Maria Moreno Ferrin

Maria Moreno Ferrin passed away on October 6, 2024, in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Born on December 14, 1944, to Charlotte Cassell and Francisco Moreno, Maria's life was a dance of love, creativity, and dedication that touched everyone who knew her.

Maria's early life in San Antonio laid the foundation for her artistic journey. She graduated from Highland High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Portland State University. Her love for the arts was evident from a young age, having performed in children’s theatre with parts in Lady in the Dark, South Pacific, and The Music Man. Maria's talent led her to perform with Ballet Folklorico in Mexico City, where she lived for two years, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of ballet, flamenco, and Mexican folk dance.

Upon returning to San Antonio, Maria graced the stages of the San Antonio Ballet, the San Antonio Symphony, and the San Antonio Opera Association. Her performances were a highlight of the HemisFair '68 World's Fair, where she showcased the vibrant traditions of Mexican folklorico with her dance team.

Maria's life was not solely defined by her dance; she also shared her knowledge as a high school mathematics teacher in Portland, Oregon. Her diverse career included working in costume shops, antique stores, and teaching at dance studios. Her creative spirit shone in drama as well, both in acting and costuming. Maria's leadership of a flamenco dance group in Portland brought a piece of her heritage to the Pacific Northwest.

Her dedication to the arts continued as she taught and choreographed for numerous dance studios and companies in the Portland area. In 2008, Maria became the owner and artistic director of the Northwest Conservatory of Dance in Hillsboro, Oregon. There, she nurtured the talents of countless students, taught dance, and created costumes and choreography. Her annual production of the Nutcracker was a source of immense pride and joy.

Maria's zest for life extended beyond the dance studio. She was an avid reader, a world traveler, and a lover of live dance and musicals. After retiring from the Northwest Conservatory of Dance in 2019, Maria and her husband, Mark Ferrin, purchased a condominium in Spain, which they used as a base in their European travels.

Maria's legacy is cherished by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlotte Cassell and Francisco Moreno. She is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Ferrin; her beloved son, Thomas B. Wilson, daughter-in-law, Sarah; and grandson, Elliott. Maria's life was a testament to love and passion, qualities that she embodied fully and shared generously.

Those who knew Maria will remember her big heart, her unwavering passion for dance, and the love she held for her husband and son. Maria Moreno Ferrin's life was a dance well-performed, a story well-told, and a love well-shared. Her memory will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who were fortunate enough to have been a part of her audience, both on and off the stage.

Maria's Celebration of Life in San Antonio will be December 8, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Paloma Blanca, 5800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209. There will be another Celebration of Life for Maria in Oregon on March 9, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Murrayhill Hometown Center, 11010 SW Teal Blvd., Beaverton, OR 97007. The Ferrin Family is kindly requesting that unless you've already reached out to Mark, please RSVP via Facebook message or text to Maria's cell phone, (503) 544-5401. Please note which memorial service you will be attending when sending your RSVP.