In Loving Memory
Barbara Alves Laplace, born May 27, 1942, in San Jose, California, passed away on August 18, 2026. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and her steady presence will be deeply missed. She was the cherished daughter of Manuel Alves and Delphine Alves, and the sister of Manuel E. Alves.
In 1960, Barbara married Ronald Laplace, beginning a devoted partnership filled with love, loyalty, and shared memories that would span more than six decades. On July 31, 2026, Barbara and Ron celebrated 66 years of marriage, a beautiful testament to their enduring love, commitment, and life together. Their daughter, Lisa Marie Laplace, was born in 1963 and remained a treasured part of Barbara’s heart, life, and legacy.
Barbara was known for her strength, intelligence, and grace. In the early 1960s, she worked in security at Lockheed in Document Control, holding a top secret clearance and carrying meaningful responsibility at a time when opportunities for women in such roles were still emerging. In 1968, Barbara and Ron moved to Fortuna, California, where together they built a life rooted in family, friendship, community, and service.
Her professional life reflected her steady work ethic and natural ability to lead. Barbara began as a teller and worked her way up to become a bank manager, serving with Imperial Savings and Loan, Bank of the West, US Bank and Wells Fargo. She earned respect through her dedication, professionalism, and the genuine care she showed for the people she worked with and served.
Barbara also gave generously of herself to the Fortuna community. She served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, was a Rotary member, and held officer and board member roles with many local service and community organizations. She and Ron were also active members of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fortuna. Her involvement reflected her care for others and her deep commitment to the place she called home.
Barbara and Ron shared a love of travel and adventure, creating many cherished memories along the way. Together, they traveled in their motorhome and later in their custom coach, “Rytzy Gypsy,” which was designed by Barbara and built by Ron. The coach was a reflection of their creativity, teamwork, and the joy they found in exploring the road side by side.
Barbara will be lovingly remembered for her strength, devotion to family, resilient spirit, and the lasting mark she left on her community. Her life touched many people in Fortuna and beyond, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. There will be a celebration of life will be Sunday September 27 at 1pm at the Saint Joseph’s Parish Activity Center, Fortuna it is adjacent to the rectory at 2312 Newberg road. Join friends and family to share memories.