March 24, 1944 - September 5, 2020
It is with saddest of hearts the family of Marlene Braga announce her passing on September 5,2020.
Marlene was born March 24, 1944 to Maria and Peter Kartye in Ivanda, Romania. The large family including siblings Joseph, Nikolas, Susanna, Peter, and Anna fled to Salzburg, Austria during World War II, before immigrating to Canada in 1956.
The entire family settled in Vancouver where Marlene learned English and began her lifelong passion of customer service working at the family deli. Marlene was determined to get an education and after finishing high school she started nursing school at Vancouver General Hospital and graduated in 1966.
In 1967 an ad for nurses needed in the Yukon led Marlene on an adventure of a life time! Dawson City was her destination. She started work at St. Mary's Hospital determined to make enough money to travel in Europe, but her plans were destined to change.
She quickly fell in love with both Dawson City and Julio Braga. Joe and Marlene married in 1968 and within a few quick years welcomed their family of four children. Marlene stopped nursing to focus all her love and attention on her children.
Marlene was an avid crafter making everything from clothes for the family, quilts, parkas, afghans, and household items. Both Marlene and Joe lovingly embraced their roles as grandparents. Marlene shared her many talents of baking and crafting with her grandchildren especially around Christmas time when she helped them make a variety of Christmas ornaments that have become family heirlooms.
Marlene's love for Dawson lasted throughout the years and was evident in her work at the Visitor Information Centre where she had a 20 year career. And her passion for tourism and Dawson City was evident with her work on the K.V.A. Board of Directors.
Mom was a strong role model for her family and made a large impact on each one of us. She was a great mom and an even more amazing grandmother and great-grandmother. She was predeceased by her husband Julio and her brother Joseph and parents, Maria and Peter. Marlene is survived by her children Valerie (Angelo), Wayne (Kandice), Cindy (Mike), Tina and grandchildren Mindy, Roslyn, Scott, Haley, Matthew, Liam and Giana as well as great-grandchildren Fiona, Lily, Eliza and Hudson.
In respect of Mom's wishes a private ceremony will be held when the family is able to be together. Our heartfelt thanks to all the extended family and friends who have supported us at this difficult time.