Celia Mary (Restituto) Fiorovich

Celia Marie Restituto Fiorovich, age 98, of La Selva Beach, California, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, surrounded by her three sons, their wives, and her grandsons.

Celia was born in Bakersfield, California, in 1927 to Gennaro Restituto and Anna Fachin. In 1953, Celia married Johnnie Fiorovich (d. 2008) of Watsonville, with whom she shared many cherished years and raised three sons: Jon (Marty), Jeff (Lori), and Scott (Andree). In later years, she found companionship with Don Gilbertson (d. 2008) and, after his passing, she reconnected with Wayne Mosley, (d. 2020) whom she had first met as a young woman at Bakersfield High School. Celia was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Sam Restituto, his wife Irene, and their son Craig.

Celia is survived by her three sons and their families, including her grandsons Evan, Jared, and Rozz. Her niece Pam Bailey (Chris), their daughter Amanda Theriot (Caden), and sons, Gannon and Everett, who all remained a cherished part of her life. Her love extended well beyond blood, and many others including Jim and Windy, Jules, and Steve; all from the Gilbertson clan, also knew her simply as "Mom". A lifelong artist, Celia expressed herself through oils, acrylics, and, in recent years, life drawing and watercolors up until a few weeks ago, sharing that time with her daughter-in-law, Marty. She was an active member of the Pajaro Valley Arts community as well as the Santa Cruz Art League and dedicated many years to managing the Santa Cruz County Fair Art Show, supporting and encouraging fellow artists. Celia lived life with remarkable energy and independence. She began riding horses at just four years old, loved swimming in the ocean during childhood trips to the Southern California coast, became a pilot as a young woman, and later became an avid snow skier well, continuing into her 70s. She built a successful career as a real estate agent and broker, and even into her later years, continued managing rental properties and living independently in her family home until the end.

She was, in every sense, a "force of nature". Friends and family were often amazed at her vitality-driving until the age of 97 (and not happily giving it up), staying active, engaged, and curious about the world. She also had a well-known love of fast cars and beautiful clothes. The family joked that when she found a sweater or top she liked, she'd buy one in every color-and she often did. A lifelong Catholic, Celia also explored other faiths, reflecting her openness and thoughtful nature.

At home, raising three energetic boys, she became known for her familiar call of "Stai zitto!"-a firm and loving (Ital.) command to "shut up!" that still echoes fondly in family memory. Celia will be remembered for her strength, creativity, independence, and deep love for her family and community. Her life was full, vibrant, and well-lived, and she leaves behind a legacy of resilience, curiosity, and connection. A celebration of Celia's life will be held in May.

Published in The Pajaronian · April 29, 2026