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Dana G. Marsden Halverson

Dana Halverson Obituary

HALVERSON, DANA G. MARSDEN (Age 49)

On Saturday, September 24, 2005, at home in Berwyn Heights, MD, from breast cancer. Beloved wife of Edward A. Halverson and mother of James C. Halverson. Dana is survived by her father, Melvin E. Marsden; mother, Elizabeth C. Marsden; stepmother, Anne B. Marsden and her siblings, Thomas, Andrea, Candy and Matt Marsden. Memorial service to be announced. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Dana's name to a cancer charity of one's choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Sep. 30, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Dana Halverson

51 Entries

Tom Marsden

September 24, 2025

Twenty years. Beyond this little note -- I hope memories of you fill this day!

Tom Marsden

September 24, 2024

So grateful for the times we shared. I miss you. Everyone in the family misses you but the memories of you seem to lift us up now, more than sadden. You glow girl. Shine on.

Erin Menikheim

September 24, 2024

Thinking of you more than ever these days, Aunt Dana. You were such a beautiful soul and after all these years my memories of your voice, your smile, your laugh have not diminished. I have been unlucky enough to share your diagnosis, also too soon. But coming to terms with death is something we all will have to endure at some point. Maybe better sooner than later. To understand it and be at peace with it, I mean. Your life meant so much to so many of us, and despite dying, you continue to light up our minds and hearts even this many, almost 20 years later. Love you Aunt Dana and grateful for all the special times we had together.

Tom Marsden

September 24, 2023

18 years you've been gone. The love lives on, sister; you beloved song.

Idalee DiGregorio

September 29, 2006

Wow a year. How is it that time goes by so fast. I have to admit I think of Dana everyday. I brought home one of the African Violet's from Dana's memorial service and have of course named it Dana. She sits in my new kitchen window so I can look at her everyday and remeber my friend. I too think of Ed and James and hope you are dealing. I can not imagine your pain. I wish that for all of us time will heal the hole left in our hearts and lives. May the sprit be with us all.

Teresa Trozzo

September 28, 2006

I don't know where to begin. It has been a year since my friend has past thru to the other side. I know she is with me and I still have my morning coffee with her in the cup she gave to me for my birthday one year. As I read the entry's I remembered all the many side of Dana. She was a wonderfull and special person to many of us. I miss her. I think of her boys but can't bring myself to stop by yet. I know they must be feeling the loss at this time even stronger than I. Ed and James I think of you often and hope to get together soon.

Colleen McGinnis

June 22, 2006

Ed and James: I drive by your house so often, and think about your beautiful Dana every time. I especially had her on my mind this past weekend when Casey had her dance recital. In the past, I knew I could catch up with Dana because she used to be at every dress rehearsal to watch her nieces, Lauren and Kirsten. She loved to watch them dance. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word to say. But no matter if it were a dance rehearsal, soccer game, or working at the MD Book Exchange, Dana really loved being wherever she was at every moment. Never did I see her without a smile. Never. We recently were gathering items for the town-wide yard sale; going through the myriad of books we seem to constantly compile. The books that continue to entertain are the ones given to my kids by Dana. She had the greatest knack for choosing books for the specific child. Jack shares the same birth date as James, and each year, she would give Jack a book on his birthday. She didn't need to. He wasn't even family. But that is an example of the kind of person Dana was. Jack is the luckiest book owner. Those continue to be the most cherished books and will never make the "sell" pile. I just wanted you to know that Dana is thought of so often by so many. What a lady she was.

James H. Smith

November 8, 2005

I knew Dana 25 years ago from College Park, Md. We were a bunch of friends having good times and laughing together. Those days seem just like yesterday. Dana's laughter and smile were a reflection of her inner spirit. God bless you, Dana.

Bernadette Kelly

November 7, 2005

I'm sorry we did not know of your illness or your death, we would have visited/attended. God bless you, we will remember you in our prayers. May you rest in peace.

Matt Marsden

October 28, 2005

The words don't come easy, it's hard to know what or how I feel every day. Your passing has silenced a part of me. We spent the longest time together by sibling age and it's hard to imagine not being able to continue the trip of life together from here. I'll always hold on to what we were to each other, and never forget your indelible traits of thoughtfulness, ambition, strength,and just a verve for life.

We are all the better and fortunate to have had you in our midst.

Andrew Hill

October 27, 2005

Aunt Dana will be dearly missed. My only wish is that I could have had more time to fill my head with more of the lovely memories that she has already given me. Although she is never far from our hearts, it will not be the same without her. I am here for anyone who needs a shoulder to lean on. Love always

Kenna Marsden

October 27, 2005

Oh Dana. I don't really have the words for all that I am feeling. I miss you so much, even though our normal meeting time isn't for a month. I ache knowing that I will not see your face or hear your voice except when you come to me in my dreams. I guess I am still in some denial. I just can't seem to believe or accept that you are really gone. In my heart you never will be. I know you cherish all our wonderful memories as much as I do and I will continue to relive them and think of them often until I one day join you again. Until then I know you are close by, watching over me, watching over all of us. I know you would not want me to be sad so I try to be strong, but you already know that- don't you? I love you.

Tom Marsden

October 27, 2005

You've gone on the autumn, Dana. A grace note. "It is the human season",the poet said.

When you died, the days went cool and dull grey. Quiet. Lonely. I stayed up and listened late in the night to crickets' trills you could not hear, and felt the astonishment of the living at the end we grope to comprehend. I said your name aloud - there was a question in the sound of it.

The first autumn winds come through the garden, the leaves skitter as they look for a way into the earth. A light rain finally falls - without the solace I'd imagined.Still, I keep a window open and the lights down low so you can come and go as you please. I will be happy for the haunting. We didn't get to say good-bye.

Dana: my sister, friend, muse, counselor, consoler and guide. She sheltered me in difficult times. She inspired and encouraged me with her intellect, her bravery and her passions. I love you, Dana, with my whole leaf-scattered heart. That is what remains.

Erin Marsden

October 26, 2005

I will always remember Dana as being my favorite aunt, or at least the one I've felt closest to. The animated way she told stories and made us smile will not be forgotten. I can still hear the sound of her laughter so clearly, reminding me of her contagious good spirit. The holidays, especially, will not feel the same without her. Ed and James, I/we are here for you.

Judy hoffman/pennington

October 23, 2005

I knew Dana in High school. She was always willing to share her smile with everyone. I had the pleasure to talk to her again when buying books for my daugeter at the bookexchange. I will always remember Dana ,she was sweet and kind to everyone. She made you feel special.My thoughts and Prayers are with her family

Denise Leonberger-Celli

October 20, 2005

Dear Uncle Bud and Anne

I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I had know Dana. I saw her picture and she was lovely. By the way her friends and family discribe her I know her heart was too. We think of you often and I have tryed to contact you but I never get you. God bless you and your family in your time of sorrow. When I found out I would not see you at the reunion I didn't really want to go and not see the family I know and love. Perhaps I should get to know the others too. I am proud to be a part of this family. XO Love Denise (Nise) and Tom

October 20, 2005

Family Marsden

October 19, 2005

*** A MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD FOR DANA ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2005 AT 3:30 P.M. IN THE CHAPEL ON THE CAMPUS OF THE COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME OF MARYLAND - 4701 N. CHARLES STREET, BALTIMORE, MD. PLEASE JOIN HER FAMILY FOR A RECEPTION AFTER THE SERVICE. LOOK FOR DIRECTIONAL SIGNS ONCE ON CAMPUS. ***

Linda Powell-Buskirk

October 19, 2005

I really didn't know Dana and cannot comment from a personal viewpoint; however, I do know her father (aka "Uncle Bud" to me) and his crazy sense of humor which has brought me laughter over the years.

The world always needs laughter which is so good for the soul. I see a bit of Uncle Buds "twinkle in the eye" in this photo of Dana (plus a strong resemblance)and I can only feel she also brought joy to those around her. I know you will miss her immensely, but must feel some comfort that her suffering from this terrible disease has ended. Sincerely,

Melvin "Bud" Marsden

October 18, 2005

Dana was my sweet little girl. She is no longer in my sight, but she will always be in my heart.
Dad

Mike Christofaro

October 18, 2005

Please extend my sincerest sympathy to Dana's family on their loss.

Lynn Winters

October 17, 2005

You were by my side....you still are. I was so fortunate to have worked and played with you. All of the concerts, walks and craft fair outtings and our special moments with the black swans at Lake Artemesia. I miss your laugh. I miss my teammate. "I'm a world away from you tonight but I feel you all around me." (Lucy Kaplansky)

Burt Williams

October 17, 2005

Our condolances to your family from Macedonia United Methodist Church, Dana's parents Bud and Anne are members here. We want you to know that your family is being prayed for by our church family. May God grant you comfort and peace.

Rev. Burt Williams

Ann Harris Davidson

October 17, 2005

Dana was at the registration desk for every Berwyn Heights' Day 8:00 a.m. 5km Fun Run, rain or shine on the first Saturday in May, from the year it was first run until this year, when we all missed her. Our family is sad to have lost her as a town resident and our immediate neighbor across Pontiac Street.

Brian Gallagher

October 17, 2005

Growing up with Matt as a friend meant the opportunity to get to know and become friends with Dana as well.

Dana's smile and friendly, pleasant manner was always welcome. She was fun to be around and I truly enjoyed her presence in the "Chillum circle" we all grew up in (or tried to at least) !

October 15, 2005

Idalee DiGregorio

October 14, 2005

I am truely heartbroken. I have know and loved Dana for twenty some odd years. I was stupid in the last set of years in not staying in better contact. It did not mean I didn't love her only that I let my life run away and so I missed too much of hers. I was very lucky to have her as part of many of my major life events and I will miss her at the ones yet to come. There is a very big whole in my heart. I wish I could do more than send food to Ed and James but that is what I do best. I will never forget her or the friendship we shared.

Candace Marsden

October 13, 2005

Maeve O'Donovan

October 13, 2005

I had the great blessing of teaching Dana at College of Notre Dame. Her intellect was superb, but more importantly her heart was infinite. Most of our conversations about non-class material were about her concern that her illness was taking a toll on her family (not on her!) And when my father's wife came down with breast cancer last year Dana sat down and told me everything she knew, from treatment options to favorite wig shops. What an incredible woman.

Mary Susan & Jay Forsythe

October 12, 2005

Jay and I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Marsden and Halverson families. It is so sad to know we will not see Dana’s smile (or smirk) at future Marsden gatherings; we won’t share a bottle of wine or laugh about “heaving bosoms” and “quivering whatevers” from the “historical” romances I read. But, even though we lost a friend, it is most sad knowing that James lost his beautiful mother and Ed his wonderful wife; that Matt, Susan, Candy, Tom and Andrea lost their dear sister and sister-in-law and that all of their children lost an awesome Aunt. For all of this Jay and I are truly sorry and will remain so for a long time. Dana, we will forever miss you.

Karen Reznek

October 11, 2005

I was saddened to learn that Dana is gone. Though we haven't talked often since our carpool days, I enjoyed the times we did connect. I always knew I could count on her. Dana was a person of great warmth, intelligence, and wit. She will be missed.

Steven Tager

October 10, 2005

I'm so sorry to hear of Dana's passing. I had the opportunity of working with her 15 years ago at Penguin books. Dana was the paperback sales representative, and I was the hardcover sales rep. She was terrific to work with. Smart, fun, enthusiastic - a truly wonderful book person. We would call each other once or twice a season, to recap the accounts, what was happening in the industry, and, over time, we got to know more about each other on a personal level. She is an amazing person, who touched so many people. I was honored to have worked with such a terrific person. My prayers and thoughts go out to her family. I'm thinking of you now, Dana.

Elaine Dan

October 10, 2005

My Friend and Neighbor,

My another mother to commiserate with,

My Comic and Truth Sayer,

you with such a wonderful whit,

my neighborhood alliance against all that was proper and silly,

and most of all ... the beautiful woman with such an awsome soul;

Where have you gone? Who will I turn to to make things right? When will I see you again? What will the world be like not to share it with you? Can I come visit you soon?

Thank you for spending your last few weeks

with me. I will promise to "listen More", if you will tell me who is your favorite poet!

I also promise to look out for your "boys" for ya and keep them out of harms way.

I'm so sorry Dana, it just isn't fair. We had so much more to do.....

Ernest Ragogini

October 10, 2005

During my 40-some years of teaching at the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, I number only several truly outstanding students: Dana was one of them. Many students in my classes know her name well. I hold her as an example of a tireless researcher, incredibly fine writer and a warm human being. For as long as I continue to teach, Dana lives in the standard I expect others to reach for, and just might attain. But it's very high indeed. I will miss her. .

Larry Fox

October 10, 2005

The world will be a less interesting place with Dana gone.

Bill and Dee Hess

October 8, 2005

She will be missed by all who knew her.

rosie dipasquale -grubbs

October 6, 2005

I could not believe when I heard that Dana had passed away.I had such a sad feeling in my heart.I have great memories of Dana at St.John's she was one of my best friends and I will never forget her laugh.All the times we spent the night at each others house and staying up late and talking alot about boys. Dana was so much fun and it saddens me to know I will never see her smile agian,but then agian I will see it in my mind and in the old pictures I have of her. SHE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!!Love you Dana,Rosie

Marci Ghilarducci

October 6, 2005

I go on with my life and then in small blows to the heart it hits me, that Aunt Dana has passed (I dare not say gone)and I can't really believe it. She was a wonderful Aunt and with Ed's help raised a beautiful son, James. Sara and I always loved our time with her; being brides maids in her and Ed's wedding and the time they took us to the Madness concert(totally cool). She was our Aunt, but she also felt like just one of the girls.

Candy Marsden

October 6, 2005

I still get up every morning and curl up on the couch with my coffee and telephone - like I did when you were here - as if waiting for your call. Plenty to talk about every day - mostly about our kids - their educations, funny things they said or did. You were a generous, caring aunt to all the kids in our family. You were the one I called when I needed a good recipe, a good laugh or a good cry. I will fill the void left by your passing with people, memories and things that keep you close to me. I loved being your sister.

susan mullen

October 5, 2005

she was not defeated by cancer, but made a shining star for us to remember. her courage and love will shine forever. her strength is my inspiration. i will miss dana. love, cousin susan..........

Amie Wanveer

October 4, 2005

Dana was a special woman. I had the pleasure of meeting her at my mothers 40th birthday. I quickly discovered that Dana was my mother’s most cherished friend. Dana and my mother showed me how to be a real friend. Dana knew how to listen and love with her friendship. She will be greatly missed and always in our hearts.

Tom Ruggieri

October 4, 2005

I was so sad to receive the e-mail with Dana's beautiful picture on it, only to hear the bad news of her passing. I have fond memories of having spent my first 8 years of grade school with Dana, and would occassionaly run into her every so often since then. I, like may guys in her grade, had a huge crush on Dana. She was very sweet. She will be missed.

Mary Anne (Ganassa) Gardella

October 4, 2005

I'm very sorry to hear this news. Dana was a close friend of mine in high school. I have many vivid memories of her. She will be missed.

Mary Childress

October 3, 2005

Dana was my friend for almost 30 years. I have many fond memories of her. While I am so sad that I won't get to have her in my life for the next 30 years, I feel fortunate to have known her and call her my friend. She provided a shoulder when I needed it, a safe place to drop on by, a shared interest of good music, food and drink and she was always the best storyteller in the room.

Rachel WanVeer

October 2, 2005

I met Dana through my mom and spent some summers with her amazing family. I never saw Dana without a smile on her face and always loving life. She truly was an inspiring and loving person who will be missed greatly. I feel honored to have met her.

Dana Grace Mary Marsden Halverson

Andrea Marsden

October 2, 2005

Dana was incredibly talented and intelligent and I loved her. Sweet? Ok? I guess maybe, sometimes. Unique and insistent on her own terms (with which most of the time I was in agreement)... yes! I can't imagine who I'll check in with with, now, about literature and ethics and absurdism. She was my touch stone and I was so honored to be something like that to her.

Lauren Wanveer

October 1, 2005

She was a very special person with a great sense of empathy. I'm glad she was such a close friend to my mother.

Adela Commiskey Taylor

October 1, 2005

Dana was such a beautiful, peaceful person. Always had a smile, as if holding onto a secret. I knew her in high school, but was reacquainted 20years later, after diagnoses of breast cancer. She was still smiling, still beautiful. I can't believe she is gone. Her star is shining on us now.

Marcy WanVeer (Wiedel)

October 1, 2005

I first met Dana in High School in 1970. She remained the same sweet person her whole life. Dana was a true friend. She had so many qualities, more than could be listed. She had an incredible moral sense even as a young teenager and she taught me a lot through example. I will always treasure her and miss greatly.

Jeanie (McGuire) Fonden

September 30, 2005

I don't know what to say, I am heartbroken. I can't believe that one of my oldest friends isn't here anymore. Dana was the sweetest person I ever knew and I will always remember that laugh of hers..............

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