Mrs Mary Clarice Vain Soares

   When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Mrs. Mary C. Soares who was indeed a born manager. She will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. She was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with her throughout her life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Mary was an individual who clearly communicated to those around her just who she was and what she was all about. Everyone acquainted with Mary knew her as a well-respected woman who was a stable force in her community.

Her parents were the late Bob (Retired San Leandro Police Officer) and Blanche Vane (still living in San Leandro and 91 years young!). Mary was raised in Boston , Massachusetts & later moved to San Leandro , California where she spent most of her adult life. Even as a youngster, Mary learned to be objective and decisive. Her faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that she carried with her throughout her life.

In school, Mary was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. She sought to achieve perfect attendance in all of her classes. She would eagerly complete her homework, and often put in extra study time when she felt it was necessary. A logical and focused thinker, Mary was always good at following directions and meeting her schedules, whether they were set by her teachers or were self-imposed. Mary’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time.” She graduated from St. Elizabeths High School in Oakland , CA . She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.

After High School, Mary went to work for Southern Pacific in San Francisco . Her circle of friends included Cy Greenbaum, Len Giberton, John Lubimir and Cliff Barker, whom she later married. Mary was sociable and approachable. Because she was always so straightforward in how she approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. She enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. Mary also worked at Crane Carrier Co. in Oakland , and for a short period at Baskin Robbins Ice Cream Parlor in Pelton Center .

During her married life with Joe Soares, Mary enjoyed traveling and the many parties they had at their home including hosting BBQ’s in their backyard for the Oakland Raiders! She wasn’t afraid to confront her friends and, when necessary, she challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Mary came to expect her high standards of performance. As an adult, some of her best friends and long term relationships were with the people she met at Cunha’s in Pelton Center including Walt & Barbara Cunha, Bill Fanjil, Ernie Fazio, and Eddie Gilmartin.

An objective and conscientious individual, Mary reveled in the security of her family. One of Mary’s most endearing qualities was her uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and her unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for her family and friends.

Mary was ever watchful of her children. She worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. Mary was blessed with 2 children, two daughters Pam and Debbie. They were also blessed with three grandchildren, Robert, Rachel and Ross.

Mary approached her leisure time in the same manner that she approached her life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, she appreciated the hours she was able to devote to her various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were Cooking, Gardening and Traveling. Mary was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Mary to do in life and that carried over to her enjoyment of sports. She also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching her favorite events whenever she got the opportunity. Tops on her list were Oakland Raiders, Oakland A's and Sunday afternoon Golf on TV.

When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Mary used her scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go. That also meant that she made certain no single person was overworked in putting the trip together. Mary had a knack for making sure that everyone who was involved had their specific tasks and that those tasks were completed. Favorite vacations included traveling with her mom and family to destinations such as Hawaii , Palm Springs , various cruises to Alaska and Mexico (with the Raiders), New England in the Fall and her trip to Las Vegas with her daughter Pam.

Mary was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. And she had many cats and dogs over the years, but one of Mary’s favorites was Misty, a beautiful long haired calico Cat. They were best friends and she was her companion for over 14 years, up until Mary left us. Her family was rounded out by her love of animals over the years including her dog Sonny whom she recently gave to her friend Glenda, as she could no longer take care of him.

When Mary’s retirement finally arrived in Mokelumne Hill , California where she enjoyed the quiet country life, she was well prepared. She used her critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to. In many ways, Mary loved retirement. It provided her with the opportunity to catch up with her friends, and tackle new interesting activities.

Mary passed away on March 4, 2008 at her most recent home in Pleasanton California . She had moved there to be closer to her family so they could help care for her. Probable cause was complications from a major stroke 4 years ago. She also battled Diabetes and Dementia. She is survived by her mom Blanche, her daughters Pam & Debbie, her grandchildren Robert, Rachel, and Ross. Services were held at Guerrero Mortuary in San Leandro California . Internment Private.

All who knew her would agree that Mary was a pillar of the community. She lived her life with her feet firmly on the ground. She had a strong work ethic, and was pragmatic in her thoughts and acts. She was willing to share her ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Mrs. Mary C. Soares did her best to ensure that her family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life she touched was given the chance to become a better person.