Obituary of Clara Andrade Bettencourt

“A 100 Year Journey” Clara and her twin brother Tony were born July 26, 1916 to Maria and Frank Andrade. They were raised in the rolling hills of Cienega outside of Hollister, California, along with 14 other Andrade siblings; Joseph, George, Helen, Marie, William, Frank, Tony (Clara’s twin), Frank, Louise, Angie, Manuel, John and Anna. Clara’s parents also raised 2 more Godchildren, Betty and Joe Rose. Clara was introduced to Ernest Bettencourt through a mutual friend. Four months later, Ernest and Clara were married in a double wedding ceremony with Clara’s brother, Bill and his wife Leanor on June 21, 1936. They purchased their first home on First Street in San Juan Bautista, (for 1,300 dollars), where they raised Richard, Robert, Helen and Frank. They lived there for 7 years. The 30 acre ranch between Hollister and San Juan Bautista was their next home where Ernest and Clara added 2 more children; Linda and Mary, making and even 3 boys and 3 girls. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She had 12: Kim Nicholson, Dianna Wirtz, Greg Bettencourt, Tanya Renz, Lori Laverone, Karen Brown, Mark Sousa, Molly Bettencourt, Nathan Bettencourt, Stephanie Plesek, Stacey Salcedo and Cody Martin. Clara was most noted for her devotion to her Lord, Jesus Christ. You could find her on her knees, twice daily, praying for family and friends. Her mantra was, "God is #1" and "God is Love". Her joy was her family and friends, always taking care of other's needs. It was said that Clara did not know a stranger. Readily she took in 2 of her children’s friends to live for a 3 year period of time. All who knew Clara would describe her as full of life, energy and love. She did not care to travel because, “she was satisfied to be in Hollister and San Juan Bautista with all of the people she loved”. She also loved to arrange flower that she raised in her own garden. There is no doubt that she now resides in Heaven. Rejoicing with believers who have gone before her and waiting for the rest of us to join her. Until then, we will remember the impression that she made on our lives and thank God that all is well with Clara’s soul. *** In leiu of flowers, please consider have a Mass said in her honor c/o the mortuary *** Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 pm. A Mass of the Resurrection will begin at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Church on Thursday, September 8, 2016. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.