Mari Lynn McKinstry Lazur passed away on Aug. 28 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. She was initially diagnosed in April 2012. After seven surgeries, three chemotherapy agents, radiation, two clinical trials, her fight ended. She passed away peacefully under the care of hospice and her beloved husband and mother.

She was 31.

She is survived by her husband, Nathan Lazur of Los Angeles, California; her mother, Lynnie McKinstry of Kingston; her brother, Garrett McKinstry of Tacoma; her endeared grandparents, Ron and Shirley McKinstry of Bainbridge Island; her grandmother, Patricia Oosting of Spokane; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins that were very dear to her.

Mari was born June 27, 1983 in Bellevue. She graduated from North Kitsap High School in 2001, where she was a star athlete. She then went onto Olympic College where she received her associate’s degree in art and transferred to Central Washington University to pursue a degree in sports and health. She made loving homes in Juneau, Alaska; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tacoma; and Los Angeles.

Mari was a charismatic individual who lived in the moment and had many talents and passions. She was an exceptional athlete and personal trainer who would push herself and those around her to their best. She had a knack for the arts and always knew the latest trends in fashion and music. She loved laughing in the sunshine and the smell of the ocean. Most of all, she loved her friends and gave her all to them. She formed a very special place in many people’s hearts.

She is now with her adored father, Jeffrey Allen McKinstry, in heaven. She will be missed dearly by all of her friends and family. Rest in Peace, our dear Mari.

A memorial in her honor will be held at Kiana Lodge in Poulsbo on Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. All are welcome.

— Family of Mari Lynn McKinstry Lazur