Marlene Helen Hight
August 8, 1949 – September 8, 2024

Marlene Helen Hight was born on August 8, 1949, to Walter G. and Jessie Mae (Smouse) Schumacher in Manning, Iowa. She was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Coon Rapids. Marlene received her education at Coon Rapids High School, graduating with the class of 1967. On September 14, 1968, Marlene married Leroy Hight at the United Methodist Church in Coon Rapids, Iowa. After their wedding, they moved to Schleswig to start their lives together. They were blessed with three daughters: Tracy, Tamara, and Marissa.

Marlene’s passion for music led her to study piano at Buena Vista College in Storm Lake. Her dedication to her work and faith was evident in her many roles at Immanuel Lutheran Church, where she confirmed her faith as an adult and remained a lifelong member. Marlene served as the church secretary and played the organ for nearly 50 years for church services, weddings and funerals, concluding her service on Easter 2024. In addition, she organized Vacation Bible School (VBS), was an active member of the LMWL, and Altar Guild. Her love for music extended beyond the church, as she devoted many years to teaching piano lessons to the youth in Schleswig, assisting in solo contests at the school, and accompanying school programs. She recently joined the Schleswig Library Board to promote her love of reading through various projects.

Marlene’s creativity and interest shone through in various pursuits beyond music, including crocheting, calligraphy, and crafts. She cherished the written word, sharing her humor and wit in newsletters, short anecdotes/journaling, and her Christmas Cards. An avid game player, she particularly enjoyed Scrabble, Mahjong, Cribbage, and card games. Marlene built connections with friends and family through activities such as card club, book club, golfing, and her “Gopher Girls.” She loved making memories for her grandkids and coming up with fun gifts. At home, she found joy in playing her baby grand piano, reading, preparing delicious salads for her family, relaxing in her gazebo with a glass of wine, and taking evening rides around the farm on their side-by-side with Leroy.

Marlene passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones, at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital at the age of 75. Marlene will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her commitment to her church, and her musical talents that touched the lives of many.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Jessie Schumacher; step-mother, Lorene Schumacher; siblings: Janice Pearson, Charlotte Yeager, Thomas Schumacher, and sister-in-law, Patty Lechtenberg. She is survived by her loving husband of over 55 years, Leroy Hight of Schleswig; three daughters: Tracy (Michael) Beeck of Denison, Tamara Chubb of Ankeny and Marissa (Jason) Hatcher of Omaha, Nebraska; six grandchildren: Kirsten (Matthew) Maschmann, Makayla (Phillip) Millar, Keenan Beeck, Payton Chubb, Anthony Hatcher and Ava Hatcher; siblings-in-law: John Pearson, Allan (Bev) Yeager, Jo Schumacher, Violet (Doug) Heckens, Lyle (Madeline) Hight, Judy (Dan) Wilson, Susan (Ron) Schwatken and Ron “Rex” (Catherine) Lechtenberg; several nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services were held 10:30 AM, Thursday, September 12, 2024 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Schleswig, Iowa with Rev. Merle Mahnken officiating. Organist Dylan Teut provided accompaniment for congregational hymns “I Know That My Redeemer Lives,” “Entrust Your Days and Burdens,” “Savior Again to Thy Dear Name We Raise” and “Lift High the Cross.” Serving as pallbearers were Eric Schumacher, Jeff Schumacher, Brett Heckens, Erik Wilson, Travis Hight and Lucas Lechtenberg. Interment was in the Morgan Cemetery with Piper, Joanie Buller playing “Amazing Grace.”  Following burial, the family invited everyone to return to the church for a time of fellowship and lunch. Services were entrusted to the Huebner Funeral Home. 

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