Alice Do Espirito Santo

Alice was born in July 14, 1924, and passed away on October 19, 2024. She lived to be 100. 

She lived most of her life in Macao, moving to Canada in 1991. Her life was filled with a blend of challenges, turmoil, and joy. She was very religious, seldom missing her daily prayer. 

She was a daughter to loving parents and her early life was filled with love and affection. Both of her parents loved her deeply and her eyes always radiated with joy when she spoke of her parents. Tragedy struck when she turned 13. Her family was devastated by the loss of her father; in 1935 there were no social programs for families of deceased breadwinners and the family endured real hard times. All of her siblings contributed to ensure the survival of the family as a whole. She had a part-time job at a local pharmacy learning how to prepare ointments and medications for colds, coughs, and other ailments. It was during this time that she met her future husband who was working for a different company but associated with the pharmacy. At 17 she was married, and went on to raise a family of six; four boys and two girls. 

They were blessed with good fortune becoming fairly well off and a prominent family.  Alice developed a passion for both baking and cooking. SHe became good particularly at baking. She did some studies in Switzerland and then at the Cordon Bleu in Paris. 

Years later, tragedy struck once again and she was divorced. Once again, she had to work in order to support her six children. She had been invited to establish a bakery and restaurant within a large casino. In a short time, both the bakery and restaurant became well known. She became famous and participated in culinary events on an international level, including television shows in Europe and Asian countries. Alice has been recognized in several cookbooks. Her mother played a vital role in maintaining the family dynamics. 

She moved to Calgary in 1991 after her retirement and remained here for the rest of her life. Here she found tranquility and contentment. 

Alice was a generous and kind person, always ready to help others who were going through tough periods. Some were critical of the way she handled things but her intentions were always genuine. 

I would know, as I am her youngest son...for me she was not only the greatest mother, she was my best friend!

GOD BLESS YOU, ALICE.

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