Mrs. Mary MIfsud

Mary Assunta Mifsud 1/16/1925 – 12/6/2016 Mary Assunta Mifsud was born on January 16, 1925 in her parents’ home of Carmelo and Guiseppa Tonna, in Mosta, Malta. She passed away on December 6, 2016 in Vacaville, CA. Predeceased by her loving son, Charlie; the love of her life, her husband Emanuel; brother George and sister Rose. She is survived by her beloved brother Joe Tonna of Concord, CA. Having loving and supportive parents, Mary was raised in the Catholic faith. She learned at an early age to become a seamstress; making clothes for her neighbors helped her support her family. Mary’s education was violently interrupted by World War II. Malta, home to the British Fleet, sustained the heaviest bombing, as it was the target of fierce German and Italian bombers. Mary and her family endured near starvation and destruction during that period as schools, churches and numerous infrastructures were targeted. Mary spoke of seemingly endless terrifying hours in bomb shelters with family during her teenage years. In 1951, Mary met Emanuel and were soon married at St. Mary’s Cathedral (The Mosta Dome), and lived with her parents for the first year where their first son, Charlie was born. With the sponsorship of her brother Joe who was living in San Francisco, Mary’s dream of living in America came true. In 1953, Mary, Emanuel and Charlie immigrated to the United States. Mary was the most loving and nurturing mom to her four children Charlie, John, Ron and Barbara. She supported, nurtured and guided them throughout their lives. Having taught herself English, Mary became a naturalized citizen in 1964, a very proud moment for her and her family. Mary worked at various warehouse jobs, including See’s Candies, but was most proud of her 20+ years at Hills Brothers Coffee on the Embarcadero. During retirement, Mary made several trips back to Malta with her family and always hoped to return once again to visit with her extended family and friends. Mary especially loved family gatherings especially around the holidays, preparing feasts and visiting with her loved ones. Mary truly loved her grandchildren, Suzanne, Johnny [Michelle], Sawyer and Brittany who all loved listening to her stories of growing up in Malta. Mary also adored her two great-grandchildren, Kennedy and Hudson. We will always remember Mary’s zest for life, sense of humor, infectious smile, love of music, hearty laughs and her kind and gentle soul.

Mrs. Mary MIfsud

January 16, 1925 - December 6, 2016