HERMISTON Sheila B. Pruett died on Friday, Dec. 8, at Good Shepherd Medical Center in Hermiston after a courageous battle with lung cancer at the age of 59.

She was born April 29, 1947 at Boise, Idaho, the fourth of 12 children to Dale M. and Leotta B. (Wilson) Neider. Sheila attended schools in Boise. Sheila lived life to the fullest taking each day as a new gift to her.

She was a longtime resident of Boise, Idaho, Bend, and the Umatilla/Irrigon areas. She traveled most of the western states working various jobs always learning from each adventure. She was torn between the mountains where she lived and played with her children and grandchildren, and the water where she would do her best to outfish and outstory anyone with her.

Many people will remember her from her smile and jokes she liked to share. She was a member of the Lady Anglers. She was a world-class fisher-woman. Her music was a constant in her life. She played in local nursing homes and other functions until her health forced her to stop.

She was a member of the Old Time Fiddlers Association. She had a special way with children and animals-those she trusted most for their innocence. Sheila was many things to many people but she was never a stranger, always ready to help anyone and everyone. Sheila asked for a simple service to reflect the way she lived her life. Her family would like to give a very special thanks to her care giver, Shannon, for making her last few months so much better for her.

The words contained here-in cannot express the true Sheila. Suffice to say, Heaven is a happier place with her there.

She is survived by son, Tim and his wife, Mel Elam, and grandsons, Nick and Zack Elam of Boise, Idaho; daughter, Tammy Ferguson and grandchildren, David Ferguson, Samantha and Joshua Guisasola, all of Boise, Idaho; mother, Leotta Neider of Irrigon; sisters, Shirley Strong, and Sally and her husband, Wynn Lloyd, all of Boise, Idaho, Sandy and her husband, Gary Powell of Hermiston, and Sharon Kopp of Wilsonville; brothers, John and Steve Neider of Irrigon, James and his wife, Jill Neider of Bend, and Jerry and his wife, Sandy Neider of St. Helens; a very special friend, Mr. J.C. Pruett of Boise, Idaho; and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Dale Neider; brothers, Jay and Joe Neider; sister, Shelly Neider; and grandson, John.

A memorial service will be held at Stokes Landing Senior Center in Irrigon at a later date. Disposition was by cremation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in charge of the arrangements.