Marlene Yvonne Dalquest

Marlene Yvonne Dalquest was born in rural Wilsey, Kansas to Ora “Shorty” Garr Bullock and Luella Marie Block Bullock. She left this world to be with her Lord and Savior on June 28, 2022, at Diversicare of Council Grove, KS.

Marlene graduated from Wilsey Rural High school in 1953 as Valedictorian of her class. On July 15, 1956, she married Gary Dalquest at the Wilsey Christian Church.

After high school Marlene worked at Farmers and Drovers Bank as a bookkeeper, teller and secretary to the bank president. For 20 years Marlene and Gary owned and operated Dalquest Feed and Grain in Wilsey. During this time, she was also a homemaker and raised her 2 children. Marlene then became the deputy County Treasurer of Morris County, where she assisted the County Treasurer, Donna Muller. She then became a State of Kansas Child Support Collections Officer, until her retirement in 2004 at the age of 69.

After retirement, Marlene enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, mowing her yard and working in her garden. Marlene was always willing to give of her time to the community. She was a lifetime resident of Wilsey. Marlene helped form and served as secretary of the Board of Directors for the first community owned grocery store in Kansas. She was a devout member of the Wilsey Christian Church, where she could often be found in the kitchen serving for Vacation Bible School, funerals, and other church events. She also served on the church board and was treasurer for many years. 

Even though she was never a 4-H member as a child, when her children were involved in 4-H, she became involved.  She became a foods and sewing project leader, as well as a community leader for the Wilsey Busy Bees 4-H Club for 4 years. 

Marlene was a founding member of the Morris County Historical Society as well as a member of the Rebekah Lodge. She was a talented pianist and loved music. Her classmates remember her playing before school and the students gathering around to sing with her. She also enjoyed participating in high school plays and musicals. Her home was always filled with music. Her family could be found gathered around the piano while she played and they all sang.

Marlene is survived by one daughter, Tamara Wainwright and husband Don of St. George, KS. One son, Clay Dalquest and wife Lori of Wilsey, KS. Four grandchildren, Kyle Wainwright and wife Nicole of St. George, KS, Erin Burkhead and husband Michael of Basehor, KS, Carissa and Cassidy Dalquest of Wilsey, KS. Three great-grandchildren, Austin and Adam Wainwright and Bode Burkhead, with 2 more on the way, and a host of relatives and friends. Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Gary, her parents and one brother, Eugene.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 7th at Sawyer Funeral Home, Council Grove from 5 – 6:30 pm and funeral services will be held on Friday, July 8th at 10 am at the Wilsey Christian Church. Burial to follow at Wilsey Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Wilsey Christian Church and sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846. Condolences may be left at www.sawyerchapel.com.