Gradi Johanna Cristina Van Dalen Sterling

Gradi Johanna Cristina Van Dalen Sterling Born in Bussum Holland. Passed in Austin Texas. Mother was preceded in death by her husband, Richard H. Sterling, and daughter, Margaret Michelle (Peggy) Sterling, stepdaughter, Betty Stewart, and stepson, David Sterling. She leaves to mourn her passing: son, Rolf R. Sterling; daughter, Gradi Sterling Rocamora; son-in-law, Alberico Rocamora; grandson, Dylan Rocamora; brother, Douwe Van Dalen of Holland; and, step-children Richard H. Sterling, Fred Sterling and Elinor Smith. Many cousins, nieces and nephews in various parts of the world are left to mourn as well. Gradi retired in 1992 from the University of Texas having spent many wonderful years at the Language Lab. Gradi was blessed with many friends: the Dutch group, Les Girls group, BHWC, SAGE, and her Bridge group. She enjoyed being part of these groups and the individual friendships that flourished from them. Born in Holland and living in the many countries daddy's job provided, mother remained active and involved. She made sure that each home country and our worldwide, family travels were teeming with life and a lifetime of adventures and experiences. If there was something to see, we saw it. One thing that will always be remembered is once in route to the Philippines we had an 11-hour layover in Hawaii. Instead of sitting in the airport and waiting like most people, off we went trying our hand at surfing at Waikiki Beach and touring Diamond Head. It was always like that with mother. Gradi enjoyed life and took each day for the most she could get out of it. Her spirit soared high and will now soar higher. We would like to thank Dr. David Joseph and Dr. Celia Cervantes for the excellent care they provided mother, as well as, Lighthouse Hospice. Mother loved flowers but feels that a contribution to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Association would be better served. A memorial service will be held at St. Matthews Episcopal Church, 8134 Mesa Drive, on Saturday, March 1st at 3pm. Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com