Marlana Elsner

Marlana Elsner, 64, died at the home of her daughter and family in Sanbornton on Monday, April 13, 2009, after a lengthy and courageous struggle with multiple sclerosis. She was born November 2, 1944 in Weymouth, MA, to Carlton and Louise Elsner, and grew up in Gilford, New Hampshire with her sisters, Gretchen and Pamela. She graduated from Gilford High School, then earned a college degree in nursing. She married Donald Gagner at her father's farm in Plymouth, New Hampshire. In 1972, they moved to Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, where she established a family and raised her two daughters, who were the loves of her life. She worked as a registered nurse, spent many days hiking and cross-county skiing with her family, was an avid gardener, and became a good friend to many. She also opened a thrift store, "Serendipity," with her friend, Gayanne Shulman, and a restaurant, "Weathervane North," with her husband. She lived with her family in Scotland and on the island of St. Croix. She retired from nursing in 1986, due to physical handicaps, three years after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; she then began her physical and spiritual search for healing. She was initiated into the path of Sant Mat, which became her guiding force, and brought her the strength and peace to accept her disease. As her disease progressed, Marlana began living in assisted living facilities or nursing homes. In 2000 she moved to Pyareo Home in Sanbornton, NH. She spent her last nine years in Sanbornton, close to family, friends, and Sant Bani Ashram. She inspired countless people with how graciously she dealt with such a debilitating disease. Her sweet nature drew many people to her wanting to help. The difficulties of her life were greatly lessened by the company of her family, the friendship of many, especially Charles Thibodeau, and the teachings of Sant Mat. Her last wish was to pass away quickly, alone with her family. This last wish came true. Survivors include her daughters, Dael Gagner and Andrea Burns; her grandchildren Daisy and Kadin Burns; her sisters Gretchen and Pamela Elsner; her nieces, and loving relatives, Betty, Robert, Peter and Wendy Elsner, and her dear friends Mary Ellen Wagner and Charles Thibodeau. In lieu of flowers, a remembrance of her life may be honored by donations to Sant Bani Ashram, 30 Ashram Road, Sanbornton, NH 03269, or Pyareo Home, 333 Brook Road, Sanbornton. A memorial service will be held at Sant Bani Ashram on Sunday, May 10th, at 3pm. Following the service there will be a reception at the Burns' home, 106 Osgood Road, Sanbornton.