Liza Marie Elizabeth Cozad-Lauser

Liza Marie Elizabeth Cozad-Lauser Age 47, formerly of Rock Island, IL., passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 4th, 2015. After twenty months of courageously battling an inoperable brain tumor, her generous spirit, infectious positivity and indomitable strength continue to inspire her family, friends, and the thousands of people she touched in her life. A private ceremony is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Girls, Inc. at www.girlsinc.org. As an athlete, entrepreneur, wife, mother, and friend, Liza Marie was the definition of an overachiever. Born in Rock Island to Bud and Carole Ann Cozad, her lifelong passion for tennis began shortly after she learned to walk. She won numerous awards in her collegiate and semi-professional tennis career, and in 2010, was ranked #1 in Northern California for women over 40. She was also an accomplished marathon runner, even attempting an Iron Man. Liza graduated from University of Redlands, California with dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in psychology and philosophy, and received her law degree from DePaul University. She loved to drive fast and take chances; who else but Liza would teach herself how to ride a motorcycle by taking a solo road tripacross the United Statesin one week!? In 1997 she met her best friend and soul mate, David Lauser. They married in 2002 and continued to deepen their love and devotion for 18 years. She is survived by the wonderful family they cultivated together. Liza doted and took pride in caring for her step-daughter, Ella Danielle Marie Lauser. She was also a dedicated mama to their beloved puppy dogs: Gretchen, Max and Oskar. Liza was a spunky and fun-loving cousin and niece to the large Cozad clan. Liza was a loving aunt to Keith and Elliot-Sloane Cozad of her brother Jim and wife, Ginger Cozad. Liza also adored her brother John Cozad, his partner Mindy Green, and her son Cameron. Never one to present a problem without a solution, Liza was a born entrepreneur and excelled in numerous fields; from law, to business management, to technology, she effortlessly managed to juggle (at least) two careers at the same time. At 41, she retired from her role as a senior attorney for Fireman's Fund Insurance to focus on matters close to her heart: giving back to her community. Liza's charitable work included Meals on Wheels, Marin County Senior Helpers, volunteer tennis coaching, and participating in exhibitions such as the annual E-surance tennis fundraiser. For most people, that schedule would feel like a full plate, but for Liza Marie, it was just breakfast. She also owned two Curves gym franchises in Novato and Mill Valley, where she was loved as an employer and advocate for fitness and grew HomeWell Senior Care North Bay into a company that received national recognition for helping seniors remain independent while receiving exceptional care. If a caregiver called in sick, Liza was frequently up at 4am personally attending to the needs of her clients and their families. Yes, she was a dynamo of energy and purpose, but Liza still found plenty of time to revel in a rich home life. Reading the Wall Street Journal, making her famous "Liza Chicken" and watching Family Feud, Golden Girls, Star Trek and documentaries were favorite past times. She had a 146 IQ and was a member of MENSA, which she never let her husband forget. In the last year, Liza moved to Palm Desert with her husband to be closer to her stepdaughter and enjoy life. She bravely fought the FDA and united people in the belief that anything is possible. We love you Liza, the tumor is gone and you are healed. All things must pass, as your beloved George Harrison sings, however, your light shines on.