Virginia Rose Zamboni

Born in Indianapolis to Harry and Lila Rose, Virginia began her life practicing charity as a very young age. Her first volunteer experience was a member of the girl scouts. She would pick up her neighbor's shopping lists and so the shopping for them.
One of her proudest moments was being selected for the 1940 Olympic Swim Team. Due to the start of World War II, the team only participated in the United States. She then was to work in the American Red Cross in 1944. For her dedication and service, General Mark Clark presented her with Medal of Freedom in 1946.
Continuing her service in 1949, Virginia traveled to Wiesbaden, Germany at the request of General John Cannon where she was responsible for organizing and assisting USO Entertainment Groups traveling overseas. She traveled to Ankara, Turkey as the unofficial hostess for the American Embassy.
In 1955, she returned to New York and relaxed for two years. In 1957, Virginia took a six-week trip to Rome and remained until 1969. On her return, she and her cousin Mary Farrell moved to the West Coast and settled in Santa Monica for the next 20 years. They settled in quickly, Virginia began a career in the travel business as Bay Area Travel. Following this she volunteered as St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, serving as Director of Volunteers, moving up quickly, in 1987 Virginia accepted the position as Executive Vice President for the Foundation and Director of Community Affairs.
Thus, her career as fundraiser followed for the rest of her life. She was responsible for many charity fundraisers here in the desert, where she retired in 1993. Thus, her career as a fundraiser began here for the rest of her life. She assisted many organizations Desert Hospital, Carlotta, Air Museum, Martha's Kitchen to name a few for seven years. She served as Chairman for Catholic Charities. Her last service was with the Diocese of San Bernardino as the Fund Raiser for the Bishoy's dinner held here annually.
Her commitment to charity framed the major work as of her last years. She is survived by her brother Ray in Temple, Texas her niece Carol and her cousin Mary Farrell.
Funeral arrangements are through Forest Lawn Mortuary. A service will be held on Monday Dec. 16 at Sacred Heart Church in Palm Desert, Rosary at 1:30 p.m., Mass to begin at 2:00p.m. Reception following in the Hall. Interment will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace on Tuesday Dec. 17 at 3:00 p.m. in Colton, Ca.