Marlene Donahue

marlene donahue

January 21, 1935 ~ October 22, 2022

Born in: Waterloo, IA
Resided in: Hamden, CT

Marlene Sweeney Brask Donahue, a longtime resident of Spring Glen, Hamden, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2022. Marlene was born on January 21, 1935, the only child of Pauline and Glenn Sweeney in Waterloo, Iowa. Marlene is predeceased by her first husband Thomas Brask, and second husband John Donahue. She is survived by her four children: Lisa (John), Mindy (Rich), Max (Matthew), and Jason, four grandchildren: Matt, Jenna, Sarah, and Reilly, and three stepchildren: Mary, Liz, and Peter (Christy).
Marlene was a successful entrepreneur, launching Accuspeed Typing and Transcribing in the late 1970s. With the help of her trusted and talented colleague, Mary Schnabel, they were able to create book and medical transcriptions in addition to well written resumes and much more for over 35 years. She loved her work and was a master of the English language. There was not a word in the dictionary she could not spell. She always had a crossword puzzle going on the counter and would play Scrabble whenever possible. She wrote the most beautiful notes to her family and friends. Her handwriting and the words were both so lovely. Marlene was a woman with strong ties to her church. She attended Mass at Saint Rita’s daily, sang in the choir and occasionally played the organ at services. She was a huge fan of the Longwharf Theater and NYC.
Known for her sense of occasion and style, and as a writer, she created delightful poems and verses, which she thoughtfully presented to family and friends. Marlene loved to entertain. She was happiest when she was with what she lovingly called “The Village,” Susan Welsh, the Dahills, Dalys, Emsweilers, Georges, Wickweirs, Armstrongs and Waldrons. Special thanks to her nextdoor neighbors Mickey and Eileen. Also, thank you to the wonderful people at Artis in Branford, where she spent her last years. Marlene/Mom/Marna was the center of our family. She was treasured, will be greatly missed, and is forever in our hearts.
A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Marlene’s life will be held at Saint Rita Church/St. Paul VI Parish, 1620 Whitney Ave., Hamden on Thursday, October 27th at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of BEECHER & BENNETT, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden.

Services

Mass of Christian Burial: October 27, 2022 11:00 am

St. Rita Church
1620 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06517

203-248-5513

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Guestbook

  1. Mindy, Lisa, Max, Jason and family,
    Aunt Marlene was a beautiful woman inside and out. I’m sorry for your loss and sending love to you all during this difficult time.

    Love,
    Molly Borchert

  2. Sending our love to you all. Mindy my bestie I love you so much. Marlene and Jane will meet and play some scrabble.

    With all my love
    Sandy

  3. Lisa, Mindy, Max, Jason, and family,
    Very sorry to hear about Aunt Marlene. So many special memories. Our condolences and love during this difficult time.
    Love,
    Jeff Brask

  4. Marlene was someone everyone at Artis loved dearly. Reading her obituary makes me wish I had known her when she was younger! I know she will be sorely missed at Artis, such a special lady!

    • Thank you for your kind words, Sue. You and everyone at Artis will always be remembered fondly for all the love and care you gave to Marlene and her family.

      Love, Mindy, Lisa and Family

  5. Our deepest condolences to Marlene’s entire family. We had the honor of knowing her as a fellow St. Rita chorister, a consummate professional, and friend. Her kindness, respect, and warmth will remain with us always. May she rest in peace and may you know comfort.


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