Marie Neiditz

1950 - 2024

Marie Neiditz

February 24, 1950 - November 7, 2024

Steilacoom, Washington - Marie Neiditz, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Steilacoom on November 7, 2024, after a courageous 20-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on February 24, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Marie was the daughter of Eleanor and Theodore Yount. She cherished her early years in Michigan, attending Gompers Elementary and Redford High School. A passionate learner, she went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Education from Michigan State University.

Marie began her teaching career in the small, rural schoolhouse at Cayuse Prairie near Kalispell, Montana, before embarking on a journey that took her to Colorado, Florida, California, and Texas. In 1978, she settled in Seattle, where she worked as the admissions director at Griffin Business College. Marie's path later led her to Tacoma in 1985, where she devoted much of her energy to education, serving as coordinator of the community volunteer mentor/tutor program, Werlin, at McCarver Elementary. She also taught at several Tacoma elementary schools, ultimately concluding her teaching career at St. Frances Cabrini School in Lakewood.

A lifelong advocate for literacy, Marie's greatest joy was helping children discover the world of reading. Her love for teaching extended far beyond the classroom, with a special talent for holiday decorations that brought warmth and cheer to those around her for many years.

In 1978, Marie found her life partner in Andrew, whom she married in Seattle. Together, they built a life filled with love and adventure. They traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and made numerous trips to EuropeMarie's heart always drawn to Italy, a country she visited seven times.

Marie's family was her greatest source of pride and joy. She was a devoted mother to her children, Nicole and Elliot, and a cherished grandmother to her three grandsons, Harrison, Henry, and Holden (with a fourth grandson soon to arrive). Known as "Mimi," she brought light into their lives, and in turn, they filled her heart with immeasurable love. Above all, Marie's greatest wish was for her children and grandchildren was for them to love and be loved.

An active member of her community, Marie was involved in numerous organizations, including the Friends of the Lakewood Library, her book club, Rotary Partners, and her exercise group. She was deeply connected to the special people in these circles and cherished the many friendships she cultivated over the years.

Marie is survived by her husband, Andrew; her daughter, Nicole (Charlie Nordholm); her son, Elliot (Nicole); and her grandsons, Harrison, Henry, and Holden. She is also survived by her sisters, Barbara Kenney in Florida and Donna Sinelli in Michigan.

Marie's love, kindness, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Marie's life is scheduled for 2pm on December 7th at the Little Church on the Prairie in Lakewood WA.