Mary Meinke's Obituary
We the family of Mary Meinke celebrate our Mother, Oma, Sister and Friend as she passed to her eternal life on March 28, 2012. She gently moved to her new life in the presence of her daughter Iris and family members and loving caretaker, Tilila Pita. She leaves behind many who love her and especially her daughter and son in law, Iris and Al, her son Art and Nestor, her granddaughter Jenny and husband Joe, plus new great grandchild Rafaella, and grandson Justin. We are especially thankful for the lifetime friendship and caring of Gerry and Alex Brender a Brandis, who in Mary's final days showed extraordinary love and compassion. Mary was born in Purwokerto, Indonesia on January 5, 1920. Her life was one of sacrifice and sharing as she was put in situations that challenged her. In Indonesia she was interned during the Second World War, and the Indonesian Revolution. She started a new life in San Mateo, California, where the family immigrated to in 1960, adjusting to a new way of life and culture. In Indonesia she taught at grammar schools, designed and made clothing, and did some modeling work. She was an excellent tennis player and a good bridge player with her friends. In San Mateo she worked with the California Highway Patrol, the San Mateo Juvenile Hall and retired from San Mateo County. In her retirement years she took the opportunity to travel around the world, often with her sisters and along the way was able to visit Singapore, Hawaii, Brazil, Florida and many other places. Mary was a woman devoted to her Catholic faith and made a point of attending church wherever she visited. At home she surrounded herself with articles of faith that comforted and strengthened her.All of us who have had the opportunity to share time with Mary will surely miss her positive attitude, her love and respect for all, and her loyalty to her family and friends. Mom, we will always have you in our hearts and minds. and as we miss, you we will always feel your love and influence.
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