Marlene F. Danol

Marlene F. Danol, age 88, longtime resident of Northville, passed away June 28, 2023.  She was born on November 28, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of Karl and Frieda (Dehn) Trick.  She graduated from Bentley High School in Livonia; Class of 1952. Marlene was united in marriage to Terry Danol on June 11, 1960; they spent 50 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death on September 7, 2010.

Marlene and Terry came to live in Northville in 1966 when Terry was hired as a Funeral Director at Casterline Funeral Home.  Marlene loved her home and her neighborhood, and enjoyed living within walking distance of “downtown”.

Marlene began her 40-year career with Ford Motor Company – Ford Export Division in Wixom as a secretary.  She retired as a Vehicle Rep in the late 1990’s.  Marlene was a dedicated member of the Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) organization.  For over 50 years, she was active in local, district, state and national chapters, serving as Michigan’s state president in 1980-1981.  Her commitment to advocating for women’s rights and the Equal Rights Amendment was inspirational to her daughters and positively impacted their lives.  Known for her dynamic speeches, “Queen Marlene,” as she was called, traveled all over the state as a favored speaker at many of the BPW chapter meetings.

Marlene adored animals and many will remember her in Northville walking her dogs through town, greeting everyone as she went by.  More recently, from her front porch, she showered the neighborhood dogs with affection.  She enjoyed it when pet owners would let their furry companions come up for a quick cuddle (or a bite of cat food!), and her house was often a favorite stop on afternoon or evening walks.  However, what Marlene was most known for was her “Halloween House.”  For over 25 years, each Halloween she and her family would create an elaborately themed Halloween display complete with detailed sets, costumes, props, and music.  Some of the favorite themes that delighted local trick or treaters were Under the Sea, Ancient Egypt, Toy Story, Wizard of Oz, and Harry Potter.  Marlene spent as much time as she could at her cottage on Bear Lake in Kalkaska.  She loved the summer days she spent with family enjoying the sights and sounds on the lake. Throughout the years, Marlene had wonderful, caring neighbors that meant a lot to her.  Whether it was an impromptu porch party or just popping in to make sure she was ok, they were always rewarded with Marlene’s sunny disposition that made her a joy to be around.  Marlene was an affectionate, loving, and kind mother and friend; she will be missed by all who knew her.

Marlene is survived by her loving daughters; Linda (Robert “Bob”) Catalano and Sue (Shane) Tucker.  She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her brother Herman Trick.

The visitation will be held Sunday, July 2, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.  The funeral service will be held Monday, July 3, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  She will be laid to rest with her husband at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.

The family would appreciate memorial contributions to Shelter to Home (animal rescue organization) , 266 Oak Street, Wyandotte, MI 48192, 734-556-3135  or https://sheltertohome.com/donate/.