Roberta Biancalana

Roberta was born in Diecimo, Lucca, Italy. She was one of ten children. At an early age she traveled by train to another small town, Carraia, Lucca to work at the Biancalana Bottega and Bar. There she met her future beloved husband, Alberto Biancalana. Shortly after they wed, they ventured across the ocean to a new hopeful life in America. Alberto and Roberta settled in Chicago, Illinois, where they had two beautiful children Marina and Cristian. Due to the extreme weather conditions, they moved to sunny San Francisco, California. Although saddened by leaving family and friends, they quickly made new friends and were embraced by a new Italian community.As Alberto began his career at Nibbi Brothers, Roberta continued to devote herself to her family and home. Her home was always welcoming and comforting to whomever entered. Roberta kept in touch with her friends on a daily basis, always making sure everyone was well. She loved her weekly Bingo games, playing cards with friends, and taking trips to Tahoe, Reno, Las Vegas, and their yearly vacations to her beloved Italy. Yes, she liked to travel!As Marina and Cristian grew older, Roberta returned to the workforce. She commuted to downtown San Francisco, Union Square at I. Magnin and later Chanel. After retirement, she and Alberto moved to their new home in San Mateo, California. She loved to pass the time by soaking up the beautiful sunshine on her deck, playing bocce ball, and taking walks through the neighborhood.Roberta and Alberto became proud grandparents to Luca Presley Biancalana in November 2008?..WHAT A JOY ! During her illness, Roberta never gave up hope for a cure. She was constantly surrounded by her dedicated and loving family and friends. Roberta will be truly missed by all who had the special privilege of knowing her. We are certain that Roberta will continue to guide us everyday with her loving spirit. Visitations: 4:00PM to 8:00PM on Thursday, February 19th, 2009 at Valente Marini Perata & Co. Funeral Directors (map/driving directions) 8:30AM to 10:30AM on Friday, February 20th, 2009 at Valente Marini Perata & Co. Funeral Directors (map/driving directions) Services: 11:00AM at Immaculate Conception on Friday, February 20th, 2009 (map/driving directions) Cemetery: Italian Cemetery540 F StreetColma, CA 94014 (map/driving directions)

Roberta Biancalana

October 2, 1949 - February 15, 2009