Marjorie Ruth Gunnell

Marjorie was born in Chicago. She was the baby of four children. Her two older brothers William and John and her sister, Dorothy. They moved to Omaha when her mother, Rocelia Cowman decided to join her sisters there. She spoke about going to the movies and dances and hanging out with her girlfriends. Marjorie worked in the bakery with her Aunt and Uncle and her cousin Richard whom she often spoke of so lovingly. She had intended to become an airline stewardess and travel the world. She was accepted for training and along with some modeling was on her way. Love intervened however as it often does. She met Walt ”Babe” Gunnell and that was that! Dad said she lit up a room when she walked in and every eye was on her. They were married in April 1947. When Cheri arrived they set out for Oregon the next year. The years flew by as they do and family grew along with the acreage. Marjorie established a successful business raising Basset Hounds, Yorkshire Terriers, Old English Sheepdogs, and her favorite Irish Wolfhounds. She had a knack for developing show worthy bloodlines and selling top caliber show dogs. As more land was acquired there came an interest in Polled Herefords, then Simmental cattle. They showed throughout the northwest. Summer was a busy time... making hay, changing irrigation and fair activities. There was always time for Eric’s baseball games, the warm late afternoon sun feeling so good while watching him pitch the almost perfect game. Babe and Marjorie loved the land, it caught their soul and forged a bond that was unbroken. They instilled a love of nature to their children... a great work ethic and an appreciation for the cycle of life that mirrors itself in so many ranch activities. She was a women of faith. We all attended St.Anthony’s Catholic School, how could we forget Sister Mary Davidica... impossible! With Babe’s passing in 1983, she lost her soul mate. She found solace at the coast and decided to build in Neskowin. She found contentment in it’s ever changing beauty. Back to Hillsboro and family. How she loved to watch new born calves romping in the spring breeze at Laurie’s ranch and taking scenic drives in the countryside. Lunch at Stanford's, browsing at Washington Square, Grandchildren’s sporting events these were all precious to her. Marjorie was a women of grace and dignity... smart, wise, kind and giving. She was spirited and spiritual. She was a beauty, inside and out. We all should feel blessed and enriched for having shared time with her. We cherish you mother and will miss you each and everyday. Donations can be made to Boys Town, Nebraska or the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Oregon. Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits