Marie D Lance

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Marie D Lance. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Marie was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.

Marie was born February 26, 1918 in Portland, OR. She was the daughter of Dominick and Josephine Teresi. Marie was raised in Portland. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Marie's personality throughout her life.

Marie was raised with an older sister, Rose. Marie and her sister had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

Marie was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Marie cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. On September 22, 1934 Marie married Charles B. Lance at the Justice of the Peace of Vancouver, Washington. Compassionate and devoted, Marie worked hard to make her new life partner happy.

Harmony was important to Marie and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Marie was blessed with two children, Geraldine and Rodger. She was also blessed with five grandchildren, Steve, Shelley, John, Maria, and Jennifer. Marie also had nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Marie was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Marie was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Marie would listen before she would act.

Taking her work seriously came naturally to Marie, and she expected the same from those around her. Marie was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Marie was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. Her primary occupation was as a cake icer. She was employed for over 20 years until her retirement, afterwhich she did alterations and sewing for others. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.

A methodical woman, Marie enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were square dancing and sewing.

Not only did Marie enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included cruises to Alaska, the South Pacific, and the Panama Canal.

Marie was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Fluffy, a companion cat, who was a best friend for her last 6 months.

Since it was easy for Marie to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. Since she was practical and cost effective, Marie was ready when that day to retire finally came in the 1960s. In retirement, she found new pleasure in travel and family activities. Even in retirement, Marie stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.

Marie passed away on May 17, 2010 in a home care facility in Portland. Marie succumbed to heart failure. She is survived by her children, Gerrie and Rodger. A memorial service will be held from 12pm to 4pm, Saturday, June 5, 2010 in the Monarch Hotel of Clackamas. Marie was laid to rest in Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon.

Marie was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Marie was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Marie D Lance.