harper (Kyle Poorman), Chad Harper, Daniel Nielsen, Nick Nielsen, and Katie Nielsen; 4 great-grandchildren: Adam, Ruby, Gretta and Neva; and beloved nephews.

Marlene's Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at St. Timothys United Methodist Church with Visitation the evening prior from 5-7:00 pm at Dahl-Van Hove-Schoof Funeral Home both of Cedar Falls.  Burial will follow at Fairfield Township Cemetery of New Hartford.  Memorials may be directed to the Family for future designation.

Marlene enjoyed sports and was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State Cyclones.  She had an adventurous spirit and travelled with her children to Florida as recently as September.  Marlene really liked being outdoors, especially mowing on her John Deere tractor.  She cherished gatherings with family and friends whether playing games and cards or hosting holiday get togethers.  She was a great listener who was easy to talk with and took an actual interest in what you had to say.  Marlene attended all of her grandkid's activities and loved all time spent with her family.