Nella Gilardoni

1924 - 2012

Entered into rest on June 19, 2012 at the age of 88. Nella was born on February 27, 1924 in Bagnone, Italy, in the Massa-Carrara province. She grew up in the small farming town of Compione. Compione was miles from the nearest town and that at the time could only be accessed by foot. That must explain how she developed her love for walking. Her father, Andrea, left Compione when she was a little girl to seek the American dream of a better life for his family. Nella left Compione in 1939 with her mother, Anita, to join Andrea in South San Francisco. She learned English while attending Spruce School. Nella met and fell in love with Roberto, a handsome, orphaned Italian soldier, while visiting Camp Knight in Oakland, where several Italian soldiers captured during WWII were incarcerated. Nella's family heard several stories about their weekend-chaperoned furloughs in a 1940 Chevrolet. Roberto was released in 1945 and it was near this time that Nella proudly became a naturalized US Citizen. Nella and Roberto returned to Compione, her hometown, where they were married on August 18, 1946. Nella and Roberto settled in South San Francisco, living with her parents until buying their house on Commercial Avenue in October, 1950. Nella's only son, Robert, was born during this time. They lived in that house until moving to Miller Avenue in 1972. Nella had a strong work ethic, and when not working at Dubuque, became an incredible cook. Her grandsons, Daniel and Brian, will never forget the wonderful times they spent visiting and eating at Nonna's house. Four years after Roberto died in 2001, Nella made the difficult decision to move into assisted living. Nella spent her final 7 years very comfortably and with great dignity. The family is very thankful for the care she received at all 3 facilities, especially at Aingel's Harbour, where Wendall and Lita Cabildo did a remarkable job of tending to her every need. The family would also like to thank Aida Palomba for her friendship and Andy Baldi, Robert's cousin, for filling in when Robert was not able to care for his mother. Andy regularly visited Nella and took her on several medical trips prior to her move to San Jose. Nella's love for family and friends will be missed.

Friends may visit between 5-8pm on Wed., June 27th, Garden Chapel, 885 El Camino Real, So.SF where a Vigil Service will be offered at 7pm. Mass of Resurrection will be on Thurs., June 28th at 10am All Souls Church, corner of Miller and Walnut Avenues, So.SF. Committal Italian Cemetery. Contributions may be made in memory of Nella Gilardoni to the Alzheimer's Association, 1060 La Avenida, Mt. View, CA 94043-1422.