What an investment she made in my life!  Without it I am not sure any part of my life would look the same as it does today.  I owe her an incredible debt of gratitude.  I am so grateful for her vulnerability, openness, depth, insight, generosity and wisdom.  
She was incredibly thoughtful and detail orientated and showed her care in that...from the Dutch treats she purposefully sought out and ordered for my bridal shower, to the array of pink foods you never knew could come in pink she made and sourced for my baby shower.
I remember in my first year of motherhood, being somewhat frustrated that she would phone me multiple times a day for seemingly insignificant questions.  Years later I reflected on that time with her, realizing with hindsight I was battling postnatal depression as well as some hard circumstances and I was withdrawing.  "I know" she said knowingly recounting how hard she had to try to come up with reasons to call me and check in on me so many times a day.  Throwing me lifelines of purpose and connection to keep me afloat and connected through that storm.  Such wise kindness!
Her vulnerability about the challenges and joys of early motherhood and  her ability to relate, share honestly from her experience and also bring truth and hope were a great gift to me, both as a new mother and later when we expanded our family further through adoption.  She was unique in a generation that typically put a brave face on struggles and it meant the world to me.  She forever impacted the way I do motherhood, marriage, leadership and discipleship because of her authenticity.
Her devotions about "God collecting our tears in a bottle" and about "travelling light" stay with me 25 years later as do life lessons she taught me.  Lessons like "don't complicate it, making core memories with people you love can be as simple as always having Delissio pizza." 
Both her and Charlie are an example of extravagant grace and that grace changed the trajectory of my whole life.

So thankful for Marlene especially at a season when one of our sons that studied and served there needed some motherly advice, mostly to me as a heads up, on the boy/girl dynamic there.  I won't say more 😉 except that she was very helpful.

My prayers of comfort and strength go out to Charlie and the family. As an alumni  of the early days at CHBC (1981- 82), and living in the lower mainland,  I have had the privilege of visiting for men's conferences, holiday bible weeks or just a much needed retreat.  No visit felt complete without visiting on the deck with Marlene and Charlie or just a quick hello in passing where she would always remember my name and a quick "How are things?" 
I will miss that when I visit next.

Our prayers and condolences to the family. Deepest sympathies.

My heartfelt condolences to the family and all who loved her! Brigitte from Austria (2001/2002)

I met Charlie and Marlene in 2003 when I went to Capernwray Harbour to serve on staff and then stayed for the LTS program.
Marlene often visited me while working in the kitchen to shared a smile and a word of encouragement.
Jennifer and I have been blessed by Marlene's gentle spirit her and consistent smile.
We will treasure in our memories the visits in Canada and in Italy with Charlie and Marlene , special times spent with 2 godly people that love us and that we love very much.
It has been a joy to know Marlene.
With our love Domenico and Jennifer Ripepi

To the Fordham Family , 

We were privileged to work and serve with Charlie and Marlene  and we pray that God’s comfort and grace will be your portion . Marlene’s first letter to us in 1988 had this verse at the end of her invitation to CHBC.  

Romans 15:13
New American Standard Bible
13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

This is the blessed hope of those who are in Christ . 

With love and prayers 

The Michael Family 
Jonathan, Christiane , Joshua and Judah

I was so sorry to hear this news, my sincere condolences to your family. I know this is a sad and difficult time. You have my deepest sympathy.  But I take relief knowing what wonderful and fond memories you can share forever. Plus, trust all the love and support from family and so many people connected to Capernwray Harbour will bring comfort to you all.  Kindest regards & thinking of you, Martin Brooks

Marlene was a constant encouragement for Jess and myself. She told me we would get along super well before we ever met - how did you know?
Her laugh, smile and presence will be missed dearly. ‘Wheat in the wind’ got a chuckle out of me every time! Marlene,  I’m sure your hair looks fabulous as always in the presence of our precious Lord! 
We will see you later

My first memory of Marlene was when Charlie and Marlene came to our small country church.  Marlene beautifully sang a solo.  I think the song was "Shepherd of  Love".  It impacted my young mind.  

My prayers are for family and the many people impacted by Marlene's life as they go through this journey of grief.

I will always remember their home by the ferry: maranatha music playing, a fire in the wood stove, the aroma of a meal or baking come from the kitchen, and Marlene’s big smile and words of encouragement over a cup of tea.  She loved Jesus and that always translated into a love for others.

Marlene (along with Charlie) belongs to a generation of Torchbearers who were pioneers within the Fellowship. We hold them in highest regard. Charlie and Marlene offered me personally love, guidance and radical grace when I served with them in the 1990's. They have been great friends to both Gaby and me. We will miss Marlene greatly as she was such a Christ-honoring influence in our lives. We send our condolences to Charlie, Chris and Suzy, Jessica and Jay and the grandchildren. May you know the comfort of Jesus just now and also the joy of knowing that Marlene is now in the presence of the Christ who manifested His presence so clearly in Marlene. Warmly in Christ,
Peter and Gaby Reid

Marlene spoke into my life in a season of loss and healing - I have notations in my Bible of verses she gave me, and many cherished memories of her friendship to me. I was very sad to read of her passing. Praying for comfort for Charlie, Chris and Jessica, and all who loved her.

Marlene was a bright light in a world of darkness to many including myself during Bible School 2021-22. 

Sending condolences to Chris and Suzy, Elijah, Seth, Jessica and Jay, Zoe, and Charlie. She will be deeply missed.

Marlene is a huge part of my walking with Jesus story.  She taught me,  listened to me,  encouraged me, mentored me. We could go a long time between visits,  but when we were together  it was like time had stood still and we continued the conversation we were having before.  Her laugh still echoes in my heart.  I will always remember her for her steadfast faith and love of Jesus. Our family remembers all of you in our prayers. 
Till we meet again! Much love ❤️

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Marlene Elizabeth Fordham

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