Lois Marie Kniza of San Juan Capistrano, California, passed away early Tuesday morning, July 13, 2021. She was born May 14, 1935 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Mathew George Mitchell and Louise Marie Mitchell and was the younger sister of two brothers, Chester and George. She is survived by her nieces, nephew and their families.

She came from humble beginnings and embodied the Midwestern values of neighborliness, friendliness, honesty, and thrift. She was our second mother, our wise aunt, who we could turn to for solid practical advice served up with one of her famous cookies.

As a gregarious woman, Lois had nearly countless friends. Her and her husband, Carl Kniza, took part in clubs centered around their hobbies. They spent their 61 years together attending events for their Early Ford V8 Club of America, Thunderbird Orange Circle of Orange County California Club, and the San Juan Capistrano Garden Club. They took part in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade and many other parades along with their car club friends. While Carl loved antique Fords, Lois collected dolls and was an honorary member of the local doll club.

Lois had a passion for baking. Each holiday she delighted her family and friends with endless treats. Christmas will never be the same without her special German marzipan bars, cinnamon stars, homemade fudge, chocolate chip cookies and lemon bars. At Easter we feasted on her amazing meals topped off with a molded lamb cake surrounded by green colored coconut mimicking grass and colorful jelly beans. She made our holidays grand and warmed our hearts with all the love she poured into her treats.

Lois and Carl were compassionate givers of their time and resources to many charities. She had a special spot in her heart for the elderly and would make weekly visits to see friends that lived alone to keep them company. She faithfully attended church each week. Her two favorites were South Coast Christian Church in San Juan Capistrano and Palisades United Methodist Church located in Capistrano Beach.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone she interacted with. Rest in peace, dear Lois, you will be sorely missed.