Meghan (MyoHo) Bleu Radford

Meghan Bleu Radford of Santa Cruz, CA, was born on October 19, 1974, and died on November 1, 2023. The beloved daughter of Nadine Nemec and Ken Radford, she is survived by her mother, father, brother Jacob, stepfather Peter, and stepmother Betty. She had a fulfilling life practicing Buddhism where she was also known by the name MyoHo YuShin. Meghan had a natural talent for cooking. Her career began at the Bittersweet Cafe in Santa Cruz and remained a constant while working in kitchens throughout her life. There was Ponte Vedra Resort in Jacksonville, Florida, many in New Orleans, the Austin Zen Center in Texas, Green Gulch Farm Zen Center in Muir Beach, Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in Carmel Valley, and finally the Insight Retreat Center in Santa Cruz. Her culinary work also led her to gardening and at Green Gulch she learned the techniques she employed during her residencies at Tassajara and the Insight Center. She had quirky tastes as evidenced by her interest in documentaries and independent films, but she also loved Star Wars. She'd cook beautiful meals for others and then savor McDonalds nuggets. She was a crochet-ing, kombucha-making, Netflix-surfing contrarian. Known for her humor and love of fun, she brought light to people’s lives and gave them joy. She loved to dress up and was often laughing and smiling. However, she was also tireless in advicating for social justice. She supported addiction recovery, using her experience and strength as a recovering addict. She fought racial injustice, being mixed-race herself (Chamorro/Czech), and strove to ease the plight of the homeless. Meghan's character was that of pure love; her heart was always open to others. The whole universe benefited from her natural radiance. Her compassion was a light to observe. In accordance with Meghan's wishes, she was cremated and no funeral held. Meghan will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her memory will forever be cherished.