Dorothy Marie Prows

Dorothy Ponti-Prows, of Los Altos, passed away at her home on October 13, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on September 21, 1928, in Santa Clara, California, her life was centered around family and guided by faith.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, George and Don, and by her son-in-law, Fred Oppezzo. She is survived by her daughters, Georgette Oppezzo and Gayle Viola, and son-in-law, Robert Viola. Dorothy is also survived by her grandchildren Rob Viola (and Leanne Fonteyn), Jennifer (and Steve Caringella), Chris (and Danielle Viola), Marily Oppezzo (and Dan Schwartz), and Teresa (and John Reif); and by her great-grandchildren Alyssa, Anthony, Chase, Jack, Dean, Sawyer, Emmett, and Teo.

Dorothy was born and raised in Santa Clara, where she worked on the family farm until she met George, the love of her life. George and Dorothy raised their daughters in Hillsborough, California, where they ran a very successful building services business. After George's passing, she met Don, whose companionship and kindness she cherished. She often said she was blessed to have found a second loving husband.

Dorothy loved to play cards, especially bridge, and spent much of her life traveling the world and taking many memorable cruises. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her quiet strength, and her steady presence. She was a person of few words, but when she spoke, those around her listened. Her legacy is the large, loving family she devoted herself to, supporting them with grace.

Rosary and Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at St. Simon Catholic Church, 1860 Grant Road, Los Altos, California. Dorothy will be laid to rest at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, 490 Lincoln Street, Santa Clara, California.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association in Dorothy's memory.