Marelyn Elaine Curtis

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 11am 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 9:30am 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.