Theresa Barbara Attard

Theresa graced the world with her loving and joyful presence for 100 remarkable years.

She was born in San Francisco’s “rural” Bayview neighborhood to Josephine and Jacob Schonbachler, birthed at home by Dr. Nellie (who many believed brought babies in her satchel). Her struggling Swiss immigrant family grew vegetables, raised farm animals, made cheese, wine, and soap in this tight-knit community, which she remained connected to throughout her life. Theresa’s parents and grandparents passed away when she was a teenager, and she and her sisters were taken in by a Catholic orphanage.

In 1940, Theresa married her first love, Harold Calkins, whom she lost to illness before their son Eddie was born. Harold’s parents, Agnes and Edward, embraced Theresa’s family throughout their lives.

Theresa later fell in love with Charlie Attard, a childhood friend. They married in 1943, before he departed for France during WWII, beginning a romance that lasted 63 years. A beautiful and vivacious couple, they made their home in Visitacion Valley with Eddie and welcomed daughters Janet, Barbara, and Charlene. They spent summers boating on Clearlake, and traveling throughout California and the US (they especially enjoyed Yosemite and trying their luck in Reno). In 1994 they moved to San Mateo, where they lived until Charlie died in 2007. Theresa and her sister-inlaw, Babs became closer than ever, enjoying YMCA water exercise classes, ladies lunches, and other adventures. Theresa moved to The Magnolia of Millbrae in 2010 for her next exciting decade.

Theresa adored her children, grandkids and great-grandchildren, all of whom believed they were her favorite! She was close to her extended family, and she cherished friendships old and new. Theresa is survived by her children, Ed (Lisa), Janet (Irwin), Barbara, and Charlene (John); grandchildren, Bill (Dana), Natalie, Amanda (Denis), Nathan (Joanna), Neysa (Mike), Erika (Mitch), Meaghan, Mollie, Amy (Erich), Jeff (Frances); and great-grandchildren, Brett, Jake, Chase, Austin, Clay, Sierra, Skye, Ryan, Jayden, Jonathan, Josie, and Emily; and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Theresa’s strength, resilience, and positive outlook helped her to overcome significant challenges and loss. Her optimism and generous spirit were key to her long, happy, wonderful life. Anyone who spent time with her had the good fortune of sharing her contagious laughter.

Theresa’s family is grateful to her longtime caregivers, Ella and Tessa, for their compassion and support.

A private burial was held at Holy Cross Cemetery. Theresa loved gatherings of family and friends. We’re planning a celebration of life in her honor at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.