Marsha Wenig Obituary, Death – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marsha Wenig, a beloved wife, mother, and true pioneer in the field of children’s yoga. Marsha’s radiant spirit graced this world on May 26, 1954, in New York City, and after a remarkable journey of love, dedication, and innovation, she peacefully left us on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023, at the age of 69.
Born to Eric and Ruthie Loeb, Marsha spent her formative years in Ridgefield, New Jersey, surrounded by the warmth of friends and family. Her older sister, Gladys, was a constant source of companionship and guidance. After earning her degree from Rutgers University, Marsha set out for Los Angeles, where she melded her passion for music with a vibrant career as a tour manager for the esteemed vocal group, the Manhattan Transfer.
A committed educator, she also dedicated herself to teaching creative writing to children in South Central Los Angeles, touching lives with her unwavering dedication. Marsha’s extraordinary journey took a serendipitous turn when she encountered her soulmate, Don Wenig, during a yoga class he taught at White Lotus Yoga in Larchmont Village, California.
Their love story blossomed into a lifelong partnership, culminating in their joyful union in September 1988. The couple’s profound love and commitment were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Dakota, in 1989, followed by the birth of their son, Kiva, in 1991. Marsha’s multi-faceted background and profound passion converged to fuel her life’s purpose: making yoga accessible and enriching for children.
As a trailblazer and visionary, she founded YogaKids International, a groundbreaking organization that brought the transformative power of yoga, mindfulness, and holistic living to children around the world. For over three decades, Marsha inspired generations of children, educators, and yoga instructors through her innovative approach, leaving an indelible mark on the world of children’s wellness.
A co-founder of Dancing Feet Yoga, Marsha tirelessly created an inclusive haven where people of all ages could explore movement, express themselves, and foster a strong mind-body connection. In 2011, at the age of 57, Marsha faced the challenge of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Undeterred by adversity, she met this chapter with courage and grace, becoming a beacon of resilience and inspiration to those fortunate enough to know her. Marsha Wenig’s legacy is etched in the hearts of the countless lives she touched. Her dedication to children’s well-being, her pioneering spirit, and her unwavering devotion to her family will forever serve as a guiding light.
She leaves behind her beloved husband, Don; her cherished children, Dakota (Robert) and Kiva (Sara); her sister, Gladys; her adored grandson, Arlo; and an extended family, friends, and a global community of children’s yoga practitioners who were profoundly impacted by her work. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Marsha’s memory to Lorenzo’s House, an organization dedicated to supporting families navigating the challenges of younger-onset Alzheimer’s.
