The wonderful Gwen Oaks passed away Wednesday, September 4th, at the age of 80.

Gwen was born on April 26, 1944 in Los Gatos, California, where she spent her childhood. She lived in the Southwest, Sierra Foothills, Ojai, and other places before landing in Ashland 16 years ago.

She worked as an outdoor education teacher and artist, and loved nature, animals, art, reading, cooking, travel, and gardening. She trained in Native American shamanic traditions and for many years led Native American vision quests.

Gwen was also a jewelry designer, professional chef, and gallery manager. She loved bright-colored textile crafts and her eyes were a striking teal blue-green, matching a favorite scarf she often wore.

She was happily married for 35 years to her husband Tom, who was her soulmate.

Gwen was a devoted member of the Bellevue Grange, in charge of the Community Garden. This was a big passion of hers, but not as big a passion as singing Daime hymns. She was also in another local choir, was involved in the Pachamama Alliance Community, and shared her home with two beloved cats.

At CHLQ she came to every ceremony she could and she was an integral part of the weekly ensaios. Her kind, curious, and adventurous spirit touched all who knew her.

She recently attended a Concentration at CHLQ, after which she shared with others that the Daime showed her that all fear was in her mind, and none of her fear was real. With this insight she felt free.

Gwen was found sitting comfortably on her sofa with an extraordinarily peaceful expression on her face.

We will miss Gwen’s huge smile and gracious heart.