Longtime Niles Resident Marlene Donaghe Kime Dies at 82

Kime spent decades in banking and telecommunications before retiring and enjoying travel, music, and gardening in her later years.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:48pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a lush, colorful garden scene with blurred flowers, greenery, and soft, warm light filtering through, conveying the tranquil mood and natural beauty that Marlene Donaghe Kime found solace in during her retirement.The vibrant garden that brought Marlene Donaghe Kime joy in her later years is captured in a dreamy, impressionistic style.Niles Today

Marlene Donaghe Kime, a lifelong resident of Niles, Michigan, passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 82 after a brief illness. Kime had a long career in banking and telecommunications before retiring and spending her later years traveling, attending live music performances, and tending to her beloved garden.

Why it matters

Kime's passing marks the end of an era for a dedicated Niles community member who spent her entire life in the city, working in local industries and enjoying the region's natural beauty through her gardening and outdoor pursuits.

The details

Kime was born on June 21, 1943, to Leroy and Ruth (Parker) Holtz and raised her daughter Lisa with her first husband, Jim Donaghe. She later remarried Denton "Denny" Kime in 2002, and the two spent many joyful years together traveling and attending live music shows. In retirement, Kime found great pleasure in tending to her garden, which she especially enjoyed during the spring season. She was an avid reader and utilized the Michigan Talking Book Library service in her later years.

  • Marlene Donaghe Kime was born on June 21, 1943.
  • Kime married her first husband, Jim Donaghe, and raised her daughter Lisa in Niles.
  • Kime remarried Denton "Denny" Kime in 2002.
  • Kime passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 82.
  • A memorial service for Kime will be held on May 9, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the old chapel at Mission Hills Cemetery in Niles.

The players

Marlene Donaghe Kime

A lifelong resident of Niles, Michigan, who had a long career in banking and telecommunications before retiring and enjoying travel, music, and gardening in her later years.

Jim Donaghe

Marlene Donaghe Kime's first husband, with whom she raised her daughter Lisa.

Denton "Denny" Kime

Marlene Donaghe Kime's second husband, whom she married in 2002 and spent many joyful years traveling and attending live music performances with.

Lisa Donaghe

Marlene Donaghe Kime's daughter.

Carol Needham

Marlene Donaghe Kime's sister.

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The takeaway

Marlene Donaghe Kime's life was a testament to the enduring spirit of Niles, Michigan, as she spent her entire life in the community, working in local industries, enjoying the region's natural beauty, and maintaining close ties with her family and friends. Her passing marks the end of an era for a dedicated community member who left a lasting impact on those around her.