Marlene Shumway
Marlene Shumway passed away at her home on Nov. 27, 2021, with her family by her side at the age of 89.
Marlene (Stephens) Shumway was born in Glendale, Calif., on Jan. 24, 1932. She was the only child of William and Eudora (Sandy) Mae Stephens. At the age of five, Marlene’s parents divorced and she moved to Fresno, Calif., to live with her Grandma Celesta Morris where she resided until 1946. In 1946, as a sophomore in high school, Marlene moved to Wolf Point, Mont., with her mom and stepfather, Bill Sands. She graduated from Wolf Point High School in 1949.
Marlene married the love of her life, Herman Shumway. Together, they raised five children, Johnny, Steve, Dan, Bill and Sheila. Her family was the pride and joy of her life.
Herman and Marlene lived on the family farm for a couple of years after being married. In 1951, they moved to San Diego, Calif., when Herman enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1951. Discharged in 1954, they returned to Wolf Point. Marlene worked for J.C. Penney’s and Citizens Bank for a total of 26 years. Marlene was resilient, raising five children, working six days a week at J.C. Penney’s and still she always had time for Herman and her family. In 1976, Herman and Marlene bought Dad’s Bar. Marlene was bookkeeper, bartender and janitor, a woman of many hats doing what was needed. They also bought a small horse ranch south of Wolf Point on Nickwall Road where they raised paint horses. Herman worked the colts and Marlene sold them for him on the internet. After 27 busy years, they sold Dad’s Bar and retired.
Marlene was a kind and gentle person who loved spending time with family and friends. She was a true lover of books. She loved a mental challenge and was fiercely competitive at cards, games and puzzles.
Together, Marlene and Herman shared a wonderful, adventurous and productive life together for 74 years.
Marlene was diagnosed late in life with Parkinsons. This disease unfortunately took a toll over the years on Marlene’s quality of life and independence.
Marlene is survived by husband, Herman; sons, Johnny, Steve and Bill, all of Wolf Point; daughter, Sheila Woods of Idaho Falls, Idaho; daughters-in-law, Rhonda and Linda; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by parents, William and Eudora (Sandy) Stephens; stepfather, Bill Sands; great-grandmother, Celesta Morris; son, Dany; and sonin- law, Joseph Woods. Cremation has taken place. Graveside services at later date for family and friends.
(Paid Obituary)
