Rochelle Orton, 19-year-old 2006 Quilcene High School graduate and former 4-H member of Big Quil Enterprises, died Wednesday, October 18 of injuries she suffered during a crash on U.S. Highway 101 in Mason County on Tuesday. Rochelle's north-bound car was hit head-on by a south-bound vehicle that crossed the centerline when the driver of that vehicle fell asleep at the wheel. Rochelle's high school sweetheart, Kevin Vandenberg of Quilcene, was with Rochelle at the time of the accident and thankfully survived with minor injuries.
Rochelle was a shining light of goodness in this world. She loved working with children and was pursuing her post high school studies to become an expert in early childhood education. Rochelle touched the lives of everyone who met her. She always had a smile and positive attitude despite life's challenges. She will be sorely missed in this world that especially needs people sincerely devoted to children as Rochelle was.
Rochelle is survived by her grandfather Bill Purtle, father John, brother Kyle, and sister Tanya, all of Brinnon. The Jefferson County 4-H organization expresses its deepest sympathies to all of Rochelle's family and close friends for this terrible loss.
Bill Purtle will be making arrangements for a memorial service possibly to be held at Quilcene High School.
The service will be held Saturday, October 28, 2006 at 7 pm at the Quilcene School.