Marlene Phyllis Klaprodt (nee Hielema), age 87, long-time resident of Lansing, Illinois, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Thursday, July 28th, in Sandwich, IL. She is survived by her daughter Bonnie Legge; her sister Donna (late Douglas) Slager; her stepson Ronald (Marsha) Lombard; and her son-in-law Roy (late Dawn) Ford. She is also survived by numerous precious grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Marlene was preceded in death by her first husband, Warren Swets; her second husband Frederick Klaprodt; her parents, Jacob and Martena (nee Eriks) Hielema; her sister Becky (late Bob) Trump; her brother Jacob (late Addie) Hielema; her daughter Dawn (Roy) Ford; her son Warren Swets; her brother-in-law Douglas (Donna) Slager; and her sister-in-law Eunice (late Charles) Bragg. Marlene was a selfless and hardworking woman who brightened every life that she touched. Early in life, Marlene earned the nickname "Moose" for her work ethic and physical strength, which was overshadowed only by the strength of her spirit and love for those around her. That strength, along with her faith, saw her through many hardships and losses, and helped her maintain a positivity and hopefulness that few could match. Marlene loved to be outdoors, whether she was working in her garden, on one of many fishing trips, or spending quality time with family and friends around the picnic table. Her joy was contagious, and she shared it freely, just as she did her kindness and support; always there to listen and help, a steadfast cornerstone for a wide circle of family and friends who will all dearly miss an irreplaceably amazing woman.

A celebration of Marlene's loving and vibrant life will be held on Sunday, August 21st, 2022, at Schroeder-Lauer Funeral Home, 3227 Ridge Road, Lansing, Illinois. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 to 3:00 PM with a service to follow at 3pm.