Oh, how we love you. It's been a rich, beautiful tapestry of a human life. If you knew LaVonne, what might come to mind is her bright, generous smile, her giving spirit, her tenacity for savoring this time on earth. Her kindness.
A crossing over can be many things. It is an acceptance of the inevitable--it can be peaceful, confusing, painful, hopeful, resisting, mystifying, wondering at the unfathomable--and, in the end, a sacred journey.
Born the sixth of seven children to Agnes and Glenn A. Rounsevell in Deadwood, South Dakota on July 23, 1926, LaVonne transitioned from this life on March 2, 2025 in Ojai, California.
From the vibrant lore of the old West and colorful characters (as a child she observed Mount Rushmore being constructed and had a brown bag lunch on George Washington's head), she married the most colorful character of all, Douglas Theriault. Following schooling at the University of Wyoming and University of Michigan, they came to Ojai in 1954 for a one-year stay, intending to move to the Bay Area. But following the birth of their daughter April, the charm of Ojai worked its magic upon them, and they stayed for the rest of their days.
When someone lives nearly a century, there is much that could be written--about various degrees, accomplishments, awards, etc. But really, what remains is the impression their heart left on those they touched. And she touched many. From a small child delighting in banging on household pots and pans, to playing timpani and every kind of percussion instrument throughout her life, her language was music. And she loved being around her fellow musicians--Ventura County Symphony Orchestra, Ventura County Concert Band, Cabrillo Music Theater, Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, Ojai Youth Symphony, Ventura County British Brass Band, Ojai Pops Orchestra, Ojai Summer Band, Ojai Handbell Choir...she was a volunteer for over fifty years with the Ojai Music Festival, an Ojai Living Treasure and loved working with BRAVO, Help of Ojai, and being a Pink Lady at the Ojai Hospital.
LaVonne is survived by her brother Larry Rounsevell (Shirley), daughter April Theriault (Ken Eros), Christopher Danch (Angie Genasci), the most loving grandchildren Eric Danch (Stefani Romo Danch), Aimee Danch (Jeremiah Stent), Sage Danch (Ali Danch), and eight very great-grandchildren. Thank you for being here, Mom.
Thank you to Mission Hospice and The Gables for your loving care.
A celebration of LaVonne's life will be announced at a later date. Donations to Help of Ojai would be welcomed.