In Memory of McKenzie Joslin-Snyder

McKenzie worked with Bird Alliance of Oregon for many years, first as a volunteer, then as a buyer for the Nature Store, and then as a wildlife rehabilitator in the Wildlife Care Center. She was a beloved member of her team and of the staff, and a calming voice during times of chaos, whether during the pandemic or the extreme heat event. McKenzie was a breath of fresh air who could bring light to any room she was in. She was so funny, always kind, incredibly creative, and compassionate toward animals and people alike. She helped countless animals in her time at the Wildlife Care Center, using her skills to heal injured and orphaned animals, and had a special love for our crow patients. Hundreds of animals are out there in the world, living their second chance at life in the wild because of McKenzie’s work. She accomplished a lot in her 36 years on earth, but had so much more to give.

I don’t think I’ll ever stop missing her. I’ll miss her handwriting on paperwork, her help in tough situations, like standing up to challenging people at the front door, and in fun stuff, like going through the weekly produce donations and catching up Douglas squirrels for release. Sweating, cursing maybe, but proud of our children that hate us—a job well done.
Something I will miss the most is her artwork around the Care Center. McKenzie was a talented artist whose work had both whimsy and soul. Whether it was a drawing of a new patient, a note with fresh baked cookies, or a Cats Safe at Home comic, they were all impressive. I love the way she saw the world and was lucky enough to get to see some of it for the years I worked alongside her.