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Bianca Escarcega Obituary
Family and friends will miss her dearly, but are celebrating the life of Bianca Brandy Escarcega, who is now resting in peace after a courageous 7 year battle with Cancer. Bianca, whose loves in life were her parents, animals, creativity and dancing- danced her way into the hearts of everyone she touched. Born in Phoenix to Ron and Sherry Escarcega of Peoria, AZ, Bianca was special from the day she was born. A true angel for Ron and Sherry, who were told they would never have children, this unexpected blessing came into their lives on November 20, 1972. As her mother Sherry puts it, 'the World became a beautiful place that never existed before (when she was born). Her bright smile and energetic approach to life drew many people to her and hundreds and hundreds are honored to call her friend around the world. Bianca's many talents became evident at an early age when she starting dancing at the precious age of 3½. Bianca continued dancing competitively throughout her teenage years while attending Cactus High School in Glendale. Highlights during her dance career included being chosen among thousands of dancers to represent the state of Arizona by the National Cheerleaders Association and being recognized by ASU as an All-American for her talents on the dance floor. Bianca then headed to Tucson as she prepared for her career in Journalism and finished her education at ASU where her natural talent for writing and quick thinking led her to a prestigious career at KPNX-TV/Channel 12 in Phoenix. Bianca worked on air starring in a segment that showcased her amazing talents with crafts, served as a producer and ran the assignment desk for nighttime newscasts during her career. An important legacy that Bianca leaves us with is the courage she had facing cancer. May some of her final thoughts provide comfort to her parents, bring a smile to those of us who were fortunate enough to know her, and inspire others. On facing tough times: "Just remember, it's not a matter of did you deserve it, it just doesn't make it easier. You'll get through it one way or the other - it's not about being brave-it's about being courageous enough to face what takes bravery." On friendship: "They're the family that you get to pick, so pick wisely. If they don't treat you well, then maybe they're not your friends." A message for her parents, Ron and Sherry: "I love them. I appreciate them. I thank them for everything they've done and for all the help they've given me." Main message for everyone: "Just enjoy life, enjoy it all you can. Take care of yourself as nobody can do it for you…. Do what makes you happy… doesn't matter what everybody else thinks- do what matters to you." The best way to remember and honor Bianca is by supporting something she loved, which was animals! Donations in her honor can be made to the Arizona Humane Society at www.azhumane.org. Go to the donate link, click on tribute and specify that the donation is in her memory. The family will be holding a private memorial and will notify family and friends of a future celebration of life on her birthday this fall. Bianca you will be missed terribly, but your bright smile, kind heart and love for your family, friends and animals will lives on forever. Rest in peace, dear friend, rest in peace.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bianca Escarcega
Michelle Whitford-Raynes
August 8, 2009
To My Dearest Ron and Sherry,
Words cannot express my sadness over the loss of Bianca. She was such an integral part of my life especially during my childhood. Ron, I remember when you brought Bianca to my house to meet me. I was 4 and Bianca was 5. I can still picture you & Bianca getting out of the car and walking up to me as I was standing in front of my house. From then on, Bianca and I were like peas and carrots. She taught me about strength and gave me the courage to believe in myself and to do things I never thought I could do. She introduced me to the wonderful world of dancing. Bianca, being Bianca, basically gave me no other options but to try out for the Junior Performance group at Royal Dance Works. I was extremely nervous to try out but I really wanted Bianca to be proud of me so I tried out and was accepted! For my love of dancing to this day, I give credit to Bianca. She danced so beautifully and so perfectly. I know she is still dancing somewhere, giving someone the strength and courage they need to believe in themselves.
Ron & Sherry, you raised such a brilliant, confident, and strong daughter. Thank you for sharing her with me. For that I will always be grateful. Anyone who knows you could see what incredible parents you were to Bianca. I had the privilege of seeing this firsthand. I always saw you both, so giving of yourselves and of your unconditional love to Bianca. I still see this today. Bianca knew how much she was loved by you both. Bianca and I had a conversation a couple of years ago, and during this conversation, she expressed how grateful she was to have parents that cared so much about her. As we were remembering childhood stories I could tell that it reminded her even more of just how incredibly lucky she was to have you both in her life.
In honor of Bianca, I will keep her spirit and memory alive by always believing in myself and encouraging others to believe in themselves as she did this with so many others.
My deepest sympathy and all my love to you both.
Deborah Ross
August 3, 2009
Bianca was a precious gift to the World. While her life on Earth may have been short, she definitely left a LONG lasting impression in all of our lives. Her powerful personality and energy were inescapable. She was a rare person: intense yet lighthearted (when needed), focused yet free-spirited, she inspired people around her and throughout the World. In addition, she was never short of stories and could tell a story like no other person. We loved hearing her stories about food, crafts, life or whatever [she was so knowledgeable on a variety of topics [(her mother and father exposed her to a variety of things from gardening to computers )]. We loved watching her tell stories because she would light up and smile from ear to ear and laugh throughout the story. Her laugh was so infectious.
Acts of unconditional love are found in few. But, Sherry and Ron definitely define the true meaning of unconditional love. Throughout Bianca’s life, they have showed her a love like no other. They provided for her every need until the very end. Just writing about it, makes us tear up. Our hope is that we can be the same way if we are faced with that same situation in our lives.
We admire how courageous Bianca fought her battle with cancer for 7 years. Not only was she courageous but her parents were too. It was such an honor to have known such a beautiful young woman.
Sherry and Ron just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you dearly.
Mr. and Mrs. Ross and Veronica Cobbs
Jennifer Davidson
July 30, 2009
Friends and family of Bianca - I am very sorry for your loss. I only knew Bianca as a little girl at Royal... her brilliant smile was always engaging. May peace be with you all.
Lee Coking
July 28, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Martyn Jackson
July 18, 2009
Ron and Sherry,
We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Martyn, Cammie and Stu
Erica Lefcourt
July 17, 2009
Ron & Sherry -
It's been a while since I have seen you, and unfortunately just as long since I was in touch with Bianca. Not only was I good friends with Bianca in high school, but we were roommates our Soph. year at UofA. When she transferred to ASU, and I stayed in Tucson, we lost touch.
Needless to say, I was shocked to hear of her passing. I had no idea of her long battle with breast cancer. I only wish we had stayed in touch and been able to spend more time together.
When I read through all the memories, I couldn't help but be taken back and remember the good times with Bianca as well. We had so much fun in the classes we had together in high school. It helped make those last few hours of the day always go by fast. Then we met up again at the end of our Freshman year at UofA, and decided to get a campus apt and become roommates. We had a lot of fun that year. Bianca was always so cheerful to be around. She was a very strong individual and I'm sure she put up one heck of a fight against the cancer and tried her best not to let it take her down.
Bianca touched a lot of lives and we are all saddened by her untimely passing. All those who knew Bianca will always remember her wonderful spirit.
My heart goes out to you and your family in this time of grief. Though no longer here, she will always be with you.
God Bless,
Erica Feldman Lefcourt
July 16, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Hope that your memories of Bianca continue to bring you peace.
Nathan and Angela Scheigert
RICH HORITO
July 14, 2009
DEAR UNCLE RON AND AUNTIE SHERRY I'M SO SORRY FOR LOST. I'M GLAD I CAME OUT TO SEE BIANCA AND YOU GUYS. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE TRIPS FROM LOS ANGELES TO ARIZONA AND WHEN YOU GUYS CAME DOWN TO VISIT. BIANCA WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US IN ARE HEARTS AND SHE WILL LOOKING DOWN LIKE THAT SHINING STAR SHE WAS....I LOVE YOU BOTH AND IF NEED ANYTHING CALL ME....RICHARD HORITO
Sherry Gannon
July 14, 2009
Ron and Sherry,
I flew in for my job interview at 12 on a weekend. Bianca was the second person I met at the station. She helped sell Phoenix and 12 News to me.
She was just a joy to be near!
Catherine Anaya
July 13, 2009
Ron & Sherry, Bianca touched my heart is so many ways. She was always there - a great friend. She taught me so much about courage. I am honored to have called her a friend. Thank you for sharing her with me! You are deep in my heart and prayers.
Sandra Scavuzzo Miller
July 12, 2009
Ron and Sherry, I am saddened in not knowing what had happened. To read a comment on Facebook truly shocked me and brought about an inner pain I did not know existed. I pray that you will find peace...Bianca was a truly amazing person - a gift whom I was blessed to have reconnected with last year.
I will always have our "little girl" dancing memories. She is a piece of my heart, someone who has always and will always remain a part of my life! You can't grow up with someone and not carry those feelings no matter what the journey of our lives brings.
I love you both as you too share a special place in my heart. Please keep me in mind as I would love to be a part of the celebration of her life and birthday!
God Bless you and much love.
Esther & Julio Mendez
July 12, 2009
To my dearest Mom & Dad, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Love You "Bianca"
Leesa Mannon
July 11, 2009
Dear Ron and Sherry,
My heart was certainly broken to read of Bianca's passing, and I have to admit I'm ashamed to say that I have not kept in touch with her over the years. In this age of Facebook, I was looking forward to finding her there, and then unfortunately received this devastating news.
Bianca and I danced together on the pom line at Cactus High School in the late 1980's. When I see those words written, it seems like such a long time ago, but in my heart and mind it seems as if it was just yesterday. I remember back in those days I was able to drive an old beat up 1972 Cutless Supreme that was given to me, and I was so excited to be able to drive that I always volunteered to take Bianca home from our summer practices. Those are very fond memories for me. I know she is now dancing in heaven.
Thank you for sharing her with us. Please keep me in mind for her memorial service later this year. I know of several people who would love to pay their respects. You will be in my prayers for strength, patience, and wisdom.
Sincerely,
Leesa Sanderson Mannon
Carol Senseman
July 11, 2009
Bianca was an exceptional person, both as a child and as a woman. Her courageous brilliance, glowing creativity, indiscriminate friendship, and sincere compassion were just a few of the many reasons why she is an enormous positive influence in my life. Her charismatic sense of humor was so amazing, and remembering her laugh warms my heavy heart.
Sherry and Ron, thank you so much for so many cherished memories. I admire you as friends, parents, and role models. I aspire to give my daughter the endless loving devotion that you gave so generously and lovingly to Bianca. My heart breaks for your loss. I pray for the Lord to bless and comfort your hearts. I love you.
Jeanine L'Ecuyer
July 10, 2009
Bianca was a blessing and a treasure. I pray for deep peace in your hearts, resting in the knowledge that she lives on in our minds and with our God. Much love,
Donna Horton
July 10, 2009
Honoring the memory of your beloved daughter, Bianca.
My heart is with you, my dear friends, Sherry and Ron.
Joe & Vita Piña
July 10, 2009
We were surprised to see Bianca's obituary in the paper. Even though we have not been in touch with you we always remember our first neighbors on Turney. We still have pictures of Bianca as a young girl. Our prayers & condolences are sent with love to our old friends
Kathleen Mascarenas
July 10, 2009
July 10, 2009
Ron and Sherry,
As you to know the cancer that devoured her body did not touch the fiery spirit within.
When Bianca spent the night about a month ago we had such a nice time.
She cracked me up because despite her feeble state she very clearly told me how I needed to improve our TV show...and despite her medicated state every point she made was a great one! She even offered to help me with story assignments, which really made me smile.
I marveled at her intelligence, unrelenting love and brilliance.
My heart breaks that she is gone, but it overflows with gratitude to have had her as my dear, sweet friend.
Thank you for being the parents who brought her into this world and stood beside her until the end.
Karla Navarrete
July 10, 2009
Dear Ron and Sherry,
I had the pleasure of working with Bianca at Channel 12 and all I can say is that your angel had a contagious smile, a beautiful heart and a laugh that could make anyone else in the newsroom want to laugh! May the Lord continue to bless you and your family through this difficult but much needed departure for our beloved friend Bianca. She is in heaven with all of the other angels doing God's work--that is for sure. This comes from former news reporter and colleague at KPNX 12 News.
Kurt Jenisio
July 10, 2009
I did not know Bianca.My attention was draw en to a photo of a beautiful young lady and after learning about her thru the brief life story that accompanied the photo and reading the other comments I only wished I have had the opportunity and privilege to have known her.Even though I never met Bianca I was very saddened and am very sorry about your loss and will keep all the family in my prayers.
Gabe & Lupe urias
July 10, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Jackie Klecka
July 10, 2009
Ron and Sherry,
I am so sad to hear of Bianca's passing but I know she is in a much better place. I am forever grateful for my friendship with Bianca and the memories I have of her taking me under her wing and making me feel like a part of the Channel 12 family. It didn't take long before Bianca and I were laughing and playing tricks on each other to pass the time at work. I will never forget how serious she would sound answering the assignment desk phone "12 news this is Bianca" that voice just wasn't the Bianca I was use to so of course I was forced to prank call her during a dinner run or from an edit bay just to get her to crack up. Despite all of the fun... Bianca was very determined to be the best she could be at work, as a friend, and as a daughter.
Thank you for bringing such a wonderful person to this world. God bless you and may Bianca rest in peace... we will never forget her.
Linda Garcia
July 10, 2009
Dear Sherry and Ron,
We didn't know your daughter, we had hear of her through you Sherry. She sounded like wonderful girl. We are so sorry for your loss. May God give you both comfort. And may she rest in peace.
Your friends,
Linda and Freddy Garcia
Cindi & Tim Nikolaus
July 10, 2009
Dear Ron & Sherry,
Our love and prayers go out to you during this time of grief. Please also know that we celebrate Bianca's eternal birth and her life here on earth that was so well lived.
Candelaria Family
July 10, 2009
Our deepest sympathy and condolences are with you, as well as our prayers and thoughts. We hope all the special times spent and memories shared will help you both thru this difficult time. As her parents you spoke highly of her, from this we got to know the amazing and talented person that Bianca was. Bianca was always and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. May god bless you both and again help you find the strength to get thru your loss.
Staci Feger-Pellessier (former KPNX-er)
July 10, 2009
Bianca was an amazing, beautiful, strong woman with a smile and laugh that truly came from her heart. She was a star and I am so glad I had the opportunity to know her.
Kari Lake
July 10, 2009
Dearest Sherry and Ron,
My heart broke when I heard the news Wednesday morning. I knew Bianca was now in a better place, but I know as a parent there can be nothing more painful than what you've endured. I wish you peace and love.
Bianca was such a lovely person. We worked weekends together at Ch. 12 and she was one of the first faces I saw upon arriving at the station. Let me tell you; there was nothing that was more welcoming than that magnificent smile your daughter had. She could light up any room. Only thing better, her warm, fun, friendly personality.
There's no making sense of the difficult journey Bianca had to make these past seven years. But what does make sense it that everyone who knew your daughter felt blessed by her friendship.
Gina Romero
July 10, 2009
Ron and Sherry,
So sorry to hear of Bianca's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you be comforted by the special memories of your time with her.
Adelina, Ana & Gina Romero
Ron Conner, KPNX ret.
July 10, 2009
Bianca was a ray of sunshine at 12News. One of the best and brightest.
Dora Wright
July 10, 2009
My most sincere condolences to you and family.My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow. God bless you
Jim Manley
July 10, 2009
Ron and Sherry: All of my memories of Bianca involve laughter and a lot of smiles.
July 10, 2009
Our sympathy and condolence go out to you on your loss. We know how very proud you were of Bianaca as you both spoke of her very highly. We hope all the wonderful memories you have will help you heal thru this diffcult time. Bianca was and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Ron, Sherry, our hearts, thought's and prayers also go out to you. May god bless you both always.
Julie Shumway
July 10, 2009
Ron & Sherry,
From the moment she walked into Ch. 12's newsroom, we all became instant friends. With her big smile and quick wit ~~ she fit right in immediately. The fast paced world of tv news was nothing for her. We loved spending time with her~~ from our trips to Jineane's cabin in Heber or our trips to Lake Powell houseboating. If any of us are ever faced with the challenge that Bianca was, I can only hope we handle it half as bravely as she did. You are in our thoughts ~~ Jeff & Julie Frisoni Shumway
Juliet Falevitch
July 10, 2009
The years were too few, but the love was great. Thank you, Ron and Sherry for giving us such a beautiful, enchanting, lovable, stylish, creative and unforgettable angel!
Steve and Cheryl Anderson
July 10, 2009
Our deepest sympathy go out at this time to all of the family. Bianca was a great neighbor and we will miss her smiles. If we can help in any way please call.
Stacie Klopping Beecher
July 10, 2009
Mr. Ron and Ms. Sherry,
I was devastated to hear the news of Bianca's passing. She and I had been in touch a while back and compared cancer stories and I was confident she was going to beat it. Even though it was through e-mail, I could sense her tone and optimism and her undeniable strength. There is nothing profound enough for me to say to make the coming days better for you, other than to say that who Bianca became is a testament to the parents you are.
In high school, Bianca was always the light in any crowd. She was energetic, caring and an awesome friend to have in your corner. It was always meaningful to me when she and I would get back in touch after "losing" each other through the years. I will always remember her natural charisma.
My children and I spent the evening I heard the news going through my yearbook and talking about Bianca. My daughter told me how pretty she was and then told me she wished she had a chance to meet her.
I will not be able to attend any services as we are moving to South Carolina next week, but please do keep us all posted. My mother would like to attend for me to honor and remember Bianca.
All my love
Gordon Spisany
July 10, 2009
I have seen very few fathers as proud and joyful about their offspring as Ron was while I worked with him and while Bianca was attending the U of A. Through Ron, Bianca provided me with updates and gifts from Tucson. Since leaving Phoenix in 1994, I have had a large plastic Arizona Wildcat coffee mug that has sat on my shelf at work in Atlanta and now in Dallas. It was given to me by Bianca. I use it on occasion when the company provided cups are depleted. I have kept it clean and in good shape as it has always been a proud show piece for me. I will now keep this simple mug for the rest of my time here, and will always remember Bianca, and the tremendous love that Ron and Sherry shared for so many years with their beautiful daughter. Bianca made this world a better place, and now she gets to perform that same magic in heaven.
My deepest sympathies,
Gordon Spisany
July 10, 2009
Ron & Sherry - We were saddened this morning when we read of Bianca's passing. I can remember when Ron came to work and said you had Little Bianca, and how proud he was. Over the years, he kept us informed of her growing up.
While we never met her, we always thought a lot of Ron and how how much love he had for his family.
Our sympathy and condolences are extended to you and yours.
Sam & Joyce Van Sandt
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