Norma (Becchio) Cornish

Norma Cornish, a native of Santa Barbara, passed on peacefully just before dawn on April 26, 2018, seven weeks shy of her 103rd birthday. She was born Norma Margaret Becchio along with her twin brother, Norman, on June 13, 1915 to Romano “Reno” and Catherine (Walsh) Becchio. She also had two additional siblings, Francis and Edgar.

She attended Notre Dame All Girls High School which eventually became Catholic High and is now known as Bishop Diego High. She also attended UCSB when it was still located on the Riviera. She married Clayton J. Cornish on September 1, 1940. They had two sons.

Clayton J. “Duke” Cornish, Jr. predeceased her in a tragic accident on December 19, 1968. She is survived by her son, Mickey (Leslie) Cornish, five grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

Although she was reluctant to admit getting close to 100, one of her cherished moments was a celebration of that milestone birthday at Garden Court where she resided for some of the happiest years of her life. She was especially proud of making local news with a front page article and picture of the event.

Along with the blessed experience of the supportive staff at Garden Court, she was wonderfully cared for during the last 13 months at Buena Vista Care Center. A special thank you to her Becchio family, particularly Cecilia, and Gary Pesek, for their incredible devotion of time, energy and love to Auntie Norma. Also, to her dear friend for so many years, Andrea Bifano and her family.

There will be a Celebration of Life and Thanks (along with ice cream!) at Garden Court, 1116 De La Vina St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 on Friday, May 18th at 1:30 p.m.

If you feel led to make a donation in her honor it would be gratefully appreciated for the Garden Court Employee Fund at the address listed above.

Simply Remembered is acknowledged for their respectful care of her final arrangements.