November 14, 1910 – Rose Valador was born in Mendocino, daughter of Domingo and Marian (Thomas) Valador. She was the second of six children and their eldest daughter. Rose and her siblings grew up in the historic Valador House, situated on the southeast corner of Ukiah and Rundle Streets.
Black and white photograph of Domingo and Marian Valador with their six children. They are standing on the north side of the Valador house, located at 45375 Ukiah Street. Pictured left to right, back row: Father Domingo Sr. (1877-1959); Daughter Rose (1910-2006); Son Tom (1916-1944); Son George (1908-1970); Mother Marian (1887-1950); Son Domingo Jr. (1914-2000). Front row: Daughter Violet (1924-2022); Son Joaquin (1923-1999).
In 1926, Rose entered Mendocino High School, joining the largest freshman class the school had seen at the time – 45 students. She was an active member of the Girls’ Glee Club. In a memorable performance in March 1929, the high school presented the operetta “Love Pirates of Hawaii,” a light comedy opera infused with Hawaiian and pirate elements, and Rose performed as part of the Chorus of Hawaiian Girls.
Following her high school graduation, Rose left Mendocino to pursue a nursing career in San Francisco. She was accepted as a student nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital and continued her education with additional training at Stanford Hospital. She worked as a nurse at St. Mary’s until her marriage in 1939. Despite her relocation, Rose frequently returned to visit her family in Mendocino.
Rose married Everett Mussio, a successful Redwood City building contractor. The wedding, held at the Burlingame Catholic Church, was officiated by Rev. Father Anthony, formerly of the Mendocino Catholic Church. Their reception, attended by more than 200 relatives and friends, was held at Liberty Hall in Redwood City.
Rose and Everett raised two children, Thomas and Catherine. The Mussio family made their home in Redwood City, in a house constructed by Everett himself. He passed away in 1995, and Rose followed in 2006. She was laid to rest next to her husband at Alta Mesa Memorial Park in Palo Alto.
MENDOCINO WATER TOWERS TOTE BAG – Fifteen of Mendocino’s iconic water towers are showcased on this unique tote bag, which makes a great gift, souvenir, or must-have on your next shopping spree. The original design is by local artist Michelle Noe. Enjoy identifying each tower (all are still standing) and get ready to receive compliments from those behind you in the grocery store line. The bag is 15” x 15” x 7” and is made of sturdy canvas, perfect for carrying groceries or books. It is natural color with 23” long black handles. $20.