Marlene Hicklin Henry, known as "Meanie" to family and friends, passed away August 2, 2020, surrounded by her family after a long, hard-fought battle with cancer. She was born September 21, 1935, to William and Bina (Loushin) Virant. Marlene attended Franklin and Webster Garfield Elementary Schools, graduating from Butte High School in 1953. In September of 1953, Marlene married Richard (Slim) Hicklin. The couple was blessed with 53 years of marriage and three wonderful daughters: Dorothy (Steve) Czehura, Margie (Dave) Fine, and Tammy Hicklin (Rick) Estabrook. The special loves of her life were her three grandchildren: Michael (Tammi) Czehura, Kelsey Estabrook (Aric) Williams, Lauren Estabrook, and her five great-grandchildren: Berkley, Kinley, Bridger, Khloe Czehura and Laker Williams. On May 5, 2007, her loving husband, Slim, passed away.

Marlene worked as a teacher's aide at the Monroe School for eleven years. She loved working with and helping children. Later, with the need to help support her family, she took a mail carrier position with the U.S. Post Office, a job she was proud of. Marlene retired from the post office in 1999. She worked hard but looked forward to her days off because there was usually a sporting event to attend. It didn't matter whether it was a grandchild or the child of a friend or a Butte team playing, whether it was hockey, volleyball, basketball, track, or a dance recital, she loved supporting the kids. She was always ready to travel anywhere to watch the kids. And how the kids all loved Meanie!

Marlene always understood the importance of family and community. Her family was the center of her existence. She was not only a mother to her three daughters; she was their best friend. Even though she was an only child, she had a special, sister-like, relationships with cousins Sharon Chebul and Sandy Jaksha. It did not matter who you were; she always had time to talk to you or help you. She was always cheering for the underdog and excited when they would succeed. She was a Girl Scout leader, homeroom mother, volleyball coach, and a chauffeur to any child who needed a ride. She was a dedicated volunteer for RSVP, Butte Food Bank, and National and Montana Folk Festivals. Meanie belonged to groups just for fun too: Red Hats, Mac Center Exercise Group, The Club Girls, and the Ladies. The last two may not be official names, but that's what she called them, and the common theme was friendship. She always said, "if you want a friend, you have to be a friend." Her church family was Holy Spirit parish.

December 8, 2012, at St Ann's Church. Marlene married Robert Henry. It is not always that a family has the opportunity to celebrate the engagement and marriage of their mother. She found love for a second time. In her words, "I never thought something this wonderful could happen again." Bob shared her love of sports and added the dimension of women's college basketball through Bob's granddaughter, Kelly Cole, who played for the Lady Griz. The away games for the Griz added a new facet to their road trips. Together they enjoyed many happy hours of dancing, golfing, exercising, traveling, and visiting with friends and family. Marlene's family was expanded by two daughters: Sheri (Mike) Cole and Shelley Henry (David Bayless).

We celebrate a life well lived- one rich in love, laughter, and as many road trips as possible. Meanie will be missed by all who knew her. She will be remembered for her unconditional love, her generosity, her spontaneity, and her whimsical zest for life. We will not soon forget her mischievous spirit and her quick wit. A private ceremony will be had for the family, and as soon as safely possible, a celebration of life and a party will be scheduled.

The family would like to thank the St James Health Cancer Treatment Center for the months for excellent care and compassion.

Private family entombment of ashes will be held in Mountain View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Butte Food Bank, St James Health Cancer Treatment Center, or donor choice would be appreciated.