Marie Louise McMahon

October 27, 1939  –  June 5, 2025

Marie Louise McMahon, 85, of Bellevue, Washington, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025. Born on October 27, 1939, in Eureka, South Dakota, Marie was the daughter of Theodore and Margaret Straub.

Marie was a loving wife, devoted mother, and a cherished friend. She married Bernard (“Bernie”) McMahon, with whom she shared a life filled with travel, adventure, and deep affection. Together, they raised five children: Steve McMahon (Kerry), B.J. McMahon (Laura), Karin Lannertone (Andre), Margaret Ann Gosnell (Joe), and the late Chuck McMahon. In addition to her children, she was the proud grandmother of nine grandchildren: Ryan, Cameron, Madeline, Virginia, Alik, Isabelle, Luc, Hayden, and Ashlyn.

Marie’s life was one of service and dedication. She supported her husband during his Air Force career, and their family lived in many places across the country and around the world. From Rapid City, SD, to Puerto Rico, Spokane, WA, Anchorage, AK, Omaha, NE, and back to Spokane, Marie made each place feel like home. As a proud American and military wife, she forged lifelong friendships with fellow Air Force friends, and her strength and perseverance were evident in every chapter of her life.

A student of St. Olaf College and graduate of South Dakota State College with a nursing degree, Marie worked as a nurse for a short time before fully embracing her roles as a devoted mother and homemaker. She was also President of the Air Force Women’s Officer Club and loved supporting her community. A lifelong sports fan, particularly of the University of Washington Huskies, Marie found joy in cheering on her favorite teams, playing bridge with friends, and baking for family and guests.

In addition to her strong family ties, Marie was deeply involved in her church and community. She was a member of the Lutheran Church and contributed her time to philanthropic groups in Spokane. She was part of a women’s investment group that raised funds and volunteered for various community organizations, embodying her belief in the power of giving back.

Marie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bernie McMahon, and son, Chuck McMahon. She is also preceded in death by her sisters, Charlotte Roe and Margaret Wolf. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, sister Katherine Knops, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her warmth, generosity, and spirit.

Marie’s legacy will live on through her family and the many lives she touched with her love, zest for life, strength, and unwavering dedication. She will be remembered as a devoted mother, a gracious hostess, a loyal friend, and a passionate supporter of her family and community.

A graveside burial will take place in Spokane, WA, at Fairmount Memorial Park. A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Seattle, WA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.

Marie lived by the saying, “Go Huskies!” and that spirit of optimism and pride will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.