Obituary of Marlene Anne Vermeulen

Marlene, passed away peacefully with family and friends by her side. She was born and raised in Portage La Prairie and then later the family settled in Winnipeg where mother Gladys Coates, sister Cindy (Rob) and brother Bob still reside. Marlene later moved from Winnipeg to Regina where she lived for over 40 years. She was a predeceased by her father Orville Coates and her brother Brian Coates (Karen, Leduc, AB). Her greatest tragedy was the loss of her son Corporal Jamie Vermeulen, Canadian Defense, in 2003. Her heart was broken. The love of her two special dogs Keesha and Chinook brought such comfort and were true companions for her over the years. Beautiful, strong, kind, loving, sincere, thoughtful and caring are a few words her granddaughter Jacey used to describe her Grandma, affectionately known to them as ‘Grandma Bear’. She spent many years looking after both Jacey and her brother Kieran when they were young. Her fondest memories are the fun times they shared together. She is survived by two other grandchildren Kennedy and Aiden Vermeulen-Jackson, whom she also loved dearly but didn’t get a chance to see as often. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy and brought so much love into her life. Marlene was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and fought her battle with grace, dignity and determination, never losing sight of who she was and her purpose in life. A special thank you to the Pasqua Hospital 4th floor staff and to Grace Hospice for the loving care they provided in her final days. At Marlene’s request, a private family service will take place at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to Regina Wascana Grace Hospice, 2925 Reilly Ave, S4R 8P6.