Dorothy Anne Eggers De Maria

Dorothy Anne Eggers De Maria of Alameda, California passed away peacefully on August 16, 2017 at age 99.

Born in Alameda on November 29, 1917, Dorothy grew up during the Great Depression. She graduated from Alameda High School and continued on at Merritt Business School. She worked as a legal secretary in San Francisco until 1941.

Dorothy was married to Mario De Maria on October 31, 1941 at Saints Peter and Paul Church in San Francisco. Settling in the City, they were married 32 years and raised three children. Dorothy imparted her strength, wit, and optimism to each. Dorothy happily spent the last 33 years in her hometown of Alameda. She was proud of her roots there and enjoyed calling herself an Alameda native.

An avid photographer and passionate traveler, Dorothy thoughtfully documented extensive treks abroad. Her photographs were first exhibited in Berkeley in 1984. In addition to building a dark room, and developing, printing and framing her own work, she also kept comprehensive photo albums of her family and friends. She shared her lifelong curiosity, quick sense of humor, and love of language and music with all who knew her.

Truly compassionate, Dorothy was selfless with her love and kindness -- whether caring for her family, cultivating friendships, or volunteering her time to those in need. An active humanitarian and role model for those around her, she was inspired and motivated to do her part in making the world a better place. Her light is greatly missed, but her generous and loving spirit will live on in all of us.

Dorothy is survived by children Stephanie De Maria (Jeanette Brown MD), and Mark De Maria (Jan); grandchildren Matthew Borruso (Courtney Johnson), John Borruso (Notara Lum), Sarah Borruso (Paul Knowles), and Cal Brown; great grandson Luca Borruso-Knowles; and a wide circle of relatives and friends.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Mario, daughter Melanie, son-in-law Chuck and many family members and friends who enriched her long and exceptional life.

Dorothy’s family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Leandre, Belinda, and Lenny who cared for her the last four years.

A funeral service, followed by a memorial reception, will be held at 11am on September 4 at St. Dominic’s Church in San Francisco. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Alameda Homeless Network, attention Midway Shelter or Alameda Food Bank, attention Friendly Visitors.