Marie Lawrence

Marie was born on July 21, 1932 in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada to Samuel and Bertha Lawrence. She was the youngest of six children. Her mom passed away when she was 3 years old and her dad several years later. Eventually, she would end up living in the Convent with the Nuns. She said they helped her through tough times with some fond memories allowing her to feel she had a safe haven.

Marie met John Bucholz in San Francisco, CA and they were married on September 23, 1951 until January 1975. As John was in the Navy, they moved around a lot and lived in many places, including Japan, where their 2nd child, John Nolen was born. Together they had 3 children: Carmen Marie, John Nolen and Paul Kathleen. Marie became a Naturalized Citizen on May 13, 1968. After John’s retirement from the Navy, they eventually settled in Port Townsend, Washington.

After their divorce, Marie began her career in Civil Service. She eventually moved to CA where she was Secretary for several Captains throughout her career as well as trained other secretaries. She received many awards for her excellence in the work she did for them. Several of whom remained friends and stayed in contact with her. Upon retiring, she moved back to WA state where she remained until the end.

Marie loved her furry kids, especially her pups! She was rarely seen without them. She also enjoyed gardening, writing about her life experiences and making beautiful Afghans that she would give as gifts to all her children, grandkids, friends and so many others. She would regularly donate many of them to the Retsil Veteran’s Home for the veterans or anyone needing comfort!

Marie enjoyed volunteering and supporting Law Enforcement groups, Firefighters,Veterans, counseling teens in the juvenile system and more.

Marie is survived by her son, John Nolen Bucholz (Lisa), who lives in WA, and daughters, Carmen Marie Waller (Franklin) and Paula Kathleen White, who reside in MS; her grandchildren, Chris Waller (Jennifer), Patrick Waller (Olivia), Ian Waller, Sean Bucholz (Jacqueline), Nathan Bucholz (Rebecca), and Ayla White; and great grandchildren, Jackson Waller, Ruby Mae Bucholz, and Samuel Waller.

Marie moved into the home of her son, John N and wife, Lisa on February 14, 2023 in Hospice Care. She went home to be with her Lord on March 17, 2023 with all her children surrounding her.