In Loving Memory

Marlene Marlene Massey

Colville resident, Betty Marlene Massey, age 84, passed away February 24, 2025 in Rice, WA.  She was known to most of her friends and family as Marlene and was rarely called Betty. Marlene was born March 17, 1940 in Seattle, WA to Gilbert Isaac Banks and Myrtle Florence Webb Banks.

Marlene lived in the Port Orchard, WA area for many years.  She was highly involved in the Port Orchard Farmers Market.  For many years she was one of the largest and most important popular vendors.  Marlene loved growing produce of all kinds.  She would then can the fruit and vegetables and dry many of the flowers.  Marlene made swags, wreathes, and even potpourri with the dried flowers.  Over the years, she and her family would go on excursions to eastern Washington to find mushrooms and baby's breath to sell at the Farmers Market.  She would share any extra produce with those in need.  Marlene was always willing to offer a hand up or provide a handout to anyone who could use it.  She always had lots of food available should an unexpected guest arrive or someone needed some.

Marlene was always looking for things should could offer the public at the Farmers Market.  It wasn't about making money for her.  It was more about making someone happy.  Marlene loved to bake.  Her pies were a favorite item.  She wrote several booklets on her gardening techniques, recipes for specific vegetables and fruits, and flowers.  Her favorite flowers were Poppies and Forget-me-nots.

In her later years, she and her husband Jim would travel.  They were fearless as they went about, often stopping on the side of the road for the night.  She always packed plenty of food and necessities – including a good book and a roll of toilet paper.   Fishing was something she really enjoyed doing.  She just didn't like to eat them!  Marlene loved to sing karaoke.  Her favorite song was "How Much Is That Doggy In The Window?"  She wasn't known for having the best of singing voices, but she made the experience fun for all!

Marlene gave from the heart.  Her eldest daughter had gone through a significant loss and was grieving.  Marlene's dog, Marsee, sensed the grief and stayed close to her.  Marlene gave Marsee to her daughter to be her companion.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, one brother, a foster brother, husband; James Massey and daughter Kathi. She is survived by daughters Carmen, Karen, Sarah and son, Larry; beloved niece Elsie and her husband Dan; 13 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren.

A family gathering and celebration of life is being planned for the future to honor Marlene.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Please visit the online memorial website and sign her guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory have been entrusted with her care.