Lavina E. Coon

Lavina was born in Eastern Montana to G.J. and Helen Maier. She attended school in Baker, MT and was a member of the Congregational Church. Lavina has an older sister, Viola Schuetzle, an older brother, Ray Maier and a younger brother, Sheldon Maier. A younger sister, Florence preceded her in death.

Lavina was married to Larry Busch for 33 years prior to his death. To this union four children were born. Larry, Laure, Lance, and Lane. Lance preceded her in death in 2007. Lane preceded his mother in death in 2020. Lane's wife, Tamie Jo, passed away in 2016. Lavina met and married Dave Coon in 1987. They lived in Helena, MT and wintered first in Florida and then Arizona. Later they made Surprise, AZ their permanent home. Lavina and Dave joined Desert Garden Church in 1999.

Lavina served her church in many capacities. She served on Women's Fellowship board in all offices and as president for seven years. She was part of the church council for many years. She was co-chair and then chair of the Social committee for 10 years, as well as co-chair and then chair of the rummage sale for 11 years. Lavina served on the Worship committee and Pastoral Relations committee. Lavina was a member of P.E.O. since 1989, first in a Chapter in Montana and then transferred to a Chapter in Sun City West. She held most major offices in both Chapters. Her affiliation and Sisters held a special place in her heart.

Lavina's hobbies included gardening, reading, needlework, cooking, golfing and walking. She loved creating needlework’s of art and gave them away with pleasure. Lavina and Dave traveled extensively. Trips included ocean and river cruises and bus tours. One of the most memorable was a trip to the Holy Land. They also traveled to Japan, China, Thailand, Italy, Greece, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Norway. A Rhine River cruise from Vienna to Amsterdam and on to Prague was enjoyed with family and a cruise through the Panama Canal along with 16 members of Desert Garden was great fun. On many of these trips they were joined by their children and spouses. Another memorable trip which included the entire family was an Alaskan cruise-"in laws and outlaws"! Lavina always took great pride in her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved them all unconditionally.

She is survived by son Larry (Carrie) Busch and grandchildren Kevin Busch, great-grandchildren, Carson, Nolan, Hazel and Cora. Scott Busch and great grandchildren Franklin and Briggs. Kelsey (Jake) Harley and great-grandchildren Emma, Aria and Dean. Daughter Laure (Mike) Cysewski, Grandchildren Jason (Andrea) Cysewski and great-grandchildren Alexander and Aryanna. Granddaughter Angela (Andrew) George. Grandchildren (Lane's sons) Cameron and Brandon Busch.

TO THOSE I LOVE AND TO THOSE WHO LOVE ME

When I am gone, release me, let me go.

I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears,

Be thankful for our beautiful years.

I gave to you my love, You can only guess

How much you gave me in happiness.

I thank you for the love you have shown,

But now it's time I traveled on alone ...

So grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must,

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It's only for a time that we must part.

So bless the memories with your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on,

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near ...

And if you listen with your heart you'll hear

All my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone,

I'Il greet you with a smile and say

Welcome Home!