Dana Day
With a heavy heart and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, daughter, and friend, Dana Day, who left us on March 25, 2025, in Santa Barbara, California, after a long and courageous battle with a serious illness. Born in Prague, Czech Republic, on June 18, 1964, Dana studied at university in her home country before moving to the United States, where she built a new life while never losing touch with her Czech roots. She remained deeply connected to her heritage, even as she fully embraced her new home. Dana was strong, intelligent, and beautiful. A lifelong athlete, she approached life with curiosity, discipline, and energy. Sport gave her a sense of purpose and structure, while her warm, social nature and thirst for discovery brought her close to people wherever she went. She loved exploring the world around her and maintained deep and meaningful friendships on both sides of the Atlantic. Dana’s kindness and generosity were felt by all who crossed her path.
Above all, Dana was a devoted mother. She supported her daughter, Kayla Day, unconditionally through every step of her academic and tennis journey—traveling the world by her side as a guide, friend, and source of constant love. Dana gracefully gave up her professional career to focus on Kayla’s dreams and education. Dana’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her, and her legacy will continue through her daughter, Kayla, and others who were inspired by her.
She lived her life surrounded by the love of her family and friends, and always carried a sense of humor, fairness, and resilience, even in the face of hardship. Dana cared deeply about the world and the people in it—her presence was powerful, and her heart was open. Her courage and determination were an inspiration to everyone.
She is survived by her daughter Kayla Day, her loving parents Eva and Zdeněk Zámečník, and a wide circle of friends across both the United States and the Czech Republic. A private memorial will be held in Santa Barbara. Dana’s strength, warmth, and spirit will live on in all of us who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.
