Vivian Marlene Perry-Irwin
1933-2015
Marlene was born in Naco, Alberta, Canada, the middle of three children born to Earl A. and Hazel Pearl Vaughan. She grew up in Elk Point, Alberta, and after graduating from high school, she attended college in Calgary, Alberta. She married and had two children, Valerie and Bryon.
She opened a photography business in Reno, Nev., in the 1950s. Her artistic ability shone as she oil painted the black and white portraits and landscaping photos. Marlene’s next venture was managing and operating the Melody Club in Sparks, Nev. She booked bands and singers often before they became well-known in their careers. In 1959, she moved to Spokane, Wash. She worked as a waitress, worked in retail sales and gave ceramic classes. She even opened a clothing boutique and presented modeling shows in Spokane in the ’60s.
Marlene moved to Bayview, Idaho, in the ’70s. She maintained a mini-marina. Marty, as she like to be called, was an avid fisher lady. She also had a great eye for decorating. Her home and landscaping were exquisite. She also loved to entertain by hosting amazing barbecues. Her fantastic food and hospitality were always noticed. She would sometimes bring out her Omni-Chord and play.
Marlene loved her family. She instilled in them the basic fundamentals; The Golden Rule, love, respect, morals and values. She taught them to fish, cook favorite family meals, play card games and dice (10,000). Her family, including the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, meant everything to her. She was so proud of all their accomplishments.
When Marty retired, she split her time between Queen Valley, Ariz., and Bayview. She loved a great adventure. In her younger age, she enjoyed snowmobiling in the winter and salmon fishing in the summer. Whether in the desert with husband Morrie in their sand-rails, having picnics or quiet time around a campfire, they enjoyed good times. She loved to travel on vacations to Puerta Vallerta, Mazatlan, New Mexico and Minnesota.
Marty was a member of the American Legion, Eagles, Moose, and VFW. She enjoyed playing bingo and a little gambling with her friends. Her hobbies were; crocheting, knitting, gardening, yard sales, and making jewelry.
She touched many hearts. All who knew her were inspired by her spirit, diversity and determination. At Marty’s request, there was not a memorial service as she would not want you to mourn for her but, embrace the memories you have. Share a quiet moment, a family gathering or a toast to fun times and the history you shared with her. Marty’s love of family, friends and life will greatly be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Marty was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice Irwin; parents Earl and Pearl Vaughan; brother Arthur Vaughan; sister Patricia Chanasyk; nephews Darryll and Kevin Chanasyk; and grandson Michael Guilbeault. She is survived by her daughter, Valerie Perry (Dale); son Bryon Perry (Suzette); granddaughters Christina Tollackson (Peter), Jacqueline Guilbeault (Shane) and Courtney Brennan; great-grandchildren Kaitlin, McKenzie, Mikayla, Sebastian, Ayden, Gavin, Savannah, Brogan, Tullia and Conlin; sister-in-law Evelyn Vaughan; niece Erin Antolick (Paul); nephew Robert Vaughan and numerous cousins. Also her stepchildren, Pamela Nickerson (Mark), Patricia McDonald, Kenneth and Robert Perry.