Wendy Mason, 49, died Oct. 23, 2004, in Olympia after a courageous year-long bout with cancer. She was born July 17, 1956.

Wendy is survived by her husband Jerry; their daughters, LiXuMei Mason and Christine McNeill (with husband Jeff in Kennewick); their sons Garrett Mason (with wife Tiffany in Auburn) and Aaron Mason (Fort Gordon, Ga.); by her sisters Elizabeth Scott (Tacoma), Janice Buferd (Costa Rica), and Nanette Fricke (Fruitland, Idaho). She is also survived by six grandchildren, two nieces, a nephew and numerous close friends. She was preceded in death by her father Kelton Scott, mother Margaret Collett Scott, and her brother Robert Scott.

Wendy graduated from high school in Oak Harbor and then attended Western Washington University in Bellingham, graduating with a degree in education. She began her teaching career at Pasco High School. After eight years in Pasco, she taught at Granite Falls for two years, finally coming to Pe Ell School, where she has taught English since 1990.

Wendy had much to live for and never gave up hope or her sense of humor. Wendy had been an exceptional life companion to Jerry since 1984 and a wonderful mother to LiXuMei who entered their lives in May of 2000, making their life together complete. Wendy loved her job, her community and her students. She was a positive role model and passionate about teaching. She worked tirelessly to support her students in expanding their world and continued to teach until three weeks before her death.

Her family, friends, students and community will miss her greatly. A celebration of her life was held at Pe Ell School Oct. 30. Donations may be made to the Wendy Scott Mason Memorial Scholarship fund at Washington State Employees Credit Union.