About This Memory Space
This page was created for Marianne Brocke's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Marianne Brocke's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Marianne Brocke. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Born in Hammond, Indiana, Marianne grew up cherishing her neighborhood and lifelong friendships, fostering a curiosity and leadership that shone early on. A standout at Hammond Morton High School as newspaper editor and Girls State participant, she pursued higher education at Indiana University and National Teacher's College in Evanston, Illinois, igniting a passion for teaching and child welfare. In 1980, she and her husband Jim relocated to Carmel with their three children, where she embraced the community's evolution, from cultural events like concerts and Christkindlmarkt to spirited support for Carmel High School sports. An exceptional hostess, she opened her beautifully appointed home—adorned with fresh flowers—to up to 100 guests each Christmas Eve, creating spaces filled with joy and welcome. Her enthusiasm extended to sports fandom, rooting passionately for college football and basketball teams tied to family, Indiana, and the Big Ten, while cheering underdogs to victory. Deeply rooted in faith, she found purpose in quiet prayer, rosary devotion, and active parish involvement.
Family & Loved Ones
Marianne Brocke's legacy lives on through their family and loved ones:
- Marianne's greatest fulfillment came as a devoted wife to Jim for 47 years, a loving mother to Jonathan (Patty) Burman, Jason (Donna) Brocke, and Jennifer (Jim) Meece, and 'Mimi' to grandchildren Melissa, Katherine, Benjamin, Anna, Nicholas, Andrew, Cody, Madison, Jordan, and Lauren. She shared boundless encouragement and pride, eagerly anticipating milestones like Katherine's wedding and Ben's graduation. Her sister Marcel Raduenzel, numerous nieces and nephews, and faithful dog Molly rounded out her cherished circle. Friendships spanned decades, from elementary schoolmates to neighbors, marked by shared meals, travels, and her knack for remembering names and celebrating achievements.
Remembered by Friends & Family
In the days and weeks after their passing, messages of love, support, and remembrance flowed in from friends, family, and colleagues. The themes that emerged were clear and consistent.
Friends and family shared heartfelt reflections on Marianne's infectious warmth, remarkable hospitality, and ability to make everyone feel special. Many recalled her as a pillar of kindness in Carmel, a devoted educator whose impact on children endured, and a faithful community servant whose grace inspired all. Her love for family, sports, and gatherings was frequently celebrated, with notes of how deeply she'll be missed yet forever remembered.
Memorial Gathering: To be announced
Memorial Service: Visitation
Location: Flanner Buchanan Funeral Centers
10655 Haverstick Rd, Carmel, IN, 46033
Additional Information: Please contact the funeral home for additional information.
For more details, visit the original obituary