Marlene Hannele (Sens) Link

Marlene Hannele Link, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, after a long battle with illness often winning against all odds--a true testament to her hearty German heritage.

She was born on December 24, 1945, in Mariadorf, West Germany, and immigrated to the United States at the age of 20 with her 18 month-old son on her hip, barely able to speak English, and knowing only one person in America. She later became an American citizen in 1977 and was always a very patriotic member of the community. 

She married the love of her life, Richard (Dick) Link, on December 31, 1966, at St. Mary’s (German) church in McKeesport, PA.  Then they traveled the Midwest with for her husband’s job.  They eventually settled in California, Pennsylvania in 1979 and remained there ever since. 

She became the matriarch of the Link family as the prior generation left us, and was the primary “Turkey Cooker” for Thanksgiving and Christmas nearly each year.  She was truly in her element while cooking and after any setbacks in health, she felt best when she was back in the kitchen.

She was an avid golfer after being taught by her husband, and then routinely besting his scores every time they played. She enjoyed gardening and “digging in the dirt” as she would say.  She was also a formidable Pinochle player during the legendary Link family two-table tournaments. 

She was the epitome of strength and grace, always dedicating her time and energy to her family. Along with her husband, her legacy includes her sons, Bob Link, of California, PA, and John (Jenifer) Link of Venetia, PA; and her brother Hans Sens of Mariadorf, Germany.

The joy she brought into this world is reflected in the lives of her grandchildren—Katie (Ryan) Raftery of Naperville, IL, Karl (Christie) Link of Erie, MI, Adam (Grace) Steranko of San Angelo, TX, Heidi Link of Minneapolis, MN, and Christopher Link of Venetia, PA—along with her four great-grandchildren.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Karl, and Elisabeth Sens; brothers, Karl-Heinz Sens, and Hugo Sens; and sister, Trudi Reichart.  In lieu of cut flowers, potted plants or potted flowers are preferable.

In celebration of Marlene's life, her family will gather for a memorial service to honor the devotion she shared with family. All are warmly invited to join in this celebration, allowing us to remember the beautiful moments and the lasting impact she made on our lives.

Memorial visitation will be held on Monday December 23, 2024, from 4-6 pm in the Mariscotti Funeral Home, Inc., Anthony N. Mariscotti, Supervisor, 323 Fourth Street, California, PA. Funeral Services will begin at 6:00pm with Fr. Jon Brzek officiating. A reception will follow, where everyone can share stories, memories, and laughter at the California Young Men’s Club.

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