Obituary for Marlene J. McLane

Marlene J. McLane passed peacefully from her earthly life on Saturday, May 31, 2025. She lived enthusiastically and courageously until her final days, and those who knew her will remember her boundless spirit. 

Marlene was born April 2, 1945, to Marvin and Bernette Nuehring. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Guttenberg, graduating in 1964. Her Catholic education and devotion carried her through life – from her wedding to Ronald McLane in 1964 to the baptisms of their two children, Rodney and Michael, and on through her many years as a leader in the St. Mary’s Choir and in the parish as a volunteer crafter, festival organizer, and school archivist.  

Ronnie and Marlene raised their sons on Acre Street, right on the Nuehring farm, next to her parents and her brother Ronnie, his wife and their sons. Marlene’s career in the home was one of commitment, love and patience: She raised her children, and then she raised lots more. She provided in-home care for more than a dozen families, whose kids were fed, washed, changed and nurtured. 

She was infinitely proud of her sons, and she was charmed by her grandchildren – always on the lookout for a game they’d like and delighting in their accomplishments. She had a great love for her little dogs, Boomer, Riley, and Chester. Marlene was creative and crafty, and for many years she had a workshop in her basement where she made Christmas ornaments and home décor. One of her greatest passions was music, whether listening to others perform or singing herself. A fond memory from childhood was harmonizing with her sisters and mother while cleaning up after dinner.

For many years, Marlene and Ronnie helped their son, Rod, run the Stadium Bar and Grill. She became known for her wonderful pies and decorations, but it was her quick wit and her sharp tongue that endeared her to their customers. For as much as she was as sweet as her pie, she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. 

Marlene’s friendships and her faith were strong. She was resilient through countless rounds of cancer treatment, enduring the rollercoaster of chronic illness through positivity, prayer and lots of good books.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ronnie, her two sons, Mike (Christa) McLane of Dyersville, and Rod McLane of Guttenberg; her grandchildren, Margaret (Karl) Kujak, Megan (Jake) Winandy, and Grant McLane; her sisters, Judy (Bill) Brandel of Garnavillo, Bonnie Clinton, and Mary Moser of Guttenberg, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marv and Sis Nuehring, and siblings, Geraldine Ameral, Lois and Claire Moser, and Ronnie and Judy Nuehring; and in-laws Jerome, Frances McLane and Lorna Jean Wright.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 7th, 2025, at St Mary's Church in Guttenberg, Iowa, from 8:30 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral mass from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. A meal will be served downstairs at the church following the service from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

Memorials can be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Guttenberg.