Tributes

Mom was born in San Francisco to Joseph Dooman and Penna Pera Dooman. A proud first generation American, she lived a storybook childhood. Her brother Joseph was born six years later and Mom promptly nicknamed him "Buddy". When Mom was only 12 years old, her father, a prominent businessman, died. Since his death occurred during the Depression, jobs were scarce. But Nana Penna, a resourceful young woman, motivated to support her two children, managed to find a job as a seamstress in an upscale department store. Quite a feat considering she had no sewing experience! Mom loved spending summers with her grandparents and other relatives in Turlock. She had fond memories of swimming in canals and attending picnics. In 1941 she graduated from Commerce High School in S.F. The start of WWII meant many friends served and died in support of our great country. At her mother's behest, she went to work as a bank teller because, "you will always have a job wherever you are". That decision led to a lifelong career as a teller. Her warm personality always meant that she had a long line of customers wanting her to tend to their banking needs. She worked at the main branch of Bank of America for 30 years. Having met her future husband at a picnic, she married Samuel Roberts in 1947. In 1959, Samee was welcomed into their loving arms followed by Laura in 1961. Outgoing and gregarious, Mom was active in many clubs. She was past Chapter President of Tiny Tim, the local chapter of the Children's Home Society and a founding member of the Assyrian American Club. She loved getting together with the BAR Girls (Bank of America Retirees) for their monthly lunches. Her tightest group of friends was the Femmes, a club started nearly 60 years ago. For many years they hosted a Valentine's Day Dance attended by many prominent people in the community. They also provided a college scholarship. These fine ladies were like sisters and while only three of the original ladies survive, the children of the Femmes are like cousins. Mom was a devoted Christian and a member of Shelter Cove. She loved God, her country, her friends and family. Mom's love of Theater, Arts, Music and Travel brought her great pleasure. She enjoyed Bridge and Tripoli but most of all, she loved to entertain! She was an incredible lady described as "classy" by all who had the privilege to know her. All who knew her became her friends and friends were treated like family. Mom always had a smile to share, a kind word to express and a warm heart to shower you with love. Our thanks and appreciation to Dr. Gervacio Diaz and staff for the care and kindness shown to our mother. Also, thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of MMC ICU North for the kind and compassionate care given to both us and Mom during the difficult days following her heart attack. She is missed by her husband, Sam and brother, Joe "Buddy". Daughters Samee Roberts (Karen) and Laura Overton (Jeff). Grandchildren Rachel (caregiver), Katie and Quinn and great-granddaughter Clara. God-daughter Michelle Sargis, her uncle, aunts and many wonderful nieces and nephews and of course, her constant companion, Sledge

Tributes

Clara Dooman Roberts

November 2, 1923 - November 17, 2011