MARLENE JANE LAUTT
1939 — 2021
Marlene Jane Lautt, 81, our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away suddenly on March 19, 2021. We are heartbroken but have peace in the confidence that she is in the presence of God, whom she walked with closely throughout her life. Her relationship with Jesus was evident in how she lived, and we look forward to the future together with all who have a relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
She was born Marlene Jane Bartel on April 14, 1939 in Cordell, OK. She attended Tabor College in Hillsboro, KS where she met Robert Lautt. In 1959 they married and in 1960 moved to Fresno, CA, where both daughters were born. In 1973 the family moved to Lodi when Robert was promoted to manager of McMahan’s Furniture. At Vinewood Community Church (Mennonite Brethren) Marlene found a place in the choir with her high soprano voice that sounded like an angel. Music was integral to her life as she sang in small groups and church choirs, and played piano, organ, and vibraharp. She was also known for her radiant smile, generous hospitality, and marvelous cooking and baking.
Marlene worked as bookkeeper at Walters Carpet, and as office manager at both Sak’s TV and Home Furnishings and Yourspace Home Furnishings, retiring in 2011. In 2020 she was diagnosed with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), a rare dermatological condition leading to lower leg ulcers. She was so excited that with a proper diagnosis and treatment her wounds were almost healed. In January, after successful hip surgery, she contracted COVID19. On March 19th she suddenly passed away from a COVID-related pulmonary embolism.
Marlene is preceded in death by her sister, Lilly Ann; and parents, Henry H. & Bertha Bartel. She is survived by her dear husband, Robert; their daughters (and sons-inlaw), Rhonda Dueck (Kevin Dueck) of Fresno and Candace Lautt (Philip Stoltzfus) of Northfield, MN; and grandchildren, Justin, David, Adam, and Grace Dueck.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, April 9 at 10am at Vinewood Community Church, 1900 W. Vine St., Lodi. Masks required.
For information about an online sharing gathering Friday 4 p.m., email rhondadueck@gmail.com.
Remembrance contributions may be sent to fpu.edu/togetherwebuild for the Fresno Pacific University’s Warkentine Culture and Arts Center or to mcc.org for Mennonite Central Committee for relief, development, and peace in the name of Christ.
Please sign the guest book at lodinews.com/ guestbook.