Shelley Eileen Ludwig (Blake)

Shelley Eileen Blake Ludwig, a cherished member of our family, was born on November 7, 1936, in Portland, Oregon, to Marjorie Pangborn Blake and Evan Blake. She grew up with her brother, Graeme, in Portland, where she attended Vestal Grade School and graduated from Washington High School in 1954. Shelley embarked on her first significant journey when she enlisted in the Navy in 1955, serving as a dispersing clerk in Bainbridge, Maryland. Her service also took her to Newport, Rhode Island, and Charleston, South Carolina. After 11 months, she returned home to Portland.

Shelley’s life was marked by love, resilience, and adventure. She became a mother to Debbie in 1956 and balanced her role as a loving mother while working at Pacific Telephone and Telegraph. Known for her hard work and dedication, Shelley managed the split shift, working from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and then returning from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. In 1960, Shelley married Lynn Strand and welcomed her son Steven into the world in 1961. Shelley and family lived out in east country till 1974 when they moved to Denver. The family lived for many years in Colorado before moving back to Oregon City, married for 35 years before separating. 

Shelley dedicated 19 years of service at Portland International Airport, where she encountered many notable figures, including Bob Hope, who she fondly remembered for his kindness and signature Robin egg blue suit. Her time at PDX was filled with memories of meeting celebrities and showcasing her meticulous work ethic.

 In 1995, Shelley married Chuck Ludwig at Circus Circus in Las Vegas and embraced the blended family they created. Together, they moved to Mesquite, Nevada, where Shelley worked at Walmart as a greeter and fitting room clerk, becoming known for her keen eye for spotting shoplifters. After Chuck’s passing in 2016 , Shelley moved to Molalla with her beloved cat, Likrish. She finally moved into Beaverton area to be closer to her family. Then becoming a beloved resident at Hearthstone of Beaverton, where she found comfort and community till her passing. 

 Shelley’s life was enriched by her passions—road travel, gardening, caring for cats, coloring, painting, and cooking. She was a woman of strength and creativity, who found joy in life’s simple pleasures and shared her warmth with those around her. Her family and friends will forever remember her kindness, resilience, and love.

 Shelley is survived by her daughter Debbie and partner Bob, her granddaughter Julie and her husband Kevin, her great-grandchildren Liam, Anneliese, and Hans,her brother Graeme and sister-in-law Cathryn,as well as four step children and many step grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marjorie Pangborn Blake and Evan Blake; her husband Chuck Ludwig; her son Steve Strand ;daughter-in-law Judy Strand; and her cherished cat, Likrish.

 A private graveside service with Military Honors will be held November 27th at 1pm. At a later date to be determined, a celebration of Shelley’s life will  be at her community, Hearthstone of Beaverton.

Shelley, you were deeply loved and will be greatly missed. Your memory and the lessons you shared with us will remain in our hearts forever.

 Shelley passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024, at the age of 87 with her granddaughter and daughter by her side.