Marion Schlindwein

Marion R. Schlindwein, age 92, of Geneva, passed away Friday, May 29, 2026 at her home, with her loving family by her side.

Marion was born January 24, 1934, in Elgin, the daughter of Francis and Martha (Keller) Howard. Named after her Aunt Marion, she was lovingly called “Babe” from an early age to distinguish her from her aunt.  The nickname stayed with her throughout her life.

Marion found joy in the simple pleasures of life.  She loved sewing and quilting, swimming, practicing tai chi, tending her flowers and gardens, solving sudoku puzzles, reading, and listening to music.  She was always eager to learn and remained independent throughout her life, embracing even the challenges of modern technology with determination.

Though small in stature, Marion was a remarkably tough woman.  Life presented her with many hardships, yet she met every obstacle with courage, grit, and unwavering resolve.  Her strength of character and resilience inspired those who knew her and served as an example to her family of generations. 

A devout Catholic, Marion’s faith guided her throughout her life.  She found comfort and strength in her relationship with God and carried herself with grace and steadfast devotion. 

Above all else, Marion loved her family.  Nothing was more important to her than her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Her greatest happiness came from being surrounded by those she loved, and her legacy of faith, perseverance, and love will live on through them.

Though she will be deeply missed, Marion leaves behind a family strengthened by her example and grateful for the many years they shared with her.  May she rest in the peace of Christ and be reunited with those who have gone before her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Marion was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Carol Reeder and Shirley Cooper, first husband Ralph “Bud” Burtnette, second husband Richard “Dick” Schlindwein, beloved sons Michael and Dennis “Buddy” Burtnette, and cherished grandson, Kyle Sinnaeve.

She is survived by her children Daniel (Nancy) Burtnette of Maple Park, Carleen (Chris) Deitz of Wisconsin, and Laura (Joe) Sinnaeve of Gilberts; ten grandchildren and many great- and great-great-grandchildren who brought her immense pride and joy; she is also survived by Richard’s children Scott (Debbie), Bryan, and Brett Schlindwein all of Florida.

A visitation for Marion will be held Friday, June 5, 2026 from 10:00 am until the time of her funeral mass at 11:00 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 2900 E. Main St in St. Charles.

Burial will follow at West Batavia Cemetery in Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Marion’s memory to Quilts of Valor Foundation (P.O. Box 191, Winterset, IA 50273 or www.qovf.org) or Fox Valley Food for Health (P.O. Box 532, Geneva, IL 60134 or www.fvffh.org).

For information 630-232-8233 or visit Malonefh.com.                       

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marion Schlindwein, please visit our floral store.