She was vibrant, enthusiastic, and energetic. When Michelle entered a room, she lit it up with the sparkle of her personality. She inspired all who knew her and her life was extinguished all too soon. It has taken some time to pull together the many strands of her life from her surviving children and her husband, David; but it is hoped the results are worth waiting for.
Michelle Alba-Lim Van Westen was born on May 26, 1954, in Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines. While her father was alive, the family lived relatively comfortably; able to buy ice cream and take family trips. After his death, the family had to move in with grandparents, and Michelle was forced to quit school.
When she was able to return to school she graduated from high school as class valedictorian. She then attended the University of San Carlos on a full scholarship graduating with honors. An early and abusive marriage resulted in four children who still survive her.
She traveled to many countries for business and pleasure including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and continental Europe. In 2008 she was granted Permanent US Residency and she became a citizen Nov. 28, 2018.
She held the position of Human Resources Development Manager in the Philippines and the United States before she received a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Phoenix. In 2013 she was a Training and Development Specialist for 7 Feathers.
She was an avid Toastmaster and received over 40 awards and certifications from Toastmasters International. She started the Toastmasters group in Oakland, which later moved to Roseburg.
Michelle met David Van Westen on May 18, 2020, after a Timber Valley member assured her he was a “good guy”. They traveled extensively, RVing, and also taking a three-week Panama Canal cruise and two cruises throughout the Mediterranean. She and David were married on Nov. 10, 2023, in a beautiful and touching ceremony in Timber Valley Park.
Michelle bravely battled cancer for several months. She died as graciously as she lived on March 12, 2024.
She is deeply missed by her four surviving children, Johanne, Mark, Kristine and Katherine, and her loving husband David who attributed the three-plus happiest years of his life to his short and wonderful marriage to Michelle.
A memorial service is planned for May 25 at 1 p.m. at Timber Valley Park.
