Lois Jean Kanzius

In loving memory of Lois Jean Kanzius

December 20, 1931 - April 10, 2025

Lois Jean Kanzius, 93, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Escondido, California. Born on December 20, 1931, in La Jolla, California, she was the beloved daughter of Walter and Blanche Kanzius. Lois lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep love for her family, and a steadfast spirit that touched all who knew her.

Raised in the coastal beauty of La Jolla, Lois spent her early years just a block from the beach. These early experiences shaped a lifelong connection to the ocean and instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature’s peace and wonder.

Travel was one of Lois’s greatest joys. Whether it was a local day drive along the coast, a road trip with family, or an ocean cruise with friends or her mother, she embraced every opportunity to explore new places. Her journeys took her across the country to visit loved ones in Kansas, Missouri, and Texas—and across oceans to tropical destinations like Hawaii, Tahiti, Mexico, Greece, and Turkey.

For many years, Lois dedicated herself to raising her children. Once her youngest child started school, she embarked on a new chapter—building a strong career as a drill operator at Singer Kearfott and later at GEC Marconi. Over the course of 26 years, she became known for her diligence and work ethic before retiring in 1993.

Retirement marked not an end but a new beginning for Lois. She become a noon-time supervisor at Miller and Bernardo Elementary Schools and volunteered in classrooms, where her warmth and gentle guidance earned her the affectionate nickname “Grandma Lois” from students and staff alike.

She also had a passion for sports—cheering on professional teams like the San Diego Chargers and Padres—and took great pride in being part of her daughters’ softball teams. Hosting team parties brought her joy and allowed her to share in their accomplishments.

Lois is survived by her two daughters: Suzan Norquist (David) and Karen Moris (Scott); nine grandchildren: Christopher Harrison (Vanessa), Crystal East, Anthony Tubbs (Kelly), Bethany Friedrich (Matthew), Elyse Jones (Jaret), Walter Tubbs Jr., Andrew Moris, Kathryn Lemler (Brandon), and Kellee West (Clifton); and eleven great-grandchildren: Nathan, Zachary, and Lillian Friedrich; Joe McFarlane; Trista and Tyler East; Teagyn and Juniper Jones; Wesley Lemler; Malachi and Abigail West.

She was preceded in death by her son Patrick Dunn; daughter Raelyn Anderson; grandson Steven Tubbs; parents Walter and Blanche Kanzius; sister Joan Hoobler; and brother Kenneth Kanzius.

Lois Jean Kanzius leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held on May 3, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church located at 341 S. Kalmia Street, Escondido, CA  92025.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations can be made to The First United Methodist Church, Escondido

Please visit the Memorial page to leave a message on the memory wall and view the video and gallery of photos.

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