Mary Bustamante

Mary Bustamante, 81, died peacefully, at the home of her daughter, Noel Hastings, of Grants Pass, OR. On May 30, 2012.

Born: Maria Antoinette Scidone August 21, 1930 to Joseph and Immaculata Scidone, Italian Immigrants. Mary went to elementary school, high school and college in New York, then went to Catholic University in MD. where she met her future husband, the love of her life, Miguel E. Bustamante II. They wed on May 17, 1952. Mary was widowed, on December 18, 1965 at the age of 35, when her husband, Miguel, died while serving on active duty with the Marine Corps.

Throughout her life, Mary, held many teaching positions: St. Anne’s, St. Cecilia’s, and Immaculate Heart of Mary Elementary Schools. Mater Dei High School, and eventually as an admissions counselor at University California Irvine all in Southern California. Her number one priority in life was dedication to her children and grand children. Once retired, Mary relocated to Southern Oregon to be near to her children and her grandchildren. Once settled in Southern Oregon she was personally enriched by her volunteer work. She volunteered for Red Cross, substitute teaching for Seventh Day Adventist school, teaching Children’s church at Parkway Christian Center. Volunteering at Calvary Chapel. Sang in the choir, worked in the resource room, hosted numerous bible studies at her home, Women’s Aglow ministry, Prayer chain leader, Praise and Worship team, retreats, tutoring, lunchroom duties, North Valley Booster Club supporter, cheerleader at countless football, wrestling, cheerleading, track, concerts, school plays and more. Additionally, Mary volunteered at Three Rivers Community Hospital for a number of years. Mary had many talents and hobbies, she played the piano, sang, danced the hula, and loved her crossword and Sudoku puzzles. She was a fantastic cook and she derived great pleasure from preparing meals for family, friends and acquaintances.

She enjoyed traveling with her adult children and her good friend Juanita, traveling to Mexico, Italy, Spain, Hawaii, and all across the U.S. She found joy in her Faith and her love for Christ.

Mary is survived by her five children: Anamaria Bustamante of Springfield, Margaret Ann Norris and son in law, Jerry, of Springfield, Noel Hastings and son in law, Bob, of Grants Pass, Miguel E. Bustamante III and daughter in law, Jessica, of Eugene, and Mark F. Bustamante and daughter in law, Karen, of Foothill Ranch CA. 7 Grandchildren, and 3 Great Grandchildren. She also leaves behind her good and faithful 'furry' friend, Sammy.

Please join Mary’s family and friends for a “Celebration of Mary’s life” on Monday, June 18th at 1:00 pm at the River’s of Life Foursquare Church Fellowship Hall located at 450 S.W. J Street, Grants Pass, OR 97526. Potluck will be enjoyed by all during the celebration. If you wish to share a favorite story or remembrance of Mary the family would greatly appreciate it.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation in Mary Bustamante’s memory:
By check or online to:
www.lovejoyhospice.org
Lovejoy Hospice
939 S.E. 8th Street
Grants Pass, OR 97526

or donate to: www.caringbridge.org/MaryBustamante/tribute