Dolores Catherine (Rava) Shaug

Dolores Catherine Rava Shaug was born to Gerolamo and Ines Rava on Aug. 15, 1934, in Salinas, Calif. Her father came to the United States from Italy in 1923, She was the first born American citizen and oldest of three siblings. She spent her childhood in Greenfield, Calif.

When Dolores was in high school, she became pen pals with Richard "Dick" Shaug and continued to be throughout the Korean War. When he returned from the war they began dating. The letters between the two of them are still within the family. She married Dick on Aug. 29, 1954, and they were married for 68 years. They had three sons Jerry Shaug, Larry Shaug, in 1956 and stillborn son Edward Shaug (1961). They raised their children in Greenfield.

Dolores was fortunate enough to travel to Switzerland and Italy many times throughout her life to visit her father's hometown. She was very proud of her Italian roots. She maintained close ties with her family there and was able to fluently speak the local language.

Dolores was a social advocate, kind, compassionate, listening friend and was a voracious reader. She enjoyed reading in the company of her friends, many which she had known since high school. She was a working mom until she and Dick retired to Twain Harte in August 1989. They spent the remainder of their retirement there together.

Dolores is survived by her brother, Jerry (Suzi) Rava of Paso Robles; sister, Gloria Clinton of Salinas; sons, Jerry (Carol) Shaug and Larry Shaug; foster son, Carlos Partida; and was Nonnie to her grandchildren, Ryan (Amy) Shaug, Amanda (James) Hill, Matthew (Rashell) Shaug, Jenna (Michael) Locke, Chelsea Partida; and seven great-grandchildren.

Dolores passed away on June 10, 2023, in Modesto, Calif., eight months after Dick's passing. No services will be held. Dolores and Dick have been laid to rest in Greenfield in the family plot next to their child, Edward.

Published in Salinas Valley Tribune · October 9, 2023