Josephine Mary Bremis was born on November 14, 1928, on Second Street in Watsonville to Italian immigrants, John and Letitia Tapella.

She was raised on Stender Avenue in Pajaro, attended Pajaro School and was a proud graduate of Moreland Notre Dame. After dating for years, Josie married the love of her life, Paul Bremis, also a Watsonville native, on April 18, 1953.

Family and friends were very important to her, and she enjoyed hosting many delicious dinners. Another of her passions was golf, so much so that she did not give it up until she was well into her eighties. While Paul and Josie enjoyed numerous cruises and travels to Europe, they were always happy to come home to the Pajaro Valley, which they referred to as "God's country."

Nephew David Bradley summed up Josie with the following words: "Aunt Josie was one of the STRONGEST human beings I ever knew or will know. If Heaven needs a restructuring, the right person is arriving to get that done. She could have run a country. She outlived EVERYONE in her generation, I am going to guess through sheer will and tremendous self-discipline. Aunt Josie was a force to be reckoned with and she will be missed. I am glad she left four wonderful children to carry on her legacy."

Besides her parents, Josie was preceded in death by her husband Paul, brother John Tapella and sister Norma Jean Bradley. She leaves behind her son, John of Morgan Hill, daughters Janice of San Jose, Karen of Watsonville, and Nancy (Mike) Wagoner of Watsonville. In addition, she leaves her beloved grandchildren, Briana of Corralitos, Zachary of Watsonville and Joshua of Aptos.

Services will be private; burial will be at Watsonville Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Moreland Notre Dame School (133 Brennan Street, Watsonville 95076) would be appreciated. Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Watsonville Pajaronian from Aug. 27 to Sep. 13, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Josephine Bremis

Sponsored by Mehl's Colonial Chapel.

7 Entries

Rey Celestino

August 13, 2025

I just thought about Mrs. Bremis because I was looking for a recipe of peanut butter dough that they used to serve during hot lunches back in the early 80s when I was in elementary school attending McQuiddy. That led to fond memories of the walnut fudge she used to drop off to us while visiting our rental home on East Lake Avenue to either address any issues or concerns with the home or to pick up the monthly rent. I remember her always walking to our home from her place on Manor or driving the Volkswagen bug over. But those walnut fudge was a kids dream. I lived there as a kid from 1987 until my parents finally left in 2012. I remember Mrs. Bremis wrapping them in wax paper and I would slowly eat those fudge cubes from the fridge because I didn´t know when she would bring more to us in the future. She was a tough lady, always had rosy colored cheeks but kind in her own way. I also remember riding my bike over and visiting her when home to drop off a rental check. Those were fond memories.

Malena

September 27, 2024

RIP Dear Josie
You welcomed my family and I when we moved into the neighborhood. You always greeted us with your warm hello and smile.
Thank you for being such a wonderful neighbor.
Our prayers and deep sympathy to the Bremis Family.

Emmanuel

September 3, 2024

I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mrs. Bremis. She was more than just a landlord to me and my mother; she was a kind soul who always made us feel welcomed and valued. Her warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on us, and we will always remember her with great fondness.

Every time I visited her to drop off the rent, she greeted me with a smile and kind words, making me feel at home. Her kindness extended far beyond her role, and we are truly grateful for the way she treated us like family.

I also want to express my sincere gratitude to John, Her son, You have been a reflection of your mother´s kindness and care, and I am thankful for the support you´ve shown us over the years. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

With deepest sympathy and gratitude,

[Emmanuel]

Linda Goscila

August 31, 2024

My family loves Josie and Paul and all the kids! I recall many visits as a child to the Bremis house in Watsonville - lots of WONDERFUL memories--Fantastic family - . Sending love and light .

Eladio "Lalo" Martin

August 30, 2024

Nancy, so sorry to hear the news of your mom's passing. I always have fond memories of her and your dad's walks by my parents' house on Palm. They were always so friendly and courteous. My mom and dad always enjoyed greeting them. Our condolences and prayers.

Lauren Taylor

August 30, 2024

Hello, I am saddened to hear of Josie´s passing. She was a wonderful neighbor to have. She often stopped to chat with me and my children while on her walks. We shared little Christmas treats. And she had welcomed encouragement and advice.
They don´t make them like Josie anymore. I was glad to know her.
She will be missed.
My condolences to your family.
Warmly,
Lauren Taylor

Janet elizabeth atkins balvin

August 27, 2024

Hello so sorry to hear of mrs bremis passing.i remember her and her husband coming to my parents home on hushbeck always with a nice plate of food or dessert.lovely lady my heart goes out to john as he and my brother james were like our family member
Please give all my sorrow and love to those who are left.thank you janet elizabeth atkins balvin ......

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