In Memory Of

Marlene Shannon Smith (nee Howes)

Nov 4, 1947 - Dec 7, 2025

Service

Thursday, December 18, 2025
1:00 pm
Dovercourt Hall
Junction of Hwy 22 & TWP37-2
Blue Sign 65080 TWP37-2

Obituary

When we were young, we sometimes liked to play a game called “Whose mom is nicer”. We kicked ass at that game.
Marlene Shannon Smith was born in Rocky Mountain House to Sam and Peggy Howes. She was the middle of 5 daughters: Janet, Marie, Marlene, Irene, Colleen and they resided in the Dovercourt area on a mixed farm with all the chores that entailed. She attended Chedderville school in the early years and then on to Rocky Mountain House. Marlene enjoyed target shooting practice, hiding toys from her sisters under the loose floorboard in the house and riding her horse Thunder which meant getting to visit friends or neighbors.

Marlene was married in 1965 to Dennis Prodaniuk and had two children, Jackie and Bret. She remarried in 1973 to Franklin Smith of Alhambra and had two more children, Ryan and Logan. Alhambra was home to a full life for the next 50 years until Franklin’s passing, when Marlene moved into Westview Lodge. She enjoyed her time there, participating in everything offered, and socializing often. Her last several months were spent at Bethany Care Center, Sylvan Lake.

Marlene was a farm wife taking care of the kids, the house, the garden, the books, as well as rolling up her sleeves to work cattle, pound staples, pick rocks/roots and take the 2 - 7 am shift during calving season. She spent her spare time camping, curling, bowling, berrypicking, taking kids to activities, dancing and playing cards. She attended field trips with the kids at school and supported school and community events in any way she could. She was fortunate enough to travel a fair bit to several other countries and different parts of this one, making many memories with her friends and family.

Marlene played the grandma role perfectly. Cute, cuddly, soft spoken, always smiling, willing to spoil, and willing to look the other way on minor indiscretions. Fresh baking, homemade preserves, and a seemingly endless supply of ice cream really sealed the deal when grandkids were at her house.

Marlene is survived by sisters Marie Stuart (Elwood Gardner), Irene Woods, Colleen Howes (Millard Phillips), sister in law Heather (George) Loomer, daughter Jackie Phillips (Shane Fisher), daughter in law Kerrie Boudreau , sons Ryan (Miranda) and Logan (Darla), grandchildren Steven, Shanna Maki, Robert Lowe, Kallen (Susie), Kole Prodaniuk, Brooklyn (Ty) Clay, Owen, Jake Smith, Hunter, Brandon, Zoey Smith, great granddaughters Lily and Stevie.
She is predeceased by her husband Frank, sister Janet Doughty, brother in laws Chuck Doughty, Keith Stuart, Dave Woods, son Bret and great grandson Jones Clay.

A celebration of life will be held at Dovercourt Hall, Thursday, December 18th at 1:00 pm. Lunch provided.
Donations in Marlene’s name can be made to Westview Lodge (RMH), Bethany Continuing Care (Sylvan Lake), or to a charity of your choice.

Condolences

Helen Northcott Lloyd Fink:

Marlene was a true friend, she will be greatly missed. Hugs to all her family.

Ester Ouderkirk:

My heart goes out to you, Jackie and your family during this time of sadness. Your mom was a wonderful lady. She will be deeply missed.

James and Gerry Hoeksema :

Our sincere condolences at this difficult time.

Geraldine Haney Ross:

Marlene was the sweetest kindest person. We were friends from day one in school until we were sent to different schools in grade 8. She was and is simply irreplaceable. It was a sad day today but was nice to hear all the good stories about grandma.

Cheryl Munro Lawrence :

She was such a kind, soft spoken lady with the biggest smile. I know she will be missed by many. My heart felt condolences to her family.

Blayne and Crystal Meronowich :

Jackie and family, we are so deeply sorry for the loss of your mom. Please know you are in our thoughts and hearts during this incredibly difficult time. Sending you love, strength, and comfort.

Marlene Houlton :

Sorry for your loss

Pam and Dave Burrington :

Our condolences to all of Marlene’s family and friends.She always had the biggest smile and will be saddely missed

Shannon:

My sincere sympathy goes out to the Smith family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. She was a great friend to myself and to many others. Always smiling never a harsh word was said just a kind heart and soul. She will be greatly missed by many may she rest in peace
Shannon

Barb Johnston:

Very sorry to hear of Marleen passing. I always enjoyed talking with her. She was always so kind and thoughtful. If I remember right I frist meet Marleen when she was married to Denice and the lived in my mom and dad’s trailer court. I’m sure she will be greatly missed. My condolences to all the family.

Joyce Zirk:

Condolences to all families and friends of Marlene’s. I am sure going to miss my friend.

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