Emma Mary Filippini

Emma Mary (Peterposten) Filippini
November 26, 1920 to September 4, 2020

Mama passed away on September 4, 2020 at her home at the age of 99 due to complications from a fall.  Mama was born in Lodi to James Joseph Peterposten and Mary (Ielmini) Peterposten, of Italian Swiss descent. 

She grew up on a ranch/farm in the Hughson area (near Modesto) and in 1943 married Ernest John Filippini.  Their life together was one of respect, kindness and much love.  Their two daughters felt that love and caring and are so appreciative.  Mama was really an “outdoor” person who loved to work in her garden on the ranch, and her roses were beautiful.  After she and our Dad moved to Arcata, 42 years ago, to be closer to their daughters and families, Mom would then work hours in their gardens.  Mom was a really good cook!  She especially liked making risotto, polenta and cakes.  Her cakes were sought after at school functions.  Mom loved to travel.  She and Dad had a great trip to Switzerland and Austria with niece, Mary Lou and husband Merlin.  Many laughs resulted from that trip.  Grand Teton National Park and Yosemite were special places for Mom and she visited them more than once.

Mom was very proud of her Italian/Swiss heritage.  She continued to communicate with her Swiss relatives, and a very special thank you to Jolanda Comoli and family for calling Mom and passing on family news.

While in Hughson Mom gained her Nurses Aide certification, of which she was very proud.  Mom’s volunteer work in the Hospice Shop in Arcata brought her much joy and satisfaction.  The friendships that arose from that experience were treasured, and we think you all know how much she loved you.

Mama had very good care from Mad River Home Health Care staff, and Loretta, we thank you for all the extra care and love you gave Mom.  Hospice of Humboldt was later called on for help, and again, good care and kindness were given.

Our Dad passed on in 2002.  Mom is survived by her two daughters and their husbands:  Linda and O’Rourk Swinney, and Esther and Neil Gilchrist.  Mom has two special grandchildren she loved dearly:  Gregory Gilchrist and Sarah Schiek and husband, Paul; and a very special great-grandchild, Rosary Ernestine Schiek.  Mama’s sister, Rosie Pasquetti, and brother, Jimmy Peterposten preceded her in death.  There will be no formal service, but the immediate family will take her ashes to be placed next to her dear husband, Ernest. If inclined, donations may be made to Hospice of Humboldt or Food for People in Eureka.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Emma Mary Filippini, please visit our floral store.