Linda Lee Kerley

Linda Lee Kerley, 64, of La Grande died June 6 at home following an extended illness.  

Linda was born in Corvallis, Oregon and raised in La Grande, Oregon.  Linda attended Ackerman Elementary School, La Grande Middle School, and La Grande High School.  She earned a Bachelors Degree in Biology from Oregon State University, a Masters Degree in Biology from University of Nevada in Reno, and a Doctorate Degree in Biology from the University of Wyoming. 

Linda was a lifelong lover of animals and plants and the great outdoors.  Among the many animals she studied were the black bear, sage grouse, prairie dog, bison, and most recently, the Amur (Siberian) tiger.  Linda lived for 27 years in far east Russia studying and conserving tigers.  Linda also enjoyed training and showing dogs and was well versed in gardening, being particularly fond of her beautiful flower gardens.  

Linda was preceded in death by her brother Tommy, parents David and Nancy Kerley, and husband Mikhail Borisenko.    

Linda is survived by her partner Lew Wallenmeyer of La Grande, son David Borisenko of La Grande, sister Lucy Kerley of Eugene, Oregon, and brother Michael Kerley of La Grande.  

Memorial contributions in Linda's memory may be made to the Kerley Memorial Scholarship at Eastern Oregon University and the organization Working Dogs for Conservation.  

A memorial celebration is planned for August 30 at Riverside Park in La Grande.