Dorothy Marlee Gardner Pace

1933-2011

There was a huge celebration in heaven today surrounding the much anticipated arrival of Dorothy “Marlee” Pace (77). The angels all stood to applaud as the arena of people whose hearts had been touched by Marlee, shared their touching stories. Those left behind mourned their loss but celebrated her victory. Anticipating a reunion one day include her husband of 56 years, (Dr. Vernon Pace, IU Professor Emeritus), her 4 children and spouses, Kevin & Marla Pace, Joni & JC Hulls, Kari & Bob Costello, and Juli & Craig Fisher, their families (15 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and counting) her sibling, Dr. Karen Arms, her nieces, Debbie Smoot and Denise Williams, and scores of friends and family. Her heavenly welcoming committee included her parents, Lamar & Dorothy (Dot) Gardner, (Anita, Iowa and then Ellettsville, Indiana).

Marlee grew up on an Iowa farm with the sense of a farmer and an athletic heritage. Marlee became an All-State Basketball player, a Valedictorian, and a teacher. She graduated from Wiota (Iowa) High School in 1951 with a teaching degree from Simpson College. Wedding bells rang out in 1954 as Vern and Marlee pursued their teaching and coaching careers in Oskaloosa, Iowa. In 1964 their educational pursuits led them to Bloomington, Indiana, where they became an Indiana University faculty family.

A loving Mom, Marlee skillfully and passionately raised her family. She was a card-counting Pinochle player, a fierce competitor, an inspiring artist, and an accordian-playing multi-talented musician. She was a well-educated basketball coach (from the stands) where she spent many years cheering on her favorite players and teams. A fervent Indiana basketball fan, she was personally and physically involved in raising the hopes of IU basketball fans everywhere.

She was a loyal member of St. Paul United Methodist Church for more than 40 years, where she performed in the adult choir and proudly directed the Sunshine Choir. The impact she left on the children will last forever. Marlee was a devoted wife, a caring friend, a loving aunt, a favorite sister, a homemaker, an avid reader, a servant of people, and a faithful Christian.

There is little wonder why the Angels applauded. It is expected that Marlee will continue her creative ways by helping the Angels paint the sky. Well done, thy good and faithful servant.

A celebration of life service will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church on June 2, from 1:30-2:30 with a reception immediately following in Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Gardner Tadpole/Big Brothers & Big Sisters; P.O. Box 2534; Bloomington, IN 47402 or the St. Paul United Methodist Choir; 4201 W. Third St.; Bloomington, IN 47404.