Obituary of Marlene Sonia Goettelman

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Marlene Sonia Goettelman, who departed this life on May 19^th, 2024 at the age of 88. Born on September 28, 1935, in Denver, Colorado, Marlene was born to Martha and Sol Stark.

Marlene attended East High School, graduating in 1953, and went on to earn her degree from UCLA in 1957. She began her career as a second-grade teacher in the Denver Public Schools, where she met her husband, Leo Goettelman. They were married in 1962 and together they raised two sons, Scott Victor Goettelman and Gary Reed Goettelman.

A dedicated and active member of the Denver Jewish community, Marlene was a founding member of the Temple Sinai Congregation. Her professional journey saw her transition from real estate to financial planning, ultimately serving as the economic development coordinator for Commerce City.

Marlene was an avid traveler, exploring the world with friends and family. Her passion for museums was well known, and she humorously claimed her fame for being thrown out of some of the best museums in the world for staying too long, eager to be the first to arrive and the last to leave. She dedicated over 20 years as a volunteer at the Denver Art Museum and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, instilling a deep love of learning and exploration in her children and grandchildren.

Marlene is survived by her sister, Harriet(Don) Fernandez of San Jose, California, and her brother, Wesley (Sherry) Stark of Denver. She leaves behind her sons Scott (Barb) Goettelman of Denver, and Gary(Colleen) Goettelman of Alma, Colorado, her five grandchildren,  Colby Goettelman, Mathew Goettelman, Abigail Goettelman, Kathryn Goettelman, and Liam Goettelman. Including many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to honor Marlene’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 22^nd 2024 at 11am at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services will be livestreamed via the Feldman Mortuary YouTube Channel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Temple Sinai, reflecting Marlene’s enduring commitment to her community and passions.

Marlene's memory will forever live in our hearts, and her legacy of love, learning, and adventure will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her. Rest in peace, Marlene. You will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.