Mary Ann Orvik

In Loving Memory of Mary Ann Orvik March 20, 1952 – July 4, 2025 Mary Ann Orvik, a woman whose laughter could light up a room and whose love stretched across generations, left us unexpectedly at the age of 73. Born on March 20, 1952, in Colfax, Washington, Mary made her home in Spokane, Washington, living in the very same house since March of 1969; a house that became the heart of her family and a haven for generations of children she cared for with boundless love. She shared her life with her devoted husband, Sherwood L. Orvik. Mary and Sherwood enjoyed playing golf together, traveling all over the country, and took many trips to Laughlin, Nevada. Mary was the proud mother of three children and two bonus children: Sherrie Orvik of Post Falls, Idaho; Jody (Chris) Crews of Port Orchard, Washington; Mary (Stanley) Brandyberry of Hill City, Kansas; Jason (Fantasy) Wilkinson of Marysville, Washington; and Steven (Karen) Orvik of Spokane, Washington. Her heart swelled with pride for her 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and doted upon. Her love for children extended well beyond her family. She ran an in-home daycare for 17 years, where countless little ones were nurtured by her warmth, humor, and gentle guidance. Her personality filled every room. Mary had a gift for storytelling, and if you were lucky enough to hear her tales, especially the hilariously exaggerated ones, you know that Mary could turn even the most ordinary moment into something unforgettable. She was known for her humor, her fierce loyalty, and her legendary chili and cinnamon rolls; meals that brought together friends, family, and community. Mary dedicated more than two decades of her life to Spokane Community College, where she served as a social worker. Her work empowered underprivileged women, giving them tools, confidence, and support to find independence. Her impact on the lives of others was immeasurable, quietly powerful, and deeply transformative. Always pursuing growth and new challenges, Mary proudly graduated from Eastern Washington University in 2013 with a Bachelor's degree in communication studies, showing that learning and passion have no age limits. She had a deep love for animals, especially Alaskan Malamutes. Through her work with WAMAL (Washington Alaskan Malamute Adoption League), she rescued and cared for numerous dogs, offering them a second chance and a loving home. Christmas was Mary's favorite season. Each year, she would bring magic into her home, even inviting Santa to surprise and delight the children, because with Mary, the spirit of joy and wonder was always alive, and she passed the joy of Christmas to her grandkids. Mary was a bright light: loving, generous, and unforgettable. Her presence will be missed more than words can express, but her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and love that will echo for generations. May her legacy live on in every laugh we share, every animal we care for, and every cinnamon roll we pass around the table in her memory. Mary is survived by her Sister Martha Grimmett of Cheney, Washington, Edith Woodward of Custer, Washington and Dixie Murphy of Nashville, Tennessee.