Marlene Alice Guganig, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025. She was born on November 15, 1942, in Portland, Oregon to Genevieve Bickford and Raymond Vogt.  She is survived by her loving husband, James Guganig; her daughters, Diane Guganig and Karen Arnold; her 6 grandchildren, Lukas, Sergei, Masha, Horatio, Archer and Piers; and her brother, Ron Vogt.

Marlene was a free spirit who pushed for fairness and compassion.  She loved the outdoors and could often be found in her garden, hiking, or trying something new with the kids.  When not outdoors, she loved music and lent her voice and her trumpet to multiple choirs in the Las Cruces area.

Marlene graduated from the University of Arizona in 1964 and worked in the medical field as both a researcher and business manager.  She also volunteered with the Girl Scouts and as a musician for multiple churches in the Las Cruces area.  She pushed the boundaries and always searched for a deeper understanding of our world.  She will be fondly remembered for her strength and love by the community and her family. Her memory will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday October 22, 2025 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, located at 1327 N. Miranda Street. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 09:30 A.M, followed by the Funeral Mass. Inurnment and Rite of Committal will conclude at St. Francis Columbarium.  The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com