"Listening is not the only way I have been influenced by Catholic radio. The listeners and volunteers I work with play a vital part in cultivating my faith. Allow me to pay tribute to my friend and colleague, Marlene Stapp in that role.
 
Marlene's story epitomizes an American adventure story. Ironically though, Marlene emigrated from Canada at age 20. She worked on a dude ranch, fell in love with a cowboy, and married him. As the children were born to the family, the cowboy joined the army and became a medevac pilot, enduring two tours in Vietnam. It was her faith, according to Marlene, that helped the couple weather the stress and separation of the war. It was again her faith that sustained her several years later when Marlene, pregnant with her fourth child, learned her husband had died of a massive heart attack. Specifically, Marlene credits the faith and love and support given her and her children in the compassionate person of her former pastor, Father Wade Darnell. In a twist right out of an adventure novel, Marlene's brother-in-law also provided a lot of support.  He and Marlene grew very close and romance blossomed. They were married in 1980. Marlene and Chuck moved to Norman and served as faithful Catholics at St. Joseph's  as catechists, as adorers, in stweardship, and other capacities.
 
Marlene, however, was not raised with a faith. She marks the beginning of her faith journey with an "experience" early in her married life. Asleep, one night, she became aware of a warmth or "presence" in the room. This "experience" became the catalyst in seeking a relationship with God. Through neighbors who were also close friends, Marlene found fulfillment in the Catholic church. 
 
Marlene and her husband Chuck welcomed a fifth child to the family and never stopped saying "yes" to the opportunities God put before them; even the sad ones such as Chuck's cancer and death in 1999. Marlene's adventurous nature was not abated which is why I suspect she became involved with Oklahoma Catholic Radio,  ultimately as secretary/treasurer. Marlene is practical and gracious and candid and thoughtful without being blunt. Those qualities,  I think, led Marlene to be the "go-to " volunteer for both St. Joseph's and OKCR. In fact, it was Marlene who started this column and passed the torch to me when she found herself wearing too many volunteer hats.
 
Marlene reluctantly retired several months ago to address some medical challenges. I admire her optimistic embrace of every project and challenge in her life. I hope when she reads this column, I am making her proud. If you would like to hear Marlene's story in her own words, visit www.okcr.org/programs. Look for "Make Straight the Way", Marlene Stapp Part 1 and Part 2."