Submit a PhotoWith the deepest sorrow, we announce the unexpected passing of our oldest daughter, Shelby Lynn Lewelling, on January 30, 2026. Shelby was born on January 3, 1997, in Salem, Oregon, to James “Garth” Lewelling and Wendy S. Lewelling.
From the very beginning, Shelby was independent and determined. Even at her ultrasound, she showed her strong will—crossing her legs and refusing to reveal her gender. That stubbornness and tenacity stayed with her throughout her life. Shelby was brilliant, strong-willed, feisty, fiercely independent, and deeply kind to those around her. She was an exceptionally gifted artist and poet and lived her life fully and unapologetically on her own terms.
Shelby was a proud member of UA Local 469 and graduated from the apprenticeship program in 2023. She was a Journeyman Pipefitter, Welder, and Rigging instructor. She truly loved her union hall, her union brothers and sisters, and took great pride in teaching and mentoring her students. She was a member of the Women’s Committee and was very passionate about promoting women in trades.
Shelby was raised to be a helper, and she embodied that value every day. She loved with her whole heart, and anyone fortunate enough to receive that love felt it deeply. It became quickly obvious when she liked you, as she would get you with quick-witted sarcasm and give a bright smile and a middle finger.
Shelby is survived by her father, Garth Lewelling; her mother, Wendy Lewelling; her brother, Spencer Lewelling; her sister, Riley Lewelling; her brother, Ryder Lewelling; Grandfather, Ronald Kline; and her beloved dog, Javy, and preceded in death by her grandmother, Marilyn Peters and grandparents James and Peggy Lewelling.
Her presence, laughter, and smile will be deeply missed every day. In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree or commit a random act of kindness in her honor.
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I’m very grateful I got the chance to know you. I hope you are forever remembered as a badass person. Much love to you and your family.
My deepest sympathy.
Wendy, I am heartbroken for you. I thought back to babysitting you when you were little and it sounds like the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Love and prayers from my house to yours
I’m so lucky to have known you and felt the love you shared. You were such a strong role model and constant reminder to strengthen your heart and always be your authentic self.
Oh my God Wendy and Garth I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your precious daughter. There are NO words to explain the pain of losing a child. I didnt know her personally but im sure she was a very smart, loving, kind also a kick ass girl just like her mom. Wendy and Garth I send my deepest condolences to both of you. I am so sorry.
I remember the first day I met you. I saw all your progress how you achieve all your goals. You will be missed in all Intel site, your always helping others, always positive smiling kind I will miss you, but you will be in my heart forever.
Dearest Wendy and Garth,
We are so very sorry for your loss of your precious daughter Shelby. Our deepest love and prayers go out to you and Shelby’s siblings. We didn’t know Shelby but she sure sounds like she’s her Mothers daughter and that’s a very high compliment. Sending our love and hugs to you all.
Bob and Laurie Tomasiewicz
We are so sad to hear about Shelby. We are thankful to her for her friendship with Derek and now 9 months later they are talking to each other in Heaven. What a beautiful woman Shelby is. She came to our home, our son’s funeral and at our time of sadness she talked to us. We will never forget her. Her family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.
Paula and John Long
Shelby was an inspiration to all women, I’m privileged and honored to have worked with her. She was extremely intelligent and gifted teacher. I’m very sorry for your loss.
I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you knowing the sorrow you are dealing with. Please know that you will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
We were so terribly sorry to learn of Shelby’s passing. We will forever remember her as the sweet, sincere little girl with the infectious giggle and dazzling smile. Our hearts go out to her family, and we send them love as they navigate this very difficult time.
No one can truly understand the depth of this heartache. My heart breaks for your family. Your daughter was a beautiful, free spirit who brought light in her own unique way. Please know you are in our prayers during this unimaginable time.
Lew Lew, see you one the next one! Always and Forever yours, Michael. PS. don’t ever forget, you are finer than a frog’s hair split 3 ways!!!