January 20, 1956 - March 02, 2018
CHRISTEN, LaRelle Mardelle (moe) - (Age 62) Lauri Christen returned to the Lord on March 2, 2018. She was born in Palo Alto, California to Alfred Moe and LaVerle Vesely Moe McCandless on January 20, 1956. While growing up, Lauri lived in California, Arizona, Minnesota, and several small towns in Washington State before stopping in Millwood (Spokane). Lauri married Kenneth Christen on February 2, 1980. They lived in Portland, Oregon for 6 months before moving back to Spokane where they raised a family of 3 children and numerous pets. Lauri was first and foremost a dedicated wife and mother. She spent much of her life spreading love to those she cared for and doing her best to spoil her family. A wonderful artist and fantastic gift-giver, her knack for surprising her loved ones with generosity and care left a lasting impression on those who knew her. She had a unique sense of humor, often consisting of spontaneous silliness or thoughtful sarcasm. She was always proud of her husband and children and followed her heart to the tropics for sunshine and warm weather whenever possible. Through her career, she quickly gained success in widely differing fields including banking, industrial sewing for classrooms, manufacturing for Boeing, interior design, and legal work. She always had a penchant for crafting, DIY house projects, and baked the best Christmas treats every year. Her kind heart and caring personality left their mark on this world. Preceded in death by her mother-in-law Marion, father Alfred, and stepmother Jean. Lauri is survived by her husband Kenneth, children; Kyle, Jared, and Kara, daughter-in-law Carly, grandchildren; Landon and Lily, parents; Don and LaVerle McCandless, and brother Phil, also, dear longtime friends, Steve and Audrey Bradley, whom are considered family. She will live on in their hearts and the hearts of many others. Lauri’s Memorial Service will be held at ONE* Church, 15601 E 24th Ave, Spokane Valley on April 28, 2018 at 1:00 pm. Reception will follow at the Christen residence. Lauri deeply valued attending ONE* Church and we suggest any donations be sent to the Church in lieu of flowers.
