Lenel A. Markee

Lenel Markee (Hamilton), age 71, passed away on October 4, 2025, in Bellevue, Washington at Overlake Hospital. Her life was a testament to creativity, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Lenel, born on January 18, 1954, in Sebastopol, California, was the cherished daughter of Leo and Helen Hamilton. In 1958, Lenel and her parents moved to North Bend, WA from Snoqualmie. She spent her formative years in the Snoqualmie Valley and graduated from Mt. Si High School in 1972. Her passion for helping others led her to pursue higher education at Bellevue Community College and later at Eastern Washington University, where she earned her degree in social work.

Lenel's professional journey reflected her deep commitment to serving others. Early in her career, she worked at the Maple Valley Senior Center before stepping away to embrace the role of full-time mother, following the birth of her daughter, Jennifer. Shortly after Jennifer's birth in 1984, Lenel, her husband Robert Markee, and daughter Jennifer, moved to Ohio and then Texas. Following her divorce, Lenel and Jennifer moved back to North Bend and Lenel became the devoted caretaker of her mother Helen. In the early 2000s, Lenel returned to the workforce as the Activity Director at Red Oak Residence of North Bend. There, she became a beloved figure among residents and coworkers alike-her warmth and dedication left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She continued working at Red Oak until her passing. Family was central to Lenel's life. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Jennifer Andersen-Markee; son-in-law Frank Andersen; and grandchildren Micah and Zoe Andersen-Markee. Her parents, Leo (1907- 1981) and Helen Hamilton (1906-1999), preceded her in death.

A woman of remarkable creativity, Lenel found joy in the arts and the majesty of God's creation. Whether painting, drawing, sewing, or crocheting, she had an extraordinary ability to bring beauty into the world with her hands. If she saw a picture of a craft project, she could replicate it with ease-her talent was matched only by her willingness to teaching others these skills.

Faith played a guiding role throughout Lenel's life. She was raised in the Lutheran tradition alongside her parents at Mt. Si Lutheran Church. Later, she grew in faith at North Bend Community Church (NBCC), where she rededicated her life to Christ and was baptized in the Snoqualmie River. She was a faithful volunteer and became a valued member of the NBCC board. At Red Oak Residence, Lenel planned church services and led Bible studies for residents and staff. Even as mobility challenges arose later in life, Lenel remained spiritually engaged by attending church services online. Her devotion to Jesus shaped every aspect of how she lived-through kindness, generosity, and love for those around her.

Lenel will be remembered as creative and fun-loving; caring and protective; and deeply spiritual. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched-with family, friends, coworkers, and countless residents whose days were brightened by her presence.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Mt. Si Lutheran Church 411 NE 8th St in North Bend, WA. A recording will be made available for those unable to attend in person. In lieu of flowers, donations to World Vision in memory of Lenel, would be appreciated