Town mourns passing of beloved postal clerk

During her long career with the U.S. Postal Service, Brenda Obertacz placed stamps on a steady stream of envelopes and parcels.

She also put her stamp on La Conner, the community she loved and where she served with poise, grace and a sense of professionalism that left its mark with colleagues and local postal patrons alike.

Brenda passed away Nov. 4 at her home in Burlington, two days shy of her 64th birthday.

Her passing was immediately felt both at work and by the public that had come to rely upon her caring and tireless approach to customer service.

“We’re devastated,” said co-worker Robert Salazar, who along with Heidi Riley logged countless hours over the years alongside Brenda at the La Conner post office. “She was very kind and sweet. People enjoyed coming in to see her.”

Brenda is remembered as a selfless person of great faith, blessed with a myriad of talents. She was an avid gardener and gifted cook and enjoyed horseback riding.

But as much as she loved horses, Brenda loved people more. Regardless of how she felt, whether she was ailing or feeling on top of the world, Brenda cheerfully greeted those who approached the postal counter.

Her pleasant demeanor was much appreciated.

“Everyone who comes in is heartbroken,” Salazar said Tuesday morning. “It’s a tremendous loss. She worked in this community for such a long time.”

Brenda had initially worked at United General Hospital following graduation from Sedro-Woolley High School. Later she embarked on a 31-year career with the U.S. Postal Service as a clerk and sales associate in La Conner.

“She was always polite,” said a La Conner resident entering the post office on Tuesday. “She was extremely helpful.”

Atop the postal counter was a dwindling stack of fliers announcing memorial services for Brenda this Saturday at 11 a.m. at North Cascade Christian Fellowship Church on Ball Street in Sedro-Woolley.

Those not taking fliers often took time to inquire about the arrangements.

“I can tell you,” said Salazar, “that she will surely be missed.”