Sandra ‘Marlene’ Katz

Born in Blandinsville, Illinois, Marlene moved to the Bay Area in 1962. She became a career educator, teaching college-level business courses at California State University Hayward, College of San Mateo, College of Notre Dame and Cañada College. During her career, Marlene touched the lives of thousands of students.

Marlene received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration at Western Illinois University and her Ph.D. in business administration at Golden Gate University — the first woman to complete the university’s nascent doctoral business program. She was a proficient mahjong player, an avid reader and an adventurous world traveler. She also did volunteer work for various causes — including as a reading tutor and as an advocate for family planning services.

Marlene is survived by her husband, Arthur J. Katz, Ph.D.; her two children — Michelle and husband Norman — and Lisa, husband Michael, and children Ryan, Brianna, Shannon and Kevin; her sister, Janet, and husband Jim; and niece, Sara, husband Nick, and children Mikayla and Alexander.

“Marlene and her energetic spirit will be missed by all.”