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Mary Pola Obituary
November 10, 1935 - August 1, 2007
Died in the comfort of her sister's home in Oakland, CA, Wednesday, August 1, 2007, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born, November 10, 1935 to Walter and Mary Pola in Alameda, CA. In the growing town of Alameda, she attended and graduated from St. Joseph's Grammar School and Alameda High School. Mary Jane developed her natural talent for art by attending and graduating from College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, CA. She was an accomplished artist and an active member in the artistic community. Not only has Mary Jane's artwork been proudly displayed and sold nationwide, she dedicated over 40 years as a flight attendant for Western and Delta Airlines, making many lasting and loving friendships. In addition, it was not usual for her modeling photographs to be published in local newspapers in Hawaii. Throughout her adult life, Mary Jane enjoyed living in sunny Southern California and was a proud resident of El Segundo. Ms. Pola is survived by her sisters, Colette Camozzi and Janet (Calvin) Bussi; her nieces, Allison (Manuel Tamayo) Cain and Rochelle (William Battista) Bussi and her nephews, Michael, Stephen (Myrna), and Tom Camozzi and grand niece, Miranda Camozzi. Her family and dear friends will sorely miss her candid, loving and spirited way of life.Visitation will be held on Monday, August 6, 2007 from 11:00am to 1:00pm with a Funeral service at 1:00pm, at Holy Angels Funeral and Cremation Center, 1051 Harder Rd., Hayward, CA 94544, immediately adjacent to the mortuary. Following the service, a celebration of Mary Jane's life will be held at the home of her sister, Colette Camozzi. All are welcome to attend. Please sign the guest book at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.
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Michael
August 18, 2025
A beautiful lady, I´ll always remember.
Sylvia
July 29, 2022
Dear MaryJane,
I think of you often and the fun times we had together. You were too young to leave. It made me mad. I hope ( if there´s another life) that you´re living it up and enjoying everything you missed here. Thank you for being a good friend! I´ll always love you!
Marjolijn Simms
September 3, 2007
In memory and love for Mary Jane Pola, till death do us part. In one’s life time, we flight attendants make so many friends; however very few are so close that you share so many memories and happenings as much like sisters. When we met we were so young that everywhere we went and everything we did was so much fun. We traveled to far away places like Africa, Lebanon, Syria, Europe, Japan and Hong Kong, etc. Along the way we experienced things that helped form our lives. Mary Jane used these experiences for her outstanding creative talents and it gave her much comfort in her later life. I think of her as one of my favorite artist. I miss her daily and in our many discussions about life and death, it is my fondest hope that we will be together again in the life here after as we used to talk about.
Please accept my condolences to the family we loved her.
Marjolijn and Jack Simms.
Tina million
September 2, 2007
My condolences to Mary Jane family and many friends. I worked with her flying for Western and Delta, and even went on vacation with her. We had a great time. She was a great lady, and we'll all miss her.
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Jennifer Gevedon
August 31, 2007
I had the pleasure of rooming with Mary Jane on one of my first Honolulu layovers. As a lowely reserve I was delighted with her kindness and friendship. I was always so glad to her name on the crew manifest. For the rest of my career we were always in recurrent training together. Always a horrible experience and only made tolerable by our class mates.
Rita Dowse Castagnoli
August 30, 2007
Mary Jane and I had art in common. I remember when she took a computer graphics class at Otis Art Institute in the early days of that art. It was very hard and all done by numbers. When she showed me her final piece of art I knew she was a real artist because it was so sophisticated and beautiful.
We were also able to share our love of travel and adventure together. In the early days of Western Air Lines HNL layovers we stayed at an enchanting hawaiian hotel called The Waikikiian Hotel and where we shared so many happy times as we later shared in Narita. We were all so lucky to have so many adventures around the world.
I want to thank her dear and precious family for keeping all of us posted in her last days and by comforting me with the loving way you were by her side. She would speak of you often with LOVE and ADORATION.
We miss our precious friend and I sent her a loving aloha.
Sandra Sears
August 29, 2007
MaryJane was a very special person She had an eclectic personality. Always interested in the creative part of life. Fun to fly with for so many years. She is missed.
Jan Wells Hurt
August 28, 2007
It is difficult to believe that Mary Jane was just here; I saw her just the other day! What a journey she must have been on, with all the love and help of her family and dear friends. I too will hold her memory close, for all the gifts she made of herself and her energy, both in the artistic and travel world. There she was in Lake Titacaca at a cultural show when we arrived. And then she frequented Hong Kong, one of many worldly and exotic places that she enjoyed. I am lucky enough to have one of her sculpted faces on a necklace, but sadly she didn't get the other earring completed. We both spoke of this in the last days. She assured me it would get done..... Bless our beautiful Mary Jane, and her kind family to whom I send my deepest condolences. May all the kind thoughts and memories you have, and receive, sustain you until you find happier days ahead.
denise klassy
August 28, 2007
Mary Jane was like a piece of fine art; she had the demeanor that unquely beautiful women share and that rarest of qualities--a genuine sweetness.
Sue Fado
August 28, 2007
M.J. had a circle of family and friends that was held so tight she will never be forgotten. Her life by many standards was cut short but what a privilege to be part of that life. I remember the many good times we shared, our conversations about the art world, our everyday lives. I can't find adiquate words to express my sympathy for your grievous loss. My thoughts are with you.
Fran Pagano
August 27, 2007
I very much want to send along my condolences to Mary Jane's family at this difficult time.
I worked with Mary Jane at Western/Delta & I always enjoyed our trips/visits together. Being with Mary Jane really was more like a visit than work. She was so likeable & always in a good mood.
To say she will be missed is an understatement...again my condolences.
Irene Chavez-Dressler
August 27, 2007
How do you begin to say "Goodbye" to a friend? I can't. So to her family I would like to express how very sorry I am for your loss. She was blessed to have you there at her side in her final days here on earth. I will miss her as so many others will. I will miss her wonderful artistic talents, her gorgeous red hair, her beautiful figure
and lovely smile, but I will not say goodbye. Until we meet again, Mary Jane, be the star in the sky that shines as bright as you did here on earth. With Much Love, Irene Chavez-Dressler
Eileen Quinn Barron
August 27, 2007
Mary Jane,
You are a dear friend and 30 years of friendship was not long enough, I always thought we would grow old together.
I miss you,
your friend always
brigitte rank
August 27, 2007
to mary jane's family - mary jane was a loved and respected member of my airline family and so ,i too ,feel i have lost a sister. i will fondly remember her smile, her generosity, her individuality, her talent. i flew with mary jane for 38 years. she was beautiful, kind and professional. i know that she is up there getting the cabin ready for the rest of us - and she'll do it with style! auf wiedersehen, my friend!
Jeannette Kristof
August 26, 2007
MJ was a friend of mine for the last 40+ years. I would like to share this poem.
We feel so sad when those we love
Are touched by death's dark hand.
But it would ease our sorrow
If we could but understand
That death is just a gateway
That all women must pass through
And on the other side of death,
In a world that's bright and new.
Our loved ones wait to welcome us
To that land free from all tears
Where joy becomes eternal
And time is not counted by years.
I love you MaryJane and you will always be a bright star in my heaven.
Judi Ahrendt
August 20, 2007
Mary Jane was an amazing person; so talented and creative. She will be grealy missed. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Sylvia Banks
August 19, 2007
I can't find the words to say how badly I feel for MJ's family whom I know well but also for everyone (including myself) who lost a dear friend. I'm devestated to this day. I have a difficult time thinking or talking about MJ in the past tense. I truly believe she's still with us. I've known MJ since the early seventies when her sister Colette introduced us and the rest is history. I must say that I found out so many wonderful things about her since the funeral. She was even more amazing than I thought. I want to thank all her friends from her doll club, sculpting class and flight attendents who remained faithful friends to her. I knew a few of you from the airlines. I still think about Mary Jane every day, no matter what I'm doing. She'll always be in my thoughts. I believe in angels and she defintely is one now.
I'll love you forever MJ. Paint the sky for all of us who miss you so very much.
Love, Sylvia
Jane Hansen (Kohler)
August 16, 2007
I was so sad to hear of Mary Jane's passing. She was such a beautiful, interesting, creative and passionate woman and she will be missed. I will always remember a very rainy night in Hong Kong when a group of us went to dinner, most of us drenched from the rain, and Mary Jane walked in the resturaunt looking stunning and just perfect!! She was a dear friend and I extend my deepest sympathy to her family.
Pam Hazen
August 14, 2007
I was so glad to hear that Mary Jane was in the loving embrace of family during her illness and final moments. What a difference you made for her. My deepest condolences.
I met Mary Jane on October 10, 1962.
The first day of our Western Airlines Stewardess Training. She was the elder in the class at the ripe old age of 26. I was the baby at 20. We became roommates right out of training with four other members of our class. During that time she sort of took me under her wing, and offered her sage advice (which, as I look back, is rather humerous considering we were both young 20-somethings).
She did a portrait of me, by painting a page black and scratching off the image. I still have it. So I have a coveted piece of the budding artist's work. It's priceless. The dolls, and other recent work, absolutely blew me away.
We never really flew together on a regular basis. Just pick-up flights here and there. When we saw each other there'd be a quick catch up conversation, occasionally spanning years. We began together and retired together. The only ones still flying from our class.
She is in the arms of the angels now. Flying high!
Maureen McKeel Swaney
August 14, 2007
To MJ's family - I share the sadness in your loss. Mary Jane was a lovely and talented person and a good friend.
Leo Powell
August 11, 2007
Leo Powell
The Pola Sisters- Mary Jane, Colette and Janet
August 11, 2007
Mary Jane, Colette and Janet
August 11, 2007
Janet, Mary Jane and Colette
August 11, 2007
misako yamada
August 10, 2007
My deepest condolences to Mary Janes family. I flew Narita/Japan trip from Los Angeles with her and enjoyed her beautiful artworks using Washi papers. I truly miss such a talented wonderful person.
?????
gina Lange
August 8, 2007
My deepest sympathy for MJ's family. I knew her well from flying to Asia may times with her. She was a wonderful artist and good friend. I remember her beautiful fairy dolls. Once, in Japan, M.J. and I sat for hours on our knees making the traditional Japanese dolls. Boy were we sore after that! I will always have fond memories of her and am so sorry to hear of her passing. She is making beautiful art in heaven now.
Fly in peace, Mary Jane!
Love, Gina Lange
Mary Jane pictured with poisonous snakes that were docile from incense
August 7, 2007
Mary Jane, always a photographer
August 7, 2007
Colette and Mary Jane on vacation
August 7, 2007
Colette and Mary Jane in Spain
August 7, 2007
Mary Jane and Allison doing Yoga
August 7, 2007
Rochelle Bussi-Battista
August 7, 2007
Share day was always my favorite day in elementary school. It was a day to bring something from home and share it with the class. I always looked forward to share day because, thanks to Mary Jane, I always had the coolest items to show- a doll from Peru, collection of butterflies from Hawaii, the newest sundress from over seas…. and so much more!
When I was a child, I knew my aunt as the JET SET flyer who never failed to bring us the latest fashions from all over the world, popular movie star autographs, and always the latest jewelry. How fortunate we were as children to have been exposed to so many cultures so young and wear or display each item with pride.
We were all also so incredibly fortunate to witness her create so many works of art. It was a celebration any time she gave us her art work for Christmas or our birthdays.
Mary Jane showed a life well traveled.
Even though she didn’t always let us know it, at times, to others, she showed an aunt who was proud of all of our accomplishments. She bragged about how smart Stephen and Tommy were (and are), she boasted how successful Michael is with his plumbing business, she spoke often of Allison’s shows and incredible talent, and she came to us for advice which was the ultimate complement.
Ultimately she proved to be a humble and loving sister. Mary Jane told others often about how talented her sisters were, while she was surrounded by 1st place ribbons nationwide for her artwork.
I admire her courageous battle with cancer- she never once complained and always, always had a smile on her face. She joked until the very end.
We can only hope to see the things she saw and live a life so well lived with laughter, love and most importantly, dance.
We all love you Mary Jane. I miss you so much! I find myself lost without you.
I love you, Rochelle.
Shien Summers
August 7, 2007
I was very saddened to hear about the loss of Mary Jane! I flew Narita with her for many years and we were both in search of art supplies there. I will truly miss her! She was a wonderful person and she really inspired me to keep up with my artwork. She will always be in my heart and thoughts!
Sylvia Ruiz
August 7, 2007
My condolences for your loss. Mary Jane was an inspiration to us all.
MJ modeled with her mere presence what a flight attendant should look like, professional, courteous, and beautiful throughout her career. What style she had. It was an inspiration and pleasure to work with her early in my career.
Jacquelyn Neves-Cole
August 6, 2007
6 August 2007
Dear Family of Mary Jane
My heartfelt sympathies and prayers are with all of you. I am certain that you know she is in a far better place, hopefully that will ease the sadness in your hearts. MJ was a very special woman who always showed the beauty in her heart as well as in her smile. She will be missed but I am so fortunate to have known her.
Jacquelyn Neves-Cole.( flight attendant Western and Delta )
Los Angeles,CA
Maria De Castro (flight attendant and artist)
August 6, 2007
I remember talking with Mary Jane of her coming reirement and how she looked forward to concentrating on her art and just enjoying life . I was so happy for her and glad she had the moment however brief it was. She was a delightful flight attendant as well.To know she was so well loved by friends and family is truly a blessing. She is missed by all.
My sympathies to Mary Jane's family.
Edda Ibarzabal
August 5, 2007
To Mary Jane's family,
My deepest sympathy in your loss. May your beautiful memories bring a smile to your faces one day soon. Mary Jane was a truly a special lady with so much to give, and a wonderful artist. No doubt she is up in heaven creating something beautiful. I worked with her at Western/Delta and will remember her fondly.
kathleen justice
August 5, 2007
Mary Jane was so beautiful, but, more importantly, she was nice to everyone. She was one of those senior flight attendants who made all of us feel welcome on a flight. My heart is so sad that she is gone.
Roxanne Jones
August 5, 2007
I am so fortunate to have known Mary Jane, and to have explored Hong Kong with her. I am reminded of her each Christmas as I hang the lovely doll ornament with the long flowing red hair that she made on my tree. My deepest sympathy to her family for the loss of Mary Jane.
Mary Jane modeling for the airlines
August 5, 2007
Mary Jane in all her colors!
August 5, 2007
Mary Jane at our family fiesta
August 5, 2007
Mary Jane Belly Dancing
August 5, 2007
The Belly Dancer got sick, so Mary Jane took over
August 5, 2007
Jann Perkins
August 5, 2007
It was a pleasure working with MJ and knowing her for my entire flying career. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Debra Baretta (Delta FA)
August 5, 2007
My deepest sympathy to Mary Janes family and friends.
Paula McCullough
August 4, 2007
I will never forget you teaching me the ropes of the airline. We became close enough friends for me to call you MJ. I will sorely miss you. Your spirit will shine on!
Judy Opperman
August 4, 2007
My heartfelt condolences to your entire family on your great loss of Mary Jane. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so glad that she was with her family that loved her so much.
She will be greatly missed.
In sympathy,
Judy L. Opperman ( a fellow friend from Western & Delta Airlines)
Barbra Murphy
August 4, 2007
May your wonderful memories comfort you in your great loss. Her spirit is alive with us still out there flying.
Our Mary Jane traveling
August 4, 2007
Elaine Sarnoff
August 4, 2007
This was one of many beautiful letters sent to Our Mary Jane from her dear friend.
Dear Mary Jane,
I know you will not read this and I am heart broken. We have had so many good times together exploring the world of art dolls. That you won't be here to share the ride to the gift show, or the shopping that we did at it, and just the way you process things. Your beautiful smiling face.
Your many good ideas, an apology for the mess, as you let me into your home where you created so many beautiful things. That was the mess of a true artist. You were always there, and that is what is so unfair. We still want to get your take on things, to know your thoughts on this or that.
The last time I was over you shared the cards you and your artistic sisters exchanged last Christmas. Yours was in beads, how appropriate. You exclaimed that your sisters were the "real" artist. And yet it was you who turned out sculptures that took the breath away, witches that were SO true to their names, an eagle that could almost fly. Our world will go on, but it is cruel to think it will turn without what might have been. You added so much beauty to the world, in your artwork and your spirit. MISS YOU.
Your friend,
Elaine Sarnoff
Kenda Browne
August 4, 2007
To Mary Jane's Family: I will always remember the fun times we had shopping and walking around Victoria's Peak in Hong Kong. Mary Jane was one of the most interesting people I had ever known. I'm glad I had the opportunity to know her and fly with her for the 9 1/2 years I was based in Los Angeles.
God Bless all of you for making her last days so wonderful for her.
Kenda Browne, Retired Delta F/A
Tianna Fairy by Mary Jane Pola
August 4, 2007
Fish by Mary Jane Pola
August 4, 2007
Saski by Mary Jane Pola
August 4, 2007
Mary Jane in Hawaii
August 4, 2007
Our Mary Jane
August 4, 2007
Mary Jane in Hawaii's Local News Paper
August 4, 2007
Deni Valdes
August 4, 2007
I will always remember the wedding shower that MJ helped throw for Rochelle. She looked so happy and beautiful with her maggie pitcher...she cracked me up. It was too heavy for her so she had me pour the drinks. She was a true original!!
Rita Haydu
August 4, 2007
I am very saddened to hear about Mary Jane's passing.
I am a flight attendant for Delta and had many honolulu layovers w/Mary Jane. She was a lovely person with a beautiful smile and eyes that lit up when she saw you.
I use to see her at Gold's gym in Venice, Ca. where she used to workout, forever conscious of her appearance, always well groomed.
I always admired her artistic qualities to create beautiful things.
Mary Jane will be missed by all whose lives she touched in some way.
May she rest in peace with the Lord.
God Bless
Randy Lopes
August 4, 2007
It was always a pleasur to fly with Mary Jane at Western and Delta Air Lines. My condolences to her friends and family.
Marcel Viens
August 4, 2007
To all Mary Jane's family: May the wonderful memories she leaves for each of you lift you up during these difficult days. She will be missed by many. Marc Viens, Delta Air Lines - LAX
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