GLORIA ELIANE FASANO

Gloria grew up in Fresno enjoying the outdoors, water skiing most summer weekends and especially her horses. She attended Fresno Pacific University and graduated from Seattle Pacific University. Her employment career began at Boeing and continued at Lockheed Martin after she decided to return to California. Gloria's desire to help others was satisfied when she changed career direction and became a successful Certified Massage Therapist. Her love of animals remained a lifelong passion. Following the loss of her beloved sheltie, Shiloh, she focused on rescuing cats and various wild creatures. Though not formally trained as an artist, Gloria had a natural creative talent. From an early age horses were Gloria's subjects of choice. In fact, one named Key-Leo she raised from a colt was eventually reunited with her in Washington state. Later on she progressed to lineal drawings that projected an ethereal quality. Giclée prints and note cards with her sketches were available at boutiques and craft fairs in the South Bay through the years. More recently her creative spirit inspired her to begin writing and illustrating a children's book, as well as a cookbook focused on vegetarian and diabetic diets in response to requests from colleagues and friends. Gloria was a dedicated advocate of organic foods before they achieved mainstream status and she convinced acquaintances and strangers alike to purchase only organic products. Through her persistence many became followers of her "eat natural" philosophy. In addition to artistic abilities, Gloria found joy in tending the fruit trees, vegetables, herbs and flowers in her garden. She relished sharing the "fruits of her labor" with everyone, but especially those in need. Gloria's exuberant personality, love of life, nurturing spirit and selfless nature will be remembered by her family and many friends. Gloria is predeceased by her parents, Frank and Helen Fasano. She is survived by her sister and her husband, Linda and Joe Cotta; and nephew, his wife and grand nephew, Brian, Elena and Andrew Cotta. The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, ProHealth Hospice and the staff at Valley House in Santa Clara for their excellent and compassionate care. A Private Family Service was held in Fresno. A Celebration of Gloria's Life will be held in San Jose. Remembrances may be made to the donor's favorite charity. Chapel of the Light, 1620 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, California (559)233-6254