For the autoloading handgun choice, I would go with the Ruger Mark II. It is a reliable and popular design that will serve you well. More importantly, your wife enjoyed shooting one. If she likes it, she will shoot it. I always try to let a shooter pick the gun rather than deciding what the shooter will like.
While the common wisdom says one should not start new shooters with an autoloader, it can be done with complete safety. I started with a Ruger Standard pistol at the age of six, but my father watched me like a hawk. The coach must be very attentive and must not allow the new shooter to shoot indiscriminately. The safety rules need to be well ingrained and constantly reinforced.
If you decide to get a lever-action rifle, the Marlin 39A, while a great choice, may be too heavy for your wife and daughter. The 39A has a 24" barrel, and I have noticed that inexperienced shooters fatigue quite quickly with it. I would recommend the Winchester 9422 or the Marlin 1897T (same action as 39A with a 20" octagon barrel) in a lever action. Both of these rifles are lighter than the 39A while being excellent rifles. The 9422 is quite reasonably priced, especially compared to the 1897T.
One of the hardest things for me to learn when exposing new shooters to the sport is what .22 LR to use and how to safely and successfully do it. Some things I have noted.
1) The lighter trigger pull and grip ergonomics of a semi-auto are appreciated by new shooters. I frequently use my S&W M41 with a red dot sight for introducing people to shooting because it is easy to shoot and the red dot gets people on target quickly. Having some initial success is important for new shooters. Once people are hooked, more formal instruction on trigger control, proper sighting, and breathing can be imparted.
2) Revolvers are comforting for new shooters due to the lack of external controls compared to an autoloader (no safeties or slide releases), but the trigger feel is not as popular as an autoloader. Revolvers, even those with small grips, may not be suitable for people with small hands or young children. Cocking the hammer for single-action firing can be an issue for children.
3) Loading magazines can be an issue, especially for people with longer fingernails. I try to load as many magazines as I can before shooting commences so I can keep my attention on the new shooter as opposed to reloading magazines.
4) The coach cannot allow himself/herself to get distracted. Novice shooters may violate safety rules, especially pointing the muzzle in unsafe directions when talking before/after a string of fire.