Marie Givens

Marie Givens (Lamvik) 99 years old, of Portland, Oregon peacefully passed away January 22, 2022. Born in Tingvoll, Norway on July 5, 1922 to Ole and Clara Lamvik, she immigrated to the United States in January, 1928 with her mother, and 3 brothers, meeting up with her father in Oregon. Marie graduated from Franklin High School in 1940, and attended classes at PSU. She had a long career as manager for physician groups, retiring from Dr. Eugene Perrin’s office.

In 1951 Marie married Clark Givens. The two were supportive of each other in their active life and went on many hunting and fishing outings together until his passing in 1991. They lived in Clark’s childhood Southeast Portland home, where she stayed until 2012.

Marie was proud of her Norwegian heritage. She enjoyed Norwegian language classes and celebrations at Norse Hall with her sister Clara. They were constant companions throughout the years, taking long walks and bike rides, attending ceramic classes, Blazer games, and Pops concerts, as well as supporting many local restaurants and Starbucks.

Family was very important to Marie. She hosted and traveled to visit extended family in Norway. Family holidays and gatherings were often celebrated at the Givens' with an abundance of food. Marie’s passions were for animals and gardening. She was avid gardener and active member of Villa Garden Club until recent years. You could find Marie out in the yard, day or night, rain or shine, tending to her favorite dahlias, pulling weeds or feeding the birds. She always had a beloved dog or an adopted cat with her at any time. Animals loved Marie and she loved them. Treats were always in her pocket.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Orville, Norolf, Kasper; sister Clara Lamvik; and husband Clark Givens. She is survived by her stepson Michael Givens (Carole) and family, nieces, nephews and their families. As fondly stated by her Norwegian cousin “She will be remembered for her wise reflections about the present and the past.”

Donations to the Oregon Humane Society can be made in her honor.