Michelle “Shelley” Helgesen
- dean7319
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
April 11, 1952 – June 21, 2025
Michelle “Shelley” Helgesen passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025, surrounded by love. She was 73 years old.
Shelley was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Tera Jones, and her parents, Lyle and Jean Lloyd. She is survived by her devoted partner of 17 years, Michael Marleau, as well as her siblings: Linda Cruz, Ken Lloyd and his wife, Barb, and Paula Benge and her husband, Rick. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews. Including her caring niece Anna, who lovingly supported and cared for her during the final months of her life.
Born in San Diego, California, she lived in various areas within the greater Northwest states and resided in Redmond, WA, during her teenage years, where she graduated from high school. She was a partner, loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Shelley had a way of making people feel seen and heard—always asking how you were and truly listening, offering her full attention and genuine care.
Shelley had a lifelong love of water and travel, with Hayden Lake and Hawaii holding special places in her heart. She was always impeccably put together from head to toe, favoring white clothes, a sun-kissed tan, and a signature smile, even on her hardest days. Her humor and quick wit brought joy to many.
Professionally, Shelley worked as a lab technician for 19 years at LabCorp, and at one point, she owned a coffee bistro that she poured her heart into—her “work of art.” She often spoke of that chapter with vivid detail and pride.
Shelley inherited her talent for drawing and painting from her mom, Jean. Though few knew of this creative side, her artwork was beautiful and expressive. She also had a deep appreciation for home and beauty—decorating her space with care, tending to her flowers, and always keeping things just so.
Shelley loved being pampered—hair and nails done just right—and dining out, especially enjoying breakfast and her ever-present love of coffee. One of her favorite spots was Twigs in Spokane Valley, where she found simple joy in a good meal and drink. Her favorite color was purple, and her favorite song was “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe, which deeply reflected her spiritual heart.
Despite her health struggles, Shelley continued to embrace life. In May 2025, she joyfully attended a niece’s wedding in Idaho and had already planned future adventures, including a cruise to Greece and a family visit to Wenatchee, the very weekend she passed. Her spirit was vibrant, always planning, always loving, always present.
Shelley will be remembered as a radiant light—sunny, sweet, compassionate, and kind. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created the love she gave freely, and the lives she touched with her grace and warmth.
A celebration of Shelley’s life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Valley Real Life – Barker, 1831 S. Barker Rd., Spokane Valley, WA 99016.
In place of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Shelley’s memory:
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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