Makayla Rachael Fortner's Obituary
Makayla Rachael Fortner, known affectionately as Kayla, passed away on June 3, 2024, at the age of 26 in Portland, Oregon, the city where she was born on April 19, 1998. Kayla's vibrant spirit and passion for fashion defined her life as she crafted unique looks that expressed her dynamic personality. Her love for the thrill of the races and the joyous times spent at the local dirt track during her younger years remained a cherished part of her life.
Kayla's devotion to her family was profound. She leaves behind her daughters, Cynthia "CJ" Bess of Scappoose, and Teagan Dotson of Saint Helens, who will miss her deeply. She is survived by her loving mother, Jody Fortner of Scappoose, Oregon, and father, Lawrence Dornin Jr of Blairsville, Pennsylvania. She was a beloved sister to Zackary Gillett of Scappoose and step-brother Ryan Gillett of Saint Helens. Kayla also leaves behind her grandmothers, Judy Fortner of Ukiah, California, and Darlene Billeck of Blairsville, Pennsylvania, alongside her Nana, Susan Helderman, and Papa John of Milwaukie, Oregon. Her Uncle Brad Fortner and family of Woodland, Washington, Uncle Dustin Helderman and his family of Clackamas, Oregon, Uncle Daniel Fox and his girls of Ukiah, California, and Uncle Wesley and Aunt Hannah Fox of Lodi, California, along with many cousins, will hold her memory dear.
Kayla was preceded in death by her Papa Edward "Bud" Fortner, Grandpa Lawrence "Slim" Dornin, Uncle Edward "Buddy" Fortner, and Great-Grandma Linda "Scooter Grandma" Sharp, who welcomed her into heaven.
Educationally, Kayla attended McBride, Lewis and Clark, Yankton Arthur Academy, and Saint Helens Middle School. She later attended Saint Helens High School before moving to Blairsville-Saltsburg High School, graduating with the class of 2016.
A potluck-style Celebration of Life will be held in her honor at Trojan Park, Rainier, Oregon, on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 12 pm. This gathering will be a time for friends and family to reminisce and celebrate Kayla's life and the joy she brought to their lives.
The Columbia Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in Saint Helens, Oregon, are assisting the family with arrangements. Their compassionate service during this difficult time is deeply appreciated by Kayla's family and friends.
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