Marelyn E. Curtis

1935 - 2017

Marelyn E. Curtis obituary, 1935-2017, Vancouver, WA

BORN

1935

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Northwood Park Funeral Home, Cemetery & Mausoleum

16407 North East 15th Avenue

Ridgefield, Washington

Marelyn Curtis Obituary


MARELYN E. (MUELLER) CURTIS
January 21, 1935 ~ April 23, 2017

Marelyn Curtis passed from life on earth on April 23, 2017 at the age of 82.

Although her death was unexpected, Marelyn had suffered from degenerative disc disease and chronic pain for more than 14 years. She faced her illness with humor and courage, and is now free from pain _ flying with the angels.

Marelyn was born to Sarah Reiber and Walter Mueller on January 21, 1935 in Fort Morgan, Colorado. She was raised a farmer's daughter (one of six girls) by her mother and stepfather Arthur Scheirman, and graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 1952. Before graduating from high school, she began a part-time job at the Farmers State Bank. This job helped launch a lifelong career in finance and banking.

In 1953, she married James "Jim" Curtis, also of Fort Morgan. They enjoyed time with their families, boating, skiing, fishing and camping. Together they raised two daughters. The family moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1966, living in Long Beach, WA, Pendleton, OR, Walla Walla, WA and Spokane, WA before settling in Vancouver in 1971.

In Vancouver, Marelyn's financial career turned to the credit union industry - culminating in 17 years as the CEO of City Employees Federal Credit Union (now part of IQ Credit Union) until her retirement at age 62. Being a strong proponent of education, Marelyn earned several financial certifications in her career. She continued her own education after retirement, and became a published author of several articles and also contributed to a book of short stories. She had a sharp mind and prided herself in continuous learning.

Marelyn was also a lifelong community volunteer. She was passionate about community institutions and especially about making life better for children and people with low-incomes. Marelyn served many years as a leader on her church council, the board of the Child Abuse Intervention Center (now Children's Justice Center), Washington Credit Union League Board of Directors, Vancouver Welcome Wagon, and Truman Neighborhood Association. Marelyn participated in mission trips with the Lutheran Church - she was particularly captivated by a 1985 outreach and learning trip to Central America. She was often first to offer to help with a warm meal, a listening ear, a spare room or a heartfelt hug.

Among her many accomplishments, the highlight for Marelyn was her family. If you talked with her, you would often hear her brag about her daughters, or tell of the escapades of her grandchildren. Marelyn's family was the highlight of her life, and she was the centerpiece of theirs. She poured much of her energy into being a strong mother and loving grandmother, and was extremely proud of her family.

Marelyn is survived by her husband of 63 years, Jim; two daughters, Pam Curtis (Lennie Bjornsen) and Julie Wilson (Bryan); and four grandchildren, Aaron Curtis-Johnston, Joshua Curtis-Johnston, Claire Curtis, and Rylee Wilson; one sister Saralee Weimer; and many, many friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11a.m., May 5, 2017 at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 5607 NE Gher Rd. in Orchards. Northwood Park Funeral Home is handling arrangements. There will be viewing at Northwood Park in Ridgefield May 3 and 4, and also beginning at 9:30a.m. before the service at St. Andrew.

The family suggests donations to the Children's Justice Center, P.O. Box 61992 Vancouver, WA 98666; or the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011. Washington DC 20090-6011.

Please sign Marelyn's Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.

Published by The Columbian on Apr. 29, 2017.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Marelyn Curtis

Not sure what to say?





What a wonderful friend I was privileged to have for 46 years. To everyone else I spoke of Marelyn as my "other mother." Such a great personality with always a positive outlook and sense of humor. Love and hugs to her family.

Patti Mares

May 20, 2017

I will always miss Marilyn and Jim all the fun we had with my mom and dad rudyin Catherine my sister Sherry and Linda and all the fishing trips playing cards just hanging out I know my mom missed Maryland when they moved away and we all Miss JimI'm so sorry for your loss Jim

ron Scheirman

May 4, 2017

Jim and family;
Sorry to hear of Marelyn's passing. She was a wonderful lady whom I have fond memories of. She always had a smile and great stories that would make you laugh. She introduced me to the Credit Union world many years ago. I am honored to have known her through the years as a friend and mentor. Rest in Peace.

Bob Gadotti

May 3, 2017

My Aunt Marelyn was one of my favorite people, so kind and considerate of others, always welcoming, and could tell always come up with a great joke or two! She always made me feel valued and went out of her way to let me know I mattered to her.I'll always miss that wonderful smile, her laugh and that twinkle in her eye.She loved well and was well loved by her family and friends. I will greatly miss her. My life is richer for having known my Aunt Marelyn. God rest her soul and bring comfort to Uncle Jim, Pam, Julie, their families and her many, many friends.

Terry Hendrickson

May 1, 2017

Pam Curtis

Daughter

May 1, 2017

Pam Curtis

Daughter

May 1, 2017

Pam Curtis

Daughter

May 1, 2017

Jim and Family,
I was so sorry to learn of Marelyn's death. She was a delight! Although I didn't know her well, a visit with her was always a must when I was in Vancouver. I know she will be missed by many. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Joan Cichos

April 30, 2017

I had the honor of calling her Aunt. I will miss the fun she always brought and her laugh.

Laurie Martin

April 29, 2017

Our hearts go out to Jim and the family. Marelyn was such a special friend and mentor. We will miss her smiling face and the great jokes she told. God has received a wonderful caring angel to watch over her family and friends. Love you Marelyn

Don & Karen Wood

April 29, 2017

Pam Curtis

Daughter

April 28, 2017

Please accept our condolences on the loss of your loved one. May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Ps 119:76

April 26, 2017

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Memorial Events
for Marelyn Curtis

May

5

Viewing

9:30 a.m.

St Andrew Lutheran

5607 NE Gher Rd, WA

May

5

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

St Andrew Lutheran

5607 NE Gher Rd, WA

Funeral services provided by:

Northwood Park Funeral Home, Cemetery & Mausoleum

16407 North East 15th Avenue, Ridgefield, WA 98642

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