Mary Stella Portman

Mary Stella Portman April 6, 1918 - May 14, 2009 Passed away in God's hands at home on May 14, 2009. Mary was the loving and devoted wife of Frank J. Portman Jr.; and the loving and cherished mother of Marilyn Marcillac, Robert Portman, William Portman, Kathy Piasta, Thomas Portman, Joan Sullivan and Janet Wetter and the late Frank J. Portman lll. Mary was loved and treasured by her 30 grandchildren: Frank, Lisa, Karen, John, Christine, Jacquelyn, Paul, Bob, Shelley, Scott, Becky, Sarah, Michael, Susan, Mary, Edward, Ann, Theresa, Frank, Joan, John, Mark, Michelle, Caitlin, Clara, Harry, Ryan, Michaela, Beto, the late John Gabriel; and her 16 great-grandchildren. Born on April 6, 1918, Mary was the cherished daughter of Amalija and Mitchell Bilafer, immigrants from Croatia. Throughout her life, Mary devoted a significant amount of time and energy in support of relief efforts in Yugoslavia. She graduated from Notre Dame High School, San Francisco, Where she was a two time All City tennis player. Mary was involved in various alumni associations, and was a constant supporter of charities throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area. She was a honored member of the Legion of Mary and the Sodality of the Sacred Heart. Her failing health was never a source of complaint nor deflated her positive attitude. Through her entire life Mary found peace, strength, comfort and meaning through her faith. Her faith in God was the foundation on how Mary lived, how she raised her family, and the loving and supported manner she communicated with her grandchildren, and friends. Mary's loving legacy will be forever cherished. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 21 at St. Cecilia Church, 2555 17th Ave., San Francisco, preceded by a Rosary to begin at 9:45 a.m. The Committal at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 1500 Old Mission Road, Colma, will immediately follow the Funeral Mass. In Mary's memory please consider gifting Vision of Hope, 1555 34th Ave., Oakland, CA, 94601 or Saint Vincent Day Home, 1086 8th St, Oakland, Ca. 94607.