Marlene E. Shettel

MARLENE E. SHETTEL age 90, loving mother of Jan Creech (Douglas, deceased), Lawrence Stovicek (Kathleen), Mark Stovicek (Lynne), Eric Stovicek (Vicki Jurist), Neal Stovicek (Gladys) and Bart Stovicek (Nancy); devoted grandmother of 18 and great-grandmother of 6; cherished daughter of the late Weir and Mildred (nee Reisch) Shettel.

Marlene was born on February 9, 1930 and passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 23, 2020. She grew up in Harrisburg PA, graduated from John Harris High School and Chatham College in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Marlene moved to Cleveland in 1952 with her husband Lawrence G. Stovicek. She was a parishioner of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Shaker Heights. Marlene was active in both the education of her children and the ministry of the parish, serving as both member and head of the St. Dominic Women’s Guild, as well as supporter, scout leader and coach to her children and their classmates. Riding with her father in his laundry delivery truck at an early age Marlene developed an appreciation for hard work which she passed on to her children. She worked as a bookkeeper in the E. J. Stovicek Heating and Air Conditioning business until the early 70’s. Marlene then worked at the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law where she served as a Budget Analyst and Financial Aid Administrator for more than 20 years. After retiring from the law school Marlene continued to work as an Accounting Specialist for The Chartwell Group, a commercial real estate firm in Cleveland, where she worked until the age of 81.

Truly, a social activist and advocate for all minorities, Marlene’s sense of equity and fairness was reflected in the example she set for her children. She was a lifetime member of the NAACP and honored for her service and dedication by the CSU Black Law Students Association as well as a recipient of the Helen Garee Humanitarian Award from the CSU Student Bar Association. She was also a member and treasurer of the Women’s Community Foundation.

An artist/athlete, and lover of the arts, Marlene was a ballroom and tap dancer. She enjoyed Big Band music, was an avid reader, and loved doing both crossword and jigsaw puzzles. Marlene was a volunteer usher for the Cleveland Orchestra and a season ticket holder to The Cleveland Playhouse and The Great Lakes Theatre. Halloween was, perhaps, her favorite holiday. Displaying her creative character, she loved to dress up and visit family and friends. Indeed, one of her signature quotes that reflected her flair for fashion was “Every day is a costume party and life is a dance.” Her family was most important to her and she loved being in their company. An outgoing woman who always had a smile on her face, Marlene was known for her charm, independence and sharp wit.

Recently, Marlene was a resident of Symphony at Mentor, memory care facility. She was blessed to be in the care of Northeast Ohio’s finest caregivers whose commitment to Marlene, and her neighbors, preserve the dignity and respect of lives well lived. Marlene’s favorite saying “Count your blessings” serves as a reminder to us all, to appreciate the moment.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Marlene to St. Dominic Catholic Church 19000 Van Aken Blvd, Shaker Heights, OH 44122 or Hospice of the Western Reserve P.O. BOX 72101 Cleveland, Ohio 44192. Cremation by DeJohn Crematory. Mass of Christian Burial Monday, March 2, 2020 at St Dominic Catholic Church at 10AM. Reception to follow. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Marlene at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) SUNDAY 2-5PM.