Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Betty Bonanno Obituary
Feb. 10, 1936-July10, 2013
Resident of San Jose
Betty L. Bonanno, longtime resident of San Jose, California passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 10th, 2013. She was 77 years old. Betty is survived by her loving husband Bert who she married 53 years ago on July 9th, 1960; her son Marty, daughter Gina and her two beautiful shelties Bella and Gail, retired show dogs from Georgia.
She was born on February 10th, 1936 to the late Harold W Smith and Virginia I. Beattie of Pleasant Hill, California. Her father was a well known cement contractor in the Contra Costa County area and her mother was an accountant.
As a young girl, Betty would accompany her parents' deer hunting in the area now covered by Lake Berryessa. Her Dad purchased a special deer hunting gun to fit the shoulder of a young girl. Camping and riding her favorite horse during the deer hunting season was a very special time for her.
Twice during her youth, she was chosen as the Queen of the Walnut Creek Parade. It was quite the sight to see a 10 year old riding a white horse with such elegance and grace. Growing up, Betty's hero was American aviator Emilia Earhart. She had no problem telling people that she was a spoiled child and her Dad gave her anything she wanted.
She graduated from Mount Diablo High School in Concord where she played piano in the concert band, was an outstanding athlete striving in basketball and badminton. She loved putting "the shuttle cock in the face of her opponents".
After graduating high school in 1953, Betty attended East Contra Costa Community College now known as Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California. She looked forward to being the first person in her family to graduate college. It was in a business class where she would meet her future husband. The first words she said to Bert were that he needed a haircut. Bert was taken aback by this tall, attractive blonde with green eyes wearing a white blouse, pink sweater and black slacks. The two have been inseparable since that day in October, 1955.
After graduating from San Jose State University in the fall of 1957, Betty applied for her first accounting position at Dole Pineapple Cooperation in San Jose, California. The HR Director informed her "We do not hire women in accounting, but we do have a bookkeeping position." Betty's response was "Thank you but no, thank you." She was later hired along with three of her male classmates, same education, and same background for FMC in San Jose, California to oversee a special project for the military. After three months on the job, Betty found out that the three male coworkers had a higher salary than she did. When she asked the HR Director of FMC why? The response was that they were married and needed more money. She was later hired by Contra Costa County in Martinez, California and became the first woman auditor in the history of that county, auditing all the local courts.
After her marriage in 1960, she and her husband purchased a small cabin in South Lake Tahoe. They then would spend many summers at the cabin with their children and poodle Keke.
Betty lived with her husband in Mexico City, Mexico between 1964 and 1967. Her values of having an open mind, intellectual curiosity and concerns for social justice issues formed her life. During that time in Mexico, she became a strong advocate for the rights and dignity of maids. She was told she should not allow her maid to be taken by you in your personal car to visit the maid's sick mother. Let her take the bus. You cannot allow your maids to eat in your own kitchen and so on. You can guess what Betty did? Upper society women who lived in the same "colonia" gave her the name "Rubia Gringa", the Blonde American. The maids loved Betty for all the courtesies she paid to them.
Betty traveled the world with her husband - Italy, England, Scotland, Peru, British Columbia, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Betty was a strong believer that we all have the power to affect change. She never took life for granted.
She taught her children to do their best and stand up for themselves despite any obstacle. Betty had a wicked sense of humor. When one asked her for her opinion, she never held back. She loved life and was the constant in many people's lives.
She was known for her calm demeanor, strength, bravery and perseverance in dealing with her diabetes and congestive heart failure. After several episodes, many of her friends named her the "Energizer Bunny".
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the special care provided by Kaiser Permanente doctors at Santa Clara - Dr. Tony Steimle, Dr. Soo Eng, Dr. Sammy Mazbar and the nurses from Pathways Hospice in her final days.
Visitation on Tues. July 16, 5-8. Services Wed. July 17, 11:30.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Betty Bonanno
BERT BONANNO
November 21, 2013
IT HAS BEEN THREE MONTHS SINCE I LOST MY KNOBBY. (I NEVER CALLED HER BETTY) KNOBBY WAS THE NAME I GAVE HER BECAUSE OF HER GREAT LOOKING LEGS. I AM NOW STARTING TO HEAL. I KNOW IT WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AS BEFORE. HER DEATH WAS A MAJOR WOUND TO MY HEART. MY LIFE TOGETHER WITH HER WAS GOLD. I MISS HER SMELL, HER TASTE, HER SMILE, HER TOUCH, AND SAYING I LOVE YOU TO EACH OTHER EVERY NIGHT BEFORE BED. HER INFLUENCE ON ME WAS VERY LARGE. MOST OF MY CRYING ON THE OUTSIDE IS ABOUT 90 PERCENT GONE. I NOW CRY FROM DEEP INSIDE. MY WIFE WAS WITHOUT A DOUBT ONE OF THE GREATEST HUMAN BEINGS I EVER MET. SHE WAS MY SOULMATE, MY LOVER, AND MY BEST FRIEND.
Ruth Smith Blasquez
November 20, 2013
MY DAYS WITH BETTY WERE SO MUCH FUN, NOT ONLY FOR ME, BUT MY TWO BROTHERS AND MY TWO SISTERS. IT WAS JOY FOR ME TO JOIN BETTY PLUS HER MOTHER AND FATHER DRIVING TO SACREMENTO FOR THE WEEKEND. BETTY WAS ALWAYS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BACK SEAT OF THIS LITTLE FORD CAR. I CAN STILL SEE HER LARGE SMILE AS HER DAD DROVE INTO MY YARD TO PICK ME UP FOR THE TRIP. BETTY WOULD WATCH AS WE OLDER KIDS WOULD PLAY JACKS WITH A GOLF BALL AND ROCKS, SKIPPING ROPE AND HOP SCOTCH. WE WERE VERY POOR GROWING UP AND BETTY AND HER PARENTS SEEMED SO RICH COMPARED TO US; BUT THEY WERE ALWAYS THERE TO SHARE. OFTEN DURING MY SUMMER VACATIONS, I WOULD STAY WITH BETTY AND HER FAMILY IN WALNUT CREEK. THOSE WERE HAPPY TIMES. I ALWAYS FELT SHE WAS MY LITTLE SISTER. WE HAD MANY LAUGHS AND FUN TOGETHER. I WAS VERY EXCITED WHEN SHE ASKED ME TO BE IN HER WEDDING. WHAT A GREAT DAY THAT WAS, JULY 9th, 1960. BERT AND BETTY WERE THE PERFECT MATCH. YEARS LATER AT THEIR 50th ANNIVERSARY PARTY IN SAN JOSE, THEY WERE HOLDING HANDS, HUGGING, AND KISSING LIKE NEWLYWEDS.
GOODBYE MY DEAR COUSIN
Don Bowden
November 13, 2013
When I think of Betty, her smile and quick wit immediately come to mind. She was always fun to be with, at the cabin sitting in her reserved seat on the deck celebrating the 4th of July, at one of her fabulous birthday parties or a Boys Of Winter get together. She was very interested in what you were doing. I listened carefully to her thoughtful responses to my inquires and admired her upbeat demeanor although
I am sure she was not feeling chipper. Her “I will wear my rally beads” to “Go Bears” were always welcome even though the outcome on the field was less than desired.
Betty and Bert set the gold standard for love and dedication to each other. They set a great example for all of us on how to support one another. We are thankful to be part of this extended family.
So here is a toast to a great gal. Thanks Betty for the many smiles and warm embraces. You will always have a special place in our tower of memories.
Olga and Joe Arenivar
November 13, 2013
My memories of Betty go back to the early sixties, before either of us were parents. We enjoyed dinners with her and Bert, going to Lake Tahoe and staying at their cabin and Christmas tamales, etc. Later when our children were born they became our son's godparents. We volunteered at our children's Preschool. Over the years we saw each other off and on due to their travels and their settling in San Jose. In recent years we
reconnected and enjoyed each other's company.
Over the years I came to appreciate and value Betty's sense of humor, her quick smile and laugh, her intelligence, resilience and persistence in coping with adversity and change, her inner
courage and spiritual strength. Today I see some of those
qualities in her son and daughter. She illuminated that way.
And we are better for having shared time with her.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Bert and Bonnie Bonanno
November 8, 2013
OUR BEAUTIFUL COUSIN BETTY, Whom I refer to as MY BEAUTIFUL AMIDAGAMI
COUNTERPART. We were both admitted in the FAMILY, you 50+ years ago but, I paved the way for your entry. I married the other Bert 63 years ago. Yes, we both married the LOVES OF OUR LIFE. That's after we finally got them TRAINED. I can see you smiling now.
My Dearest Betty, you might be gone from earth but, you will always be remembered and in my heart.
Love you Bert Salvatore....
Gary Sanchez
November 8, 2013
TO BERT, MARTY, AND GINA, A WONDERFUL WIFE, MOTHER, TRAIL BLAZER WAS SHE. THROUGH THE PAST 40 YEARS BOTH BETTY AND BERT HAVE HAD A GREAT POSITIVE IMPACT ON MY LIFE AND BUSINESS. BETTY SAVED ME FROM THE IRS .... I KNOW MY CHILDREN STEPHANE, LEANORRA AND GEOFFREY WILL MISS THE BIRTHDAY GIFTS FROM BETTY AND BERT. I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR BETTY AND THE BONANNO FAMILY. MY FAMILY HAS BENEFITED FROM THIS RELATIONSHIP AS WELL AS MANY FOLKS I KNOW AROUND THE WORLD. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, YOUR LONG TIME FRIEND.
Gary Smith
November 8, 2013
My cousin Betty was always referred to in our house as Betty Lu, sometimes by my father as droopy drawers a nickname he bestowed upon her as a little girl. My dad worked for her father from time to time and spent a lot of time at their house. When she was a toddler she had trouble keeping her diaper up and my Dad took to calling her droopy drawers. He was the only person I ever heard call her that. Betty was a lot older then I and we did not spend a lot of time together. She was the cousin that went to college and had a lot of success and someone I admired from a distance and look to as a role model.
When I was older I became close to her dad and went to work for him. I would get daily updates of her life in Mexico. She was so much like her dad. After his death there was a connection between her and me that I cannot explain other than to say it was him and our understanding of his impact on our lives and who we became.
In later years when live would give me a set back and get hard as it does from time to time I would think of Betty and feel that connection and draw from her strengths to get me through.
Ti voglio bene Betty
Cyril and Diana Bonanno
November 8, 2013
Our beloved sister-in-law Betty (aka Misses Bubba) is no longer with us but we will always remember her and the good times we shared. Betty had a great sense of humor and was quick witted. She was highly intelligent and very helpful if you needed advice with your finances or anything. She was a very strong woman who never complained about the disease that compromised her life for so long. She was a fighter and commented on several occasions that she wasn't going out without a fight. I loved it when she said that, in fact, I have used that line myself several times. Good bye Betty see you again some day. Go now and be pain free!
Chuck and Sherry Southward
November 5, 2013
Thoughts about Betty
Mrs. B, Betty, Mom were all names that Betty Bonnano to which Betty answered. No matter what name you called her she was the same person. Quiet but wise, Bright, caring, organized, a great sense of humor, dedicated and above all devoted
Her strongest attribute was her devotion. Devotion to her children, her husband, and any other cause she undertook. She loved her family more than anyone could imagine. She always stood by them and was ready to help them meet any challenges that they faced. Betty was also devoted to her friends and other members of her family
She was always available to give advice or assist anyone who had a need. It would be interesting to know the influence she had on the many athletes she came in contact with. Many actually moved into their house. I am sure she was an important influence in their lives as she was in many others.
She truly loved to be around people and people liked to be around her. Her sense of humor [even as subtle as it was] was appreciated by all.
The quote by Maya Angelou describes why Betty will always be remembered. She made people feel good
I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
? Maya Angelou
Olympic Champion Millard Hampton
November 4, 2013
"Betty Bononno is now and has always been a bright shining light in the hearts of family and friends. She was a devoted wife to her husband Bert Bonanno. Betty was his right-hand, always providing love and wisdom with family, friends and many of the athletes Coach Bonanno taught during his great coaching career.
You could approach Betty and speak with her about issues in your life. She was a great listener, never judgmental and would offer guiding advice which would lead you into making the right decision.
Betty always had a humble confidence about her and a nice warm smile that put you at ease. After each conversation Betty gave you some assurance that everything would be okay despite whatever you may be personally going through.
All I have now is the memory of a devoted wife who truly loved and supported her husband and family. Betty is with God now and will be truly missed by those who knew her. These days I find myself speaking to young people the way Betty spoke to me as a youth. This makes me smile when thinking about her.
I wish Coach Bonanno the best and pray God comforts him with vivid and happy memories of the love of his life, his soulmate Betty.
And yet in Betty's way of thinking, I believe God has more work for Coach Bonanno to do on earth with Betty at his side internally, accomplishing even more in his life."
Hang in there Coach!
Gary and Carol Bonanno
November 4, 2013
With the many years we have spent with family on holidays and special events, Betty will always be remembered by her cheerful smile, words of encouragement or advice, and her dry sense of humor. During these past years with Betty's health failing, we were overjoyed when she was able to attend our daughter Lisa's wedding and most recently Jake's birthday party. Even our son, Steven, who rarely leaves his beloved Idaho, was anxious to see Betty.
With all her health problems, Betty faced life with hope and optimism and never ever complaining. When asked, “How are you doing?” Her answer would always be, “FINE!” Betty left behind an example of strength and a love for life.
Jerry Shanahan
November 4, 2013
Betty often referred to me as the "Flim-Flam Man" and I'm still not quite sure why. Betty was a quiet woman most of the time but she could perk up in a flash when something caught her attention. You were never quite sure when she was going to respond but you knew she was always listening and you had to be on your toes around Betty. Her incredibly sharp wit and sense of humor never ceased to amaze me, and her sneak verbal attacks could be hilarious! Just when you thought she wasn't paying attention Betty would surprise you with some well chosen words of wisdom or something that showed she knew exactly what was what and Bert, her husband knew enough to stay out of her way. In my mind that was who Betty was, mostly soft spoken but always ready with her quick wit and tongue. This wonderful way with people stayed with her to the end. I feel we were all just a little better off after a quiet dinner and a few well chosen Bettyisms!!!!
John Buffo
November 1, 2013
Betty has been my good friend since our college days nearly sixty years ago -- and Bert
even longer since our neighborhood and growing-up school days in Pittsburgh. With respect and gratification, I observed that Betty was always able to remain the optimistic, friendly, kind and caring person of her youth -- even during the long illness of her courageous latter life. Never did I notice any despair or complaint on her part. Seeing her from time to time over the years, I enjoyed and looked forward to our visits.
Betty experienced considerable success in her personal, academic and professional pursuits, but always of utmost importance to her were her love and commitment to her family, children and husband. Bert achieved much in his activities and career likewise and received much acclaim, and surely plenty of that must be attributed to Betty. She was always beside him at home and in travels abroad, with support, encouragement and devotion for him, for their children, Marty and Gina, and also for those whom Bert mentored. She was a genuine partner. Over the years, the two, Betty and Bert, truly had become one.
When Betty and Bert celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary several years ago, it was my privilege and pleasure to be a speaker. Betty was an inspiration and example for me and for all.
We love Betty, We miss her. We'll always remember her with appreciation and admiration.
Sincerely,
John Buffo
Eleanor Peeler
November 1, 2013
BETTY WAS MY OLDEST AND DEAREST FRIEND. WE MET WHILE IN JR COLLEGE AND DECIDED TO BECOME ROOMMATES WHEN WE TRANSFERRED TO SAN JOSE STATE. WE LIVED IN AN OLD APARTMENT ON THE EDGE OF CAMPUS. BETTY PUT UP WITH A LOT FROM ME. SHE DID ALMOST ALL OF THE COOKING [SHE KNEW HOW EVEN THEN ] AND THE ONLY TIME SHE ENJOYED A MEAL THAT I PREPARED WAS WHEN MY DAD SENT JARS OF HOME MADE ITALIAN SPAGHETTI SAUCE TO US . BUT FOR BETTY, I WOULD HAVE NEVER MADE IT THRU COLLEGE. SHE DILIGENTLY WOKE ME UP AFTER SEVERAL TRIES TO GET TO MY MORNING CLASSES. ONE DAY AFTER SEVERAL UNSUCCESSFUL TRIES, SHE GAVE UP. WELL SHE TAUGHT ME A LESSON AFTER MISSING CLASSES. I LEARNED TO PAY ATTENTION TO BETTY. SHE HAD "THE ONLY CAR IN TOWN "AND WOULD VERY OFTEN DRIVE ME AND BERT HOME TO PITTSBURGH AFTER COLLEGE. SHE WOULD SOMETIMES DRIVE ME TO WORK. WE LIVED IN SIX DIFFERENT PLACES DURING THOSE YEARS. AFTER GRADUATION WE LIVED IN A NICE TOWNHOUSE BUT SINCE WE HAD EACH TAKEN GOOD JOBS, WE DECIDED TO SPLURGE AND GET A PLACE WITH A POOL. SO ON MOVING DAY I WENT TO WORK AND BETTY STAYED TO MAKE THE NEW APARTMENT LIVABLE. WE HAD PAID A CLEANING FEE ALONG WITH THE RENT. WHEN I CAME HOME FROM WORK, IT LOOKED AS IF NOTHING HAD BEEN DONE. I ASKED BETTY WHAT SHE BEEN DOING. BOY WAS THAT A MISTAKE!! I THOUGH IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE CLEAN, IT WASN'T AND SHE WORKED HARD ALL DAY. SHE BLEW HER TOP, AND THAT WAS THE ONE ONLY TIME I EVER SAW HER GET MAD. I KNEW NOT TO RILE HER EVER AGAIN. BETTY WAS THE MAID OF HONOR AT MY WEDDING. SHE AND BERT ARE THE GOD PARENTS TO MY FIRST DAUGHTER. OVER THE YEARS, WE SOMEHOW LOST TOUCH. IN MORE RECENT YEARS WE HAVE BECOME CLOSE AGAIN. I ALWAYS ENJOYED OUR VISITS. WE EACH LAUGHED A LOT IN OUR CONVERSATIONS. I WILL NEVER FORGET MY DEAR, DEAR FRIEND.
Shirley Burke
October 25, 2013
I'M SURE BETTY BONANNO WILL BE REMEMBERED FOR MANY THINGS. HER INTELLIGENCE, HER WIT AND HER ABILITY TO TAKE CARE OF OTHERS IN NEED. AS A MOTHER OF A DAUGHTER WHO HAS HAD TYPE 1 DIABETES FOR 15 YEARS, I MUST REGARD BETTY WITH ADMIRATION AND AWE. SHE QUIETLY DEALT WITH ALL THE OBSTACLES THIS PRESENTS, WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY, NOT EVERYONE HANDLES THE ENORMITY THAT THIS DISEASE PRESENTS WITH THE COURAGE AND WILL THAT SHE EXHIBITED. SHE WILL ALWAYS BE A HEROINE TO ME
Bob and Diane Jones
October 25, 2013
When I think about Betty Bonanno, I think about the thoughtfulness and kindness extended to me and my two daughters when I was a single parent by inviting us to Tahoe to spend some time during the summer at the Bonanno cabin (house). The hospitality shown to us by Betty and the rest of the family is something I, as well as my daughters, will always cherish.
~Bob Jones
Betty Bonanno, the Queen of witty humor. Always thinking and always quick with her most remarkable dry sense of humor. Not loud and boistrous, but very quiet so only those needing to hear the comment,heard. Never malicious, but always "right on the mark" with comments about a situation or the person expounding-Betty could nail you to the wall, with a smile on her face. Just a comment and then, on she would go with the conversation as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. Quiet and reserved, listening and observing and seeming to enjoy every minute of things around her.
~Diane Jones
Krissy and Bob Bloom
October 25, 2013
I wish I was a poet or an accomplished writer so I could put in words what a beautiful and special woman I found in Betty Bonanno. She made everyone feel like they were her best friend. Her sincere interest in my life and my health always made me feel special. I am very thankful to have had Betty in my life. It is unbelievable what a strong and persevering lady she was. I am in awe of her personal triumphs over so many "hard-knocks" health wise. Betty's spirit is with us everyday and as strong as ever
Vince and Midge
October 24, 2013
Cousin Betty was such a dear and wonderful family member and friend. We shared so many cherished memories over the years. From each of our Weddings to many family outings with our children when they were young. Do you remember when Betty got mad at Marty on one of our Tahoe vacations and Marty turned it all around and started singing "I am stuck on Band-Aid cause Band-Aid stuck on me." It was all so much fun. There were many enjoyable trips to Tahoe and Aptos and many family Holidays. We will always remember her laugh; she was the kindest person, we will miss her very much.
Betty we love you. You were loved, appreciated and will always be in our hearts and in our lives forever.
Love,
Richard and Riza Santoro
October 24, 2013
SO WHO WAS BETTY BONANNO? BETTY WAS GENUINE ,LEVEL HEADED , A WOMEN OF VALUES AND HIGH STANDARDS , A LOVING AND SUPPORTIVE WIFE OF 53 YEARS,A LOVING MOTHER OF TWO CHILDREN, MARTY AND GINA. BETTY WAS A FEMINIST LONG BEFORE THE TERM WAS FASHIONABLE. BETTY WAS REASONABLE, INTELLIGENT, WITTY, VERSATILE, INFORMED, LOVABLE, VERY COMPETITIVE, HAD A WONDERFUL SENSE OF HUMOR, (LOOK AT WHO SHE MARRIED) AN ADVOCATE FOR EQUALITY, AND A GREAT LISTENER. HER FUTURE MOTHER- IN - LAW KATHRYN BONANNO ENCOURAGED BETTY TO BE BAPTIZED AND CONFIRMED AS A CATHOLIC, SHE CALLED BETTY "THE ALL AMERICAN GIRL" SHE SAW BETTY AS THE DAUGHTER SHE NEVER HAD.... YOU CANT TALK ABOUT BETTY WITHOUT TALKING ABOUT BERT AND BETTY. THEY WERE EACH OTHERS SOUL MATES, CONFIDANTS, VERBAL INTELLECTUAL PARTNERS, LOVERS AND BEST OF FRIENDS; THEY CELEBRATED EACH OTHERS VICTORIES AND LEARNED FROM EACH OTHERS MISTAKES. THE FOUNDATION OF THERE MARRIAGE WAS BASED ON TRUST AS GOD INTENDED... THEY MAY NOT HAVE ALWAYS AGREED WITH EACH OTHER BUT THEY HAD TREMENDOUS RESPECT FOR EACH OTHERS OPINION...BETTY AND BERT HAD THE (GIFT OF GATHERING) THEY NURTURED MANY INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES OVER THE YEARS , MY WIFE RIZA AND I INCLUDED IF YOU WANTED TO BE PATRONIZED /// DO NOT GO TO SEE BETTY // IF YOU WERE LOOKING FOR GOOD, INFORMATIVE, HONEST ADVICE BETTY WAS ALWAYS WILLING TO LISTEN. IT WAS THIS GENUINE INTEREST IN OTHERS THAT CAUSED MANY PEOPLE GRAVITATES TO HER... BETTY COULD FIND HUMOR IN MOST ANYTHING. EVEN IN HER ILLNESS... ONE DAY BETTY WAS EXPLAINING TO ME THE MEDICAL PROCEDURE SHE ENDURED IN ORDER TO INCREASE OXYGEN LEVELS TO HER HEART... SHE STATED (I HAVE THIS LITTLE COMPUTER IN MY BEDROOM I PLUG INTO EVERY NIGHT; BY THE NEXT MORNING THEY KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT ME....... EVERY MOVE I MAKE..... MY BLOOD PRESSURE. MY SUGERLEVELS. MY BLOOD COUNT. MY HEART RATE ...) THEN SHE STOPPED AS IF SHE JUST REALIZED SOMETHING AND SAID (THEY EVEN KNOW WHEN I AM INTIMATE) SEEING THE DISBELIEVE ON MY FACE SHE SAID TO BERT I THINK I CAUGHT ANTHER LARGE FISH ... THAT WAS OUR ADORABLE BETTY
John and Sheryl
October 23, 2013
In Loving Memory of Betty Bonanno
Betty was a good friend, and ultimately, a model for leading a good life. Quick to laugh, thoughtful to speak, she was easy going, generous and kind. And strong. The strength she showed in her struggle with diabetes is truly admirable. She had a soft spot for the underdog, and respected people who worked hard and overcame obstacles. She affected the lives of countless young people who raced in Bert's track program. Between the two of them, they provided guidance and support to many, especially us.
Our fondest memories are of the many dinners we shared with Betty and Bert that were full of laughter, stories, and genuine caring about what was happening in each other's lives. She reminds us that it is the long accumulation of the seemingly little things in life that add up to the full picture of a person. It is the daily gestures of friendliness, thoughtfulness, compassion, and love that matter most. In this she was very successful.
October 22, 2013
Quotes from Betty
“We interrupt this marriage to bring you football, basketball, track and field seasons on television.”
“You keep this up, I am going to knock you out” - Heard several times by Marty and Gina but directed to Bert.
“My husband Bert is the reason why Santa has a naughty list.”
“When I married into the Bonanno Family, I left white bread, mayonnaise, chicken fried steak, roast beef, tomato soup and macaroni and cheese. What I got was, olive oil, garlic and onions, antipasto, pasta, lasagna, raviolis, meatballs, Italian sausage, calamari, creamed peas, apple sauce, string beans and olive oil, garlic bread, bruschetta, tiramisu, burnt almond cake, cannoli's, Italian cookies and a thousand relatives.”
“They look like you and act like you, I have a problem” – Betty to Bert regarding their children.
“You keep this up I am going to send you back to Pittsburg so you can find one of your old girlfriends.” – A couple months of ago while Bert was planning his 60th Pittsburg high school reunion.
Bob and Judy Leininger
October 22, 2013
Betty
Betty was lovingly devoted to family and to friends.
Betty is courage, in the face of procedures and pills and doctors and uncertainty.
Betty's quiet sense of humor could elevate or excoriate.
Betty is stoicism personified in response to pain.
Betty was gracious to strangers and to team members and to foreign dignitaries alike.
Betty is quite simply -- class.
There is confusion between the past and present tense because it is so hard to believe that Betty is not physically present in this world.
Nancy Barnacoat
October 22, 2013
Betty Bonanno
I saw Betty thru Mike's eyes, at least until I met her, then I was able to see for myself the woman that Mike spoke about with so much warmth, regard, high praise, and humor.…. The stories I heard from Mike made me feel sure that I would be wrapped in her regard, her humor, her kindness, and welcomed into a very large extended family. One of the stories Mike spoke of was the trip to So Cal in the VW [during his college track days -I think it was] and how much fun was had by all… I heard tales of her quick wit, her charm, her beauty [both inside and out], and her warmth…. I saw all of these things upon meeting her for the first time. I was nervous, as these were Mike's best friends and had been for a long time – some of the most important people in Mike's life … We met at a restaurant in San Jose… [can't quite remember the name of it – think it was By-the-Bucket] .. I was struck by her energy, her joy, the love that passed between she and Bert, how much Mike adored her and how much Bert loved her…. I was really in awe of a woman who could draw to her such amazing people… so I came away with the impression [that very quickly proved true] that she was the amazing person and by being in her circle she brought out the very best in you. She was warm and funny and allowed Mike to get away with nothing. She encouraged me and at some point told me [as had Bert] that I was a great fit for Mike, that he loved me and she knew that he and I would be a great together [she also frowned when she spoke of- well kind of dished - “the other women” this really made me feel a part of her circle and I knew she like me and approved of Mike and I… I knew I was welcomed …. Every time I met her over the next few years I was impressed by her courage, her tenacity, her sense of humor, her elegance, her love of Bert, family, friends, and Mike…. And how every day was precious to her, how she enjoyed life and what it brought and that she met whatever was coming face on… her courage and outlook was an inspiration to both Mike and I, as we faced those final months… I can say, without hesitation, that Mike's big outstretched arms were there to enfold her as they will be for me…and that is comforting
MONICA SANCHEZ
October 21, 2013
AS WE ARE GROWING UP, WE DEPEND ON OUR PARENTS TO GUIDE US THROUGH LIFE WHETHER WE LIKE IT OR NOT. AS TIME GOES BY, WE LOSE ONE PARENT THEN ANOTHER REMEMBERING HOW MUCH WE LOVED THEM. THERE'S ALWAYS LIFE /WHAT IF/ SHOULD IF /AND COULD OF. WE ARE LOST WITH WONDER AS TO WHOM CAN WE SHARE OUR THOUGHTS WITH? WE ARE LUCKY WHEN A MOTHER FIGURE COMES INTO ONES LIFE LIKE MY PRECIOUS BETTY. SHE HAD BEEN IN MY LIFE FOR A LONG TIME. BETTY COULD TELL WHEN I WAS SAD OR SOMETHING WAS ON MY MIND. SHE WAS THERE TO GUIDE ME WITH ADVISE WHETHER I LIKED OR NOT. I KNOW IT WAS GIVEN WITH LOVE. BETTY WILL FOREVER BE IN MY HEART. I WILL FOREVER MISS BETTY AS I WILL FOREVER MISS MY MOTHER
Marilyn Ramos
October 21, 2013
Betty
She was kind, gentle person, always asking about you. My last conversation with her was a few days before her passing. She was obviously in pain and not feeling well. The first thing out of her mouth was “How are you?”
She had a marvelous sense of humor, both appreciating a good joke as well as making humorous comments on things around her.
She had an amazing intellect…..she was well spoken and obviously bright. That showed in the amazing things she accomplished in her life, both personally and professionally.
I never heard her gossip or say anything bad about others. I never heard her complain about her health. She always maintained a happy exterior when I knew that she did not feel well. She kept up her personal appearance even when it was obvious that she was not feeling well.
Last, I regret not knowing her when we were both younger and healthier. We could have had a lot of fun and gotten into serious “trouble”.
Lastly, she was a good friend and I will miss her very much.
October 21, 2013
Reflections of their Mom by Marty and Gina
My Mom was always there for me and my friends. She always gave the best advice, and she always had great knowledge about anything asked especially any financial decisions.
My Mom was an amazing cook. I miss our Sunday dinners; I miss her calamari, buscolona, sauce and her boysenberry cheesecake.
When I was born I was told my Mom kept asking my Dad was my nose straight (since she had a bump on her nose). – Marty
She always put everyone before herself not just for us but any friend or member of the family.
To this day our childhood friends consider Mrs. B. their second Mom.
Everyone wanted to go South Lake Tahoe with us and be a part of our family.
My Mom always said I was Daddy's little girl but she always knew the right things to say to me whether I wanted to hear it or not and always knew my heart. – Gina
People would get confused when I answered the telephone because my voice sounds like her. – Gina
All my Dad's athletes adored Mrs. B and often would seek out her advice.
My life is incomplete without you here.
She never complained. Ever
We love you Mom. You did an outstanding job.
October 21, 2013
Reflections from Bert on the passing of his wife
My Betty is gone I don't believe my heart will ever go back to its original size.
The hole that I have in my chest hurts like nothing else in the world.
When asked how I am doing, I tell my former athletes, I feel like I was running on an Olympic finals 4x4 relay team, leading by 10 yards as the anchor man and dropped the baton.
My life has been blessed. Betty made me a better person. My love for her is everlasting.
October 16, 2013
SOO AND I WILL GREATLY MISS BETTY . NO MATTER WHAT OUR DAY WAS LIKE / WHEN SHE CAME IN/ WE WERE LIFTED UP BY HER COURAGEAND RESILLIENCY/WE FEEL BLESSED TO HAVE OBSERVED CLOSE UP THE WONDERFUL RELATIONSHIP SHE SHARED WITH BERT/MORE THAN ONCE WE REMARKED TO ONE ANOTHER THAT WE WOULD BE FORTUNATE INDEED IF A DECADE OR TWO FROM NOW OUR MARRIAGE WAS HALF AS CARING / DEVOTED/ AND FULL OF HUMOR/ MUTUAL RESPECT/ AND LOVE .. BERT AND BETTY MAY HAVE COME DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS/ BUT THEY WERE IN PERFECT HARMONY .. BETTYS INDIVIDUAL GRACE IN DEALING WITH ADVERSITY WAS INSPIRATIONAL BERT AND BETTY AS A COUPLE ARE A ROLE MODEL ON HOW TO JOURNEY THE ROAD OF LIFE TOGETHER..... AND LAUGH ALONG THE WAY DR TONY STEIMLE CARDIOLOGY DR SOO ENG ENDOCRINOLOGY
Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results
Make a Donation
in Betty Bonanno's name
Memorial Events
for Betty Bonanno
Funeral services provided by:
Oak Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125
How to support Betty's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Betty Bonanno's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
