Memorial Gathering
Daniel Bittleston
July 17,1938 -February 2, 2024
4PM – 6PM

Paloma Hall

Daniel John Bittleston passed away in the early morning of February 2nd at the age of 85.  Many know that he had a series of cardiac problems since the Fall but had remained active until the very end. Daniel was a beloved member of the branch, serving for many years as a member of our core group.  He also served for some years as a class holder of the First Class.  Before locating in Santa Cruz, he was a Waldorf teacher for many years, both in his native UK and here in America. His home on Moore Street in Santa Cruz was, for many years, a veritable salon of artists and anthroposophists as well as tenant students. He was an amazing storyteller, who taught workshops on storytelling and on understanding Shakespeare. Daniel could bring people to tears and to laughter across the span of just a few minutes. He created and edited the Imagination Troubadour publication, and loved to encourage creativity and imagination in others. His craftsmanship in installing and refinishing hardwood floors is reflected all around the area in the homes of many of us and locations such as Paloma Hall. Daniel was father to 6 children, from 3 marriages: Mathew, Misha, and Mia with Su, Evamarie and Leonora with Reirin, and Elijah with Deborah. He also had two stepchildren, Megan and Brian, and 4 grandchildren: Leunamme, Cypress, Julien, and Zaiya. He was so proud of all his children and loved to discuss their accomplishments.   Two very dear elements of anthroposophy were the Foundation Stone meditation, which was never far from his heart, and his beloved Oberufer Play, which he participated in from his earliest childhood through a dozen years here in Santa Cruz as actor, producer, and director. His many warm social connections run through the branch like a finely woven thread. His body is being watched over in vigil by many friends until this Monday. Friends and family can share a song, poem or short story. We hope to honor his love of people sharing their creativity in community with others. Please note that in consideration of the 6PM branch event (see below), we will begin to clear the hall at 5:50PM.