Capitola

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Jane Ball Niswonger, a beloved resident of Capitola, California. Born on June 19, 1948, Jane passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Above all else, Jane was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who dedicated her life to her family and those around her. Her legacy of love, hard work, and commitment will be cherished by all who knew her.

Jane was born and raised in Menlo Park, California. She attended Menlo Atherton High School, where she first showed the work ethic and determination that would define her life. In 1966, Jane married the love of her life, Richard Niswonger, beginning a partnership that would span nearly six decades. Shortly after their marriage, Jane and Richard embarked on adventures together, traveling to New Zealand, Morocco, Tahiti, and Mexico before settling in Santa Cruz County in the early 1970s.

They raised their four children—Athena, Matt, Rich, and Ivan—near the beach until 1978, when they moved to the Felton area to be closer to the beautiful redwoods. Jane found immense joy in the natural beauty of the area, and the move marked a new chapter for her and her growing family. She was a loving mother who worked tirelessly to ensure her children had the best possible future, both academically and in life.

Jane’s greatest joy came from being a grandmother to her six grandchildren. She could often be found cheering from the sidelines at soccer games, water polo matches, and little league games at Carmel High, Soquel High, and Aptos High, always the proud and supportive grandmother. Her grandchildren adored her, and she took great pride in their accomplishments, watching them grow into the next generation of her beloved family.

A celebration of Jane’s life will be held soon, where family and friends will gather to share stories, memories, and the love she brought into their lives. As she requested before her passing, Jane's ashes will be scattered in the Monterey Bay to honor a tradition established her parents Doug and Martha Ball.

Jane Ball Niswonger’s presence in the world made it a better place, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She was a woman of strength, wisdom, and kindness, and her legacy will continue through the family she so deeply cherished.