Elizabeth Cartwright Gerritsen’s spirit passed on courageously from her human form on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 30, at home with her family. Elizabeth, more commonly known as Liz, was born in 1955 and was raised as a fifth-generation Marysville, Calif., native.

Moving to the coast as soon as she was able, Liz created her homes in Santa Cruz and Carmel, Calif., and Coupeville, Wash., over the course of her 61 years with us.

Her heart was soothed by peacefulness and play. When she wasn’t immersed in the duties of raising a family, defending causes, and running businesses, she could be found exercising her love of water over the course of her life via surfing, swimming, kayaking and walking on the beach daily with her faithful stream of canines.

With twinkling eyes, a contagious smile and irrepressible laughter, Liz could be found anywhere just by listening for giggles.

She related to the world with her sensitive heart, through unbridled humor and an earnest passion for all living creatures.

She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Hans Gerritsen, their daughter Marieke, son-in-law Daniel, granddaughter Juniper Byrd McGovern, and Tilly the “Terrierist”.

Memorial services will be held in Coupeville, Wash., in December; in Carmel, Calif., in January; and in Holland in February. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.