Marian McKinney

Marian Francis McKinney passed away on March 22, 2019, at Arcadia Healthcare Center in Arcadia, Calif., where she had been a resident since February 2017, receiving care for progressive complications from Parkinson's disease.

Marian was born to Leonard & Martha McKinney at their home in Palouse, Wash., on March 7, 1937. She grew up in Palouse and graduated from Palouse High School in 1955. She is remembered by her classmates as being vivacious, kind and fun-loving.

After high school Marian attended Kinman Business College in Spokane, Wash., and honed the skills that would support her career in office administration. The elegance of her swift and steady shorthand was her hallmark. She held several positions throughout her career and finally retired from the El Monte Fire District after her long service there as an administrative assistant.

It was at the El Monte Fire District office that Marian met the love of her life, Ted Norwood. Over the next twenty two years she and Ted would become local legends hosting parties and fund raising events for their friends and fellow Elks Club members & serving monthly breakfasts at the American Legion. Marian loved to "doll up" and it was no coincidence she was lovingly called "Babydoll" by Ted throughout their long and enduring romance. Marian also enjoyed entertaining from their Fifth Wheel trailer wherever they traveled and at their property at Big Pine.

Marian is remembered by her family and friends for her gracious and fun-loving spirit. She is survived by her partner of over twenty years, Ted Norwood of Arcadia, Calif .; one sister, Dona Jean Holway of Steilacoom, Wash .; one brother, Rick McKinney of Palouse, Wash., three sons and several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.