Jane "Anastasi" Gasperson, a 2nd generation Italian American, was born in 1951 to Joseph and Angelina Melicia Anastasi. She has one sister, Jodi Anastasi Duckett.
Her Grandparents, Joseph and Jennie Anastasia and Salvatore and Angelina Melicia immigrated from Sicily in the early 1900's. Both families were involved in the local Fishing industry, with the "Anastasia Fish Market" on the Old Monterey Wharf and Salvatore Melicia with his 2 purse seiners, The New Limited and The Sherman Rose. They worked tirelessly to make a better life for their Families.
Jane's parent's, Joseph and Angelina, owned Mike's Seafood Restaurant (the oldest restaurant on the Wharf) and Casa Karmelcorn for over 50 years, where Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, sister-Jodi, and Jane worked. It was a family affair!
Jane attended Santa Catalina School for 12 years and then graduated from Santa Clara University in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Science. A few years later, she earned her teaching credential.
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n 1974, Jane met her future husband, Gary Gasperson, at a Marotta family BBQ, a year later, they were married at San Carlos Cathedral. They are proud parents of 2 sons, Joseph and Michael. Joseph lives in Pacific Grove and is grateful to live and work on this beautiful peninsula. Michael is married to Mandy and has 2 precious children, Hudson and Harper, who live in Portland, Oregon.
For 15 years, Jane had the privilege to teach preschool and kindergarten at Santa Catalina Preschool under the Founder and Director, Kathleen Ryan. They had the opportunity to teach and share their talents with many wonderful students and their families.
Jane owes her community experience to her parents. Her generous folks and her Uncle Phil Anastasia supplied the Carmelite Sisters with fruits, vegetables, fish, and other provisions once a week for over 50 years! When they passed, Jane promised to continue this special ministry. Her weekly service has continued for the last 7 years and she considers it a Blessing.
As a member of The Italian Catholic Federation, Branch #36, for 16 years, she has served as a board member for 6 of those years. As an orator, Jane has many "prayerful" duties. Most importantly, she promotes the religious program of the Branch. Her duties are monthly dinner meetings, Lenten dinners, and other Italian Cultural events.
In following her Grandparents and parent’s footsteps, Jane is also a lifelong parishioner of San Carlos Cathedral. She is a lay presider, communion minister, altar server, RCIA team member, and lector. It is her 2nd home!
Angelina, Jane's Mother, was one of Monterey Peninsula College's 1st graduating Class and 1st Homecoming Queen. In honor of her, Jane has been a member of the MPC Alumni Committee for the last 4 years and was elected Co-President for 2017.
Jane is very grateful for her Italian heritage, her Faith, her Church community, her loving family and friends. She is who she is today because of them and of course, God's amazing Grace.
Jane is truly humbled to be honored by The Italian Heritage Society.
Picture is of Jane's parents Joe and Angelina Anastasi.