Julia Maria De Souza Gusek, beloved stepmother, neighbor and friend, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, in Saratoga, California, at the age of 97.

Born on March 22, 1928, in Shanghai, China, Julia was raised in the international community there and attended British school at the Public and Thomas Hanbury School for Girls. In her youth, she formed a lifelong bond with her schoolmate Zoya Shlakis, a friendship that would endure across continents and decades. After immigrating to the United States as a young adult, Julia and Zoya remained connected and became active members of "Old China Hands," a close-knit group of fellow expatriates from Shanghai who shared stories, memories, and camaraderie over the years.

Julia met the love of her life, Edward Gusek, while they were both working at Bullocks department store in Palo Alto. They married on Christmas Eve in 1978 in San Francisco and made their home together in Mountain View, California. Edward preceded her in death as did her stepson Charles Gusek.

Julia is survived by her stepdaughters: Jodi Gusek, Lisa Gusek, Jan Gusek, and Carmen Gusek Hall, their children and grandchildren. She will be remembered for her grace, charisma, enduring friendships, and the warmth she brought to all who knew her.