Obituary
Lysanne Sebastian
July 28, 1973 – October 29, 2023
Lysanne Marie Sebastian, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and dedicated teacher, passed away in the early morning hours of October 29, 2023, at home in Costa Mesa, Calif. She was 50 years old. Lysanne was born on July 28, 1973, at Hoag Hospital, the daughter of Janet and James “Walkie” Ray. She is survived by her loving husband, Rick, and their two children, Bradley and Sage. Lysanne is also survived by her parents, sister, Sarah, and her brothers, Matthew, David and Alex.
She graduated from Corona del Mar High School in 1991 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Science from the University of San Diego. She began her career at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point as an educational programs instructor. Her newfound passion for education led her to Pepperdine University, where she received her teaching credential. Lysanne’s teaching career took her to several schools in Orange County, including Orange Magnet School, Davis School, Rae School and Kaiser School, where she served as the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math teacher. With boundless energy and enthusiasm, she made science an engaging and fun subject for countless students.
Click on photo for a larger image
Click on photo for a larger image
Photos by Alice Partridge
A paddle out in Lysanne’s honor took place outside the jetty in front of Big Corona Beach on November 19. Outriggers, paddlers and others on the water spread her ashes near the jetty during a circle up and brief ceremony.
Lysanne was not only a dedicated teacher but also an exceptional athlete. She was a natural swimmer, and her love for the water was evident from an early age. She swam competitively and was accepted to the Junior Olympic Swim team. In her senior year of high school, she discovered her passion for rowing and continued her journey at the University of San Diego, where she earned a spot on the varsity team in her freshman year. Lysanne’s dedication and commitment allowed her to row all four years in college. After graduation, she explored various sports activities such as running, mountain biking and cross-fit, but her heart truly belonged to the ocean. This love led her to Hawaiian outrigger canoe racing, where she found her “ohana” and her home. It was in this sport that she met her loving husband, Rick, and forged friendships with teammates that have endured for more than 20 years.
In addition to her career and athletic pursuits, Lysanne was deeply involved in various organizations and clubs that reflected her love for science and the ocean. She was passionate about conservation efforts and had a genuine love for marine life. Her dedication to these causes was an inspiration to all who knew her.
A memorial service to celebrate Lysanne’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 1801 Bayside Drive, Corona del Mar, Calif. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Imua Outrigger Canoe Club, which was close to Lysanne’s heart (P.O. Box 102, 2458 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, Calif. 92627).