Marlene Diane Thiel Rutter

Marlene Diane Thiel Rutter passed away Friday, May 4th, in the care of her daughters and grandchildren.

Marlene was born May 31, 1935 in Ritzville, Washington to Lawrence and Pauline Thiel. Marlene grew up, with her brother Lamar, on the family wheat farm, loved and surrounded by aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was baptized and confirmed at the Philadelphia Congregational Church. After high school graduation, Marlene attended Eastern Washington State College where she met, and married, Carl E. Ruud.

When Carl did his military service, he and Marlene lived in Landstuhl, Germany. They camped their way across Europe and loved every minute of it.

They settled in Cashmere, near Wenatchee, Washington, surrounded by orchards. She made great applesauce with “red hots”, and canned local peaches, pears and cherries.

They had three daughters together, Lisa, Tana and Lonna. Marlene’s parents taught her, and she taught her daughters, that they can build, make or repair anything. She could craft, sew, knit and decorate her houses, all beautifully on a budget.

Marlene loved holidays and made sure to have a celebration for each one. She welcomed extended family and step-children into her home as family, bringing everyone together.

When her daughters were older she worked in hospitals, doctor’s offices and was working in fine jewelry for Macy’s when she retired.

In 1996, Marlene met, and then married, Dale Rutter on June 7, 1997. They spent the next 20 years together in Meridian, Idaho.

They enjoyed golfing and traveling and both enjoyed many happy winters with their great friends at ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort in Mesa, Arizona.

Marlene is survived by her brother Lamar Thiel, sister-in-law Karen, her daughters Lisa (Don) Thompson, Tana Ruud and Lonna (Nick) Welch, her five grandchildren, James, Emma, Makenzie, Makayla and Claire, and her niece and nephew, Brad and Nichole Thiel.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Dale. We are grateful for the warmth, safety and great work of the caregivers with Touchmark at Meadow Lake Village and Keystone Hospice.

A Graveside Service is scheduled for Thursday, May 10th, 2:00 p.m. at the Danekas Funeral Home.