Aug 16, 1955 - Dec 30, 2017
It is with profound sadness, we announce the passing of our precious Marlene. Her battle with cancer was a long, arduous journey which she fought with all her strength and remarkable dignity and grace.
Marlene graduated from Chilliwack Senior Secondary School in 1973. After graduating in broadcast communications from the British Columbia School of Technology in Burnaby, she worked at CHWK Radio in Chilliwack, then Women's Editor with CJOC - TV in Lethbridge, Alberta. She later worked as an investigative journalist and weather reporter at CHEK - TV in Victoria.
In 1979 Marlene took a position as a music publicist with Bruce Allen Talent Promotions in Vancouver. She became an indispensable component in the management success in taking Loverboy and Bryan Adams to global success.
After several years working at Bruce Allen Talent, Marlene moved to Toronto to work at a mid-level executive position at CBC-TV. In 1986 she began work at Balmur Entertainment, where she was a publicist for Anne Murray, George Fox and Rita MacNeil. Her client list also included The Rankin Family, Steve Smith (aka Red Green), Tommy Hunter and Frank Mills.
Eventually, moving to North Vancouver Marlene established Palmer Publicity Ink. She continued to work with Bruce Allen Talent, overseeing publicity for Anne Murray and Bryan Adams.
Marlene worked on projects for Anne Murray following her retirement in 2009, including when she was honored by the University of Toronto for her archive donation in November, 2017.
Accolades from former clients describe Marlene as a consummate professional and a joy to work with. Amazing, unflappable, dedicated and a dear friend.
In addition to her work as a publicist, Marlene was a prolific writer, particularly human interest stories which were easy to relate to in every day life.
Marlene's home and family were her refuge. She was a sensitive, gentle, strong young woman, who stayed true to her values. There was a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, who were always at her side.
Marlene is predeceased by her father Ron Palmer, and her mother-in-law Millicent Hurst.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Phillip Hurst and their daughter, Katie, her mother, Lorraine Palmer, sister Sharron Foerster and her husband Tom, niece Jennifer Huber and her husband Brett, nephew Bob Foerster, and grandniece, Charlotte Huber.
A shining light has left our family, but it was been replaced with a gift of everlasting love.
The family would like to thank their friend, Patty Pitts for her care and devotion during Marlene's illness.
Special thanks to Bruce Allen and staff at Bruce Allen Talent, and all of Marlene's clients and friends in Toronto, who have expressed so many warm tributes following her passing.
A memorial tea will be held at a later date.