Obituary of Ilda E Rossi

Ilda Rossi passed away at her residence of 62 years on December 11th. Born to Italian immigrant parents in San Francisco on October 27, 1919, she was raised in Madrone, near Morgan Hill, CA. Italian was her first language and she learned English after attending school as a young child. During her school years, she was an avid player of basketball and softball. After graduating from San Jose State, she was employed by the San Jose Mercury News. She married Marion (Midge) Rossi in 1941 and travelled with him to Georgia, Texas, Oregon and Kentucky while he was an officer in the Armored Division of the U.S.Army. In 1946, they settled in Santa Cruz, and along with Elmo and June Legge, owned and operated Opal Cliffs Food Center (the first grocery store on 41st Avenue) until the late 1960's. Ilda enjoyed water skiing and snow skiing vacations with her family. She took active Pilates classes untl the age of 92. She wa a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the Italian Catholic Federation and Catholic Daughters. She is survived by her children; Ron (Holly), Don (Claire) and Suzi (Ron), two grandsons; Jason (Aviva) and Vincent and two great grandchildren; Alex and Zachary. She also leaves many nieces and nephews and a true family legacy. She will be remembered by all for her unending positive attitude and sense of humor. The Rossi family extends its heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers – Brigit, Genny, Ana and Miriam. Recitation of the Holy Rosary and a Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 435 Monterey Ave., Capitola on Monday December 15, at 11:00 am. Arrangements are under the care of Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel. Please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com to express your condolences to Ilda's family. Memorial contributions may be made to Unbound (Christian Foundation for Children and Aging) for the benefit of Sharon Makena, www.hopeforafamily.org; Hospice of Santa Cruz or your favorite charity.