Dearest Alice, Mom, best substitute Grandma,

On the 6th anniversary of your departure I wanted to let you know how much we all miss you! You would be so proud of your daughter and the mother she has become! I see you in Ali's eyes and in Liam's spirit! You gave Julie the gift of how to be an amazing Mom! She has your spirit, tenacity and love!

May God Bless you!!!! 

We miss you!

Amy

Seeing Alice and Julia's relationship was such a blessing. It was a bond more than just a mother and daughter. I loved hearing about their getaways such as Vegas and Mexico. You could tell (especially when walking into Alice's home to see all of the beautiful pictures of Julia as a child adorning her walls) that Julia was one of, if not THE, most important things in her life. You will be greatly missed Alice!

I'll never forget the ever present smile on your Mom's face each and every time I was lucky enough to see her at various parties and events. However, no smile ever was as big and bright as it was when you and Brent got married in Maui. Barbara and I were so lucky to have been there, and could tell Alice was such a proud Mom and so happy to know that you had found that special guy in Brent. She will truly be missed by anyone who ever came in contact with her. And she will continue to watch over you and the family forever.

I was proud to be a co-worker, 2 plus year partner with and friend to Alice. We shared so many laughs and good times together working at the Wright Center in A pod with the girls. To this day, I still maintain that those were the best years of my career, one that spans 16 years in Probation. I respectfully and affectionately nick named Alice " Grandma Gates" for all the compassion and care that she gave to the girls committed to the Ranch. I will be forever indebted for all that she taught and shared with me. It was obvious that she loved her daughter Julia very much and was so proud of her many accomplishments. I will forever remember Alice in my heart and will continue to pray for her and her family. God Bless you Grandma Gates. I know there is a special place in Heaven for you.

Julia - Although I only got to meet your mom once, it was truly an honor to spend time with this wonderful lady, and it is clear that she captured many people's hearts. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family always.

Julia, I can't even imagine what you are going through right now. I don't really know what to say, but want you to know I'm thinking of you and praying that your faith will give you strength in this sad time. Lots of love! - Sandra

I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my prayers.
As you know Juli, you were the Love of your Mom's Life.  When I think of your mom, I think of a beautiful smile and warm heart. You were both truly blessed to have been mother and daughter.
I fondly remember the Las Madres Halloween parties at your home. Such wonderful memories. 

Hold on to all of the memories. 
Love, Renee Bettencourt

Your mom was" my fun " at any Bonino gathering! She was sarcastic and could take it , and dish it, just as good as any of the Bonino's. She had a fun laugh and was always cheerful. I will truelly miss her and of course her fun "baskets" of love she would shower us with on any and all occasions ......so cleaver and witty....love you Alice!

Although growing up overseas kept me from meeting my Aunt Alice until much later in my life, my childhood was full of "Aunt Alice stories"; my parents always telling them with such fondness.
When I did meet her, her beaming smile welcomed me, her warmth embraced me, and it became clear how such a genuine and beautiful soul could leave such lasting impressions.
She undoubtedly lives on in the many hearts she touched and in so many beloved Alice stories that we forever share and tell to keep her with us.

Julia-Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hope this site will help....so many wonderful stories and thoughts about your mom. It's clear she was a special lady and her charachter will live on with you for many years to come!

"She met me for coffee one day, total happiness written on her face. As soon as we settled down, she held up a newborn T-shirt had grandma something printed on it .  We jumped and embraced for this wonderful and exciting news. She then said " We did well ! .....I can die happy now...." I stopped her and reminded her that her own mother died at 91 from auto accident. She had good, longevity genes and she'll enjoy her grand daughter until she turns 90............ 

Alice had been my good friend (almost like my older sister) for more than 30 years. As difficult as it is to say final good bye to people we loved, I took some comfort knowing she lived an amazingly love-rich life.  The eternal love bond between Juli and her was so incredibly tight and they were truly BEST FRIENDS in every way. Knowing Juli has an amazing husband and in-laws, knowing Juli going to be a mother soon gave her the utmost peace and joy. She could be happy looking down from Heaven and be OK with the regrets that she won't be able to play with her granddaughter. 

I'll remember all the happy, good times we shared together. I'll also remember her big, loving, happy, all-included generous heart that touched everyone that had the good fortune of knowing her. She always freely, sincerely spreaded her laughters, kindness and warmth where ever she went.  I became a kinder, more generous person because of her.
My love for her will always stay in my heart and she will be missed more than she knew. RIP my friend and my sister! "

                         ------Frances

Thank you all for your kind words, thoughts, prayers, and memories. I know she would be so overwhelmed with all the love and support, as am I.

She was such a remarkable woman, a role model for me in every way. We were so blessed to have the relationship we had. I will strive every day to be as amazing a mother as she was to me.

Mom, I love and miss you with all of my heart.

Julia ... I'm so sorry to hear your Mom has passed. She was a gracious woman who was loved and will be missed by many. One thing I know to be true - we all have loved ones who have passed ... although they may be gone, their love stays with us forever!

Alice was such a warm and loving woman. I remember our time at St. Mary School....picking up the kids and heading to Taco Bell, the park etc... We would spend the afternoon talking while the kids played. Those were great days!! Juli, I am thinking of you at this difficult time. Please know that we are here for you and you are in our hearts.

Julia, though I didn't know your Mom well--I do know her legacy.  A daughter that grew into a strong, smart, amazing woman.  With much love and prayers.  Ingrid & John

I remember, around the time of Julia and Brent's wedding, Alice telling me that she was so relieved that Julia now had the love of Brent and his family (she was so impressed by the Bonino's warmth and friendliness). She said, "now if anything happens to me, I know that Julie won't be alone".
Alice was a devoted mother who cherished her daughter above all else.

Alice was a fantastic lady! I will never forget how both Alice and Julia wrapped their arms aroung both My Mom and I and took us in as family. When my Mother passed, Alice was there to guide me through the emotional storm. She graciously took a "grandmother" role in my Son's life spoiling him absolutely rotten. She did this with kindness and gratitude and I will miss her dearly! Rest in Peace Alice! We love you! - Amy

Alice was a wonderful, gentle and powerful light, illuminating many lives; especially Julia's; a deep and loving relationship; a treasure to be cherished, one that many will never experience. Rest easily, Alice. Your presence will be missed but never forgotten by people you touched and who touched you in return …