Marie Renetta Bentley passed away Thursday, April 23, while a resident at Regency Care Center in Norwalk, IA.  Cremation rites have been afforded. Marie was born July 22, 1941, on her family farm in rural Fredericksburg, IA, to William (Bill) and Renetta (Biermann) Bentley.  Marie graduated with the Class of 1959 from Fredericksburg Community School District.

Marie married Robert (Bob) Meyer on June 23, 1962 and settled into their home in Tripoli, IA.  Their marriage was blessed with three children: Janell, Colleen, and Jamie.  Marie spent many years working for Hasbrouck-Voetmann Lumber Company & Garner Construction in Tripoli.  Marie was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and served on the church council, sang often in the choir, played in the bell choir, and volunteered as a substitute Sunday School teacher.  During her years raising her kids, Marie was active in bowling, played softball, was a member of the Tripoli Jaycees, and participated in several Booster Variety Shows. Marie and Robert later divorced.

Marie later moved to Pella, IA, where she went to work at Kooyman Lumber.  She went on to marry John Slycord on May 6, 2000.  Marie also worked for Central College before her retirement.  During their years together, Marie and John enjoyed camping and spending their winters in the warmer climates of Texas and Arizona.  She would regularly bring a new game back from their time down south to share with her grandchildren.  Marie also enjoyed sewing and made many quilts for her grandchildren.  During her time in Pella, Marie was a member of Peace Lutheran Church and was active with the Red Hats Ladies.

Marie is survived by her husband John of Knoxville, her daughter Janell (Tim) Smalley of Tripoli, IA, her son Jamie (Ann) Meyer of Tipton, IA, her grandchildren Emily Sauerbrei, Kailee Meyer, and Kole Meyer.  She was preceded in death by her daughter Colleen, her siblings William (Bill) Jr, Jean, June, and her parents.  She was also preceded in death by John's brothers Bill and Ron and his parents.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10, at Peace Lutheran Church from 1:00-3:00.  A service for Marie will immediately follow at 3:00, with Pastor Chad Brown presiding.  Memorials and donations should be directed to Peace Lutheran Church.