Obituaries

Passed peacefully from this life to live with her heavenly father Jesus Christ on July 15, 2012 in Fremont at the age of 91. Devoted wife of 45 years to Secondo Merletti. Beloved mother of Fred A. Brusaca and his wife Linda of Fremont. Loving grandmother of Gina Brusaca of Fremont, and Jason Brusaca and his wife Christina of Fremont. Dear sister of Albert Tassi and his wife Harriet of Camden, ME, and Edith Race of Surprise, AZ. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Preceded in death by her first husband, William Brusaca, in July of 1966.

Born August 14, 1920 in Girard, KS, Helen spent her early childhood in Ratton, NM. Her family then moved to San Francisco where she lived for 80 years, until relocating to a board and care home in Fremont four years ago. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Larry and Zora Cayabyab and staff of Isherwood III Care for bringing her smiles and happiness and the highest quality of care.

Helen loved life, her passion was music and dancing. Especially during the big band era of the 40's. She loved playing the accordion, cooking, and gardening. She made the best pies and Italian specialty dishes and grew the best tomatoes, Italian lettuce, and squash. She was an avid reader, experiencing the adventures of life through books. She was bilingual, speaking beautiful, fluent Italian. She was an accomplished seamstress, making baby clothes for her grandchildren. She also crocheted, making beautiful blankets. She loved baseball and was an avid Giants and A's fan. She was an active member of Excelsior Senior Citizens Club in San Francisco.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 18, from 5-8pm with a vigil at 7pm at Fremont Chapel of the Roses, 1940 Peralta Blvd., Fremont, CA 94536. Burial on Thursday, July 19, 11am at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma, CA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Northern California and Northern Nevada, 1060 La Avenida St., Mountain View, CA 94043.