Elena was the 9th child with 12 siblings, she was born on September 15, 1965 to parents, Pavel Minei Snegirev and Marfa Shadrin Snegirev; her journey began in Ponta Grossa, Brazil and shortly after her journey to the USA through Port of Angeles with her final destination in Oregon.
She was raised as a farmers daughter and was given the responsibility to help raise her younger siblings. At a young age she had to learn how to be an adult, taking on responsibilities that normally you would not until after you become an adult. Through the years she was a rock to the whole family and was always willing to help her family, she was a patient, loving and caring person. She has touched everyone's lives and made an impact for the better.