Laverne F. "Wendy" Wendland

Laverne F. “Wendy” Wendland passed away quietly at home in hospice care shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. Her indomitable spirit, wholehearted generosity, and lifelong curiosity will be missed by all who knew her.

Wendy was born in Salem, Oregon on October 21, 1923, the first of Herbert and Freda Wendland’s two daughters. She was joined by her sister, Delores “Pat” (North) in 1925. The family moved to SE Portland where Wendy attended Hosford Elementary and Franklin High Schools.

Following graduation, Wendy went to work for the telephone company. There she became a member of the social group, “Enohpelets” (telephone spelled backward). These women continued their friendship for many years with Wendy being the last surviving member. In the early 1960s, the telephone company offered her a job in Seattle, Washington and she moved to Mercer Island.

She concluded her career with the telephone company in the early 1980s when she and her partner, Joyce Ray, both opted for early retirement and more time for travel and golf.

Wendy and Joyce moved to Renton, Washington in 2000 and continued to enjoy active and interesting lives. As a member of the Women’s Golf League at Cascade Golf Course, Wendy served as Rules Chairman for the group. She was also an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church on Mercer Island.

A life-long skier, Wendy was a ski instructor and skied many mountains in the US and Canada. She traveled widely, finding unique and educational experiences everywhere she went. A patron of the Oregon Shakespearean Festival, Wendy would frequently attend performances, so frequently that she and Joyce eventually became part-owners in a condominium in Ashland. Wendy and Joyce made an annual excursion to Mazatlán, Mexico where they spent many a Thanksgiving holiday at Torres Mazatlán with family and friends.

Described as “amazing” and “one of a kind,” Wendy was fiercely independent and incredibly resilient. She was always interested in others and made connections with everyone she met. Her firm belief in the importance of equality was unmatched. May Wendy’s lust for life live on in all of us.

Wendy is survived by her partner, Joyce Ray, niece, Pam North, and numerous dear friends.

Remembrances may be made to the Mt. Hood Museum and Cultural Center in Government Camp, Oregon.