Louella Vee Harbin died at her home in Oak Harbor on June 18, 2008, at the age of 51, following a courageous battle against brain cancer. She was born July 21, 1956, in Alamosa, Colo., to John R. and Beulah V. (Wolf) Turnbull.

Louella grew up in Phoenix, Ariz., and then moved to Las Vegas. She worked for a time in housekeeping for a hospital, spending much of her time in the surgical area. In Las Vegas, she began work as a PBX operator at the Circus Circus casino. She eventually became a waitress at that same club.

Louella came from a large family. She was a strong lady, placing her family first and foremost in her life. She overcame a crippling medical condition and taught herself to walk again. She survived her last cancer and lived much longer than her physician’s thought she would. Her daughters were the love of her live and when her grandchildren came along, she was thrilled.

Two daughters survive Louella, Monica Wittus of Oak Harbor and Candice Harker of Phoenix, Ariz., and three grandchildren. Two sisters, Jeanette Bertoch of Pahrump, Nev., and Molly Rich of Everett and one brother Tim Turnbull of Phoenix also survive.

Louella requested no formal funeral services be arranged. Private family services will be held following cremation. Arrangements are entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.