Shelby Lynn Strange Brandt

Shelby Lynn Strange Brandt
February 7, 1984- April 21, 2007
Shelby passed away suddenly in La Grande, Oregon at the age of 23. Shelby was born in Eureka, California, attended elementary schools in Humboldt County, and secondary schools in Eastern Oregon. She graduated in June 2006 from Eastern Oregon University with a dual Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Political Science. Shelby lived in La Grande with the love of her life Troy Howell. She is also survived by her mother and dad Lori and David Brandt, brothers Justin, Christopher, and Travis Brandt; her father and step-mother Terry and Erin Strange; sister Muriel and brother Merrick Strange; grandparents Denny and Joyce Brandt, Nanette Green, Sue and Jack Strange; aunts Terrie Green, Melissa Strange; uncles Rick Green, Dennis Strange, Tony Strange and their families. Shelby was preceded in death by her grandfather Paul Green.
From an early age our beloved Shelby was dynamic, earning her the nicknames Sparkle-plenty, and Shelby Sunshine. Her humor was infectious, her sense of justice was swift, she was a masterful parental instructor. As a child she was in 4-H and FFA and showed animals at fairs in both states. She rode and showed her horses Fawn, Babe, and Prince. Shelby loved to cook and feed people, which she learned from her mother, expanded on in 4-H, and perfected in college hosting dinners for "her boys". At Eastern Oregon University she was instrumental in the establishment of the Young Republican's organization
Shelby excelled in the creative arts and won awards with her ceramics, had several pieces shown and sold in Kelly's Gallery in Joseph, Oregon. She loved to paint, and crochet. Shelby had a passion for music and dance. She enjoyed and relished camping, but was a reluctant backpacker yet saw many high mountain lakes in several wildernesses in both states. Shelby had a gift with animals, and will be missed by Daisy, Foster and Strawberry.
Shelby spent the summer of 2006 caring for her great grandmother Carol Metaxas. The loving care she provided, Kept grandma from being placed in a care home. This was appreciated by both grandma and the family. Grandma Metaxas passed away on September 8, 2006 with Shelby at her side.
Memorial services will be held in Oregon in La Grande on Thursday, April 26 at 1:00 P.M. at Riverside Park. In California, the memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 29 at 11:00 A.M. at the home of Uncle Harry Metaxas in Eel Rock. Arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Chapel of the Valley.