Obituary published on Legacy.com by Evergreen Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel on Jan. 25, 2024.
Marlene 'Nanny' Holm, 51, of
Beaverton, Oregon passed away peacefully on January 13th, 2024, surrounded by her American family. Marlene had a long and courageous battle with endometrial cancer before it took her life. Marlene was born April 16, 1972 to Kirsten Holm and Obel Hansen in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Marlene was a loving and devoted friend, daughter, sister, aunt, and nanny. Malene is survived by her best friend Roxanne (Mike); "children" Lauren, Cailee, William, and Dallas; brothers; Mike and Kenneth (Cassie), Mother Kirsten; Nieces Anna and Linda, and her faithful cats Jerfferson, Watson, and Simba. She is preceded in death by her father Obel.
Marlene moved to The United States in 1995 after reading a newspaper ad from the Martin family looking for a nanny. After moving Marlene stayed in The United States, eventually obtaining dual citizenship in both The United States and Denmark. Marlene stayed in The United States living in a few different states, Oregon being her favorite until her death.
Marlene was a woman of many passions, and one could often find her joyfully cycling through scenic routes, savoring the freedom that biking brought to her spirit. Her love for the open road mirrored her approach to life – an adventurous journey filled with discovery and joy. Marlene also loved traveling and one of her favorite trips was to Africa.
A culinary enthusiast at heart, Marlene's kitchen was a hub of creativity and delicious aromas. Her love for cooking was not only expressed through her delectable dishes but also in the way she gathered loved ones around the table, creating lasting memories through shared meals and laughter.
A lifelong learner, Marlene never stopped learning. You would often hear Marlene talking about her next educational opportunity and the importance of education. Marlene went to Northern Arizona University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. While at Northern Arizona University she was a member of The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. Marlene went on to receive a Master of Business Administration with a Management Emphasis from Boise State University. Marlene worked in various jobs as a data analyst eventually leading to her dream job as a Lead Applied Analytics Manager with Nike.
Yet, amidst all her passions, Marlene's most profound and enduring love was reserved for the children that called her nanny. She embraced the role of a loving and nurturing nanny with unmatched dedication. Her home was a sanctuary of love, acceptance, and unwavering support. Marlene's legacy lives on not only in the memories of those who knew her but also in the hearts of the children she so wholeheartedly embraced and loved as her own.
Gifts can be made in memory of Marlene Holm to support cancer research at Providence Cancer Institute through the Providence Portland Medical Foundation website link below:
Cancer Research - Oregon Foundations (providencefoundations.org)
It was Marlene's wish to have a Celebration of Life which will take place this upcoming Summer when Marlene's family from Denmark will be able to attend. Details will be shared at a later date.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marlene, please visit our floral store.