Frances Bricarello Bolfing (born Frances Mary Louise Bricarello) died peacefully on February 21, 2012, in Gilroy, CA (of natural causes). A memorial service will be held at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, 11 1st Street, Gilroy, CA on April 19, 2012 at 11:30 A.M.
 Frances was born on June 28, 1913, in San Jose, CA, to Frank and Carolina Bricarello (Italian immigrants). Her younger brother (by 7.5 years), Frank Bricarello, predeceased her in 2009 at age 91.
 Following her graduation from high school in June 1928, Frances attended nursing school at O’Connor Hospital (San Jose, CA). Upon graduation, she remained at O’Connor Hospital working as a nurse in the maternity ward. Later she worked for various doctors, in private practice.
 In June 1941, Frances married the love of her life, James Bolfing, prior to his deployment for World War II. When James returned from the war they both began building their home on Redwood Retreat Road (Gilroy, CA). Eight years later construction was completed. During construction, they adopted a baby girl, whom they named Claire.
 In 1985 James Bolfing passed away at age 71 following a head-on car collision by a drunk driver. Despite this major life change with the loss of James, Frances continued to live independently in their Gilroy countryside home until 2007 when her daughter moved her into an assisted living facility due to her moderate dementia. Claire passed away in 2009 at age 59.
 Frances was a long time member of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, an avid gardener, and a superlative cook. She enjoyed reading, sewing, quilting, cross stitching, and knitting. Her home was decorated with many of her handmade accomplishments.
 Frances is survived by John Bricarello (nephew, Sacramento, CA), Ann Bricarello (niece, San Jose, CA), four great-nephews, and two great-nieces.
 In lieu of flowers, donations should be made in Frances’ memory to Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, One Intrepid Square West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, New York, NY, 10036 or Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington Street, Suite 300, Wellesley Hills, MA, 02481.
