Marlene Ora Paiga's Obituary
Austin, Texas, formerly of Racine - Marlene Ora Paiga went home to Jesus on January 1, 2024, at age 89, in Austin, Texas. Marlene was born in Racine, Wisconsin to her dear parents: Boyd Stanley Hunter and Esther Menina (nee Anderson) Hunter on January 11, 1934. She had one brother, Roger and one sister, Rene’e. Marlene met Donald Frank Paiga, through her brother, who was his best friend. Don and Marlene began dating in high school and married on June 13, 1953, in Racine. As newlyweds, their adventures began in Verdun, France where Don was stationed. They made several weekend trips to Paris, France - a city they were fond of. They lived overseas for over a year before moving back to Racine. They had three children - Darroll, Paris, and Barry.
As an extension of her love for Jesus, Marlene was a dedicated loving wife and mother. Her life was centered on loving God and loving people, and this was reflected in her generosity of her time, talent, and resources in the church and in countless people’s lives. Marlene loved showing hospitality and greatly enjoyed hosting many parties for her family and friends which always included amazing food! She was an active member of Calvary Memorial Church in Racine, Wisconsin, where she sang in the choir, and sang in a trio with Don and his brother David. After moving to San Jose in 1977, she and Don became members of Calvary Church in Los Gatos, California. Marlene played the organ for Sunday worship services for almost 30 years. She also volunteered (from June - November) her creative and artistic talents, by painting the backdrops that decorated the gym for The Round the Table Carol Sing Christmas productions at church for many years.
After retirement, Don and Marlene moved to Ashland, Oregon to be near Paris and her family. Marlene continued to use her musical talents as the organist at First Baptist Church in Phoenix, Oregon.
Don and Marlene were married for 57 years before Don’s passing on August 15, 2010. Marlene’s health began to decline so the family moved her into an assisted living community in Racine in 2014. Darroll was working and commuting to Racine at this time and was able to see her often. As her memory began to decline, the family moved Marlene into a memory care community in Austin, Texas in 2017 to be near Darroll and his family. While there, Marlene enjoyed playing the piano as Darroll and Debby led Sunday afternoon church services for the residents at her community. She remained in Austin until her peaceful passing with family by her side.
Marlene is survived by her children: Darroll (Debby), Paris (Tom), and Barry (Annemarie), along with six grandsons; one granddaughter; one great-granddaughter; and two great-grandsons.
Marlene’s visitation and funeral will be held on Monday, January 22, 2024, beginning at 9:30 AM at Wilson Funeral Home in Racine, Wisconsin. Another celebration of life will be held at a later date in Los Gatos, California. Please contact the Paiga family for details.
A celebration of life will be held at the Wilson Funeral Home, 1212 Lathrop Avenue, Racine, WI 53405, on Monday, January 22, 2024, visitation beginning at 9:30 AM until the time of the ceremony at 10:30 AM. A graveside service and interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Marlene?
What’s a lesson you learned from Marlene?
Share a story where Marlene's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Marlene you’ll never forget.
How did Marlene make you smile?
