Mandy Zelinka was born on January 22, 1977, in Portland, Oregon. She died in Venice, California, on April 21, 2026. Mandy’s light and life were tragically stolen by a husband she loved and trusted in the home they shared.
Mandy lived her entire childhood in Portland, Oregon, attending Trinity Lutheran School for pre-K through 8th grade, then Benson Polytechnic High School. While at Benson, she majored in their KBPS Radio program and was voted MVP of the varsity softball team. She was also voted “Most Unique” in her senior class. A quote in her senior yearbook says the following about this honor: "I think it is nice to know that during the high school years, when there are so many people who are followers, or trying to fit in, that I stand out as someone who is different and unique. I don't try to be something that I'm not. I'm myself and I say what is on my mind."
Post high school, she attended the nationally acclaimed Mt. Hood School of Hair Design, which began her successful career as a hair stylist in the Portland area. She co-owned Salon 77 in the Pearl District and received the “Best Hairstylist in Portland” award in 2016.
Mandy was a vibrant force of nature driven by creativity, beauty, and bold ideas. Friends and family fondly remember her zest for life, entrepreneurial spirit, and infectious laughter.
She is survived by her parents, Gregory and Kristine Zelinka, and her sister, Koty Zelinka Cole.
A celebration of life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on June 6 at 1 p.m.
(Media presence not welcome.)
Donations in lieu of flowers are requested for either NAYA's Healing Circle or the Benson Polytechnic High School Alumni Scholarship Fund
https://nayapdx.org/donate
NAYA's Healing Circle works to end silence around issues of domestic and sexual violence by promoting community strength, respect, and balance in relationships. Mandy's name can be listed in the comment box to ensure your contribution is given in her honor.
https://go.oregoncf.org/campaign/685357/donate
The Benson Polytechnic High School Alumni Scholarship Fund is administered by The Oregon Community Foundation (OCF), which invests, administers and distributes the funds. Each year, the interest income from this fund is available for scholarship awards to graduating seniors selected by a panel of Benson teachers. The award monies go directly to their chosen school as tuition.
