Marlene Mae Rennerfeldt, age 91, passed away at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana, on June 23, 2025, with a loving family member by her side.
Born on May 6, 1934, to Axel and Ruth Carlson in Oakland, Nebraska, Marlene grew up on the family farm where she fondly remembered her beloved pet cow, Betsy. She shared her childhood with her siblings—Glenn, Rojane, and Sharon—and carried a deep love of family throughout her life.
In 1953, Marlene married her high school sweetheart, Dallas Rennerfeldt, in Oakland. Together they built a beautiful life, raising three sons—Wayne, Mark, and Kirby. The family later moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where Marlene worked at a Catholic hospital from 1960 to 1965. They eventually made Helena, Montana their home, where Marlene worked as a data processor at St. Peter’s Hospital for over three decades, retiring at the age of 65.
Marlene was known for her vibrant spirit, her witty sense of humor, and her open heart. She loved quilting, fishing, camping, and, above all, spending time with family. Her door was always open for company and a good cup of coffee. She found immense joy in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dallas; her parents and siblings; and her son, Wayne.
She is survived by her sons Mark (Marsha) Rennerfeldt of Helena and Kirby (Terri) Rennerfeldt of Lake City, MN; grandchildren Angie Brown of Kalispell, Jennifer (Mike) Lowry of Helena, Deena (Raven) Reddy of Wellesley, MA, Brandi (Brandon) Dearing of East Helena, Jack Rennerfeldt and Adam Rennerfeldt of Lake City, MN, and David Rennerfeldt of East Helena. She also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren: Trevor Brown, Jessica Lowry, Kristin Albertson, Cody Brown, Morgan (Oliver) Sprekelmeyer, Kayla Brown, Colton Rennerfeldt, Emily Dearing, Sara Dearing, and Violet Reddy.
A service honoring Marlene’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59602.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice or online to the American Legion Post 46 in Oakland, Nebraska, in Marlene’s memory.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
10:00am
Tuesday July 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
10:00am
Tuesday July 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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George Lane says
Marlene was a great lady; I met her many years ago when I started working at the Independent Record. Her husband Dallas worked downstairs and I upstairs, as a photographer. She was a lovely person.
Jeanne Delaney says
Aunt Marlene was a favorite, she had the best sense of humor and always welcomed the Nebraska bunch with open arms. Deepest Condolences to Mark, Kirby, and all the Grandkids and great-grandkids.
Rhonda Strainer Robertson says
Kirby and Family,
So sorry you’ve lost your sweet Mom. A very nice tribute for a life well lived. May all the wonderful memories you hold close within your heart help to ease your grief and bring joy when you least expect it.
Memories never fade, families are forever.
My sincerest sympathy 🙏
Rhonda Strainer Robertson
Dave Van Nice says
Condolences to the Rennerfeldt family. I worked for many years with Marlene at St. Pete’s and she was always fun to be around, with her great sense of humor. She was a special lady and will be missed by everyone whose life she touched.
Kathleen Broussard says
Jen and family
We are so very sorry about your grandma. May she rest in peace. You took such great care of her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Keith, Kathleen and Kory Broussard
Sharon Heigh says
Mark and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Sharon Baker Heigh and Family