Obituary of Dorothea "Dora" Pepito

Dorothea "Dora" Pepito of Santa Cruz passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at the age of 77. She was born February 5, 1940 in San Antonio, Texas, to Rachel Martinez and Agustin Sanchez. She was married to her loving husband, Felix Pepito, who passed away September 22, 2011. Dora was a long time resident of Santa Cruz since 1966. She attended Cabrillo College and San Jose State University and earned her Early Childhood Education certificate. She was a Head Start teacher for many years eventually retiring in 1998 as a social worker for Santa Cruz County. Dora was warm, compassionate and full of life. She loved to travel and couldn't wait to pack her bags for the next trip. Always giving of her time, she was active in the community by volunteering and being a Board member at the Salvation Army. She loved to play the Lottery and couldn't wait for a chance to win big at the slot machines. Dora never hesitated to open her home and went out of her way to help others and everyone wanted to be in her company. She had a beautiful soul and smile which will never be forgotten. She is survived by her children Daniel Moreno, Jerry (Karen) Alvarez, David Alvarez, Maria Aguirre and Marti (Mark) Meyer; grandchildren Jonna Moreno, Brandon (Amy) Alvarez, Katrina Alvarez and Gabriella Alvarez; great grandchildren Andre Ryder Moreno, Marissa Bonta, Alexis Alvarez, Ava Alvarez and Mackenzie Torlone; brother, Santos C. (Jill) Sanchez and sister, Phyllis "Pila" Aguilar. Dora is also survived by Robert (Nora) Pepito and Joseph Pepito along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and godchildren that she loved dearly. She is preceded in death by brothers Miguel Perez and Joe (Dixie) Martinez. The family would like to give a special thank you to Santos "Sandy" Sanchez. A memorial service will be held at 11:00am, Friday, December 8, 2017 at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, 1050 Cayuga Street, Santa Cruz, 95062. A celebration of life will immediately follow. To express your condolences or share a remembrance with Dorothea's family, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com.