Madonna Jean COLWELL

COLWELL, Madonna Jean Age 86, passed away at her home in Petaluma, CA on May 26, 2016, in the presence of her family and dedicated caregiver, Colleen Conway. Never one to go with the flow, always the teacher and dispenser of "positive expectations", she loved and was loved by many, including the multitudes of students she influenced over a 30 year career in Sonoma County public schools. Madonna was one who refused to take "no" for an answer. From pursuing a college education against the advice of her parents, to advocating for her rights against "red tape", she was always a fighter, looking ahead and doing her best to safeguard her family. Born July 14, 1929 in Muncie IN to Forest and Sophia Jones. Married 62 years. Survived by husband, James Colwell of Petaluma CA; son, Glen Colwell (Lorrie Waldorf-Colwell) of Windsor CA; brothers, Ken Jones of Boise ID and Jerry Jones (Robyn Johnson-Jones) of Las Vegas NV; several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Preceded in death by daughter, Lisa K Nielsen. Graduated Bell High School, Bell CA 1948, and Long Beach State 1953, BA Education. In her earlier years Madonna was an adventurous traveler to Alaska and Mexico, telling stories of catching more fish than the men and bringing salmon home in her suitcase! After retirement, Madonna enjoyed genealogy, tutoring, travels with husband Jim to Ireland, Mexico, throughout CA and by train to the east coast. In her later years, though limited in mobility, the oak trees, birds and wildlife surrounding her farm house property in west Petaluma brought much joy. A dedicated wife, mother, grandma and great-grandma, her struggles are now over. Public visitation and family gathering Saturday June 4th 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Adobe Creek Funeral Home, 331 Lakeville Street, Petaluma, CA. Interment at Pleasant Hills Memorial Park, Sebastopol CA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Child Parent Institute, 3650 Standish Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 95407 or The Lisa Nilsen Scholarship Fund at Santa Rosa High School, in support of the SRHS agriculture program. The family wishes to thank Hospice by the Bay, the many dedicated caregivers who touched Madonna's life over the years, and Dina Kirtley and William Ferchland at Ferchland Law, Santa Rosa. "A truly special teacher is very wise, and sees tomorrow in every child's eyes" - anon