Marian Louise Menke

Marian Louise Menke

January 3, 1954 - June 10, 2025

Marian Louise Menke passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at home in Spokane, Washington surrounded by family and close friends after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. She was 71 years old.

Marian, or Balse to many of her close friends, was born on January 3, 1954, in Great Falls, Montana, the proud daughter of John and Lois Ball. She grew up as one of eight siblings (plus one, Frances, who died as a baby) in a lively and loving household. The Ball family was hardworking, tight-knit, and full of fond memories from their home in Montana. Marian carried that love of family and community throughout her life.

From an early age, Marian embraced the outdoors, especially at the family's cabin property outside of Helena. While the structure itself was modest, the real treasure for her was the "tent city" that sprung up when family gathered to fish, hunt, and simply enjoy one another's company on the property. These Montana memories were a source of joy for Marian, and she made a point to pass on that love of nature to the next generation.

A passionate caregiver by nature, Marian pursued a lifelong career in nursing that spanned 50 years. After college, she relocated to Spokane, Washington, where she dedicated herself to roles in emergency rooms, neonatal care, and pre-op services. Her compassion, sharp instincts, and unwavering devotion to others made her an invaluable nurse and colleague. She was known for putting the needs of others above her own and served as a source of comfort and stability to countless patients and families over the decades.

When Marian wasn't working, she was moving, always active, always engaged. She played softball and volleyball in her younger years and transitioned to golf and tennis in her later life. She was a competitive and committed member of several Spokane tennis clubs, traveling to tournaments across the region and even as far as Florida. She closely followed local sports teams including Gonzaga Bulldogs, Seattle Mariners, and Seattle Seahawks, and could always be counted on to watch each game with enthusiasm, anticipation, and her trademark anxiety that was always humorous for those watching with her. Athleticism, sportsmanship, and team spirit were part of her core.

Marian had a wonderfully diverse circle of friends from all walks of life, and she never missed a chance to make each of them feel special. She had a knack for remembering birthdays, anniversaries, and meaningful occasions, often marking them with thoughtful cards, a call, or a small meaningful gift. Her sense of humor enjoyed funny cards, of which she had an endless supply, and was well known for her creative costumes that added joy and laughter to every celebration.

Above all, Marian loved being a mother and grandmother. She devoted herself to her two children, Kara and Kyle, and was a constant presence in the lives of her grandchildren. She shared a particularly close bond with her first granddaughter, Kaeva, and treasured the time she spent with her newest granddaughter, Jovi, who brought her joy in her final months. Marian was a fixture at birthdays, holidays, music and sporting events, and family traditions, camera always in hand, capturing countless moments. Her extensive video and photo archives were a source of laughter and love during her months of treatment and will continue to provide treasures into the future.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lois Ball; her infant sister Frances; her brothers Frank and Louie (Cathy) and several beloved dogs who were cherished by Marian. She is survived by her daughter Kara (Sergei), her son Kyle (Lindsay), and her granddaughters Kaeva and Jovi. She also leaves behind her brother John (Carolyn), her sisters Mardie (Scott), Kathleen, Pauline (Bob), and Lois (Pete), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were like family to her.

Even in her final months, after receiving a diagnosis of Stage 4 glioblastoma in March 2025, Marian remained full of grace, strength, and optimism. She approached her treatment, daily radiation and chemotherapy, with the same courage and determination that defined her life. She chose to spend her final days at home, surrounded by the people and memories she loved most.

Marian didn't want a formal service, but the family is planning to celebrate her life with gatherings in both Spokane and Montana next spring. These events will be a chance for family and loved ones to come together, share memories, and honor her in the joyful, heartfelt way she would have loved. The family will share details once plans are in place.

Marian lived fully, gave generously, and loved without hesitation. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, resilience, and family bonds that will not be broken. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.