A ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLIC MEDIA LOVE STORY: Deanna & Joe La Camera

Deanna and Joe met at the University of Colorado in 1965. Joe remained friends with Deanna and her husband, Don, while he pursued his career at Kent State University in 1967. After witnessing the terrible violence at Kent State in 1970, Joe returned to Colorado to complete his doctorate. During this time, Deanna and Don were preparing for the arrival of their first child, while Don was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. In 1971, six months after the birth of their son, Don passed away. Deanna and Joe supported each other during this sad time, and they fell in love. In 1972, they were married, a marriage that would span 46 years.

Throughout their joyful marriage, Deanna and Joe were dedicated to youth and education, among other pursuits. Deanna was a first-grade teacher and completed an advanced degree as a reading specialist while raising her son. In the 90s, Joe and Deanna worked at The American School Foundation in Mexico, and later they served as educators for two years in Kathmandu, Nepal.

They spent their life in service to education, students and most importantly, their family, while active in hiking and daily walks. Deanna was diagnosed with cancer and unfortunately passed away in January 2019.

Together, Deanna and Joe enjoyed PBS programs such as NOVA, Nature and Colorado Experience. Deanna made Rocky Mountain PBS a beneficiary in her will. It brings Joe great comfort that her legacy and passion for philanthropy will live on at Rocky Mountain PBS!