Lena Pearl Fontes, loving mother and nana, passed away in Castro Valley on December 8, 2018.  She was 101 years old.

Born in Denver, Colorado on August 8, 1917, Lena was one of three children blessed to David and Hannah Siegal.  She graduated from high school and began her career in the United States Navy proudly serving during WWII.  Lena was honorably discharged from her service, but continued working as an executive administrative assistant for 34 years with the US Government. Lena met and married the love of her life, Patrick.  Together they would share 37 years and raise their beloved daughter, Sharon, prior to his passing. 

Lena enjoyed sharing her time, volunteering for many years at St. Rose Hospital in Hayward during the 1980s and took great pleasure in volunteering at her grandson's elementary school when he was a child.  Lena was very social.  She enjoyed lunching with friends, keeping current on the community around her, shopping (Nordstrom's was the favorite!) and spending time with her loved ones.  Lena was full of personality and loved her family time.  She treasured black jack tournaments with her devoted grandson and his family and especially enjoyed the holidays where she could indulge in See's Candy and her stash of Snickers. Lena most recently resided at Baywood Court Assisted Living in Castro Valley where she enjoyed meeting new friends, flower arranging the occasional arts and crafts class. Lena was treasured by all who knew her and will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter and son in law, Sharon Ann & Raymond DeMello; grandson and granddaughter in law, Jeffrey Joseph and Wendy DeMello; her treasured great granddaughter, Maurissa DeMello and many loving extended family and friends.Lena was preceded in death by her husband, Patrick Joseph Fontes; and brother, Samuel Siegal and sister, Fannie Walton.

Visitation for Lena will be 4 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, December 13, 2018 at Grissom's Chapel & Mortuary, 267 E. Lewelling Blvd., San Lorenzo.  Funeral services will begin at 11 am on Friday, December 14, 2018, also at Grissom's Chapel.  Lena will be laid to rest with military honors at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the veterans organization of your choice.