Obituaries

Early December 26, 2022 Betty Pacheco left behind a full, well-lived 89 years. Her intelligence and kindness positively touched the lives of many friends, family, students and co-workers. She was always eager to learn more and especially to know about people she talked to. Somehow she was related to everyone she met. She was also known for her love of Cal Bears and See’s chocolates.

Born to Tony Pacheco and Stella Serpa in rural Fremont, she attended Hayward public schools until she entered the University of California Berkeley at age 16. There she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education and later followed her doctorate from the University of the Pacific.

Betty worked as a counselor/teacher in San Leandro and then Newark, eventually moving into administration as principal at Newark Memorial before becoming Superintendent of Schools in Cupertino. After retiring from Cupertino, she continued to work at Santa Clara University and San Jose State University in their Administrator Training programs. In 1994 she was recognized as Woman of the Year by the California State Legislature for her “outstanding service and dedication to the people of the State of California”.

She is survived by her closest and best friend, Pat Simon, by a large family with many cousins, and by numerous friends.

A Vigil Service will be held Tuesday, January 3 at 6:00 pm with viewing from 4-8 pm at Fremont Memorial Chapel, 3723 Peralta Blvd., Fremont. There will be a Funeral Mass at 9:30 am on Wednesday, January 4 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 37588 Fremont Blvd., Fremont. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or your local food bank.