Obituary of Laura Kathleen Dana Jones

Laura Kathleen Dana passed away peacefully on June 11th after a long illness. She will forever be remembered for her bright smile, her warm heart, and her wonderful zest for life.

Laura was born to Gwenith and James Stevens in St. Cloud, MN. She spent her youth in Missoula, MT before relocating to Southern California, where she graduated from North Hollywood High School. She eventually moved to Santa Cruz in 1966.

She was an active member of the Santa Cruz community for more than 50 years. She would often remark on the emotional boost she received from helping others in need. She proudly volunteered her love and energy to the Literacy Program, Daisy and Mariposa House.  She also served as Foreperson on the Santa Cruz County Grand Jury. Additionally, Laura loved the time she spent working as a travel agent, where she helped others realize their travel dreams.

Laura was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. When Laura wasn’t busy working or volunteering, she could be found in the classrooms of her children and grandchildren where she had a natural ability to relate and teach children as a parent aide. She was an energetic and jovial den mother for numerous scout troops as well as an amazing chef, therapist, coach, chauffeur, and life planner for her children. Remarkably she had an open door and open heart policy for family, friends, dogs, and all who had the good fortune to know her.  She particularly enjoyed holidays where loved ones gathered together. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and birthdays were always fun-filled and festive.

She was truly a voracious reader being particularly fond of mysteries and romance novels as well as a movie buff including her favorites “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and “Fiddler on the Roof”. She loved hosting parties, finding any excuse to dine out, spending time with her friends, family and dogs, and travelling especially to the Mauna Kea, Hawaii, Kapalua, Maui, Bear Valley and Europe. Laura loved to create quilts to celebrate special events in her loved ones’ lives.  She won first place at the county fair for a quilt she made with her granddaughter. One of her greatest joys was being Nonnie to her grandchildren.

Laura is survived by her husband and love-of-her-life, Robert; her five children: Christopher, Dan, Laurie, Mike, and Steve; her brother, Matthew; multiple nieces and nephews; and her six grandchildren: Jimmy, Abby, Matthew, Hunter, Mackenna, and Kelsey.

There will be a celebration of Laura’s life in the near future. In lieu of flowers, please show your appreciation to your loved ones at every opportunity, and volunteer or donate to the charities of your choice.

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