A Light Has Gone Dark: Remembering Shelby Rose Portnoff

LAKE FOREST, CA — Shelby Rose Portnoff, an 11-year-old 6th grade student at Rancho Canada Elementary School, passed away suddenly on February 10. The tragic and unexpected loss has shocked and saddened the community of Lake Forest, and all who knew and loved this vivacious girl.

"A light has gone dark. Words cannot express the sadness in our hearts," Tony Ignoffo said. Ignoffo, a family spokesperson, is managing the GoFundMe page established in Shelby's name. "Her knowledge, creativity, compassion, sense of humor and dedication never ceased to amaze all those around her."

Shelby had an impact on everyone who met her. She was an avid Girl Scout, who recently attended a Bridging Ceremony in San Francisco. She participated in the Southern California Children’s chorus and even performed at the Segerstrom Center for the arts.

"Her family and her friends were the most important thing to her," Ignoffo said. "They were her greatest love as she was theirs."

The GoFund for Shelby is both to defray expenses incurred by her untimely death, and to show support and love of the community in which she lived.

"The loss of their daughter will be impossible to bear," Ignoffo said. "Shelby was their best friend, their shining student, and their buddy. To help ease the family’s future hardship, we ask that you make a donation. Any amount will be forever appreciated."

Shelby is survived by her mother, Nikki Portnoff, Father, Shane Portnoff, and sister Bella.

To support Shelby's family, visit: www.gofundme.com

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Photo: GoFundMe.com courtesy