Passed away peacefully at the Sault Area Hospital on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the age of 79.
Beloved wife of Danny Lacasse for more than 60 years. Loving mother of Danielle, Michael (Tammy), Monique (Mike), and Suzanne (Shane). Proud grandmother of Kailene (Thomas), Devon (Kate), Jesse (Melissa), Erin (Tyler), Brett (Shannon), Bonnie, and Jessica (Matt), and proud great-grandmother of seven. Dear sister of the late Dolores Armstrong (late Raymond), the late Margaret Flaglor (late Bill), the late Harry Fong (late Yvonne), and the late Glenora Mann (late Dwight). Marlene was born in Little Current, Ontario, to the late Harry Fong and the late Mary Fong (née Migwans). She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews and close friends.
Marlene grew up in Whitefish Falls and Espanola and later met the love of her life in Wawa, where she planted roots and began her family. More than 60 years later, her love, devotion, and memories remain an enduring part of her family’s story. Marlene was a kind and gentle soul who welcomed everyone with open arms and treated them like family. Selfless and generous, she was always ready to give, even when she had little to spare. She was the heartbeat of her family, admired for her quiet strength and unconditional love. Her beautiful smile lit up every room, leaving memories her loved ones will carry always. Her face would light up whenever family came through the door. She made everyone feel welcome, often insisting they eat even when they were not hungry, and she filled her home with the warmth of the best home-cooked meals. Her culinary gifts were legendary; she could make even the simplest meal taste unforgettable.
A proud Grandmother, Marlene had a special gift for making each grandchild feel like her proudest achievement. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate their work, school, sports, and accomplishments, and she wanted everyone else to know about them too. Phone calls with her were never short; she never wanted to be the first to say goodbye, holding on just a little longer because she loved so deeply. Even in her final days, Marlene showed that same love, holding on a little longer for the people she cherished. Mom, Grandma, Nokomis, and Great-Grandma, your guiding light and unconditional love will be missed more than words can say. Thank you for the beautiful memories.
Friends may visit at the Kerry Funeral Home, (140 Churchill Avenue, Wawa, 705-856-7340, www.kerryfuneralhome.ca) on Friday, August 21, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. A funeral mass will then take place at St. Monica’s Church at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Paul Conway officiating. Interment will follow at Woodland Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the Royal Canadian Legion by the Legion Ladies at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome.
For those that are not able to attend the service in person, you may join the live-stream by registering and following the link: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=db895765-59d3-41e1-974e-06492973aee4end
Memorial donations made to the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie, Algoma District or to the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
The family extends a very special thank you to Dr. Landry and the Critical Care team and ICU nurses at the Sault Area Hospital. Your exceptional dedication, kindness and expert care did not go unnoticed. We are truly grateful.
- LACASSE, Marlene ‘Martha’ - August 18, 2026
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- CECILE, Merle - August 14, 2026
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