Obituary of Marlene Clara Van Ham

It is with great love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Marlene Van Ham, who died peacefully and surrounded by her loved ones, on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at the age of 72.

Marlene was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered by her husband Bill, her son Michael and his wife Karen, her son David, her sisters Betsie and Eva, her sister-in-law Nancy and her husband Don, her brothers-in-law Mat and John, her many nieces and nephews, as well as her many friends.

Marlene grew up on a farm, the youngest of eight children, in an immigrant family. She learned to work hard and play hard. She worked in the health care industry most of her adult life, retiring as the administrator of a long-term care home.

Marlene was an avid traveller and visited Italy, Scotland, Bermuda, Costa Rica, Cape Cod, and much of Canada. She had a great sense of humour and impressive resilience, always pushing forward even when life got tough. She enjoyed curling, golfing, puzzling, reading, shopping, and trips to the beach. Above all, her favourite days were those spent with family.

A special thank you to the many health care providers that Marlene interacted with over the last year. Thank you to the doctors, nurses, staff, and volunteers at WRHN @ Queen’s Blvd Chest Unit, and WRHN @ Midtown ICU. Thank you to the ParaMed PSWs that helped care for her in home. And thank you to the kind people at Waterloo Wellington Alzheimer Society. You all helped Marlene have a greatly improved quality of life.

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo on Saturday, July 18 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Sandwiches and snack trays will be served. Feel free to dress in casual attire.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family or donations to Marlene’s preferred charity, Domestic Abuse Services Oxford, may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com.