Esther Marlene (Rumsey) Gardner, known as Marlene to her friends and family, was born on August 21, 1948, in Moberly, Missouri. She passed away at Centerville Specialty Care on May 25, 2026.
Marlene was a humble soul with a talent for writing and art. Her creative spirit was showcased in the poems she penned and the art she created. One of her most notable achievements was having one of her poems published in the Library of Congress, a testament to her talent. She also created various paintings for businesses in Centerville as well as for private individuals.
Marlene was a resilient woman who navigated life’s challenges with determination. She lived in various places, including Moberly, MO, and Phoenix, AZ, before finally settling in Melrose, Iowa. She is survived by her sister Peggy Mistler, of Centerville, IA, nieces Mary Buban, Jeana Green, Sandy Smith, and her nephews Eric Zumwalt and Steve Rumsey, as well as several great nieces and nephews, cousins, and her special friend Bob Wood. She was preceded in death by her father Forest Rumsey, her mother Alberta (Minor) Rumsey, her brothers William (Billy) and Robert (Bobby)Rumsey, and her sisters Lois (Rumsey) Baker and Caroline (Rumsey) Saale.
As per her wish, she was cremated and a private family ceremony will be held at a later date.
