Marlene M. (Haehlke) Schlag, 76, Merrill, was called by her Lord to be with Him on Sat., July 8, 2023, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital after a short battle with cancer. Marlene was born on April 3, 1947, to the late Edwin and Florence (Fiedler) Haehlke. On Sept. 7, 1968, she married Robert Schlag. He preceded her in death on Oct. 30, 2020. Together they had one son, Dean Schlag, who survives. Marlene graduated from Athens High School in 1965 and went on to pursue a career at Wausau Insurance Co. (now Liberty Mutual) where she worked as a technical editor for more than 40 years. She was an avid Green Bay Packer and Milwaukee Brewer fan along with Bob, enjoying group trips to the respective games. Her other favorite pastimes included traveling; she and Bob went to Europe and Ireland and took their 5th wheel across the United States. Marlene also bowled in several leagues, including the Friday Night Shoppers couples’ league in Merrill alongside her dear friends Roger and Darlene Bade for almost 50 years. Both Marlene and Bob thoroughly enjoyed attending country music fests as well, especially Hodag in Rhinelander. Marlene loved being in the company of her dogs and cats and enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and neighbors. It was always a joy to be around Marlene. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her son, Dean Schlag; a sister, Arlyn Heise; and sister-in-law, Karen Lenzner; and very special nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Besides her husband, Marlene was preceded in death by her brother, Eldred (Nancy) Haehlke; brother-in-law, Eldorn Heise; and a half-brother, DuWayne Brandt.

Special thanks go out to Linnus and Cyndy Schlag for the care they gave Marlene in her last couple of weeks. A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Faith Lutheran Church, 15425 South County Rd K, Merrill, WI. The Rev. Donald Love will officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church. Online condolences and words of remembrance can be given at www.helke.com.