Constance "Connie" Anita Killham

Constance “Connie” Anita Killham born November 17, 1943, in Portland, Oregon, passed away on June 24, 2026 leaving behind a life defined by spirit, independence, and a deep love for animals and adventure. The daughter of Nellie and Joseph Kandel, Connie grew up with a natural spark, one that showed itself early when she trained her Boston terrier to jump through hoops and perform tricks, earning her a feature on the local news. Even as a young girl, she had a gift for forming bonds with animals.

After graduating high school, Connie attended Clackamas Community College, where she earned her nursing degree and began a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She approached her work with dedication and compassion.

During her college years, Connie bred, raised, and showed her beloved Alaskan Malamutes and horses. Riding was one of her greatest joys, and she spent many years participating in western shows, proudly guiding her horses with confidence and grace. Her love for animals was boundless. Connie’s 40’s were spent with her race horses where they took 8 winning circles! Over the years she cared for dogs, horses, peacocks, bunnies, cats, and even a bullfrog who lived in her small pond and became her unlikely friend.

Connie was also a devoted gardener. Her roses and magnolia tree were her pride, and she spent countless peaceful hours tending to them. She cherished adventure as much as home, traveling widely, including a memorable trip to Peru, where she explored parts of the Amazon River and embraced the thrill of seeing the world beyond her own.

Beautiful, bold, and unforgettable, Connie was often described as a firecracker. She lived life on her own terms, spoke her mind without hesitation, and carried a free spirit that drew people to her. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Order of the Eagles, and the Salem Saddle Club, communities where she found friendship, purpose, and joy.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Nellie Kandel; her siblings Roma, Rene, Carroll, and Richard; and several cousins. She is survived by her children Yvonne McKenzie, Joseph Gustafson, Yvette Murray, and Julius Lupton; her grandchildren Brandon, Cyrstal, Spencer, Keith, Gabriel, Britany, Franky, Julian, Vanessa, Conan, Kimberly, and Kevin; as well as some cousins and nine great‑grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.

She leaves behind a family who loves her dearly and will miss her fiercely. Connie’s life was full of color, courage, laughter, animals, and adventure. Her spirit remains in every story told, every rose blooming in the garden, and every memory held close.

A Celebration of Life will be held at her daughter Yvonne’s home in Portland, Oregon on July 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM. For the address or additional information, please contact Yvonne at 503‑926‑3449 or yvonnemckenzie@me.com. Memorial contributions may be made out to Yvonne McKenzie to support the Celebration of Life and cremation expenses.