Marlene Bancroft

Marlene V. Bancroft, age 89, of Chilton, died on September 21, 2026, at Century Ridge Assisted Living in Chilton. She was born March 24, 1937, daughter of the late Albert and Lydia Sartori. She graduated from Chilton High School in 1954 and later married Harold “Hal” Bancroft.

Marlene enjoyed reading, puzzles, and embroidery, but she excelled at cooking. Her family called her the “Cookie Queen,” and many visitors to her home went home with a batch of her amazing chocolate chip cookies. When her children grew up and left home, Marlene spent time working at Vern’s Cheese, Schmidt Clothing, and New Hope Center.

Marlene is survived by her children: Gary (Mary Kay) Bancroft, Scott (Donna) Bancroft, Brian Bancroft, and Julie Cullen (Pete); grandchildren: Brandon (Emily) Bancroft, Heather Bancroft, Kyle Bancroft, Ryan Bancroft, Alyssa (Scott) Thiel, Nicole (Camden) Horner, Zachery Bancroft, and Eli Bancroft; four great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Cameron, Vivian, and Hayden; a sister: Sharon Chause; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Hal; her parents: Albert and Lydia; sisters: Janet Maile and Alice Davis; and in-laws: Joe Chause, Gene Maile, John Davis, Roy (Marge) Bancroft, Helen (Athniel) Jaschob, Ruth (Norval) Hunt, Hazel (Ellsworth) Schutte, and Bernice (Gerald) Jost.

Private services are being held.

The family would like to thank The Homestead, Century Ridge, and Heartland Hospice for all of their help and care of Marlene.