Obituary of Laura Ann Schissell

Laura Ann Schissell

July 14, 1963 ~ November 30, 2017

Dr. Laura Ann Schissell was born July 14, 1963 to Ethel Johnson and Dr. Milton Schissell in Long Island, New York. Beset by complications of cancer, she passed away November 30^, 2017 in Vancouver, Washington at the age of 54.

Dr. Laura was a Naturopathic Physician and a third generation Chiropractor who practiced at Abundant Health Clinic in Vancouver, WA. Raised in Huntington, New York, Laura graduated from Huntington High School in 1981. She then went on to receive her B.S. in Biochemistry at Binghamton University in New York.

Seeking a new challenge, from 1985 to 1992, Laura went to work for Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, a non-profit educational retreat center in Rhinebeck, New York. There she served as Head Gardener of the facility.  

Following in her father and her grandfather’s footsteps, Laura enrolled in New York Chiropractic College and graduated in the class of 1996. Thirsty for more knowledge in the field of Natural Medicine, she found her way to Portland, Oregon where she enrolled in the National College of Natural Medicine and graduated in the class of 2001.

Laura’s vibrant, passionate, cheerful, and generous spirit of service to her patients and the community, was deeply appreciated by all throughout her working years. She loved the environment in every aspect: from the ocean, through the woods and creeks, ascending to the mountain slopes. Her creative, artistic nature enriched her life and that of countless others. Laura was a passionate gardener, with a special talent that imbued her surroundings with light, beauty, and color. Laura’s empathy, compassion, love and giving character touched everyone she encountered. Her smile and infectious laughter could brighten the darkest day: the room was always brighter when Laura was present – she will be so missed by all who knew her.  

She shared a nurturing spirit that uplifted all she encountered. She cherished being outside cultivating her gardens, cooking, yoga and her beloved kitties (Honey, Mo, Ocee, and Spike). Laura helped us inquire and reflect on life. She enjoyed quiet times as well: reading and meditating on the cosmos. Laura had a voracious appetite for knowledge and spiritual wisdom; she was always learning and challenging herself with new adventures and interests.

In her closing years of life, Laura met her beloved husband to be, John Nelson. There was an instant connection when they met. Not only did they have a deep love for one another, they had many interests that complimented each other’s. They found beautiful connection cooking together and designing house projects. This connection grew even deeper through their many philosophical conversations, shared social activism, and the love of their kitties.     

Yes, she was - and remains - much beloved by family and many friends.

Laura is survived by her husband John Nelson, her older sister Audrey Schissell, and her younger brother Andrew Schissell. She was predeceased by her parents and her other brother David Schissell.

To those that knew and loved Laura, the loss has been devastating and we are availing ourselves of Grace to process.

We thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support. Your kind words of comfort have been helpful during this trying time. Regarding donations, Laura’s cats were the loves of her life; we ask that you consider making a donation in her name to a cause that was dear to her: West Columbia Gorge Humane Society: http://wcghs.org/ or contribute $10.00 to Daniel Sperry’s cello composition for Laura and receive his CD at the Celebration of Life.

There will be a celebration of Laura’s life on February 17^th, 2018. More details can be found on Laura’s memorial tribute page: http://memorial.yourtribute.com/Laura-Schissell/

Please RSVP to http://memorial.yourtribute.com/Laura-Schissell/.

Please view Laura's memorial website at: http://memorial.yourtribute.com/Laura-Schissell/