Marlene E. “Peanut” Smiltneek, age 38, of 405 6th Street, Channing, MI died Wednesday September 21, 2005 at home following a one month illness with cancer. Marlene was born April 25, 1967 in Escanaba the daughter of Kenneth and Louise (Chouinard) Beauchamp. She was raised in the Riverland area and was a 1985 graduate of Escanaba High School. She was united in marriage to Keith Smiltneek on November 26, 1991 in Iron Mountain. They made their residence in Channing where Marlene worked as a cashier for Sonny’s Food Land.

She was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church where she taught catechism. Marlene enjoyed helping people and her hobbies included making crafts, working in her flower beds and walking. She will be sadly missed by her family and many friends from around the world.

In addition to her husband Keith, survivors include:

Parents: Kenneth and Louise Beauchamp of Riverland

Son: Richard LaFave of Quinesec

2 Daughters: Lana (Rodney Woodward) Beauchamp of Escanaba; Britney Smiltneek at home

3 Brothers: Jim (Pam) Beauchamp of Escanaba; Pat (Addie) Beauchamp of Stephenson; Dennis (Jan) Beauchamp of Stephenson

3 Sisters: Gerri (Roger) Thayer of Republic; Terri (Archie) Malecheck of Denmark, WI; Judy (Dennis) Mutz of Cadillac

Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins

Mother-in-law: Marie Wery of Hermansville

Special friends Greg and Vickie Oneil of Channing and many friends and neighbors.

Marlene’s family will receive friends on Monday from 4:00 P.M. E.S.T. to 7:00 P.M. E.S.T. at the Holy Family Church in Flat Rock. Mass of Christian Burial Services celebrating the life of Marlene E. Smiltneek will follow at 7:00 P.M. at Holy Family Church with Rev. Fr. Frank Lenz officiating. Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be in the Escanaba Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a memorial fund to be decided later.