Marlene Ann Gilmore, 86, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025. Born on April 3, 1938, in Ellinwood, KS, Marlene lived a life filled with love, dedication, and devotion to her family, church and community.
Marlene married her first love, Jimmie Dean “Jimmie Mac” Gilmore, on June 30, 1956. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, hard work, and shared passions. In 1973, Marlene and Jimmie started Gilmore’s Roustabout Service in Liberal, KS. Marlene worked tirelessly by her husband’s side, supporting the family business and contributing to its success.
She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found immense joy in nurturing and caring for her family. Marlene was also a wonderful cook whose meals brought loved ones together and created cherished memories around the table. She shared her husband’s love of golf, fishing, and traveling, and they often spent time enjoying these activities side by side.
Marlene is survived by her daughter Tammie (Travis) Katzenmeier; her sons Darin (Linda) Gilmore and Scott (Jennifer) Gilmore; daughters-in-law Ginny Gilmore and Cindy Harper; her brother Lee Petz and sister-in-law Delores Petz; 19 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmie; her three sons, David, Todd, and Randy Gilmore; her parents, Jerome and Josephine Petz; her mother-in-law, Ednetta Crotts; and her brothers, Donald and Keith Petz.
Marlene’s love and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion will continue to inspire her family and friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date to honor her memory and the joy she brought to the lives of so many.
We lovingly remember Marlene, who found great joy and comfort in watching Heart of the Nation Catholic Mass on TV every Sunday. Her faith was a guiding light in her life. In lieu of flowers to the family, please feel free to do a remembrance donation to this church in her name at https://www.heartofthenation.org/donate/donate-online.