Marianne Irene (Nordquist) McColley

Marianne was born in Lakebay to Ernest and Irma Nordquist Sept. 2, 1936. She died peacefully in Renton, surrounded by family Nov. 10.

Marianne graduated from Peninsula High School Class of ’54 and soon married Phillip D. McColley. They lived in a variety of places and loved to travel the world, especially with family.

The couple joined the Lutheran Church while living in Davenport because a member asked them to sing in the choir. Subsequently, they both sang with Lutheran church choirs in Portage, Wisconsin, Wenatchee and Lakebay. Marianne often served as liturgist or assistant minister during church services.

Marianne graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and began teaching in Wenatchee. Her 20-year career included music, third grade and fifth grade before retiring in 1996. She enjoyed participating in community and church activities. A talented pianist, Marianne often accompanied various choirs and community theater productions. She participated in Music Theater of Wenatchee as an actor, director, producer and accompanist. She sang with a barbershop chorus, assisted with Short Shakespeareans and directed the Appleaires Women’s Chorus.

Following retirement, Marianne returned to Home where she was recognized for her service to the community. She directed both the Key Peninsula Lutheran Church choir and Key Singers, a community group. She volunteered at the Angel Guild. She was active with Paradise Theater in Gig Harbor, serving at various times as a board member, actor musician coach and musical director. She was a gifted musician who enjoyed helping others find their voice. In her words, “There is no one who cannot sing.”

Marianne was deeply loved by her daughters Devon and Britt; sons-in-law Warren and Mark; grandchildren Katharine, Arianna, Laura and David; and great-grandchildren McColley, Brayton, Pearson, Lindley, Egan and Mercer. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Phil, who died in 2002 shortly after their 48th anniversary.

A memorial service will be held at Key Peninsula Lutheran Church in Lakebay in spring of 2022. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a community theater or choir is suggested.