Laura Wallsten-Cook

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Laura Wallsten-Cook at her home in Oakland on October 4, 2021. Present with her was her husband of 32 years David Cook, their daughters Katharine Cook and Selina VanCleave as well as Katharine’s husband Ian Ojeda-Vasquez and Selina’s partner Omar Borjon.

Laura was born in Seattle to Arthur James (“Jim”) Wallsten and Betty Wallsten (Stambaugh). Shortly thereafter the family, which included older sister Karen, moved to San Francisco where Jim was from. Over time Laura’s family grew to include brother Craig and sister Audry. Laura attended St. Vincent de Paul and

St. Rose Academy. After working for some time in banking, Laura joined the Peace Corps. She was sent to Ndu, in the Northwest Provence of Cameroon, to advise women’s palm oil cooperatives which were being organized at the village level. In Ndu, Laura met fellow Peace Corps volunteer and future husband David. After returning from Africa, Laura and David resided in San Francisco until moving to Oakland where they have lived for the past 28 years.

Laura had a successful career in the lease finance industry ultimately working many years as a supervisor. Laura continued giving to others in the same spirit that had led her to the Peace Corps. She taught English to refugee women, mentored immigrant youth, and supported foster children among other charitable endeavors. She was constantly connecting to others, and bringing people close to her through her warm, caring, and open personality.

Laura’s most important connection was to her daughters. They were her number one priority. Laura took great pride in their accomplishments, and in seeing them become such fine young women. Laura was grateful to have been present for two milestones in their lives, the birth of Selina’s daughter Valerie in August and Katharine’s wedding in September.

Laura’s absence has left an enormous hole in the lives of all who knew her. We are left with our memories of Laura which offer some solace to those of us who will miss her forever. Laura is survived by husband David, daughters Katharine (Ian) and Selina (Omar), granddaughter Valerie, brother Craig (Betty Testa), and sisters Karen and Audry (David Winston) as well as one aunt, three nephews, two nieces, and numerous cousins. Forever Our Love