In Loving Memory of Marlene Dorothy Vanderzanden Helmbrecht
May 24, 1938 – February 3, 2026
Marlene Dorothy Vanderzanden Helmbrecht, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was 87 years old.
Born on May 24, 1938, in Washington County, Oregon, Marlene was the cherished daughter of Marion Elizabeth (Williamson) Vanderzanden and Wilfred John Vanderzanden. She grew up on their farm in Roy, Oregon.
Marlene graduated from Verboort High School near Forest Grove, Oregon. On June 5, 1965, she married Robert Helmbrecht, a devoted father of six. Together, they made their home in Seattle, Washington, and their blended family was a great source of joy and strength.
A dedicated mother and hardworking professional, Marlene raised two children, Scott and Tara, and lovingly welcomed her stepchildren, Steven, Rob, Sharon, Margaret, Vickie, and Valerie, into her heart. She worked in accounts receiving for Hallidie Machinery for 30 years, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike.
Marlene’s life was rich with connections and experiences. She cherished time spent with her many friends and family members, enjoyed traveling, played and watched sports, and found deep fulfillment attending church services at Holy Family Catholic Church. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.
Marlene’s strength and resilience were evident in her health battles. She bravely beat cancer, and though later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, she faced each day with courage and grace.
Marlene is preceded in death by her siblings Shirley Ann, Eleanor Marie, Marvin, Joan Mary, Leo Edward “Poncho,” and Jeannie; her stepchildren Steven, Rob, and Valerie. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings Norma, Everet, Linda, Sue, and Herman.
She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children, Scott and Tara; her stepchildren, Sharon, Margaret, and Vickie; her grandchildren, Patrick, Andrew, Allen, Kendra, Jeremy, and Jay Jr.; and her great-grandchildren, Mae, Lexi, Parker, Jaxton, Rhyder, Elena, Noah, Mely, Savannah, Ivory, Zayvion, and Maevah.
Marlene’s unwavering dedication to her family, her kindness, and her generosity touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of her loved ones.
A funeral service will be held in her honor at Bonney-Watson Washington Memorial Park & Mortuary is located at 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188.
May she rest in peace, reunited with those who have gone before her, and may her memory be a blessing to all whose lives she touched.
