Nena Quiros

A Life Well Lived.
(A Life Lived Without Boredom?)

Born the middle child of 3, to Mario and Lavonia Quiros, Nena’s formative years were spent on the beaches of West Malibu, where she frequently took long cold ocean swims, to quench her incredible energy. Music, art and exercise would remain central to her active lifestyle.

In 1974, she arrived in Santa Barbara…and never left. She studied music and graduated from UCSB in 1976, and taught piano for decades. Her career as a graphic artist spanned 36 years, the last 19 with Central California Health, where she made many lasting friendships. Her free time was never idle, as Nena engaged herself in swimming, bicycling, hot yoga, and raising Pugs, which she showed with good success.

On a whim, her husband Chris Carson, bought an old inoperable accordion. After thoroughly cleaning the instrument, Chris presented it to Nena, and another passion took hold. She soon joined the local Santa Barbara Accordian Club, and over the course of more than 20 years participated in the Solstice Parade with the Club, and many other music festivals. Nena became interested in professional clowning, and with her trusty accordion, developed her persona as “Squeezy the Clown”, and was often seen busking at the local farmers’ market. She said “It’s my privilege to make people laugh.”

Undaunted by anything new to her, Nena in recent years became active with Toast Masters, and truly enjoyed giving speeches on everything from clowning, to a clear eyed prospect of death.

She is survived by her mother Lavonia, brother Mario, sister Marta, nephew Matt, nieces Nora, Xia, Zarina and Ariel, her loyal and caring companion Rob Lane, and her pug Picasso.

Many thanks to her wonderful neighbors Karen, Ellwood and Kathyrn, and Nena’s numerous friends for their frequent visits. Special thanks to Lotte, RN, of Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care for her support.

A gathering will be held to celebrate Nena’s energy on July 28, 2018 adjacent to her home in Santa Barbara.