Marlene Ruth Bates, 82

Marlene Ruth Bates, 82, daughter of Ruth Moench Allen and David Allen died at her home in Riley, Michigan on November 23, 2025, after living with Lewy Body dementia in recent years.

Marlene leaves behind her husband Peter Bates of Riley, MI, her daughters Wynter Elwood (Brenden Elwood) of North Bend WA. Shawn Muter (John Muter Jr) of Riley MI, her daughter in law Amie Bates (Cassidy Bolger) of Portland OR., grandchildren Piper and Teigen Elwood, Duncan and Colin Muter, and Nari Bates (Tae Bolger), and her sister Teresa Ganes of Templeton CA.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son Harper, who passed in 2011 from ALS and by her parents Ruth Moench Allen and David Allen.

Born in Omak, Washington, she resided in Oregon, California, and Arizona, Marlene ultimately made Michigan her home. She attended Mills College before transferring to Pitzer College, where she was one of three graduates in the inaugural graduating class. She earned her graduate degree in English from the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.

Marlene taught English at Harbor Beach, MI High School, where she was widely known and admired for her Advanced Placement English classes. She brought literature to vibrant life. Her students remember her as one of the toughest – and most inspiring – teachers they ever had.

Through her passion for the classics, she taught far more than curriculum: she taught curiosity, rigor, imagination, and the courage to grow. Former students have shared heartfelt tributes, calling her a defining force in their lives.

At the heart of Marlene’s life was her family. She was a devoted mother and wife, known for her dynamic personality, humor, fierce loyalty, and boundless love. She and husband Peter were inseparable for more than six decades.

Marlene stepped up to every challenge that ever faced her with unfailing courage, dignity, and honesty, and made an unforgettable impression on everyone she met, lifting others through her belief in their potential and her insistence that they leave the world better than they found it.

In accordance with the family’s wishes, no public funeral service is being held. She will be celebrated next summer with a private family gathering to honor Marlene’s life.

Thank you to all that made her life so full.