Marlene Frieda Wilkerson

Marlene Frieda Wilkerson, born on April 23, 1950, in Denison, Iowa, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Marlene dedicated her life to caring for others as a registered nurse, working with Adolescent Mental Health, Mercy First Step, and Drug and Alcohol Recovery. Her professional journey was marked not only by her skills and proficiency but also by her heartfelt dedication to those she served.

Marlene graduated from Dow City High School in 1968 and pursued her passion for nursing with an Associate Degree from DMACC in 1975. Throughout her career, her dedication shone brightly, seen by her unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Marlene was well-known for being a selflessly giving and supportive person, embodying the essence of compassion throughout her life.

In her personal life, Marlene married her soulmate, Thomas Wilkerson, on June 8, 1974, at Grant Park Christian Church. They were married for an incredible 51 years. Together, they created a loving family, welcoming their children, Sean and Carrie, into their lives. Marlene cherished her role as a grandmother to Thomas and Emma, who meant everything to her and were a constant source of joy that maintained her zest for life.

Despite the challenges she faced after having two separate kidney transplants, Marlene approached life with grace and resilience. She was deeply committed to various charities focused on children's welfare and homeless causes, consistently supporting these initiatives over the decades. She enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places over the years, as well as nurturing her unique hobby of collecting rocks. 

Marlene was preceded in death by her brother, Kevin Laubscher, and her parents, Donald and Emma Laubscher. She leaves behind her beloved husband Tom Wilkerson; her children, Sean (Tammy) Wilkerson and Carrie (Josh) Gruber; grandchildren, Thomas and Emma Gruber; and her siblings, Ron, Tim and Dale Laubscher, and Susie Stephens.

Marlene's services will be held on January 16, 2026, at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, Iowa. A visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life starting at 11:00 AM at Lutheran Church of Hope (Chapel). A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marlene's memory to: Hope Ministries (www.hopeiowa.org) or Iowa Methodist Transplant Center (1215 Pleasant St., #506, Des Moines, IA 50309)