Kirsten Samwel

Kirsten Anne Samwel, beloved wife, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on June 13, 2024, after a valiant battle with ALS. Kirsten was born on the island of Guam on July 23, 1966, to Hellmut and Carolyn Gebhardt. She grew up in Libertyville, Illinois and Battle Ground, Washington. Kirsten was brilliant and witty, with a wonderful sense of humor. Never one to tolerate a bully, she was determined and sometimes stubborn, yet full of kindness and love for all who knew her. She loved celebrations, cooking, camping, the beach, novels, classic rock and her sweet dogs. She loved her family and her many friends and colleagues. After graduating from Battle Ground High School, Kirsten met and married Tim Samwel – the love of her life – in 1988. Kirsten worked for Miles and Miles in Vancouver for 11 years, during which time she helped raise 3 of her nieces and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs from Washington State University in 2000. She went on to attend Seattle University School of Law, receiving her Juris Doctor in 2004. Kirsten eventually opened her own Vancouver practice in 2008, later partnering with her snd was an active member of the Clark County Bar Association’s Family Law Section until 2022. Between them, Kirsten and Tim had more than 50 nieces, nephews and grandnieces & nephews and she did her best to celebrate every family member’s achievements and milestones. She was a lively, generous spirit who made the lives of those who knew and loved her rich, rewarding and sweet. Kirsten is survived by her beloved husband Tim, five siblings, and a big extended family, who all loved her fiercely and will miss her dearly. In honor of Kirsten, a sunset and candle-light walk, followed by an informal gathering at Tap Union Freehouse in Vancouver is planned for the evening of July 27th. Further details will be posted on Kirsten's facebook page as they become available. The Tap Union gathering begins around 8:00 p.m. All are welcome.