Marlene J. Emerich, 86, of Palm Bay, Florida passed away at William Childs Hospice House on January 27, 2026. Marlene was born in Wenona, Illinois on October 29,1939 to Leola and Walter Volker. She graduated from Wenona High School and Concordia Teacher's College, River Forest, Illinois.

Marlene married her husband, Jack, on July 29, 1961, and together they had three sons, Kirk, Scott and Joel. Through the years, Marlene worked as a teacher, church organist, secretary and librarian. In her spare time, she enjoyed cooking, square dancing, singing in the church choir, scrapbooking and playing cards.

Those Marlene leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband Jack; sons Kirk (Sharon), Scott (the late Lora) and Joel; grandchildren Alex and Alicia Emerich; and sister-in-law Judythe Hass.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Marlene was predeceased by her parents, Leola and Walter Volker, her sister Mary Ann and an infant son.

Memorial services will be held at Advent Lutheran Church, Melbourne, Florida on February 11, 2026 at 11 AM.

Memorial donations may be made in Marlene's name to the American Cancer Society and Advent Lutheran Church Food Pantry.