Shelby Don Saulka

Shelby Don (Rood) Saulka passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, in Arlington, Washington, at the age of 63.

Born on July 12, 1961, Shelby carved her own path from an early age. Her youth was spent scaling mountains alongside her parents, Donna Rood Majersky and the late Ronald Rood (d. 1981), embracing every adventure with fearless enthusiasm. Her heart resonated deeply with music, leading her to master seven instruments. She notably secured a place in the prestigious Black Watch Junior Drum and Bugle Corps through sheer talent and determination, impressively picking up the French horn for the first time during auditions and surpassing all others.

Shelby was a gifted writer, a loyal friend, and above all, a dedicated mother. Her boundless love and steadfast determination shaped the lives of her five children: Stevie Saulka, John Saulka, Mallory Fisher, Tyler Barnes, and Alison Barnes. Her enduring legacy carries on through eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will cherish her memory forever.

In 1998, Shelby moved to Arizona, later returning to the Pacific Northwest to be closer to her beloved family. Despite living with Multiple Sclerosis, she chose resilience over limitation, never allowing her condition to define her life. With quiet strength and unwavering resolve, Shelby faced life’s challenges head-on, always putting her role as a mother and beacon of light first.

Shelby is lovingly remembered by her mother Donna Rood Majersky, and her siblings Shawn Rood, Lyndsey Rood Kuche, and Penelope Rood.

Shelby was wisdom wrapped in warmth, a trusted confidante with an old soul and a partner in mischief when needed most. Her guidance continues to inspire those fortunate enough to have walked life’s path beside her.

May her memory forever serve as a guiding compass to those she leaves behind.