In Memory of

Nola

Benita

Renz

Obituary for Nola Benita Renz

It is with profound sadness that the family of Nola Renz, age 67, announce her unexpected passing on March 2, 2022.

Nola was born in Limon, CO to Benjamin and Juanita Adfield. Her childhood involved frequent moves between Idaho, Montana and Colorado. She married shortly after high school and lovingly raised three children in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. She treasured nature and art, while determining her career interests and educational goals in order to make her impression on the world.

Nola began to pursue her passion for social community programs in Colorado, where she started work in non-profit services for youth. As a single mother she eventually found new beginnings and opportunity in the Puget Sound area after relocating to Washington. She continued to nurture her family and career progression while completing her Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Human Services before continuing with a Masters degree in Non-Profit Management from Regis University in Denver, CO. She eagerly engaged opportunities in social service work for women’s health services, homeless family advocacy and assistance, and most recently provided services to assist persons with disabilities, which she truly cherished.

Nola found wonder in traveling and embracing new experiences after her first ever international trip to Mexico. That adventure led to subsequent journeys touring portions of Europe, the United Kingdom and much of the United States, where she revered the majesty of Denali and the pleasant random surprises to be discovered throughout North America. She always prioritized time with her family and friends, both near and far. Nola found a special centeredness near home though, wandering and exploring the wonders of Mt Rainier National Park and the shores of the Pacific Northwest with frequency.

To say Nola was impactful would be an understatement. She was a presence to behold and projected her passions with genuine enthusiasm. This is evident throughout her career and relationships, both personal and professional. Her love and support was undeniably the most tremendous contribution to the success of her three children, Allan, Amber and Cory. She loved her family beyond measure. Her welcome spanned far and wide to extended family and dear friends. Nola’s approach to life was filled with hope and love. Her gifts to all she encountered will continue to endure and enrich.

Nola was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, Frank and Hazel Malloy, and most recently, her sister, Donnis Martin. She is survived by her three children, Allan Carlson, Amber Hamilton, and Cory Carlson, her dear granddaughter and grandson, Ahnna and Curtis, and her adored great grandchild, Corbyn. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations directed in her name to Tacoma Area Coalition of Individuals with Disabilities (TACID).

A memorial service is planned in the Pagoda Gardens at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma on April 10th at 1:30 pm; doors open at 1 pm. Please join us in celebrating Nola’s life and legacy of service. Reception to follow.