Marlene was joyfully reunited with the love of her life, Ralph, when she peacefully passed from this life on January 21, 2026 as the clock played Amazing Grace. 

She was born on January 5, 1939, in Newton, Utah, to Joseph Murland and Zenda Karren Anderson. Marlene was raised on a farm alongside her four siblings, a childhood she fondly remembered and often shared through stories during sleepovers with her grandchildren. From a young age, she loved to dance—it brought her pure joy, and if she could have chosen any path in life, she would have been a dancer. When she wasn’t dancing, she could often be found boxing the neighborhood boys (and she always won). 

Marlene attended school in Newton and graduated from North Cache High School. On November 11, 1959, she married Ralph Keith Meikle, and their marriage was later sealed for time and all eternity in the Logan Temple on September 6, 1962. Together, they welcomed six children in just nine years, three sons and three daughters. Marlene rose early each day, often beginning her mornings at 3 or 4 a.m., never complaining and always greeting the day with a smile. 

Marlene deeply loved her Savior and was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She faithfully served in many callings throughout her life and frequently bore her testimony, openly sharing her love of the gospel. In fact, during a gathering held just three days before her passing, she once again bore testimony—one of the final expressions of her unwavering faith. When Ralph was able to step away from the farm, they loved to travel together, leaving behind a Book of Mormon with their personal testimonies inside. Marlene was a shining example of Christlike love—selfless, generous, compassionate, and kind. She was always visiting someone in need, whether a friend, family member, or ward member, often dragging one of her children or grandchildren along with her. 

Marlene was a devoted and loving grandmother. It was rare for her home to be without a grandchild, especially during the summer months. She taught them responsibility through chores, instilling a strong work ethic—and if the job wasn’t done to her standards, you’d better believe you’d be doing it again until it was. Another of Marlene’s greatest joys was playing the organ. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren fondly remember dancing around her as she played. 

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Arva Jardine, Norris Anderson, Jeanette Buttars, and Fred Anderson; her beloved husband, Ralph; two great-grandchildren, Quinten Andersen and Jason Veibell; and three grandchildren, Cory Meikle, Alex Meikle, and Samantha Veibell. We know they were joyfully awaiting her homecoming. 

She is survived by her six children: Jeffrey (Kathy) Meikle, Robert (Maria) Meikle, Melanie (Rory) Petersen, Glenn (Shauna) Meikle, Allyson (Russ) Yates, and Elizabeth (Kelly) Veibell; 26 grandchildren; and 49.75 great-grandchildren—each of whom carries forward her legacy of faith, love, and service. 

There will be a visitation Friday, Jan 30th from 6-8 pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints location at 451 S 250th E, Smithfield, Utah. There will be another visitation on Saturday, January 31st from 10-11:30 prior to the services. Services starting at 12 noon at the same location. Burial will be in the Smithfield City Cemetery.