Maxine Anne Ernst Brassel

September 29, 1934 - October 12, 2019

September 29,1934------- October 12,2019 Maxine Anne Ernst Brassel, 85, passed away October 12 at home surrounded by her family. Maxine was born September 29, 1934 in Newberg, Oregon. The oldest daughter of Norman and Frances Ernst. Maxine grew up in St. Paul, OR on the family farm, and graduated from St. Paul High school in 1952. She continued her education at Marylhurst College, graduating in 1956 with a degree in Education, and a minor in Music. Upon graduating from college, Maxine began her career as a teacher at Hubbard Grade school. She taught several years at Washington Elementary school in Woodburn. She then accepted a position at St. Luke's Parochial Grade School where she stayed until her retirement at the age of 62. She was widely thought of as a wonderful teacher and the impact she had on her student’s lives will never be forgotten. On Nov 17, 1956, Maxine married William F. Brassel and had 4 wonderful children. She has 9 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren, whom she treasured. Maxine grew up in a family of musicians, and throughout her life music was her love. She began playing the piano at a very young age and enjoyed giving concerts throughout her life. She was the St. Luke's parish pianist, and organist for many, many years retiring in the summer of 2019. Maxine shared her love, and talent for music, teaching piano and guitar to students for many years. She was also a member of the Portland Monday Musical club and enjoyed playing Two Piano Duet concerts yearly to raise money for local musical scholarships. Maxine loved the outdoors, spending many years camping, cross country skiing, hiking, boating and fishing. In later years she enjoyed playing golf with family and friends. She returned yearly to her family’s “N.L. Ernst” peach orchard where she loved to assist during the annual harvests. She was a member of PEO, and a Bible Study fellowship. Maxine also loved to support her grand children, great grand children, and her many niece’s and nephew’s. She would always show her support in their many school and extracurricular activities; some of which involved track and field, soccer matches, basketball games, swim meets, 4H, dance recitals, football games, orchestra concerts, choir concerts, drum corp, cheer and many more. Maxine is survived by her sister Carol Brentano, brother Richard Ernst (Sissy), and brother Michael Ernst (Kelly). Her daughter Karen James (Randy), daughter Nancy Andrews, daughter Joan Shelton (Tim) and son Jim Brassel(Carrie), 9 grandchildren children, and 7 great grand children. Maxine’s adventurous spirit, sense of humor and never ending love will be missed daily by her friends and family. Donations can be made in Maxine's memory to : St. Luke's Catholic School 529 Harrison St. Woodburn, Oregon 97071 Or Monday Musical Club P.O. Box 15300 Portland, Oregon 97214