Marlene Papenberg Stauffer

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the passing of Marlene Papenberg Stauffer, a remarkable woman whose presence illuminated the lives of all who knew her. Marlene passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, at the age of 81, with her devoted partner, William Spencer, by her side. Marlene was born on January 9, 1945, in State Center, Iowa, to loving parents Earl and Ruth Papenberg. She was a bright and curious child, the kind of daughter who made her parents proud with her tenacity and inquisitive spirit. Marlene was predeceased by her parents and her dear brothers, Ronald and Gary, who have surely welcomed her with open arms beyond this world. Marlene's journey through life was marked by her fierce independence, sharp wit, and an unyielding spirit of fun and adventure. She graduated from West Marshall High School in 1963 and pursued higher education at Iowa State University, where she not only expanded her knowledge but also became a proud member of the ADPi sorority. In 1964, Marlene married Richard Stauffer, and together they embarked on a life of exploration and adventure, moving across the Midwest and spending three transformative years in Tokyo before settling in Minneapolis and then Portland. Their union brought forth a beloved daughter, Jodi Murray, who, with her husband Bill, blessed Marlene with three cherished grandchildren: Alex, Matthew, and Jessica. Marlene's love for her family was profound and unwavering; she was a dedicated mother and grandmother, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts. After her divorce in 2000, Marlene returned to Portland, where she soon met her loving partner, Bill Spencer. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship, a testament to the resilience of Marlene's spirit and her capacity to embrace life anew. Professionally, Marlene was a woman of many talents. She began her career proofreading books for the Iowa State University Press, a role that suited her love for reading and her keen eye for detail. Later, she pursued a successful career in real estate, where her sharp mind and personable nature made her a trusted advisor and friend to many. Marlene's life was characterized by her commitment to community and service. She was an active advocate for the Children with Learning Disabilities Association and, during her time in Singapore, volunteered at an orphanage and graciously hosted Navy cadets during the holidays. Her passions were as diverse as her experiences. Marlene was an avid reader and lifelong learner, with a deep appreciation for Asian furniture, art, and languages, particularly French and Japanese. Her love for travel took her to many corners of the world, and she found joy in skiing, playing tennis, and golfing. Marlene's personal qualities made her unforgettable. She was a wonderful hostess, known for her ability to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that made everyone feel special and remembered. Her sharp wit and fun-loving nature made gatherings with her a joyous occasion, and her loyalty as a friend was unmatched. A service to honor Marlene's extraordinary life will be held on June 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Mary's Woods, located at 17400 Holy Names Drive, Lake Oswego. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Breast Cancer Research, a cause close to Marlene's heart. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caregivers at Mary's Woods Caritas House for their compassionate and loving care during Marlene's final days. Marlene Papenberg Stauffer's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering strength. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered by those whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace, knowing her journey was one of profound impact and boundless love.