Marlene Frances (Mihalko) Salley Obituary (1941 - 2024)

Marlene Frances (Mihalko) Salley, age 82, of Corning, NY, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on April 6, 2024. She was born on December 29, 1941 in Corning, NY to Michael and Marie Mihalko. Marlene married her soul mate, Einar Daniel Salley, on October 2, 1964 at St. Mary’s Church in Corning. They were married 59 years. Marlene, a generous soul and creative spirit, embraced life with an unwavering determination. She was an embodiment of the quote, "Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient." Marlene was a trailblazer in the field of Information Technology, where she served as a Computer Programmer before her retirement. Her intelligence and tenacity were instrumental in designing and launching the first 911 service in Steuben County. She wore her Red Hat with pride as a member of the Red Hat Ladies Club, radiating joy and camaraderie. She and her beloved husband, Danny, delivered Meals on Wheels throughout the Corning area, fearlessly and with compassion, even during the pandemic, a testament to commitment to her community. Away from her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Marlene was a beacon of generosity for her family. A passionate decorator and gardener, her home was a spectacle of beauty, changing with the seasons. Her hospitality was legendary, her table always beautifully laid with homemade dishes like corned beef & cabbage, Halupki, deviled eggs, and frosted sugar cookies. Her magical Christmas standing rib roast will be missed by all. Marlene loved the water, and she personally enrolled and accompanied her four granddaughters to swimming lessons at the Corning YMCA long before they were skilled walkers! She and her beloved Danny lived to traverse the countryside, stopping at every rummage sale along the way and striking up great conversation and laughter with strangers and friends alike. Their love story was a beautiful tale of commitment and mutual generosity; they were indeed the real-life Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, living a spirit of joyful giving all year long. Marlene leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in the lives of her daughters, Jennifer (Kenneth) Ruland and Danielle (Michael Dailey) Salley; and granddaughters, Lili Ruland, Rose Ruland, Grace Ruland, and Poppy Ruland. Her sister Rosemary (John) Thomas also survives her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Einar Daniel Salley in 2023; her parents, Michael John and Marie Delores (Decker) Mihalko; and her brother, Michael Mihalko. We invite you to share your fond memories of Marlene and upload photos to her memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a lasting tribute to a remarkable woman, who touched so many lives with her generosity, creativity, and resilience. Per Marlene’s request, there will be no calling hours. Marlene's family has entrusted her care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. www.haugheyfuneralhome.com.