Nita Bondurant Stolesen

Nita Bondurant Stolesen, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 27,2025, in Arroyo Grande, California, at the age of 93.

Born on August 10, 1931, in Snyder, Texas, to Roy and Clara Sumruld, Nita was the fourth of six children. The family later moved to Tulare, California, where she grew up before marrying and settling in Corcoran, and later, Visalia.

Nita was known for her tireless energy, creativity, and strong work ethic. She was rarely seen sitting still-if she wasn't cleaning or working in her yard, she was decorating, sewing, or creating something beautiful. An accomplished oil and acrylic still-life artist, she exhibited her artwork for many years at Morro Bay's "Art in the Park." In addition to painting, Nita crafted intricate macramé garden décor, often incorporating ceramic pots and antique tools, which she also sold locally.

Fashion was another of Nita's passions. Upon moving to Carmel in the early 80s, she worked at M'Lady Bruhn, an upscale women's boutique, where she thrived as a top salesperson. She delighted in helping women find the perfect designer dresses-nearly as much as she enjoyed wearing them herself. Nita lived her best life in Carmel where she met and married Rolf Stolesen on May 23, 1992. Nita and Rolf shared many joyful and fun years together.

After Nita and Rolf retired to the Central Coast in 2003, Nita found joy in line dancing at Bill's Place in downtown Arroyo Grande. Dancing twice a week (and often more) she mastered over 125 dances and decorated her own eye-catching outfits, including custom jackets, pants, hats, and matching boots in every color.

Nita was preceded in death by her husband, Rolf Stolesen, son-in-law, John Tonozzi, brother and sister-in law, Glen and Marge Sumruld and sister-in-law Lois Sumruld.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Tonozzi and Patricia Danby (John); grandchildren Janae Carlson (Michael) and Johnathen Tonozzi (fiance Monet); great-grandson Rhett Carlson; and stepdaughters Shelly Donaldson, Deborah Stolesen, and Lynn Stolesen. She also leaves behind her siblings Clara McElmoyl, Doris Murdock (Larry Casner), R.L. Sumruld, and Jean Levy (Ted), along with many nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Gabriella and the staff at Bella Vita Senior Living in Arroyo Grande for their compassionate care over the last 18 months. Special thanks also to the dedicated team at Central Coast Hospice, who brought comfort during Nita's final days. Nita lived her life with purpose, style, and grace. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, resilience, and love-and a reminder to always dance when the music plays.