Marleen Baesch

November 1, 1932 - August 21, 2021

Marleen Baesch, 88, of Traverse City passed away August 21, 2021 at Munson Hospice House. Marleen was born on November 1, 1932 in Duluth, MN to the late Nelson Isaac and Myrtle Ann (Anderson) VanAlstine. She moved to Traverse city in 1953 with her family while her dad was stationed here with the Coast Guard. On April 4, 1954 Marleen married her best friend, Norman R. Baesch at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. They would go on to be lifelong members of Bethlehem. Marleen was the longest tenured employee at Munson Medical Center. She retired at the age of 70 and again at the age of 80 after staying on to help with special projects. Although she held many roles, she retired as the business office manager. Marleen and Norman were long time members of the Elks, and she was a member of the Daisy Chain. She served as president of the Daisy Chain was awarded the Daisy of the Year in 1988. She was also awarded the MMAP Counselor of the Year from the Governor in 2003 for her volunteer efforts. In her free time she enjoyed spending time at the beach, playing golf in her younger years and tending to her rose garden. She also like to cook, sew, read and crochet. Above all else, she cherished her family and adored her grandchildren. Marleen was preceded in death by her grandson Justin Baesch, husband Norman, son John N. Baesch and her beloved golden retriever Brady. Marleen is survived by her children Susan (Michael) Rowe, Cindy (James) Jeffreys, Stephen (Julie) Baesch; grandchildren Bradley (Emily) Rowe, Kate (Josh) Lara, Eric Baesch, Adam (Jessica) Allore, Bryan (Laura) Allore, Ashley (Eric) Peplinski, Stephanie (Matt) Fiero and Carly (Jordan) Leman; eleven great grandchildren and sisters Iris (Paul) Kamradt and Charlene Prince. The memorial service celebrating Marleen will be held on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 11:00 am with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. A luncheon at the church will follow. Marleen will be laid to rest at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens beside her beloved husband. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Make – A – Wish foundation, Munson Hospice House or to Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Envelopes will be available at the church.