Marlene Joyce Ryser

She was born in Centralia, Washington on July 9, 1935, to Kenneth Van Rooy and Helen (Fogles) Van Rooy. She was the oldest of four children: two sisters, Sandra and Linda, and a brother, Kenny. Growing up, she lived in Pacific Beach, Yakima, Cottage Grove, Montesano, LeBam, and Raymond. Marlene graduated from Raymond High School on May 28, 1953.

Marlene met her husband of 67 years, Paul Ryser, on a blind date on December 31, 1949. Despite the six-year age difference and Paul joining the Navy, their romance blossomed. Paul and Marlene were married on July 18th, 1953, in Raymond Washington.

Marlene and Paul made their first home in Aberdeen, Washington. During their life together they lived in Centralia, Camas, Washougal and Olympia. Marlene was a devoted housewife and mother of six children. She ran a loving, happy home for her family.

Marlene worked part time for the North Thurston Public School District. She enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge and Pinochle, listening to music, and watching old classic movies. She spent her leisure time with family, reading, camping, and taking several family road trips to Disneyland.

During her retirement, Marlene enjoyed playing cribbage with Paul, knitting, going on cruises and daily walks. A dedicated walker, on multiple years she logged over 1,000 miles on the trails near her home. She spent many hours on the trails of Mount Rainier hiking and snowshoeing with friends. But one of her favorite ways to spend time in retirement was with her grandchildren.

Marlene’s faith was the foundation for how she led her life. She was active in the Catholic Church, where she joined a Bible study group and volunteered helping prepare and serve food for the church’s funeral receptions. She also took a mission trip to Juarez, Mexico with her fellow parishioners. She said a rosary on her daily walks and was filled with love for Christ.

Marlene is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Paul, and sister Sandra. She is survived by her children, David Ryser, Gary Ryser, Susan Ryser Richardson, Steven Ryser, John Ryser, and Diana Ryser Evans, 15 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, and her sister Linda Van Rooy Bellgardt, and brother, Kenny Van Rooy.

Marlene will be remembered for her unwavering faith and love of God, her devotion to her family, and her love of children.

Marlene’s funeral Mass will begin held 11:00 a.m. on September 4th, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A reception will follow in Halen Hall.