Marlene Ruth Borck Wetmore

Marlene Ruth Borck Wetmore, born on September 6, 1934, in Elmira, New York, to Otto and Gertrude Borck, passed away on May 4, 2024, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Raised in Elmira Heights, Marlene excelled academically and athletically at Thomas Alva Edison High School, graduating as valedictorian in 1952. Marlene earned a BS in Home Economics from Mansfield State Teacher’s College, now Mansfield University, in 1956. It was there she met Foster Wetmore, a Knoxville, PA farmer soon to be civil engineer, who would become her loving husband for 68 years.

After teaching for a year, Marlene devoted herself to raising their three daughters, creating homes for her family in Henderson Harbor, NY; Lafayette, NY; Kensington, CT; New Smyrna Beach, FL; Knoxville, PA and Round Mountain, TX. Her leadership qualities shone through in her roles as a 4-H leader, Vacation Bible School superintendent, substitute teacher, aerobics instructor, and Welcome Wagon hostess.

Marlene had a keen financial sense, becoming a very successful investor, and she became well known for her ability to make money work for her. A very generous woman, Marlene supported her church, created college scholarships, and gave to organizations that helped those in need.

An exceptional cook and an extraordinary gardener, Marlene's culinary and gardening skills were legendary. She grew and preserved her own produce and was famous for her pies—particularly the peach pie that, as the story goes, helped win Foster's heart.

In later years, Marlene enjoyed traveling with her best friend, Maryanne Giangobbe. Together, the “M&M Girls” embarked on more than 25 ocean cruises, creating special memories for both.

Though she did not share her girls’ passion for horseback riding, Marlene supported them and even cared for their horses when needed. She also lovingly nurtured numerous dogs and cats over the years, all of whom adored her.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Foster; sister, Emily Schwab of Montour Falls, NY, daughters Cynthia Nelson (Cindy) and husband Richard of Knoxville, PA, Elaine Swiss and husband Bill of Round Mountain, TX, and Nancy Soneson and husband Mark of Higganum, CT; grandchildren Sally Nelson McGarry (Travis), Tom Nelson (Kerry), Emma, Gunnar, and Colton Soneson; and great-grandchildren Drake and Reiner McGarry and Leo and Gwen Nelson, and many nieces and nephews.

Marlene's life was marked by her resilience, intelligence, generosity, and unwavering support for her family. Many thanks go to the wonderful staff of the Belmont Village Lakeway who provided loving care to Marlene in her final months.

A memorial service honoring Marlene Wetmore will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Johnson City First United Methodist Church, 105 North LBJ Dr., Johnson City, TX 78606. Please join the family at church for a time of fellowship Wednesday morning at 10:30 AM.