Mary Marlene Funk, age 86, passed away on July 15, 2026, at Salina Regional Hospital in Salina, Kansas.

Marlene was born on January 25, 1940, in Hays, Kansas, to Paul Levi and Ursula "Tot" (McGaughey) Wilson.

On October 3, 1959, she married the love of her life, Robert Keith "Jigger" Funk, in McCracken, Kansas. Together they built a loving home in WaKeeney, where they raised their three daughters and shared a lifetime of family, faith, and service.

After graduating from beauty school, Marlene devoted herself to her family, embracing her role as a wife and mother with unwavering love and dedication. Yet her caring spirit reached far beyond her home. She believed deeply in serving others and generously gave her time and talents to her church and community throughout her life.

A faithful member of the United Methodist Church in both WaKeeney and McCracken, Marlene taught Bible classes and Sunday School, helping to nurture the faith of countless children and families. She was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 64 years, as well as the Red Hat Society, PEO, Joint Efforts Club, and Frieda's Alley Rats. Her commitment to her community was evident through her many volunteer efforts. She served for three years as chair of both the Trego County Fair Parade and the WaKeeney Halloween Parade, was a dedicated Girl Scout leader, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and lent a helping hand to many other community organizations whenever she was needed.

Marlene is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Anita Butler and husband Jeff of McCracken, Shari Funk of WaKeeney, and Kelly Weber and husband Mike of Ness City; her grandchildren, Ursula Pohlman (Nate), Spencer White (Whitney), Levi White (Rachel), and Mason Coats (Dakota); her great-grandchildren, Rowan White, Kailynn and Layton White, and Blakely Coats; her twin sister, Anna Arlene Gilbert of McCracken; and her sister-in-law, Verlene Braden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Ursula "Tot" Wilson; her beloved husband, Bob Funk; her brother, Jack Wilson; and her brother-in-law, Babe Gilbert.

A memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church in WaKeeney on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Jim Satran and Rev. Bob Clemens officiating. Burial of Marlene's cremated remains will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the McCracken Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or the United Methodist Church in WaKeeney.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with the family by signing the guest book at www.schmittfuneral.com.