Photo: Jane Thomsen with her husband, Mark ‘Yonderman’ Stirling
It is with great sadness that we share with you the recent sudden passing of long-time Kiwiburner, Jane Thomsen.
The wife of Kiwiburn founder, Mark ‘Yonderman’ Stirling, Jane was known to many in our community. A member of Kiwiburn Theme Camp, Cape Carnival, she may have greeted you at their annual Friday afternoon ‘Wine and Cheese’ event on the Paddock while her campmates entertained you with cheesy tunes.
Jane and Mark discovered Burning Man by chance back in 1994 while on a camping trip in the Black Rock Desert. Mark became the first Regional Contact for New Zealand, holding the inaugural event in 2004 with Jane’s guidance and support. Her contribution to Kiwiburn since the beginning cannot be underestimated.
Based in Wellington for a long time, the family made a move south to Dunedin a few years ago where Jane has thrived with her work and in the community.
An extraordinarily kind, smart and loyal person with a wicked sense of humour, Jane was a wonderful mother to their two sons, and to her furbabies.
Our thoughts are with Mark, Lewis and Toby and Jane’s friends and family at this very sad time. Loved and respected by all who met her, she will be greatly missed.
Burn bright.
