Wanda Josephine Perino

"Vanda Gusappuni Frugoli"

Wanda, a beloved mother, grandmother, and small business owner, passed away at the age of 86. Born and raised in Gilroy, she later settled in San Leandro, where she lived until her final days. Despite battling cancer three times. Wanda remained resilient and dedicated to her family.

Wanda was preceded in death by her father Alfredo, mother Paolina, her brother Umberto, her two sisters, Mary and Inez, as well as her late husband, Robert, and her son, Vincent.

For four decades, she ran Bowlin Equipment, a family business in Berkeley with her sons Larry and Vincent. Her commitment to excellence and her warm-hearted nature endeared her to lifelong friends, many of whom she met through her business and her 30-year tenure as an Avon representative going door to door.

Wanda's generosity knew no bounds. She loved her grandchildren and sons deeply, and her compassion extended to the neighborhood cats she fed. Her legacy will be one of kindness, resilience, and humility.

Services were held at St. Mary's Parish in Gilroy on August 3, 2024, followed by burial. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Cancer Society in her honor.

Wanda will be missed by all who knew her, but her spirit lives on in the memories she leaves behind.

Published in Gilroy Dispatch · July 30, 2024