Rocky River – Daina Lesheim, age 88, passed away on January 19, 2024, in Rocky River, Ohio. She was born on September 10, 1935, in Riga, Latvia

Daina was a force of nature. She lived life to the fullest and was very loved by her family, many friends, and the community she inspired. She had a passion for gardening, interior design, and hosting extraordinary dinner parties. Daina was also an avid tennis player, walker, reader, fashionista, ballroom dancer, and a dedicated volunteer who spoke five languages.

She is survived by her daughter Lolita Lesheim Panschar and husband Matthew Panschar, her son Brent, her son Ingar and wife Jennifer Lesheim (nee Purdy), her grand children, Tristan, Konrad, and Gabriel. Daina was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years Hans Joachim Lesheim, her father Karlis Rudzitis, her mother Zenija Rudzitis, and her brother Mintaus Rudzitis.

Daina graduated from Case Western Reserve University in 1957 with a BA in History. She also graduated from Virginia Marti College of Art and Design and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.

In her career, Daina co-founded Cleveland Draperies and Upholstery with her Hans. She also volunteered with The Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival, Cleveland Playhouse, and Beach Cliff Club Garden Club.

Daina worshipped at the United Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cleveland.

A Celebration of Life will be held in late spring when the flowers are blooming.

Daina Lesheim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her vibrant spirit, zest for life, and numerous accomplishments will forever be cherished.