Marie Elise Amacher

Amacher, Marie Elise 91 Sept. 15, 1924 Nov. 06, 2015 Marie Elise (Soucey) Amacher passed away Nov. 6, 2015, to be with our Lord. As a devout Catholic, she never wavered from her faith even in her darkest moments. Marie was born Sept. 15, 1924, in Nelson, B.C., to Helen M. (Adoor) and Francis X. Soucey (both deceased). After finishing elementary school in a one-room schoolhouse, she went on to graduate from St. Joseph Catholic High School. After attending business school in Nelson, she made a 400-mile move, at age 19, to Vancouver, B.C., to start her working career. In 1948, Marie relocated to Portland and married Albert W. Amacher in 1950. They were married until his death in 1987. She became a U.S. citizen in 1951. While raising four children, she worked full-time in the banking and insurance industry. She retired at 65 but continued to work part-time into her 70s. She was a volunteer for Albertina Kerr Centers for over 24 years and held a variety of positions, most recently in the Kerr Thrift Shop. Our mother had many interests and enjoyed a busy, independent, active life until her recent medical challenges. She was an accomplished seamstress, photographer, gardener and enjoyed traveling. She traveled with Elderhostel on 16 different trips visiting a number of European countries and U.S. locations. She lived at Calaroga Terrace for the last five years of her life and was very involved in her senior community. She had many good friends and wonderful memories from participation in the annual art show, garden club and helping arrange theater outings. Her sister, Margurite Dobrovolsky, preceded her in death. She is survived by her children, Michael Amacher, Rich Amacher (Claudia), Darlene Amacher Conner (Richard Conner) and Susan Amacher (Bob Greene); grandson, Ben Amacher; extended grandsons, Joshua Greene, Daniel Cummings and Tony Cummings; great-grandchildren, Ashur Tappert, Kallin Clapp, Ayden Cummings and Ava Cummings; cherished grandpuppies, Harlow, Wally and Parker Joon; and poodle, Pepe (deceased). A special thanks to her primary care physician, Dr. Gloria Myers, who was her health advocate for over 25 years. Thank you also to all of the many caregivers and hospice staff who helped care for our mother. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Albertina Kerr: www.albertinakerr.org. A funeral Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Church and a reception will follow at Calaroga Terrace. Arrangements are being handled by Zeller Chapel of the Roses.