Dita Norene Tavenner

Dita Norene Tavenner was born on April 27, 1956, in San Rafael, California, and passed away peacefully on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the age of 69.
To know Dita was to know fierce loyalty, deep love, and a soul that showed up 100%, wherever she was. She was fun, resilient, courageous, and unwavering in her care for those she loved. If you were in her circle, you knew it and you felt it.
Dita is survived by her children: Bobby Tavenner of Fairfield, California; Danny Buzzard of Klamath Falls, Oregon; and Katie Buzzard of Montague, California. She was a proud grandmother to Luke (Danny's son) and to Jayci, her step-granddaughter through Lahna and Jory Stiles of Klamath Falls, and to Marley and Wyatt Williams (Katie's children), who were the light of her life.
Katie was not only her daughter but her best friend, confidante, and steady anchor especially in the final season of Dita's life. Their bond was unbreakable, and the loss of Dita is deeply felt by Katie and the kids, whose lives were shaped by her constant presence, humor, and unconditional love.
Dita also shared close bonds beyond the bounds of biology. She is lovingly remembered by her stepson David Buzzard of Petaluma, California; her stepdaughter, Dawn Russell and husband Dennis Russell of Petaluma, California; and her cherished "bonus" daughter Kaylea Morris and her husband Jeremy Morris of Montague, California, and their children Remi and Weston - all of whom she adored.
Also worth a special mention is Linda Ayers: Dita's longtime partner in mischief and co-conspirator in all things fun. Linda got them into trouble, and Dita got them back out. The two shared decades of laughter, adventures, memories, inside jokes, and maybe a few things we're better off not knowing.
She spent 26 years of her life with her beloved partner, Harold "Pa" Smith of Happy Camp, California who preceded her in death September 22, 2024.
Dita was born into a large family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marley and May Tavenner, and several siblings, including Glenva Burford Foley, Christy Burford Kline, Darrell Tavenner, and Elaine Jasinsky. She is survived by Ronald Tavenner of Coos Bay, Oregon; Randy Tavenner (Jean) of Cotati, California; and JoAnn Tavenner Connor (Wayne) of Venice, Florida as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews whose lives she touched.
Her love was not casual. It was active, fierce, generous, and real. She made every room feel warmer, every table feel fuller, and every moment more real. She gave hugs like she meant them and loved you through your worst, not just your best.
A celebration of Dita's life will be held on Saturday, July 26th at 11:00 AM at Grenada Berean Church, 512 6th Street, Grenada, CA 96038. In true Dita fashion, and yes, this is exactly how she'd want it: we're throwing a potluck. She loved food, all kinds of food, and we're asking guests to bring a side dish or snack to share. Don't overthink it - just bring it.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Madrone Hospice for their compassionate, tender care during Dita's final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: https://madronehospice.org/support