Grace Orlando DiManto

Grace was born July 8, 1926, in San Jose, California. She lived her entire life of 98 years in San Jose.

She was the youngest of 7 surviving siblings. Her mother had lost a baby before Grace was conceived.

As Grace grew and attended San Jose High School, she began taking piano lessons on the piano that is still in her home.

Her family attended The Christian Apostolic Church in San Jose – more commonly known as the Italian Church.

It was at church that she met Vincent DiManto whom she married on August 26, 1950.

They had three girls – Nancy, Kathy and Lynne.

Vince and Grace attended Blossom View Foursquare Church in the early part of their marriage.

They were instrumental in helping build the sanctuary, kitchen and social hall and eventually the Sunday School wing.

Grace used her musical talents in playing for the choir and congregationally.

In 1970, they started attending Bethel Church.

One memory from Judy Harris: I have such sweet and happy memories of Grace from my time serving Bethel Church as a secretary during the 1970’s. Whenever I called for volunteers to help with special projects I could always count on Grace. Her beautiful smile and joyful demeanor made tasks fun and enjoyable.

Grace enjoyed music, travel to Kauai on vacations, crafting with women’s groups in the church, painting ceramics and baking. The DiManto home played host to several traveling gospel groups throughout the years.

She had a talent for making pies which the family enjoyed.

Come December, she and Vince – known lovingly as Nana and Papa by the grandchildren – hosted many Christmas Eve dinners at their house. Each year, they baked dozens of cookies – some of which were Grace’s mother’s recipes.

Grace believed in the warmth of family and in being a friend people could depend on when they were in need. She was unfailing in her daily reading of scripture, and steadfast in her love and care of Vince as he grew ill and passed in the Spring of 2010.

Grace said she wasn’t going to die. She was waiting for the Lord’s return. He had other plans for her. She went to her Heavenly home on September 20 in the early hours of the morning.

Grace is survived by her daughter Nancy Laing(Barrie), her daughter Lynne Tellez(Mike) , her son-in-law Joel Thorson, her seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

After learning of her passing, memories were shared by friends.

Bob Wright – The DiManto family were stalwarts at Bethel Church.

Eric Harshaw – She was a wonderful friend to my mother.

Janice Wells - Grace had poise and dignity, composure and compassion.

Her home was a place of welcome. I am indebted to her for giving me strength in times of need. I will love her always.

Kathryn Salazar – What a wonderful lady! Such incredible memories of her.

Betty Barton – I have so many wonderful memories of that precious soul who I loved. I rejoice that she is finally Home with our Savior

We know where she is and that she is whole and in the Lord’s presence.