Marlene Chatman

Marlene Chatman of Sparta, MI, passed away on November 16, 2009, at the age of 67 years. She was born on March 23, 1942, at Star City, IN, the daughter of the late Thelma (Hayden) and Maurice C. VanSoest. Mrs. Chatman retired from Quaker Oats in Chicago and also worked for Denver First Church of the Nazarene. She enjoyed actively working in the womens ministry and missions in her church and she sang with her beautiful alto voice in the choir. Traveling was one of her most favorite pastimes. A float trip to Missouri with her family was one of her favorite remembrances. In her travels she met many people from around the world, making friends in Hong Kong, Russia, Germany, Australia and Europe. Marlene was a fantastic home-maker; her home could have been featured in Better Homes and Gardens. Also, an amazing cook, her recipes will be enjoyed by the family for generations to come. She loved to shop and was a collector of Longaberger baskets. Marlene was so grateful for all the blessings she received from the Lord. Mrs. Chatman is survived by her husband, David Chatman, two sons, Todd Chatman (Kristen) and Chris Chatman (Lauren), six grandchildren, Michael, Braden, Bethany, Chloe, Madison and Nolis, a sister, Reta (Mrs. Rocky) Selanders, brothers, Raymond VanSoest (Kathleen), Marvin VanSoest (Kathy), M. Dean VanSoest (Anita) and Ralph VanSoest (Kathi) and numerous nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held at Hillview Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 21 under the direction of Cozean Memorial Chapel. Memorials may be made to the World Mission Fund at Sparta Church of the Nazarene, 665 13 Mile Rd. NW, Sparta, MI 49345. Obituary and online condolences at cozean.biz.