Janet Simonetti

Mom was blessed to dwell in this universe of endless time for 90 years. She was born in Ecuador but considered herself Puerto Rican. When she was 3, her family moved to New York, where she was raised with her 2 sisters. At age 15, she was sent to Puerto Rico to become a “proper senorita.” Mom transformed into a beautiful lady and eventually married our beloved father, Jose Rafael, and raised 3 daughters. In 1976, she moved to CA and had a successful career at Eastman Kodak. At age 53, she married John, with whom she was happy until his passing. Throughout the years, Mom did her best to create lasting ties with family and friends while remaining active in her church.

Within all these dates, places and events, Mom’s life had meaning and purpose. Responsibility, integrity, discipline, truth in word and action, and cleanliness were at the top of her list. “Do your homework, organize your room and drawers, tell me the truth.” She was a person who did not mince words and would bluntly tell you if you were in the wrong or if she disagreed with you. Mom held her family and friends to a higher standard. What never failed was her assurance of love to us, and wit during times of trial. We remember the Carmen opera awakening us at 7am on Saturdays to clean house, her serving us delicious foods while our father hummed classical music and smiled, her interest in movie classics, the special love for her sister Elvia, her affection for the Mo Val wild burros, her gratitude for the trees and birds in her backyard, and kindness to strangers.

From the bottom of our heart, we love you and miss you, Mami! We are so fortunate and blessed to have had you in our lives. You have merged into the Consciousness of endless time.