Marles Ann Burrell was reunited with past loved ones unexpectedly on February 2, 2026. Marles was an elementary school teacher for 46 years – over 40 of those at Edison Elementary School in Hammond, IN. She retired in 2001 and was a member of the Retired Teachers Association of Indiana. She was a lifetime learner of many subjects and was a member of the Historical Society of her hometown of Dyer, IN – where she resided for 56 years.

Born in Chicago, IL, she moved to Marion, IL when she was 7 years old and lived there until her 20's. Marles was also a member of an Antique Club and enjoyed sharing her collections – which included Beatrix Potter, Tasha Tudor, Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls among many others. She loved colonial architecture and Folk Art and was herself a very talented artist. She enjoyed traveling and spending time outdoors. She enjoyed gardening and had a beautiful flower garden and a beautifully maintained home that she loved to decorate and took great pride in. She was passionate about books and was an avid reader her whole life and collected children's books.

She loved God and had a strong faith. She had patriotism for her country and felt privileged to live in America. She loved animals big and small and had many beloved pets throughout her life. She had many cherished friends and a remarkable memory for remembering special dates, including birthdays.

Her greatest love in life was her family. She was married to Richard Gerhart Burrell for 31 years before his untimely passing on November 30, 1988. They had four children which were her greatest joy – Timothy Burrell, Brett Burrell, Michael Burrell, and Erin Burrell. Her grandsons included Andrew Burrell and Christopher Burrell. She was preceeded in death by Richard Burrell (husband), Timothy Burrell (son), Margaret Jones (mother), Leslie Jones (father), Barry Jones (brother), Brandie Beasley (niece), and many cherished friends. She is survived by her children Brett, Mike, Erin; daughters-in-law Angie (Brett) and Vicki (Timothy – deceased); grandchildren Drew and Chris; sister Silke Ubel and her children Erik (nephew), Gunner (nephew), and Iris (niece); sister-in-law Sue Robinson and her daughter Karen (niece), sister-in-law Barbara Jones and many extended family members and friends.

Her wish was to have a simple, private, graveside service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Treasured Friends Animal Rescue in Griffith, IN (www.treasuredfriendsrescue.org)