Known by her family as Minja, she came to America from Montenegro as a young teenager with her mother and two brothers. She was a loving sister, aunt, and cousin to her family. To her friends and business associates she was a model, fashion show director, jewelry designer, and business owner. Most will remember her as the lady in black because, in recent years, she only wore black clothing. She appeared in bay area magazines such as Gentry and 7X7 in San Francisco. She participated in charitable events often donating many of her custom designed jewelry pieces for auction.

Those who knew her well were aware of her love of her dogs. It was her wishes that in lieu of flowers that donations be given in her name to the Humane Society, ASPCA or your favorite local pet shelter.

She passed on Sunday after a very long battle with cancer. Marlene will be buried at the Serbian Cemetery in Colma on Thursday at 1:30pm. A graveside service will be performed by Father Djurica Gordic of St. John the Baptist of San Francisco church. Friends most welcome.