Obituary of Marie Victoria Gehrke

Marie was born in Stillwater, Washington to Ray and Blanche Essensa on April 13, 1927.  She passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 92 on December 14, 2019. She spent her final days on Earth the same way she spent the majority of her life, surrounded by her loving family.

Marie is survived by her daughters, Laura Immel (George), Lorraine Sands, and Luann Webb (Tim); her son, Larry Gehrke; her grandkids, Robert (Jennifer), Erika (Todd), Nigel (Rosemaree), Kyle, and Lauren (Troy); her great-grandkids, Mikaila (Mac), Riley (Fabian), Ashley, Allison, Ian, Devan, Dillon, Cecelia, Deacon, and Oliver; and brother, David (Alice). Marie is preceded in death by her husband, James Riley Gehrke; her daughter, Linda Collins; grandson, Riley Clark; and six siblings.

Marie attended Rainier schools where she met her loving husband of 50 years, James Riley. They were married on September 21, 1946. They raised their five children in Rainier, where they built a legacy. Marie was known for being a hard worker. She worked from the time she was 16 years old until her retirement at the age of 82. While Marie spent time working different jobs, her favorite job was working at Rainier Elementary School, where the students and staff loved her dearly.

Although Marie worked incredibly hard for her family, she also loved to have a fun time! She made many trips to Reno, cheered on her Seahawks, hosted many gatherings in her home, and enjoyed being with friends at the Rainier Tavern.

There was nothing more important to Marie than her family. Marie was affectionately known as Nana to most who loved her. Nana’s doors were always open to anyone that she met and her house was always filled with people who adored her. Nana hosted Sunday dinner each week for her entire family for over 20 years.

Nana never met a stranger. She was quick to forgive. She was the life of the party. She loved unconditionally and selflessly. She will be deeply missed, always.

A celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, February 1, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Lake Lawrence Lodge in Yelm, Washington, with a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Marie’s life.