SERNA, Vandena (Van)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 11-10-2013 Vandena Noble Serna died Oct. 16, 2013. Van, as she was affectionately known, was born Aug. 26, 1956, to James Nobles and Evelynn Hahnell. Her siblings were James Nobles Jr., Lynn Wojahn and Jacqueline Ramos. She is survived by her husband, Jesse Leroy Serna; six children: Steve Lantz, Billy Lantz, Rick Davis, Marci Lantz, Cody Candelaria, Angel Candelaria; two stepchildren: Jesse Serna, Pat Serna; and 21 grandchildren. Van was preceded in death by her father, Jim Nobles; stepmother Zoe Nobles; stepfather Terry Kahnell; niece Dana Zoe Wojahn and her son, Billy Lantz. Van was the type of person who would help anyone; strangers and friends alike. Her caring nature was known by many. She was a proud mother and accepted all of her children’s friends as her own. Van was fiercely loyal and was never one to shy away from speaking her mind. She had many interests, but spending time with her family and friends was when she was the happiest. A memorial service for Van was held at the family home Oct. 20, and was attended by a large and diverse group of people that could be brought together only by the loving spirit of a woman who accepted each one, so long as they didn’t cross her family and weren’t offended by her colorful vocabulary. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Holbrook handled arrangements. Those who have special memories and would like to send private condolences or sign an online guest book are invited to visit www.owenslivingstonmortuary.com.