Ida Borgatello

Ida Borgatello passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on June 1, 2016, surrounded by family. She was born on August 3, 1916 in Santa Barbara, the fourth of five children born to Secundo and Josephine Borgatello. Seeking a better life, Ida's parents immigrated from Italy in the early 1900's. The young family was devastated by the loss of their father in 1918. To support her family, Josephine opened her home to Italian workmen. She provided daily meals, laundry and a comfortable place to live. This early life experience taught Ida the values of faith, family and hard work. Ida mastered all things related to the kitchen from her beloved mother. The kitchen was the heart of the home she shared with her sister Laura. It was there that she labored over the stove and oven, always busy canning fruit, making jam, and baking her most coveted bread and butter pickles. Ida was famous for her tasty treats and beautiful Christmas baskets. She kept her large family in good supply of weekly cookies ... her only request was that you return the cookie tin! Ida was a devoted member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church her entire life. She and her sister Laura were members of the Alter Society and African Missions. Together, they prepared the alter with beautiful flowers for weekly mass for over 60 years. If there was ever news to known about the church, Ida had the inside scoop! Ida's work ethic was instilled in her at a very young age. Her first job was as a checker for Jordano's Market. She went on to work for many local doctors including Drs. Rezzonico, Edwards and Dean Vogel. Ida managed their offices with the highest integrity. Well known for her ability to "call it like it is," she was hard working and loyal to those for whom she worked. Ida's large extended family was a very important part of her life. The back door was always open to visitors. She enjoyed large family gatherings and intimate chats with friends. Ida always offered her visitors something to take when they left. Her ritual of standing in the driveway, waving and blowing kisses, will never be forgotten. In her final years Ida, looked forward to the steady stream of Sunday visitors and enjoyed keeping up with the comings and goings of her large family. Ida was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Charles and Mario, sister Laura, sister-in-law Peggy, brother-in-law Denham and nephew Denny Lord. She leaves behind sister August Lord, nephews David (Louise), Mario (Judy), and Norman, nieces Joy (Denise) and Laura Lord. Auntie Ida, as she was affectionately called, will be deeply missed by her eleven grand nieces and nephews, as well as twenty three great-grand nieces and nephews. Auntie Ida's passing leaves a huge void in the lives of those who were blessed to have known her. We are comforted by countless memories of her fun-loving and generous heart. Her legacy of giving more than she took will be with us forever. The family wishes to thank her devoted caregivers, Mary Martinez, Eva Valdez and Rosina Valdez for their care and companionship. We are grateful to Dr. Michael Bordofsky for his many years of care. Ida's passing was made peaceful by the wonderful staff of Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care to whom we are most appreciative. For those who wish to honor Ida's life, donations can be made to Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Bishop Diego High School or Visting Nurse and Hospice Care.

Ida Borgatello

August 3, 1916 - June 1, 2016