Taleena Ann Erikson, 36, passed away on September 12, in Memphis, Tenn., after a short illness. Taleena was born on May 30, 1970 in Fallbrook, Calif., to Steve Erikson and Patricia Head Erikson. She lived in and attended school in Kansas and Colorado, and lived in Norwood until her mother's death 23 years ago. After high school, she lived and worked in the Kansas City area. In 1995, she married Darrin Boss; they later divorced.

Taleena's love of animals was evidenced in both her avocations and her chosen work. She raised wolves, horses, and house pets. She was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and was working in Tennessee training polo ponies at the time of her death.

She was preceded in death by her mother, and two uncles, Stephen Head and Kevin Erikson. She is survived by her father and stepmother, Steve and Donna Erikson, of Spring Hill, Kansas; three sisters, Emily, Kara, and Lindy Erikson, Spring Hill; a brother, Brian McCurry, Fresno, Calif.; grandmothers, Betty Pflum, Paxico, Kans.; Louise Head, Topeka, Kans.; four uncles, Douglas Erikson (Isabel), Abilene, Tex.; John Head (Linda), Denver; David Head, Wichita, Kans.; Kevin Head (Kathy), Appleton, Wisc.; one aunt, Mary Head (Don Watkins), Lawrence, Kans.; and numerous cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Dec.16, 5-7 p.m., Douglas County Fairgrounds-Bldg 2, 2110 Harper, Lawrence, Kans. Memorial contributions may be made to TLC for Children & Families, 480 S. Rogers Rd., Olathe, KS 66062.