Obituary of Marlene Leone Weston

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Marlene Weston (née Martin), who died peacefully surrounded by her family at Stratford General Hospital on July 10, 2026, after a long and courageous battle at the age of 76.

Marlene was born in London, Ontario, on November 18, 1949, the eldest daughter of the late Joan Martin (née Melville) and the late Arthur Martin. She was a loving sister to the late Barb Kemp (Chuck) and Mike Martin (Donna).

Marlene was a devoted mother to Aaron Weston (Deb Koch), Joe Weston (Tracy), Julie Dittmer (Todd), and Andrea Weston (Chris McMullen). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Decole (Chelsea), Holden (Marlee), Gage (Cody), Braiden (Sam), Shaelyn (Brandon), Jake, Abbie (Billy), Sydney (Ryan), Owen, Paige, and Danny. She was also blessed with many cherished great-grandchildren, whose visits and milestones brought her endless joy. Marlene is lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends, all of whom were fortunate to experience her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support.

She fell in love with and married the love of her life, Bob Weston. Together they built a wonderful life in St. Marys, where they raised their family and created a home filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Bob predeceased her, but their partnership remained a source of inspiration to all who knew them. Marlene also cherished the close relationships she shared with Bob's family. She held a special place in her heart for her late parents-in-law, Bob and Vera Weston, and remained closely connected to their many children and spouses, who became an extension of her own family throughout the years.

For many years, Marlene worked at the St. Marys Public Library, where she combined two of her greatest passions: her love of books and her dedication to her community. She was known for her welcoming spirit, helping hands, and commitment to making St. Marys an even better place to live.

Marlene treasured her many lifelong friendships. Among her closest friends were Madelyne Campbell, Jackie Iredale, and Nancy Skirten, whose companionship brought her immense happiness over the years. She especially looked forward to annual cottage getaways with "the gals," a cherished tradition that spanned over 25 years and created countless treasured memories.

A gifted and passionate crafter, Marlene loved to create. Her love language was sharing handmade gifts with those she cared about. Whether knitting, crocheting, quilting, or scrapbooking, she poured her creativity and affection into every project. Her prolific talent for quilting produced beautiful works that will continue to warm both homes and hearts for generations.

We take comfort in the many meaningful friendships she cultivated, the passion projects she embraced, and the broad community network she developed throughout her life. Her commitment to organizations and endeavors such as the Grand Trunk Railway project, the Knitting Guild, the Quilting Guild, and the Hospital Auxiliary reflected her desire to contribute, connect, and make a difference.

Marlene also loved to travel and embrace new experiences. She loved the beach, a good book, and spending time with the people she loved. Among her favorite trips were the many visits to Connecticut, where she spent cherished time with her daughter's family and created memories that will be treasured forever.

She will be deeply missed for her genuine smile, infectious laughter, unwavering devotion to her family, and fierce loyalty to her friends. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the remarkable example she set through a life defined by kindness, creativity, resilience, and love. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, and the countless lives she touched through her community involvement and caring spirit.

Please join us in celebrating Marlene's remarkable life at the Royal Canadian Legion, 66 Church St. N., St. Marys on Thursday, July 16, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Remarks will be shared at 5:00 p.m., and anyone wishing to share a favorite memory or say a few words is warmly welcome to do so.

Those wishing to honour Marlene's memory are encouraged to support the St. Marys community she loved so dearly. Consider contributing to organizations such as the St. Marys Public Library, the local food pantry, or other community initiatives that help enrich the lives of others. Just as importantly, take time to check in on a neighbour, lend a helping hand, or perform a simple act of kindness. Marlene believed deeply in community, connection, and caring for others. The family can think of no better tribute than continuing the spirit of generosity, compassion, and friendship that she shared so freely throughout her life.

"A life woven with kindness leaves warmth that time cannot unravel."