Jane L. Marden

OAKLAND – Jane L. Marden, 67, of Oakland, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, while vacationing with her husband on a “bucket list” cruise in Antarctica. She died peacefully in her sleep, during the early hours of the morning near Astrolabe Island, Antarctica.

Jane was born in Waterville on May 17, 1956, the daughter of Roger and Yvette (Bourassa) LeClair of Winslow. She grew up in Winslow, graduating from Winslow High School in 1974. She began college at the University of Maine at Farmington. She finished her two Bachelor’s of Science Degrees, and her Master’s Degree in Food Science at the University of Maine at Orono. She was also a Registered Dietician. Jane was a self-proclaimed “foodie”, enjoying time with her friends in ‘Gourmet Lunch Group,’ and the family called her the food police.

Jane was always up for any outdoor activity. She was passionate about downhill skiing, waterskiing, hiking, and year-round activities on the lake. Jane was especially proud to have passed her outdoor enthusiasm on to her children and grandchildren. Sunday evening family dinners were always filled with laughter and too much food. She was continuously working on sewing or knitting projects for her grandchildren as well as Sew for a Cause and other charities.

Jane was predeceased by her parents and her brother Richard LeClair. Jane is survived by her husband of 45 years, John Marden, her sister Estelle and husband John Clyde of Smithfield; her son Jacob and wife Serica of Vassalboro, their children Caleb and Abigail; daughter Melissa and husband Nathan Mangin of Farmingdale, their children Owen, Parker, and Cameron; sister-in-law Claire LeClair of Sidney, and a special niece Jennifer Cyr and husband Jason and children Gavin, Allie, and Ben, also from Sidney. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers,

donations may be made to:

Guiding Eyes

for the Blind at

http://www.guidingeyes.org or 800-942-0149 or to:

Sew for a Cause

c/o St. Bridget’s Center

864 Main St.

No. Vassalboro, ME 04989.