Mary Elizabeth Bruch

May 22, 1930 - June 17, 2016

Maribeth, Resident of Los Altos Hills and devoted wife of Barry Bruch for 62 years, passed away at age 86. A third generation native Californian, she was born in Palo Alto to Elizabeth and John F. Willcox. Maribeth graduated from Hamlin School in 1948 and San Francisco State University in 1952 with an Education BA and uniquely an Industrial Arts minor.

Maribeth met Barry at a Hamlin schoolmate’s class party in 1947. In 1954 they married in Stanford Memorial Church. They first lived in Menlo Park, where Maribeth taught school and Barry finished his Stanford BS and post grad studies. When Barry was called to Army duty in Pasadena, Maribeth taught school locally. Afterward, they relocated to Los Altos and started their family. The children became the focus and additional love of her life. Maribeth also participated at Peninsula Volunteers.

In Los Altos Hills, Maribeth discovered a great view lot where she and Barry built their home and resided since 1965. There, Maribeth implemented the landscape architect’s plan since gardening was one of her passions.

Maribeth and Barry frequently vacationed in Europe and Asia. Maribeth provided significant participation in Barry’s two startup ventures. For recreation the family learned to race small sail boats. She skippered one with daughter Marie as crew.

After retirement, Maribeth volunteered at the Los Altos History Museum. She and Barry continued to globe trot and take cruises. Eventually, they made almost month long visits exploring hidden attractions and cultivating friends in Hong Kong and Paris. In Paris, they rented a Studio from which Maribeth enjoyed being a part of the neighborhood.

Maribeth’s friendships were warm and lasting. Acquaintances quickly recognized she was positive thinking, talented and an amazing lady. She could fix anything, cook a gourmet meal and coax a reluctant plant to thrive, while providing keen humor and companionship.

Maribeth is survived by: husband Barrett Bruch; children Marie (Hoskins) and Jay; grandchildren Steven Hoskins and Amber Hewitt; great grandson Chase Hewitt; in-laws Oma Bruch, Carmen Bruch, Eric Schilling, Heather Houser and Brian Hewitt; nephew John Willcox and miniature poodle Sugar. She is deeply missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Maribeth’s honor to your favorite animal benefit organization.

Private family services were held.