Marlene R. (Hill) Beckley

Marlene Renee Beckley 1947-2026

Marlene Renee Beckley, precious mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, of Fort Dodge, Iowa, peacefully passed away on June 16, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Marlene was born in Fort Dodge, on March 12, 1947, to Gaylord and Marjorie Hill. The family lived in Eagle Grove where Marlene attended and graduated from high school. She met her husband, Curtis (Curt), in Fort Dodge, and they were married in March of 1966.

Marlene was a devoted mom to Lisa (Shane) Blair, Laura Mure, Michelle (Todd) Prehm, and Randy (Cheri) Beckley.  Being a mom was her favorite job, and she especially enjoyed cooking and baking for her family, decorating her house for holidays, and watching her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids at their sporting events and activities. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they loved her beyond measure as well. In addition, Marlene was an avid sports fan and loved cheering on her beloved Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and more recently, Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever.

Marlene spent most of her working years taking care of others in the health care field. She was exceptional at her job primarily due to her love and compassion for others. When she wasn’t working or being the best stay at home mom, Marlene was working her magic in the kitchen. Her sweet Norwegian aunts, along with her mom and dad, taught Marlene the skills and tricks of making the very best Kringla, potato cakes, Lefse, and her favorite, Kumla.

Marlene had many lifelong friends, and Curt and Marlene were blessed with friendships from Curt’s many years at the railroad. Additionally, they had countless fond memories of times with their camping buddies and times with relatives throughout the country.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Gaylord and Marjorie Hill, her husband, Curt Beckley, and her brother, Gary Hill. She is survived by her four children, fourteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, as well as her brother’s family and her life-long girlfriends. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Odie, her best buddy over the last three years.

There will be a celebration of life for both Marlene and Curt on Saturday, August 8th at the Donna Jean Monkelien Pavillion at Oleson Park from 2-5pm. In lieu of flowers or plants, please consider donating to the following local Fort Dodge organization:

                *Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa           www.Almosthomeiowa.com

Marlene was passionate about spreading kindness and generosity. The family feels that donations given in support of bettering the local community is something that would honor her legacy.