Obituary of Marlene Baird Collemer

Marlene Baird Collemer, 56, passed away at Tall Pines Nursing Home in Belfast on May 31, 2009 after a valiant struggle with cancer. Marlene was born July 12, 1952 in Bath, Maine, the daughter of Wilbur and Florence Miriam Baird. She attended Hope School and graduated from Camden Rockport High School, Class of 1971. During high school she enjoyed working at The Lobster Pound in Lincolnville and raking blueberries. After her marriage she worked at a nursing home and did light housekeeping for several friends. Although Marlene had no children of her own, she was a great Mom to many state children whom she loved dearly. Marlene was predeceased by her parents and her foster parents Frank and Olive Grassow, her brother Fred and half-sister Theodora Bourassa. She is survived by her brother, Michael, of Lincolnville and his children Edwin, Michael Jr., and Melissa Harding, her sister Darlene Barrows of Lincolnville and her children Gary and his wife Ingrid Hall of Washington State; Bert and his wife Browyn Hall of Australia; Jonathan Barrows of Washington D.C.; a special niece, Heather Barrows; brother Larry of Wisconsin and children Jamie and Justin, and foster sisters Margaret Morse of Hope and Ruth Johnson of Steep Falls, Maine. A memorial service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. Any donations may be made to an animal shelter in her memory. Arrangements under the care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home 182 Waldo Avenue in Belfast.