Marlene Stephen

Marlene Greer Stephen was an exceptional teacher, musician, Pipe Major, organizer, and lifelong champion of Scottish culture.

Family was at the centre of Marlene’s life. She was a devoted mother to Marnie, a loving mother-in-law to Richard, and a proud new grandmother to Fiona. She also treasured her parents, Margaret and Jack; her siblings, Nancy, David, and Lynne; and her extended family.

Marlene earned both a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Music Education. During an extraordinary 41-year teaching career with the Winnipeg and Louis Riel school divisions, she taught mathematics before focusing on band and music education. Her interest in her students did not end at retirement; she continued to follow their lives and celebrate their achievements.

Marlene’s connection to Scottish music began in childhood, when she first learned to play the bagpipes. She became a member of the Heather-Belle Ladies’ Pipe Band and remained with the band for 39 years, serving as its Pipe Major for 21 years. Under her leadership, the band carried forward a proud tradition of women’s piping and Scottish musical performance in Manitoba.

Her contribution extended far beyond performing. Marlene organized piping competitions, judged young musicians, and encouraged developing pipers to grow in confidence, discipline, and skill.

She gave her energy and leadership to many organizations and events, including the Pavilion of Scotland, the Winnipeg Scottish Festival, Bands on the Boardwalk Highland Games, the Prairie Pipe Band Association of Manitoba, the Manitoba Highland Dancing Association, Rainbow Stage, the Tempo Music Conference, the International Music Camp, and the Manitoba Music Educators’ Association.

Marlene was known for thinking boldly and then doing the hard work required to turn an idea into reality. Wherever she became involved, she built connections, inspired others, and left an unmistakable mark.

Marlene passed away on January 19, 2009, at the age of 61.