Obituary of Marlene Gail Wiley

Marlene WILEY (Honsberger, Cherrie)

The world lost a compassionate and kind human with the passing of Marlene Gail Wiley, 61, on June 6 from cancer. We want to believe that Marlene’s next journey has taken her to an endless beach and sunshine, with Procol Harum’s “Whiter Shade of Pale” playing in the background.

Marlene leaves behind her beloved husband Tom Wiley, grieving children Scott Cherrie, Colin Cherrie (Natasha), Loring Wiley (Kaity), Phaedra Wiley (Don), her niece Erin Honsberger, and her nephew Daniel Honsberger. 

She was predeceased by her son Adam Cherrie earlier this year, first husband Ian Cherrie, parents Melvin and Jean Honsberger, and brother Craig.

The family especially wishes to thank nurse Jeffrey in the palliative unit at the St. Catharines hospital and paramedic Jeanine M. for their kindness during Marlene’s last days.

Marlene worked at Meridian Credit Union in the ‘80s, then pivoted to a 34-year career in nursing. Upon graduation from nursing school, she worked briefly for VON, and then divided her time between West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby and Greater Niagara General Hospital in Niagara Falls. Her former colleagues remember her as a dedicated nurse who was respected for her grace, compassion, kindness and dry sense of humour. Marlene officially retired from Niagara Health System last summer and took on the role of matriarch on the family farm, End of the Road Vineyards, in Jordan.

Marlene lived for her kids, and in the early years was a hockey mom who became familiar with Ontario’s arenas. She also loved animals, especially kitties, donkeys and llamas (not so much horses), and was always surrounded by appreciative dogs and cats at home.

She will be deeply missed by her “besties” – Dawn Honsberger, Toni Watson, Josie Jansen, Pat Elliott, Brenda Edonel-Jenkins and JoAnne Critelli  – who enriched her life with adventures, fun and laughter, and who supported each other through life’s ups and downs.

When people think of Marlene, they often comment on her enviable collection of purses, shoes and jewelry. Marlene and friend Syndee Reeds, also a holiday beach-walking companion, had black belts in shopping, and were able discover the best deals. Marlene always made sure she had lipstick on hand. A stack of home decorating magazines and the frequent rearranging of furniture spoke to her love of interior decor. Her giggle and her cooking (Caesar salad gets a special mention) will also be missed. She was a good listener, and if something was said to her in confidence, it stayed with her.

If you couldn’t remember a date, Marlene was the go-to person. Friends and family call her a walking calendar with an ability to recall dates of birthdays, deaths, anniversaries and other events, including important dates in the lives of the critters.

Marlene also loved a good party – she couldn’t handle her booze but that didn’t stop her from trying – and in that spirit, a party will be held in the future to honour Marlene’s life, and to share cherished memories and hugs. A private family service will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery in Jordan Station, date undecided.

If you wish, please consider making a donation in Marlene’s memory to the Salvation Army, StreetWorks, or a charity of your choice.