Elaine Marie Stensrud

It is with heavy hearts that we share Elaine Marie Stensrud of Portland, OR passed away September 15, 2024.

Elaine was born September 12, 1952 in Portland, OR to parents: Harold and Theresa Stensrud (Van Orsow.) Her family moved to Hermiston, OR when she was still a toddler, where her parents raised her and her four younger siblings. Elaine took her role of being the oldest seriously and served as a protector for her brothers ensuring their safety from neighborhood bullies. She developed an appreciation and talent for cooking from her mother, and she prepared and shared some of her mother's recipes with her siblings, daughter, nieces, and nephew. This passion followed her into adulthood and led to her finding and tweaking her own favorite recipes often prepared for family at holidays and so delicious they will be passed down to future generations, though it won't be the same knowing it wasn't cooked or baked by her.

Another passion and admired trait Elaine learned from growing up with her family in Hermiston was her strong work ethic and desire to help others through the career she chose. After graduating from Hermiston High School in 1970, Elaine took a few classes at Blue Mountain Community College before entering the working world. In Hermiston, she worked as a personal income tax preparer and sold bookkeeping and check writing systems. Elaine moved back to Portland in 1987 and started her own freelance bookkeeping small business, which she actively maintained up to her death. She enjoyed her work as it kept her mind challenged, and she knew the service she provided to her clients was valued and so very appreciated. She had several original clients stay with her to the very end, and their loyalty was a testament to the exceptional level of service she remained committed to providing. Apparent from sentiments shared by her clients, the relationships she nurtured with them went beyond business and became lifelong, meaningful friendships.

Of the utmost importance to Elaine were her daughter, Lindsay, her grandson, Rowan, and her furry feline companion, Rocky. Elaine was the epitome of a fun mom hosting numerous sleepovers for Lindsay and pouring extensive energy and creativity into Lindsay's birthday parties to make them special. She was Lindsay's 4H group leader, and she made learning a joyous experience for Lindsay and her friends. They learned so much from her, and her impact went above and beyond as she was an example of a strong, compassionate, and loving mentor. Elaine and Lindsay had many moments of friendship throughout Lindsay's life. They did the girlie things like getting their hair done together, and they both knew how to bring out the goofy side in each other which made for lots of genuine laughter. Elaine always supported her daughter's interests, no matter how ambitious or unique the interest may be, and she was there for Lindsay during the tougher life lessons. In fact, she was always there. Elaine was good at reminding her daughter and grandson how much she loved them, and this love was evident in how often she spoke of them to family, friends, and clients. Her home was filled with photos from her adventures with family and close friends. Elaine's legacy will live on in the memories of her daughter, family, and friends who were lucky to know such a good friend and fortunate to spend time having fun, laughing, and adventuring with her.

Elaine's hobbies included volunteering to help those less fortunate than her, participating in community events, camping outdoors, and gardening. Oh boy, did she garden. Elaine had numerous plant and landscape clippings from magazines and brochures, and her yards were always the envy of friends and neighbors. She also enjoyed classic rock music and reminisced often of concert memories with friends and family members. Elaine enjoyed playing games with extended family, and this love of games started with family game night throughout her childhood. She spent many an evening with her very fun group of Bunko gals, and Bunko night was always a highlight of her week.

Family and friends will miss Elaine's infectious personality and laughter, her willingness to help others, and true, quality friendship. Elaine is preceded in death by her parents: Harold and Theresa Stensrud. She is survived by her siblings: Mark Stensrud (Cheryl), Doug Stensrud (Jackie), Chris Stensrud (Cheryl), and Stacy Simpson (Jason), her daughter: Lindsay White, and her grandson: Rowan.

We welcome all who would like to honor Elaine to join us for an informal, but meaningful memorial.

This will be an open memorial at the King City Civic Association banquet room

15245 SW 116th Ave Portland OR 97224

November 15 2024

2:00 - 4:30 PM

In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider donating to Alzheimer's Association in Elaine's honor.