29/09/2026
Remembering Marlene ❤️
It is with very heavy hearts that we share the passing of our much loved member and friend, Marlene, on Monday 21 September.
Marlene had been part of The Glen Afton Line for the past 10 years, although her connection to the railway began through her late husband Ian, one of the foundation members of the Bush Tramway Club.
Together, Ian and Marlene became an important part of our railway family. Even after moving to Lawrence in Central Otago, they continued to make the journey north each month to be with us for our Open Days.
After Ian passed away, Marlene kept coming.
Month after month, she would fly up from the South Island to spend Open Day with the friends she had made here. That commitment says so much about what The Glen Afton Line and the friendships she had built here meant to her. It also says a great deal about what Marlene meant to us.
Many of our visitors will remember Marlene from the café and of course, many will remember her fruit cake.
Bringing her homemade fruit cake up for the café became something of a Marlene tradition. It travelled all the way from Lawrence with her each month and was always enjoyed by volunteers and visitors alike, with many comments about just how lovely it was. It was one of those little things that became part of an Open Day at Glen Afton and will be fondly remembered along with Marlene herself.
Marlene was more than a volunteer. She was a friend to many, a familiar face and an important part of the fabric of our club. Over the years she formed many close friendships and her absence will be deeply felt.
In keeping with Marlene’s wishes, there will be no funeral. She has been privately cremated and a private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
From all of us at The Glen Afton Line, thank you Marlene, for your friendship, your dedication and the many memories you leave with us.
You travelled a very long way each month to remain part of our railway family. We feel incredibly fortunate that you did.
You will be deeply missed and very fondly remembered. ❤️
Rest in peace, Marlene.
