A Love Story

Our Gigi, our Mom, my True Love passed away March 13th at home in Aptos after an 8year health battle from a debilitating stroke. Barbara died early Thursday morning, comfortable, at peace with her life and with her best buddy Mike by her side. She was born in San Jose, CA next door to her true love Mike. She grew upinSan Jose and spent weekends and summers on Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz. She graduated from Presentation High School and then later attended Washington State University in Pullman, WA.

Barbara married Mike in 1971 and started her family soon thereafter. Mike and Barbara celebrated their 54th Wedding Anniversary this year on March 5th. She leaves behind her true love, husband Mike of Aptos, her twin daughters Summer and Sysha of Capitola, her daughter Quigley of Australia and her dearly loved son Rhodes, who passed away 5years ago, and greeted her as they danced into heaven together. In addition, she leaves behind Sysha’s cherished children, Sydney and Michael Rhodes. Lastly, she leaves behind her son in law Dr Jean Ashton, and his and Quigley’s four children Harper, Daisy, Delaney and Baxter, all of Australia.

Barbara was the fifth of eight children born in San Jose to Marcella and Bob Podesta. She leaves behind her brothers Bob(Sacramento) and Marty(San Jose), and sisters Mary Ann(Maryland), Jeanne(Weir, San Mateo), Sally(Dodge, La Jolla), Patty(Machado, San Jose) and Liz(Maine). In addition, she leaves 33 nieces and nephews whom she spent much time playing during summers on Santa Cruz beaches.

In addition to her family of origin, Barbara leaves behind brother-in-law John(deceased), Chick(deceased) and Mary, Brian and Susan and lastly Mark and Connie, plus their 12 children.

She was passionately devoted to her children and husband, creating hundreds of Holiday, Vacation and Beach memories. Hosting many events and fantastic parties at her home, she would welcome all. Many vacations were spent adding children’s friends to the trips and events.

Barbara was loyal to family and friends, always being the most positive person and fiercely protective of all in her world. Her smile was infectious.

In business she spent several years at Bank of America and then later partnered with Mike as President of Walsh Building Contractors in San Jose. They worked together for over 18 years in the commercial construction industry.

Locally in San Jose, Barbara assisted fundraising efforts for many local political figures. She also worked on Boards of Non-Profits for San Jose Hospital, St Leos School, Bellarmine College Prep and University of Santa Clara.

Barbara lived much of her life inSan Jose and raised her children in the Rosegarden area while spending summers in Santa Cruz. She moved to Santa Cruz permanently in 1998. And her final home is in Aptos.

Thank you to all who have cared for Barbara throughout the years of her illness, especially her caregivers TJ, Billie, Martha, Maria, Keara and Ophelia. And a special thanks to Martine, her son from another Mother!

A private memorial prayer ceremony has been held at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel.

Condolences and Remembrances may be sent to Mike Walsh at 174 Seacliff Dr, Aptos 95003.

Barbara and Mike’s love story has not ended, it is just starting a new Life Chapter.

Love you always and forever, Mike