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Donna Aguilera Obituary
Passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2002, in Lake Forest, California. Predeceased by husband George, survived by sons Bruce and Craig; sister Dorothy, and three grandchildren. Donna lived life to its fullest and was a true scholar. She attended UCLA and USC, earning a Ph.D. in 1974. She was a licensed psychologist, practicing in the San Fernando Valley, a teaching assistant at UCLA and a professor at California State University, Los Angeles. Her book, ``Crisis Intervention: Theory and Methodology", now in its 9th edition, was published in 14 languages, Donna was a staff member at the Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center, lectured extensively around the country, and received many awards and honors during her lifetime, including a NIH appointment, an American Academy of Nursing Fellowship, and appointment by President Carter to the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services. She spent the last 9 years as a docent at the Huntington Library in San Marino. A Memorial Service celebrating Donna's life will be held at the Bel-Air Country Club. Donations may be sent to the Huntington Library, in San Marino.
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Memories and Condolences
for Donna Aguilera
3 Entries
GENA ARZAGA
May 16, 2002
I saw a TV program the other day where a daughter loses her mother to cancer. There's a touching scene where the mother makes final requests. Among them is to be buried with a fork in her hand. When the daughter asks her to explain, the mother reminisces being a small child at family get togethers. After the main dish was eaten and dishes were being cleared, her grandmother would say, "hold onto your fork, something better's coming". She held her fork anxiously waiting for her favorite desserts: pie, cake, puddings. So, she says to her daughter, when people ask why I was buried with a fork, you tell them it's because I know "something better is coming!!!"
I thought this was a nice metaphor for one passing on-they are infinitely more happy and healthy and experiencing something better than we could ever imagine!
Sheila Gill
May 14, 2002
I did not get a chance to get to know you, Donna. But I know your son, Craig (as my colleague). I must say, as a mother, you did a marvelous job of raising a wonderful son. You have proved that one can be equally successful in professional as well as personal life. You will be an inspiration to all working women. May your soul rest in peace.
Sheila Gill
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