Marlene J. Schmalbeck, age 89, of Albany, formerly of Monticello, died on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at SSM Monroe Hospice Home. Marlene was born on September 6, 1934 in Chicago, the only child and daughter of truly kind and beloved parents, Paul and Margaret (Hein) Cosman. Marlene graduated from Arlington Heights, IL High School in 1953 and was united in marriage to Graves D. "Buckets" Schmalbeck on October 3, 1953 in Itaska, IL. The two then raised a trio of amazing women largely in Rolling Meadows, IL. During these years she studied a number of different subjects at Harper College in Palatine, IL and worked in several jobs, the longest period was spent as the Purchasing Manager at the Lansing Restaurant in Schaumburg, IL. In 1989, upon moving permanently to the Green County, WI area, Marlene spent time as a reporter and columnist with the New Glarus Post Messenger. Her weekly column was titled "On the Streets of Monticello".  She was also a founding member of the Monticello Historical Society, leading efforts that helped in the opening of the Monticello Area Historical Museum located in the old Woeffler Drug Store building on the main street of Monticello and in the erecting of the historical marker on Highway 69 commemorating Nickolaus Gerber and Green County's early and continued historical role in Cheese production, especially Limburger Cheese, in the US which has continued to this day. Marlene was also a woman of deep faith who was an active member of Zwingli United Church of Christ in Monticello. As well she was a loving grandmother and doting great grandmother, and a good friend to many. Further, she was active with the Monticello Homemakers and the Green County Genealogical Society. The latter of which sparked a passion that led her to catalog the family's ancestry. Marlene's life and legacy with its impact will proceed from this day for many generations forward.

Marlene is survived by two daughters, Rebecca (Robert) Browning of Arkansas, Hanna Schmalbeck of South Carolina; the three triplet grandchildren, Donald (Christen) Reese, Sara Reese, and Jacqueline Reese; three beloved great grandchildren, Colt, Judson, and Katie; and a sister-in-law, Annie Schmalbeck. Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Graves, on October 31, 2021; daughter, Pamela; and an infant son, Hans.

Private services will be held in Hillcrest Cemetery, Albany. Memorials may be given in Marlene's name to Zwingli United Church of Christ or the Green County Genealogical Society. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.newcomerfuneralhome.net