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Dru BRANGWIN Obituary
February 27, 1986 ~November 12, 2012
Dru was determined, fearless, gentle, and kind. When it came to being a goalie and a soccer coach she was determined to win. When it came to learning to be a firefighter/EMT, she was fearless. When it came to teaching life skills to autistic kids, she was gentle and kind. She was especially thoughtful, regularly calling family for long chats and writing cards with original drawings inside. At 26, she had launched a life of passion and energy, with boyfriend Mat and beloved dog Kona by her side.
To the sorrow of all who knew her, Dru passed away in her sleep from an undiagnosed pancreatic infection.
Dru was a superior athlete, skiing and snowboarding with her family all winter. She graduated from Shorewood High School where she participated in tennis and soccer. She taught snowboarding at Mission Ridge and loved wakeboarding and swimming. While in high school she became a certified mediator and helped counselors resolve conflicts between students and parents. Even at this early age, Dru was someone who helped others.
She fiercely pursued firefighting training, graduating from Everett Community College with an AA degree. From there Dru attended Central Washington University earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
Joining the workforce, Dru found her true calling as a mentor and tutor for autistic children. She was a valued member of the team at Comprehensive Autism Center in southern California.
Dru loved her job teaching kids. She was excited each day, knowing that she was making a real difference in their lives and the lives of their families. Dru was just starting graduate school to earn a master's degree to enhance her opportunities as a therapist.
Dru was deeply loved by her parents Richard and Sue Brangwin, brother Mason, Mat Peery, a devoted circle of family, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. A memorial service of her life will be held at the Berean Church, on Thursday November 29th at 3:00 p.m. 2345 North 185th Shoreline, Wa. Donations in Dru's memory may be made to the Autism Center at Seattle Children's Hospital.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dru BRANGWIN
Emily
December 13, 2012
July 2012
Jina Boudreaux
December 11, 2012
I go to the grocery store, and I think of Dru (every month we'd buy gluten free snacks for her to munch on when she came over for visits)... I read my daughter Dr. Suess, and think of Dru... From seeing the 2 fireman hats in the toy box (my daughter made us get two, so they each could have one), to seeing her drawings in coloring books, Christmas shopping, cooking chicken enchiladas, hearing the word 'Legoland'... She became part of our home; our family; part of every part of our everyday lives! The feeling that 'something is missing'has become sadly familiar.... But oh, what joy she brought to our world! It may sound contrary, but I actually welcome the little pangs I feel in my heart, each time I think of Dru, and confront the fact that she isn't here anymore... I welcome the hurt, because I remind myself that it exists because we were given a gift from God, who's lasting effect will forever enrich and enoble our lives. I give thanks to God for bringing her to us. She'll always be a part of who we are. She'll be in our hearts for a lifetime.
Virginia Beall
November 29, 2012
I work with Nelda Brangwin, and just wanted to extend my deepest condolences to the whole family.
Judy Brangwin
November 29, 2012
My condolences to Sue, Dick, and Mason and all of Dru's family and friends.
I'm thinking of you on this day; the day of Dru's memorial. Sorry I cannot be with you.
Holly
November 28, 2012
I was so saddened to read of the death of someone so very young. My heart and sincere condolences go out to the Brangwin family. We've never met, but I was touched as I read the life and story of this lovely young woman. I'm sure she will be deeply and profoundly missed. I have a daughter the same age and cannot imagine how difficult this must be for your. Please know that our heavenly Father does understand your pain and as "the God of all comfort", He is there for your during your time of need. (1 Cor. 1:3,4) Sincerely
Erika (Leeland) Ellis
November 27, 2012
Dru's fearless, determined, and compassionate spirit will always inspire me. She really made this world a better place. Thinking and praying for the Brangwin family during this devastating time.
Mary DelRe
November 26, 2012
How many games were we blessed to share with Dru? Not enough. What an honor it was to coach her. Always willing,a shy smile off the field, A competitor on it. Crazy game day hair, " cuz that's what keepers do..." Our love and prayers are with you every day. Mary, Mike, Rachael, Colleen and Matt
Lloyd Bauer
November 26, 2012
Words can not express our sorrow for your loss. Dru will truly be missed. Her memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Lloyd & Sue
Klaudina Pasko
November 26, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss.
My fondest memories were playing tennis with Dru at Shorewood and goofing off at the matches. She had a great, big personality and will be missed by all.
November 26, 2012
I don't know anything we can say to ease your pain. So sorry to hear this news about Dru. Thoughts, prayers and hugs go out to you all. Hillary, Tom, Katie and Andrew Haug
Connie Benson
November 26, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dru was a unique and special lady ~ we will truly miss her. Her influence and beautiful impression will live on with all who knew her.
Maddie Schlesinger
November 25, 2012
My thoughts and deepest condolences are with your family during this difficult time. Dru's kindness has made an impact on me and my family. She was my counselor at sixth grade camp, and an amazing babysitter for my younger brother for the following summer.
Mason my I'm thinking of you and your family.
November 25, 2012
We just can't find the right words to express our sympathy. Love, Ron and Nancy Lentz
Barbara Ohno
November 25, 2012
To all the Brangwins, I am so so sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you through this time.
Susan B Bell
November 25, 2012
To all the Brangwins, I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Dru fearlessly ref'ing soccer games when my son was still playing. Susan Bell (Mallory's & Colin's mom)
Adam Harvey
November 25, 2012
To Mason and his Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Very sorry to hear about the passing of Dru. From her obituary, it is clear she was an amazing woman who was loved by many. Peace be with you all
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