Dr. Marlene D. Trachsel

Dr. Marlene Trachsel passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday April 27, 2025, at the age of 91. Marlene was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dr. Samuel Friedman, her parents, and sister Ione. She is survived by her brother Bob, and sister-in-law Allie Trachsel. Marlene will be further missed by her caretaker, Quinn Filter, and niece Tracy Krueger and husband Kevin, who helped Marlene with her activities of daily living for the last five years. Marlene will also be fondly remembered for her great sense of humor by her friends, neighbors, and other family members. Marlene also leaves behind her amazing cat, Smokey who she thoroughly adored.

Dr. Trachsel received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 1963, her Master of Education from Marquette University in 1969, and completed her Doctor of Education degree in Guidance and Counseling from Marquette University in 1972. Marlene was a practicing Psychologist who specialized in Criminal Psychology. She worked at various places throughout her long career including Milwaukee Jewish Vocational Services, the State of Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services, Fox Lake Correctional Institution, Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, and served as a psychologist that saw private patients in the Milwaukee area. In addition, Dr. Trachsel volunteered with the American Red Cross and helped to support those who had experienced traumatic events throughout the United States.

Marlene and her husband Sam enjoyed taking cruises and traveling abroad. Some of the special places they traveled included England, Russia, China, Cuba, Brazil, France, Italy, Switzerland, and the beaches of Mexico. When not traveling abroad they attended various jazz concerts throughout the US. They also enjoyed hanging out at special lakes, hosting parties at their home, and dining out with family and friends.

Marlene’s family wishes to extend special thanks to her Melanoma team of doctors at Froedtert Hospital who helped to manage her treatment and care, and her nurse David, from Aurora at Home Hospice who assisted with Marlene’s end of life care.

A memorial will be held for Marlene at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin on Friday May 23^rd starting at 11:30 am where those who loved her are welcome to join in to share stories, and fond memories of her life well lived.

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