Obituary: Marliese Ulrike Franek

Surrounded by family, Marliese Ulrike Franek passed away peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012. Marliese was preceded in death by her husband, Bruno J. Franek, MD, and her daughter, Alexandra Franek. She is survived by her children, Cornelia Hodosh and her husband Alex; Clemens Franek; Sabina Dougherty and her husband Patrick; Christine Gray and her husband Tim; and by her grandchildren, Alexis Franek; Patrick, Liam, and Nicole Dougherty; Sarah and Benjamin Hodosh; Aria and Gunnar Franek.

Originally from East Prussia, Marliese came to the United States as a Fulbright scholar, completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Vermont and conducting graduate research in botany at the University of Rhode Island. Later in life, Marliese earned her master's degree in counseling from Providence College.

Marliese was the loving wife of Bruno J. Franek, MD. Their individual paths to the United States crossed in East Greenwich, RI, where they proudly established their home and raised their family. After teaching biology and German in the Warwick school system, Marliese enjoyed a successful career as a well-respected marital and family therapist. Together with her husband, Marliese founded Partners in Psychotherapy and served on the professional staff of Kent County Memorial Hospital until her retirement.

In addition, she published numerous articles addressing various aspects of marital and family relations. Marliese took tremendous pride in her large family and her love of this country. Her adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors were reflected in her extensive travels and the joy she experienced in her greenhouse, on the tennis court, on the beach at The Dunes Club, and in the mountains.

A mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, October 25, at 10:00 am at the Our Lady of Mercy Church, 65 Third Street, East Greenwich, RI.