Forest Racheal Windham

Forest Racheal Windham, lovingly known as Racheal, passed away on February 21, 2026, surrounded by her husband, Ron, of 35 years. She leaves behind a legacy defined by strength, resilience, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family and the community that she cherished.

Racheal was born on February 24, 1969, in Portland, Oregon. In her earliest years, she lived briefly in Germany and on the island of Kauai, Hawai’i, before returning to Portland, OR where she was raised by her mother, Edith. Her family grew with the addition of her younger brother, Gabe Morrelli, and the presence of her stepfather, Curtis Morrelli, who played a formative role in her upbringing. These early years helped shape the strong, grounded, and independent woman she would become.

She graduated from Carnation High School in Washington in 1987 and began building her career in advertising during the late 1980s. In 1991, she met the man who would become her husband, Ronald Windham. They married on January 8th, 1994, and built a life rooted in adventure, and family. Together, they welcomed their son, Kyle Kamron Windham, in February 1995 in Bellevue, Washington, and their daughter, Kayla Faye Windham, in October 1996 in Ellensburg, Washington. After Kayla’s birth, they lived on Lower Peoh Point in Cle Elum before moving to Elk Meadows, where they created many cherished memories.

Racheal’s family life was full of movement and meaning. For several years, she and her young family traveled across the country, experiencing life from coast to coast. Much of this was made possible through her work in advertising. Racheal had a natural talent for connecting with people, building relationships, and creating opportunities not only for herself but for those around her. She had a gift for making things happen, using her drive and determination to open doors and support her family’s unique way of life. Her bold spirit, adaptability, and willingness to embrace whatever came next inspired all who knew her and inspired her way of life.

In October 2001, Racheal felt a deep pull to return to Kaua‘i, potentially knowing that her father was still there, and she was right. Their reconnection became one of the most meaningful chapters of her life from 2001-2008, bringing healing, renewed connection, and a beautiful new beginning for her new family. While living on the island, she gave her children a childhood rich in culture, nature, family and unforgettable experiences!

In April 2008, Racheal and her family settled back in Cle Elum, Washington, she became deeply involved with the Fraternal Order of Eagles #649 shortly after. There, she found more than a gathering place, she found a true community that needed people to show up to make things work. Racheal helped create an environment that welcomed everyone, especially those in need of support, connection, or simply a warm meal and a kind smile. Her presence made a lasting impact, and her influence will continue to be felt by all who knew her when you walk in those doors.

Racheal will be remembered for her fierce love, enduring strength, and for the way she made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. She built a life rich in connection, offering an extended hand and the most endearing smile. Her absence will be deeply felt.

She is survived by her brother, Gabe Morrelli; her daughter, Kayla Windham; and her husband, Ronald Windham. She was preceded in death by her son, Kyle Kamron Windham; her mother, Edith Kelley; her father, Patrick Gustusfson; and her stepfather, Curtis Arthur Morrelli.

She was a force to be reckoned with—and the world was better for it.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Cle Elum (220 N Pennsylvania Ave), on April 11, 2026, from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. All who knew and loved Racheal are warmly invited to attend and honor her life.