Mary Lou Zapien

Mary was born on June 3, 1929 in Roswell, New Mexico. Her family moved to Cupertino, California when she was five years old. Mary had four older brothers, three younger sisters and a younger brother. Mary lived in San Jose for most of her life. She married her childhood friend, Donald, when she was 19, and they shared 63 years together. She had six children, three boys and three girls who were her pride and joy. She had nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Mary loved family gatherings and having all of her children close to her when possible. She also enjoyed spending quality time with her brothers and sisters and nephews and nieces. She worked seasonally in San Jose canneries for many years, and attended Calvary Community Church and Cathedral of Faith Church.

Mary had many long lasting friendships. She was a loyal friend, and would stay in touch with her friends throughout the decades. She was honest and caring, and always willing to give some serious counsel. Mary was a friend and support to her sisters and mentored them in their growing up years. Mary loved to laugh, and could often be heard laughing while on the telephone with friends or family. She could also share her tears of compassion when needed or a good strong hug.

Mary had many interests. Among them were her collections. She collected dolls for many years. And some of them filled an entire wall of shelves. She loved collecting Shirley Temple memorabilia, decorative plates, antique glassware and furniture, cups and saucers, souvenir spoons and angels. Nobody ever had a problem deciding what to get Mary for a gift with so many collections. If you didn’t get her a piece to add to one of her collections you might just give her a photograph or a card, because she would display those too. Mary was also interested in ice skating competitions, and would spend hours with her eyes glued to the TV during the Olympics or World Championships. She loved piano music, and always wanted to learn to play the piano. Another strong interest was politics especially during campaign season. Her TV would be on all day to catch every bit of the news, and she would be able to give her opinion not only about the candidates but on the reporters as well.

Mary will always be remembered for her cooking and baking. Among everyone’s favorites were her beans and enchiladas and her carrot cake or prune cake. She always made fresh tortillas, which everybody loved when they came to her house. She made soup when someone was sick or feeling down, and would make someone’s favorite meal whenever they requested it. On her last day with us, though weak as she was, she insisted on sharing in the preparation of tamales and menudo.

Mary kept her faith strong in the Lord, and she and Donald built a strong Christian foundation for their six children.