Mariposa Memorial Fund

Hello, my name is Chris Cantore, I'm a neighbor and friend of the Mariposa Ice Cream  family -- specifically, Dick and Anna Van Ransom.

On June 3rd, the same day we lost Muhammad Ali, 
Dick Van Ransom -- owner of the iconic Mariposa Ice Cream parlor in Normal Heights -- also passed away at the age of 74.  

As Muhammad Ali is observed as a "worldwide treasure" and "The Greatest of All Time," here in San Diego, Dick is being hailed as a "local treasure" and "The Greatest Ice Cream Man of All Time."  

It's no coincidence he was a huge Ali fan.  He also loved the Padres, Chargers, and music -- especially the Beatles.

Beloved in the community, Dick (and his wife Anna) has been serving HOMEMADE ice cream -- and smiles!! -- on Adams Avenue since 2000.  For my family, visits to this local gem are synonomous with good report cards, winning baseball games, long, hot summer days -- and, everything in between.   A veritable memory-maker.

Yes, they serve the best ice cream in San Diego county (see Yelp), but what REALLY makes Mariposa Ice Cream special is the ownership.  Yup, Dick and Anna.  I am convinced, their love for one another, passion for music, crusade for peace, family values, benevolence, and genuine kindness is mixed into every scoop.


Since Dick's passing, I have been in touch with Anna. Needless to say, it's a very, very difficult time -- as a result, the parlor has been closed all week.  

I have NEVER started a GoFundMe before, but after my last conversation with Anna, it never felt more right.  If you (or your family) have ever been touched by Mariposa Ice Cream, I ask that you please consider making a donation during this trying time.  

Trust me, anything helps (even sharing this page), and funds will be used to cover funeral costs, memorial costs, and business lost as the family recovers from this incredible loss.  Anything over the goal will be put towards shop improvements. 

Thank you for any help.

Much love and Aloha.
Chris.

R.I.P. Dick