Joyce E. De Martini

Joyce De Martini Of San Rafael, passed away on Saturday, October 17th at the age of 81. Though her death was sudden, it was peaceful. The sun broke through the clouds and she left as she lived, surrounded by family, friends and laughter. Joyce was born and raised in San Francisco by her Italian parents, Umberto and Anita Venturi. Joyce was proud of being a native San Franciscan and her Italian heritage. Joyce married the love of her life, Ronald P. De Martini on November 21, 1953. They began their family in San Francisco and then moved to San Anselmo in 1961. Ron and Joyce happily set about living the life they loved full of family, friends, and adventures. Ron and Joyce loved children. Theirs was the house that all the kids congregated at swimming in the pool, playing in the basement, and just having fun. After their children left home, Joyce and Ron opened their home to exchange students from around the world. Joyce always said marriage was like the best sleepover anyone could ever have, and though she lost Ron before his time, she never remarried. Their union set the gold standard for all who knew them. Joyce was a tireless volunteer and believed that her determination could change the world. Joyce spent decades volunteering at the Bargain Box, Humane Society, Hospice, and Marin General. She volunteered to be McGruff, the crime dog, to go to schools and participate in parades to communicate their important message. Joyce had so much fun being McGruff that she dressed up in elaborate costumes, such as the Easter Bunny, to thrill school children. True to her name, Joyce was a light and joy to all who met her. Joyce loved to throw a party and never passed up a chance to dance. Joyce leaves a legacy of determination, of single minded dedication to bring happiness to each and every person she met. She was a gift to this world: her extraordinary personality, her perseverance, and her endless capacity for love had no equal. She will be missed. Joyce is survived by her children: Steven, Deborah, Loriann (Russ), Gaylyn (Michael); her grandchildren: Jessica (Dan), Jordan, Ryan, and Dacia, and her great grandson, Dashiell. Joyce is also survived by her sister, Lorraine and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service in her honor will be held Saturday, November 7, 2015 at St Isabella's Church, 1 Trinity Way, San Rafael, CA 94903 at 1pm. Food and drink to be shared afterward, in the reception hall of the same church.