Betty Joyce Capurro

Betty Joyce Capurro was born on December 24th 1926 in San Luis Obispo, CA. Her birth parents were Leo Smith and Bessie Madden. At the age of eight years old her mother married Bill McGowan. He was the only father she new and with him came an older sister, Geraldine. She attended Monterey High School her freshman year, transferred to Salinas High her sophomore year and graduated in her senior year at age 16 from Santa Rosa High in 1943. She went to business school at San Jose State University for one year. Betty had been engaged to Frank 'Bud" Capurro since her senior year of high school. In 1945, while Bud was in the service, Tom Rosewall employed her as a bookkeeper. After Bud got out of the service, they were married on January 5th, 1946. During the 67 years of marriage that they enjoyed, they had four children: Pamela, Frank, Kristofer, and Susan. The years were hectic and her hands were full. She rose to every occasion and was a full time mother and supportive partner to her husband. Over time, her children provided them with 12 grandchildren and 4 great grand children. Besides her own children, she also leaves two daughters-in-law, Susan and Lisa Capurro who became family from the day they married her sons. Mention must be made of the loving caretakers that made it possible for her to remain in her home of 60 years to the very last day. Daughter Susan and family friend Susan Hess tirelessly anticipated her every need with love, affection, and an unmatched devotion that lifted us all and gave us peace in her final months and days. Her legacy is love. She is missed more than words can say. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Santa Cruz Hospice, 940 Disco Drive, Scotts Valley, Ca 95066