Mary Catherine Starling

Mary was born on May 20, 1954, to John Marion Sr. and Gertrude Rose (Friedrich) Fanucchi in Stockton, CA. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in 1972, she enrolled initially as a chemistry major at San Jose State University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies in 1977.

In 1975, during her college years, she met Edward Lawrence “Ed” Starling, while both were working at Kmart in San Jose, CA. They were wed June 04, 1977, having twin boys, Andrew Frederick Fanucchi and Thomas John Starling in 1986.

After graduation, she began a 46-year career in accounting. She enjoyed working for small companies located around the south San Francisco Bay Area. Her final position was as Controller at San Francisco Bay Brand, a pet food manufacturer.

Andrew and Thomas were Mary’s pride and joy, and she became a hockey mom, a stage mom, and a band mom during their school years. She loved cooking, especially dishes reflective of her immigrant grandparents. Special dishes included Italian red sauce full of sausage, herbs and spices, lasagna and fettuccine dishes, beef stroganoff, and spare ribs and sauerkraut. One particular favorite was her grandmother’s Lucchese torte. She also enjoyed assembling meals for the family reflective of the San Jose area melting pot cultures – Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, and Indian cuisine. She was equally at ease at the barbeque during the summertime. She was known for bringing a spread of cookies, candies, and specialty deserts to family gatherings. Mary was also a photographer of wildflowers par excellence. She collected Depression Glass, old china, and porcelain, and ran a respected and successful eBay store, Wottadish, selling replacement pieces.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, and by one brother Vincent Ignatius Fanucchi. She is survived by her husband and sons; three brothers, Joseph John, John Marion Jr. (Shirley), and Blaise (Kim) Fanucchi; two sisters, Christine Anne “Tina” Dixon (Michael), and Teresa Marie Fanucchi; and one nephew, four nieces, and one great niece.

Mary is deeply missed, and will be remembered by family and friends for her sense of humor, quick wit, and caring disposition. A Celebration of Life will be held from 12:00 to 02:00 PM on May 20, 2023 at Willow Glen Funeral Home, 1039 Lincoln Ave., San Jose, CA.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.willowglenfuneralhome.com for the Starling family.