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Michelle McClaughry Obituary

Michelle Sharee McClaughry June 28, 1971 - April 8, 2009 SALEM - Michelle Sharee McClaughry lost her long and courageous battle with breast cancer on April 8, 2009. She was born on June 28, 1971 in Salem, Oregon. She lived her whole life in Salem, graduating from McKay High School in 1989. She attended Chemeketa Community College, receiving an Associate's Degree. She worked for the State of Oregon Judicial Department for approximately seven years. Michelle enjoyed spending her time with her parents, Pat and Bette, and her sister, Sharrie. She loved camping and spending time at her favorite place, Lake Billy Chinook. She was a complete waterdog and loved swimming. Michelle fell in love with and married her best friend, Steve McClaughry in August of 1998. Michelle embraced Steve's children, Nichalas and AshLee and her greatest joy was bringing her son, Jamey into the world. Michelle and Steve enjoyed their six-day camping trips most years. They found the journey of getting there just as fun as the destination. She enjoyed laughing and spending time with her amigas, Tami, Pooh, and Sharrie. You could often find her sitting on her porch with a glass of red wine and her friends there were many. She was very proud of her accomplishments in school and in work. She loved making her home a warm and inviting place for her family and friends. Michelle enjoyed an amazing Caribbean adventure (Selah Sail) with other breast cancer battlers in 2007. She is survived by her husband, Steve; her children, Nichalas, AshLee and Jamey; her mother and father, Bette and Pat; sister, Sharrie (Kyle); brother, Ryan; niece, Kenna; and nephew, Alex. She is also survived by her parents-in-law, Patrick and Carolyn; and her in-laws, whom she was very proud to have. She also had a very large extended family. My baby doll was an amazing woman and I was privileged to be her husband. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 1 p.m., Thursday, April 16 at West Salem Foursquare Church, 3094 Gehlar Road, Salem, Ore. 97304. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Howell-Edwards-Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Statesman Journal on Apr. 12, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Michelle McClaughry

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Ande Stearns

May 12, 2009

We just learned today of Michelle's passing. Michelle worked for me for several years and was an amazingly intelligent, thoughtful and caring person. My wife Kim and I loved Michelle and share your profound sorrow. Sincerely yours Ande & Kim Stearns

Sue Love

April 16, 2009

Michelle was a dear person to work with and we will all miss her at OJD. Her relationship with Christ grew and shone brightly as she fought her illness. I will miss her sense of humor and her caring spirit, but I know that I will see her again, safe in the arms of Jesus. May Steve, Jamey, and all of Michelle's family and friends feel God's love and support.

Susan McDaniel

April 15, 2009

Dear McClaughry Family, Michelle was an incredible person. She touched many lives in very positive ways. I feel honored to have known her. Her spirit lives on through each of you. Hold each other tight and know that her love for you will carry you through these difficult times.

Norma Alexander

April 15, 2009

I have only known Michelle for the past four years and feel privileged to have been able to work with her and get to know her as a peron. Michelle was an inspiration to us all. She taught us that life is precious and worth fighting for. She had such a loving and caring spirit and was always upbeat and positive. I admired her courage and strength. I will miss our Wednesday lunches. She will always be with us in spirit. God bless Steve and Jamey and all Michelle's family.

Shary Mason

April 15, 2009

Michelle, I will miss you mightily. I want to thank you for all of the times we were able to share our mutual fears, our pain and our loving support. Families touched by cancer are bonded together in a special way. My grandson is winning his battle and I'm so sorry that you have lost yours. However, I am filled with joy to know that you are now in our Lord's loving arms and that all of the trials and tribulations of this world are behind you. My heart goes out to your family and friends. Your smile, your joy for life, your warmth and your love have left an unfillable void in all of our lives.

Odyssey HealthCare (hospice)

April 14, 2009

It was an honor to care for Michelle during her final journey home. We all thought she was such a special person. So courageous. Steve, I took your call when Michelle went into Jesus waiting arms. I heard your pain and agony. And it reminded me of when my husband went to the Lord. I remember thinking..."he is seeing Jesus right now!" And I thought..."but Lord! It's not fair! I AM STILL HERE!" Time goes on no matter if we feel the world stands still. Each day you are one day closer to seeing her again. Each step you take you will be one step closer to being with her and our Lord. You have hope and a future.

Tiffany Lamberth

April 14, 2009

Family of Michelle, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Michelle was a wonderful woman. She always had a bright smile that would light up any place. Jamey your mother loved you so much. Although she has left us in body her warm spirit is still among us. She will be greatly missed.

Julie Kuntz

April 13, 2009

I never got to meet her but I went to the Benefit Concert @ Dukes and my, our friend Brian had nothing but the nicest things to say about her!! My thoughts and prayers are with her friends & family!! GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU

Karen Frakes

April 13, 2009

Michelle's family,
I am praying for you through these difficult days. I loved Michelle so much and remember those long days while Jamey, was in my every prayer, minute by minute, day by day. Thank God for bringing us all Jamey. Michelle I know you are sharing time with Jesus and you have no more pain, we will all join you soon!

Terri Tennimon

April 13, 2009

Michelle, I am glad to have met you during my lifetime. You are such a special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family until you are once again reunited. You will be missed.

Gena Clark (Cornforth)

April 13, 2009

I will never forget all the wonderful times we spent togeather as kids. Michelle and Sherrie you both were like sisters to me. All the time we spent playing hide n seek, catching tadpoles in the ditch by Scott school, walking Taffy.I loved spending the night at your house. Not to long ago I was telling my girls the story of how my mom used to take us all swiming at Olinger pool. So we just had to have matching Hot Pink swim suits. I love you always.

Lindi

April 12, 2009

Steve I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Nichalas McClaughry

April 12, 2009

Michelle... I am so glad to meet you. You were like my own mother. I will miss you and love you always and forever. I will make sure that AshLee, Jamey, Steve (dad) and I will get through this tough time. I LOVE YOU ALWAYS MICHELLE!!!

Angela Thompson

April 12, 2009

Michelle...you had a big heart inviting my son into Steve and your lives with open arms. I am very happy that Nichalas had you for his step-mother. You had accepted him as one of your own. Thank you.

Brian Pedersen

April 12, 2009

Michelle...you were my best friends' best friend. You never judged, and were always there to listen. I'll miss you, man......

Pooh

April 12, 2009

I love you, Michelle!

Staff of Howell-Edwards-Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors

April 11, 2009

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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