Tomasina Arlene Gettel
December 08, 1946 - September 24, 2010
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Tomasina Arlene Gettel
December 08, 1946 - September 24, 2010
Obituary
Tomasina Arlene Gettel
Born in Lynwood, CA – December 8, 1946
Passed away September 24, 2010
Memorial Services: Friday, October 1, 2010 10:00 a.m. – O’Connor Mortuary, Laguna Hills
Reception and ‘Celebration of Tomi’s Life’ immediately following 12:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. – San Juan Hills Country Club, San Juan Capistrano
Interment: Saturday, October 2, 2010 Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills
Tomasina Gettel was an amazing lady! Tomi grew up in Downey, CA. She worked 10 years for Dun & Bradstreet rising to Chief Bookkeeper until she met and married David Gettel on December 14, 1974. Soon after, Tomi relocated her family 13 times in 25 years, including Louisiana twice, Iran, Washington State, West Africa, Indonesia and up and down California before finally settling in Lake Forest and Palm Desert, California.
Tomi was an active member of the San Juan Hills Women’s Golf Association holding several positions including Membership Chairman and President.
Tomi was creative, funny, witty, strong, loving, caring a true fighter – the epitome of a hero! Tomi was a devoted wife, phenomenal mother, and loyal friend.
She leaves behind her husband, David Gettel; two daughters, Kristen Jim Gettel-Barrett, Brooke Rob Duval; four grandchildren, Joshua and Kailee Barrett, Jaydon and Collin Duval. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Elizabeth Evenson.
She will be missed!
Please visit: oconnormortuary.com for more information on services and to write your memories to Tomi.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to:
StandUp2Cancer.org
Knots-of-love.org
41 responses to Tomasina Arlene Gettel
Lynn Romano says:
October 7, 2010
Heaven now knows what a special lady Tomi is. Her kind and loving spirit will never be forgotten. So my friend, watch over us from afar, guide and protect us.
Sue Robuck says:
October 8, 2010
Tomi and I had a load great memories over the years. Boarding school, roommates in our early 20s, trips to the Central Valley, my visits to Louisiana & Isfahan to name a few.
I’m sad we had not communicated in the past couple of years. I’m wishing David and the girls strength and many blessing in this time of transition.
Brooke Duval says:
October 12, 2010
Well mommy, you have been gone for a short time, but it already feels like an eternity to us. This last weekend I spent some time with dad and we happen to come across a saying that I feel fits you perfectly.
“Legends say that hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. Hummingbirds open our eyes to the wonder of the world and inspire us to open our hearts to loved ones and friends. Like a hummingbird, we aspire to hover and savor each moment as it passes, embrace all that life has to offer and to celebrate the joy of everyday. The hummingbird’s delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life’s sweetest creation.”
We all know hummingbirds were your favorite, but you are ours!
You are free to fly…but please buzz by us once in a while.
With all my love, ALWAYS!
Your daughter,
Brooke
Jackie Silva says:
October 12, 2010
When I heard of your passing I was flooded with memories..I will always remember coming home from Berenda School with Brooke and we would find you in the kitchen. You would make us a Roast beef sandwich, I looked forward to those sandwiches. I had never had such a good roast beef sandwich and I haven’t had one as good as yours since. I spent many nights and days and weekends with your family and my best friend Brooke at that house on Varden. Then when the Prison was done and you all moved away to El Centro you came and picked me up and Brooke and I spent time in Downey and we went to Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain. Then you drove us down to El Centro where I spent more time with the Family. I have such great memories. I love you all and even though Brookie and I live far apart now I will never forget those great times with you and David and Brooke…I pray for peace for Brooke and David and Kristen.
Michelle Schneider Land says:
October 12, 2010
Brooke, I am so sorry for you and your family. I have lost my mommy as well and I am praying for God’s grace to ease your family through this difficult time