RENDON, Barbara Ann (Ratto)
June 27, 1927 - May 15, 2009
Barbara was born in Stockton to Georgia (Rossi) and John Ratto. ''Johnnie's'' early death when Barbara was 10 years old was a loss that had a lifelong effect. She grew up to be a beautiful, outgoing woman with a deep need to give and receive love. She is remembered by all who have known her as an energetic and caring person who brought life and a spirit of fun to every encounter.
After her father's death, Barbara was cared for by her Nona Rossi at their home on Scotts Ave. Her mom's marriage to Floyd Dunlap gave Barbara a stepdad who would be a support through much of her life. In her senior year of high school, she met Rumaldo ''Ronnie'' Rendon, the man who would be her life partner for 36 years. Barbara graduated from Stockton High School, and worked at the Naval Annex. She married Ronnie at the age of 22, and gave birth to her daughter Shareen Georgia in 1948. Ronnie's sons Ron and Carlos, joined the young family. The early years of marriage were difficult, raising three small children on very limited money, requiring Barbara to quickly learn skills as a homemaker and mother. For several years she worked at the Richmond Chase Cannery under the watchful supervision of her beloved Uncle Tony Ratto. Ronnie became a longshoreman at the Port of Stockton, establishing a career and many friendships - that would carry the couple through to his death in 1984. Barbara also worked as an inspector at the Diamond Walnut plant in Stockton, commuting from her new home in West Sacramento, until her daughter graduated from college. There with her dearest friend, Alfreida ''Fritze'' Watson, and a lively group of women, she worked hard, formed strong bonds, and brought a little playfulness to every day. After her retirement, Barbara and Ronnie traveled far and wide in their motor home, having countless adventures and good times with their friends. Seeing the world, connecting with people, enjoying food, drink, and life's beauty these were Barbara's passions. After surviving breast cancer, Barbara became active in the support group, Encore, where she made many new friendships. She also was active in Dr. Bodai's campaign for breast cancer awareness, the Wall of Hope at the State Capitol, the Breast Art and Education Project, and Reach to Recovery. She volunteered for the Children's Home at the Casa Garden Restaurant, the ''Eagles'' Special Olympics golf group, and the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee, where she displayed her typical flair and joy in life. For the past 13 years, Barbara lived in her home in Campus Commons, Sacramento. She was an enthusiastic member of the Cadillac Drivers Golf Club, continued to travel at every opportunity, and kept up her activities with friends and family. Her relationship with her daughter Shareen and son-in-law Larry Stanfill was an ongoing source of joy and comfort. In her last weeks of life, the family was blessed with the special care and support of Manu Biantubukoso and Vani Leyaleyadi, and of the fine people with Yolo Hospice. Barbara died peacefully at the Rendon-Stanfill home in the evening of May 15. She is and will be deeply loved and greatly missed.
Friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, April 21, from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. at W.F. Gormley & Sons, 2015 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento. A memorial gathering will be held this Friday, May 22, at 11:30 a.m. at the Newman Catholic Community Center, 5900 Newman Court, across from Calif. State University. Following a procession to Stockton, graveside services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. at San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery, 719 Harding Way. The family suggests in lieu of flowers that donations in Barbara's honor be made to Yolo Hospice, P.O. Box 1014, Davis, CA 95617, or to The Breast Cancer Research Program, 300 Lakeside Dr., Oakland, CA 94612.
Published in the The Sacramento Bee from 5/21 to 5/22/2009
