Laura Carlson-Weiner, a beloved member of the Culver City community, passed away last Monday, January 26, 2026 at the age of 63. She was born in Nuremberg Germany on November 16, 1962, while her father was stationed at the army base in Ansbach.
Laura grew up in Ames, Iowa, and her spirit remained grounded in Midwestern goodness all of her days. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies. Venturing to California in 1985, Laura took a job at an advertising agency until she got a chance to work at the Music Center for the Joffrey Ballet. A devotee of dance and avid concert-goer, with a passion for photography, she recorded these events in video and photos (often exhausting her phone’s battery and storage). Scrapbooking was her way to immortalize her memories of family and friends.
When the ballet closed their office, she took on a position at Cal State Los Angeles, working as a Development Director in the College of Engineering, which led to a position as Director of Advancement Services. Working in fundraising there, she helped grow and expand programs for 31 years before retiring in 2024. She provided data that empowered development directors across the University.
In addition to dance, Laura was a huge sports fan, supporting the LA Dodgers, Clippers, Chargers, and Kings, and the football and basketball teams at both the University of Iowa and Iowa State. She adored Caitlin Clark, who has revolutionized women’s basketball.
Laura was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Santa Monica for decades, where her warm smile and effervescent personality are remembered. A generation of young people benefited from her participation in the Religious Exploration program there.
Laura fought cancer valiantly for 6 months, and passed away Monday, January 26 at home among friends and family. So many friends from Culver City, LA, and across the country visited and cared for her in her final weeks. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Larry, and beloved son Jacob, by her mother and father, Dick and Maribeth Carlson, her sister Stephanie Dross, and nieces Alexis and Brooke, who also also mourn her.
Those wishing to make a contribution in her name may give to the City of Hope. A celebration of life is being planned at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Monica in the near future.
Photo – Laura at Camp DeBenneville Pines
