Lea Adele Shmoldas

Lea Adele Shmoldas, beloved wife, mother, and affectionally known as “Honey” to her Grandson, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2014 after a long battle with Multiple System Atrophy (Shy-Drager syndrome). She was 65 years old.

Lea was born in Huntingdon, England on July 21, 1948 to Charles and Leonore Wattiez. At the tender age of 18, she met an American fighter pilot and USAF graduate John Dusan Shmoldas. After days and eventually weeks of courting, John and Lea were engaged and happily married on Dec 16, 1967. Their 46-year marriage survived many moves between England, Germany, Texas, Virginia, Florida and eventually Thousand Oaks, Ca in 1988 where they still currently reside.

Lea is remembered for her infectious spirit, ability to light-up a room, love for others, and a gorgeous smile. She was an artist but also generously served as a counselor, motivator, life coach, therapist and confidant to her many friends, family and even strangers who she regularly engaged along her many memorable encounters.

She is survived by her husband John, son Andre (wife Chelsea) of Del Mar, her daughter Jonelle and grandson Jade of Chatsworth. Survivors also include her sister Kym Shipman in Virginia, brothers Andy and Nicky Wattiez in England and many adored nieces/nephews. She is also survived by countless friends on both the East and West Coasts, her home country of England, as well as France.

Lea instilled in all of us a love of family, kinship, adventure, travel, and to live everyday fearlessly with spontaneity and creativity. “You can accomplish anything you set your mind too”, was one of her constant encouragements to many. Her shopping prowess was legendary, and relentless. Lea coined the phrase “shop till you drop”. She was an active contributor to the Child Fund in Philippines for over 30 years and personally funded the upbringing and education for many impoverished children. As an artist, her passion of flowers, particularly roses, were on full display but her subjects included many of her affections such as her children, pets, siblings or any object or person of emotion that caught her eye. In fact her business for many years was called “In the Mind’s Eye.” Her light and sage advice will be a beacon for all of us long beyond her passing.

The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses and caretakers that helped extend our Mom’s comfort in the last few difficult years. Of particular significance are Hortensia Reyes, and Jolie Lallo who began as caretakers but became dear companions. We don’t have room to list all the close friends that were there for us.

Dignity Memorial by Pierce Brothers in Westlake Village, CA will hold a memorial service at Sunday March 23rd at 10am. In lieu of donations, please send flowers as my Mom requested to have white roses as far as they eye could see.