REPUBLIC, MI – Marlene Elaine Skoglund, age 72, of Republic, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Marlene was born March 5, 1953, in Ishpeming to the late George and Evelyn (Hupp) Vedder. She was raised in Champion and graduated from Champion High School. As a child, she loved horseback riding and spending time with her younger brother, Bill.

After high school, Marlene met William Hurkmans at the American Legion when he returned home from Vietnam. They were married in 1970 and began their life together in Champion before moving to Ishpeming for William’s work. Together they raised three children—Nicholas, Clifford, and Kerry. Marlene devoted herself to her family as a homemaker, loving her children fiercely and always ensuring they had what they needed.

Following William’s passing, she married Walter Skoglund in 1979. Over the years, Marlene’s life took her from the Upper Peninsula to Wyoming and lastly to Detroit before she and her family returned home to the U.P. in 1994, where she remained.

Marlene was determined, strong-willed, and deeply loving. She was feisty, honest, and known for her “tell it like it is” nature. If she got you on the phone, you could count on a long conversation. Her children cherish memories of family road trips across the country and her unwavering support for them.

A self-taught artist, Marlene created many beautiful acrylic paintings, often inspired by nature. She enjoyed hunting at deer camp, fishing, and archery, and in later years found joy in gardening, playing bingo with friends, spending time with her grandchildren and her dog Mio, and keeping in touch with loved ones.

Marlene will be remembered for her resilience and steadfast love for her family.

She is survived by her two sons, Nicholas (Kathy) Hurkmans and Clifford (Bobbi) Hurkmans; her grandchildren, Megan, Dani, Kassi, Austin, Nathan, Tristan, Caleb, Christian, Becca, Ally, and Cooper; her great-grandchildren, Baylin, Trinity, and Nando; a brother, William (Sharolyn) Vedder; her beloved dog, Mio; along with several nieces and nephews.

Marlene was preceded in death by her husbands, William Hurkmans and Walter Skoglund; her daughter, Kerry Hurkmans-Wertman; and her parents, George and Evelyn Vedder.

A celebration of life for Marlene and her daughter Kerry will be held at the Ishpeming Township Hall on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

A full obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where friends and family are invited to leave notes of remembrance.