Marlene “Mama Zac” Sophia Zachgo, 81, of Ashkum passed away on Monday, February 14, 2022 at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka. She was born on February 24, 1940 in Watseka, the daughter of John A. and Helen (Schriefer) Monk and they preceded her in death. Marlene married Ronald C. Zachgo on February 8, 1959 in Gilman.
Surviving is her husband, Ron Zachgo of Ashkum; two daughters, Marcia (Jeff) Glenn of Ashkum and Melissa (Paul) Knight of Clifton; two brothers, Jack (Mary Lou) Monk of New Braunfels, TX and Vic (Debbie) Monk of Gilman; sister-in-law, Sandi Miller of Danforth; special nieces and nephews, Keith (Lindsay) Monk of New Braunfels, TX, Amy (Thurman) Hendrix of Carol Stream, Carey Andrews of Onarga, Chris (Ginny) Monk of Peoria, Mike (Margo) Williams of Danforth and Cathy (Greg) Wahls of Piper City; and several adopted daughters think of her as “Mom”.
Marlene was a very strong in her faith and an active member of Zion Lutheran Church in Ashkum. She was a member of the Sunshine Club. Marlene was a great neighbor in her community and was truly loved by all young and old. She loved socializing with people at community activities. She enjoyed collecting angels and especially loved her family.
She will be remembered for her smile and her upbeat, optimistic personality and her positivity and enthusiasm. She will also be remembered for her Christmas Eve cookies and cocoa and her ice cream and popsicles for drive by visits. Everyone will miss her singing the birthday song on the phone. She always had a kind word and never knew a stranger. Marlene loved being a farmer’s wife, mom, and a trusting friend. She loved with her whole heart and was loved by all who knew her—the kindest, sweetest friend who always showed love to all. She loved talking on the phone, especially the last couple of years. Marlene is the wife, mom, friend, and Christian that others strive to be. She will be greatly missed by all. She is now our new guardian angel—love, always, and forever—till we meet again.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2022 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Ashkum at 4:00 p.m. with Don Gillespie officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be held at a later date. The family requests casual attire for her services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family’s wishes.
