Michelle Strand

Family and friends are deeply saddened that Michelle Strand passed away on April 18, 2024. Michelle lived a challenged life with grace and determination. 

Michelle was born August 2, 1974 in San Diego, CA, living there for her first fifteen years. After leaving the west coast, she moved east to Smithtown attending and graduating from Smithtown West. After Suffolk Community College, she went to SUNY Potsdam to pursue a degree in Spanish Teacher Education. She taught at Ticonderoga and Middletown high schools.

Michelle was a computer techie. Using Apple and Microsoft systems was never a problem. As a secretary in her church's office, she worked both systems. Many of her friends and family went to her for solutions to computer glitches. At her church, she set up the soundboard for services. During her teenage years, she was hooked on games like Myst and Riven.

Curiosity had her investigating the McLeod clan from Scotland. She made a solo trip there to learn about her clan. In preparation she studied Gaelic.

Throughout her life, she loved animals. Her specialty was pet sitting. She presented the owners/parents anecdotal records when they returned.

Another livelong love was Disney which began at Disneyland and expanded to Disney World. Her keen mind and memory knew all the best parts of each section. What a tour planner and tour guide!

Michelle is survived by her brother James (Sean Holroyd), aunts Brenda Strand and Karen Goff, cherished friend Jennifer Herget and daughter Bridget.