It is with awe and reverence that we observe the passing of Ronna McEldowney.

The School of the Salish Sea was blessed with the final teaching year of this deeply committed Waldorf teacher. She came to us with a life-long generosity of spirit and focus on the children. In her last year of life, she continued to share this with the children and families in the Waldorf Community here on Orcas. She exuded love, joy, delight and “impishness” even in this, her challenging year of transitioning.

I am so grateful for the gift of her teaching which she gave to my grandchildren and the others of our island. It is with great sadness that we lose Ronna.

She has also given us the gift of a conscious passing, faced with courage, strength of belief and tremendous love as she passed gently, surrounded by loved ones from around the country. As she shared her life, so she shared her moving on with consciousness, love and caring for others.

In honoring of her life, music, movement and memories were shared by a multi-generational gathering on Orcas. A Hawaiian hula was danced, telling of the waters of life and the passing on of the soul. Violins, marimbas, percussion instruments – played by the children and some adults, gave voice to the presence and joy filled participation in life which Ronna shared.

She will be long remembered by the many she has impacted all over the country.

Memorials will be held for her in Hawaii and Colorado as well.

With respect and appreciation.

Rivkah Sweedler

Orcas Island