Bernadette Estrera

Bernadette Estrera obituary, San Diego, CA

Bernadette Estrera

Bernadette Estrera Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 14, 2025.
Bernadette "Bunny" Ann Estrera, 78, peacefully went home to the Lord on

May 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving and most trusted friends in San Diego, CA.

Born on March 25, 1947 and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Bunny came from a large, loving family with eight aunties, four uncles and numerous cousins. Growing up, she enjoyed many family gatherings with lots of

laughing, singing, and even the occasional tiff, which was always quickly followed by heartfelt

apologies, hugs and kisses - that was just life in a big family. Bunny lived a life marked by strength, compassion, and a deep commitment to those around her.

A proud graduate of Farrington High School in 1965, Bunny was driven by a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the world beyond the islands. Shortly after graduation, she moved to California where she began what would become a distinguished 35-year career with the United States Postal Service where she made many lifelong friends. Starting as a letter carrier, Bunny's dedication and talent quickly propelled her through the ranks. She served as the District's Training and Development Manager in Long Beach, California, and was later promoted to lead Total Quality Management (TQM) for the region. In this role, she traveled extensively across the United States, teaching and inspiring others with her knowledge and leadership. Eventually, she returned to the Training Department in Long Beach before retiring with honor.

Retirement in Long Beach did not slow Bunny down. She discovered a passion for golf and became an active member of several local Long Beach golf clubs, making many more friends along the way. She served as president and club champion at Driftwood Golf Club, held offices at Par 3 Golf Club, and was a tournament advisor on the board of Women in Golf. Her love for the game was matched only by her love for travel. Bunny explored both the United States and the world with curiosity and enthusiasm-always seeking out authentic experiences and connecting with local cultures beyond tourist paths.

Bunny grew up Catholic and embraced her Christian faith throughout her life, embodying its values through kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for others. Everywhere she went, she formed deep friendships that blossomed into lifelong bonds. Her positive spirit made others feel safe and seen; she had a unique ability to bring people together and create lasting connections. She ultimately weaved a beautiful extension of friends who were like family.

Bunny's legacy is one of resilience, warmth, and an unshakable belief in the goodness of people. Bunny faced several health challenges over the years, but she never let them defeat her spirit. Instead, in true Bunny fashion, she would research the condition, talk with specialists, doctors and nurses, and then figure out how she would fight against that condition. She even continued playing golf and pickleball despite her physical trials.

Those who knew Bunny will never forget her playful spirit, gentle demeanor, infectious curiosity, and generous heart. She was everyone's biggest cheerleader-thoughtful, meticulous, honest, faithful-and always willing to share her knowledge with anyone who might benefit from it.

Bunny was a fighter to the very end! Those who knew her will always remember her playful

spirit, gentle demeanor, and compassionate and caring heart.

Bunny will forever be in our hearts!

She was preceded in death by parents Jose and Feliciana Estrera, Sr., brothers: Jose "Joey"

Estrera, Jr. and Ronald "Ronny" Estrera; and niece Josie Ann Winklepleck.

She is survived by her sister Kathleen Jasmin, sister-in-law Brenda Estrera, nieces: Arlene

"Bambi" Sarmiento, Veronica Estrera, Felicia Kaopuiki and Charisse Estrera; nephews: Ronald

Estrera, Brian Jasmin and Blaine Jasmin; and numerous cousins.

The family is having a small Celebration of Life for Bunny in Las Vegas.

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