Marcelo C. Schlichting

After 101 beautifully full years, Marcele C. Schlichting, of Clear Lake, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024 surrounded by family at Oakwood Care Center. 

Funeral services will be 10:30 am Friday, December 27, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church, 112 N 4th St, Clear Lake, IA 50428 with Rev. Al Berge officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Walt, at Clear Lake Cemetery, Clear Lake, IA. 

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024 at Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 1st Ave. North, Clear Lake, IA. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. 

Memorials may be directed to the family to be given in Marcele’s name. Please send cards to PO Box 606, Clear Lake, IA 50428. 

Marcele Carolyn was born March 28, 1923 in Garner, the daughter of William August and Wilhelmine “Minnie” Rosalinde (Jante) Hoeft. Growing up in the area, she attended Garner Schools, graduating in 1941. She continued her education and became a teacher before marrying the love of her life, Walter H. Schlichting on July 25, 1945 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Garner. The couple farmed south of Clear Lake and were blessed with four children: Ron, Duane, Jan and Linda. Marcele took pride in her resourcefulness on the farm: her bountiful garden and countless animals raised over the years. 

At 101 years old, Marcele lived a life defined by love, faith, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. She found joy in giving back, dedicating countless hours as a Sunday School teacher, Bible School volunteer, and active participant in the Church Circle, Garden Club, and 4H. Her service extended to the community, volunteering at Good Shepherd Nursing Home and the Handicap Village Store. Even after moving to town in 1975, Marcele stayed active, proving that age was merely a number. She embraced her AquaBelle’s water aerobics, Curves Fitness classes, and daily walks with enthusiasm. Marcele and her husband, Walt, shared a love for travel, taking winter trips to Arizona and Texas, and creating cherished memories on family vacations.

Following Walt’s passing, she continued a love of travel, taking many trips to California and Arizona, and also an Alaskan Cruise. A strong and resilient woman, she inspired everyone around her, especially after recovering from hip surgery at the age of 100. Known for her incredible memory and unwavering optimism, Marcele was a strong and gracious presence who inspired everyone she met. Her family cherished her giving nature and the heartfelt Bible verses they shared, embodying the faith she lived so deeply. A longtime member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and later Zion Lutheran Church, Marcele’s life was one of devotion—to her family, her faith, and the joy of making every moment count.

Surviving are her beloved children, Ron Schlichting of Clear Lake, Duane (Debra) Schlichting of Clear Lake, Jan Schlichting of El Mirage, AZ, and Linda Schlichting of Clear Lake; grandchildren, Tara Schlichting, Teresa (Tyson) Morio, Casey (Teresa) Schlichting, Shannon Quigley, Sawyer Mishak, Derek (Stephanie) Goll and Deirdre Witham; 10 great-grandchildren; as well as nephews, a niece and many extended family members. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, W.H. Schlichting; parents; a sister, Maxine (Vincent) Johnson; great-grandsons, John Baumann and Zach Witham; daughters-in-law, Roberta Schlichting and Sandi Schlichting; a nephew, Chris Johnson; and grandson-in-law, Matt Baumann.