Alison Jan Bronstein

Alison Jan Bronstein Aug. 1, 1954 June 18, 2011 Resident of Berkeley Passed away at home in Berkeley, early Sat., June 18, with husband Kirk at her side, after a courageous year and a half struggle with a malignant brain tumor. Born in Palm Springs, Aug. 1, 1954, to William (Bill) and Rosalyn (Roz) Bronstein, Alison was a product of the Palm Springs Unified School District, graduating from Palm Springs High. She went on to earn a business degree at St. Mary's College. After several years working in human resources management, she changed careers, enrolling at Samuel Merritt University where she earned her RN degree, graduated at the top of her class, and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She worked as a neo-natal intensive care nurse at Children's Hospital in Oakland until her illness began. Alison was an ardent music lover, playing guitar and flute, and especially enjoyed playing flute duets with her sister. She had a lovely singing voice, a trait she passed on to her daughter, Danielle. She loved to dance, attend live theatre at Cal Shakes and Berkeley Rep, take part in family gatherings, travel, keep in touch with friends, and especially support her daughter's pursuits. She had a quick wit, loved words and word-play. Those fortunate enough to have known her were touched by her kindness, generosity of spirit, and eagerness to make each life brighter. Her life was a gift to us all. She is survived by Kirk G. Mitchel, her husband and partner of fifteen years, daughter Danielle, her father Bill Bronstein and his wife Judy (Palm Springs), sister Deborah Bronstein and husband Evans (Whit) Whitaker (Aptos, CA), brother Jon Bronstein and wife Christa Joseph (Danville, CA), nieces Lara Whitaker and Laura Pruitt, and nephews Matthew Bronstein, Andrew Whitaker and Kevin Baptista. She was pre-deceased by her mother Rosalyn Bronstein. A special thanks to her caregivers Jessie, Casey, nurse Anna, and the wonderful nurses of Children's Hospital for their on-going support. Friends and colleagues are invited to attend a celebration of her life on Sun., July 10, 6pm, at the Brazilian Room, Tilden Park, Berkeley. In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made to Children's Hospital Foundation, chofoundation.org, 510-428-3885 ext. 2846.