
2013_dragon_summer.pdf |

Received these emails about the article in the Dragon thought I would share as Trish and Anne share memories of our family and Mom.
Dear Rita,
I was so delighted to read about your wonderful "Noel Christmas Dinner for Those Without Family" that you've coordinated for the past 14 years. Growing from 28 to 174 guests is nothing short of amazing! And to think you have offered your Christmas Day for 14 years to bring joy to others--truly walking in the footsteps of Jesus.
It was such fun to see your photo with Mike Vadnais and to read about Barbara Souza Donely. Barbara was a classmate of my sister, Trish, and Mike a classmate of my brother, Dan. All of you were products of St. Mary's (St. Leander's) and I couldn't help but think that the San Rafael Dominicans deserve some credit.
I was in the class at both St. Leander's and O'Dowd between your twin brothers and your younger sister. At one time, I was part of a sodality, headed by Sr. Regina at St. Leander's, that met in the school basement. I think you also joined, but I don't recall that the sodality lasted too long. It would have been around 1956 or so. Does that ring a bell?
My Catholic roots have remained firm and healthy! I am a lector and an RCIA catecdhist, coordinate our parish food pantry, and serve as Clerical/Publicity Chair for Magnificat, a ministry to Catholic women. I have been married 47 years to Joe and have five children, and nine grandchildren. We have lived primarily in Southern California, but ended up 16 years ago in Santa Maria, about an hour north of Santa Barbara.
Our family lived on Victoria Avenue, east of Bancroft, and became members of Assumption Parish when it was founded due to boundary changes. I remember your family home so well that was either next door or two doors from a church that divided Dutton from your street. Your brother Barney attended grammar school with my sister Katie. My parents knew your parents quite well. Your Dad's wake was the first I ever attended. Your Mom was a kick and a half. Sometimes, I'd walk home from school with her after a Mother's Club meeting. She loved the comedian, George Goebel, and would crack me up by using his famous quote, "Well, I'll be a dirty bird!"
May God continue to bless you in all your good works!
Anne Fahey Sheaff St. Leander's Class of 1956 Bishop O'Dowd Class of 1960
Dear Rita,
I really enjoyed the article about your ministry at St.Gall. Please tell Barbara(friend and classmate)and Mike V.(classmate of brother,Dan)I send my best.
Think it is great work you are all doing. Let me know where I can send a donation.
God bless you and Ron,
Trish Fahey Turner
Ps I remember you and your family When you lived on Victoria.