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Donald Bruce Scott
Feb. 26, 1932 - Nov. 26, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Air Force Navigator Flies Far Retired USAF Lt. Colonel Donald Bruce Scott was born February 26, 1932, in McConnelsville, Ohio, to father John Cleveland Scott and mother Frances ("Fanny" Richardson). Don died in Pleasanton, CA, which he long called home, on the morning of November 26, 2021. Don enlisted in the USAF in 1952 and, on holiday leave in 1954, returned to McConnelsville to marry his lifelong sweetheart "Susie" (Carolyn Sue) Perkins (deceased 2011) on Christmas night. Together they raised four children who all survive: John Edward, Sheri Sue, Christopher Bruce, and Amy Jean. Don is also survived by five grandchildren and one great- granddaughter. Don was a hard worker and entrepreneur from an early age, starting with a boyhood paper route, with earnings fastidiously saved, and later teen swim instruction and lifeguarding. He mostly grew up an only child until his widower father married Mary Ray, enlarging Don's family circle with older step siblings Vivian Ray, Francis Moore (Ray), and George Ray, all deceased. Don graduated with an M.B.A. from Pepperdine University, preceded by preparatory studies at Baylor University and the Air War College where he ...

Judy Ann Morris
April 25, 1942 - Nov. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Judy Ann Morris, daughter of Della and AC Wheeler, passed away on Friday, Nov 12th, 2021. After 25 years of multiple victories with her health, she succumbed to Progressive Alzheimer's Dementia and slept her way to heaven's door. Judy touched many lives with her gentle spirit and kind heart helping people. Judy was born in Memphis, Tennessee. She graduated from Saydel High School in Des Moines, Iowa where she was homecoming queen. She attended college at the University of Iowa and NW Missouri State. She married George Morris on September 8th, 1963, in Des Moines, Iowa. She later completed a certificate in Doctor of Naturopathy. Judy's interests were many as she also wrote a cookbook and won many first-place ribbons in rose shows. Judy had so many special qualities that will be missed, from her love of growing roses and singing in musicals, to her creative cooking. She could always see the positive in life, despite all she went through medically. She learned, shared, and taught many from her business Healthy Resources for twenty years. Judy is survived by her devoted husband George, children Clark Morris (Christine) of Salinas, CA, Ande Hook (Rob) of Carmel, IN, and g...

Richard Anthony Cousins
July 8, 1926 - Nov. 9, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Richard Anthony Cousins, a long time Pleasanton resident passed away November 9, 2021 at the age of 95. Richard was born in San Jose CA to Anthony Garchitti and Genevieve Cousins. At the age of 5 he was adopted along with his brother Robert by his grandfather Guy and Grandmother Edna Cousins and raised by them. He attended Herbert Hoover Jr. High School and Bellermine Prep until he joined the Marines at the age of 17. He served in WWII and the Korean War. Richard married Santa Ciardelli November 13, 1949 and raised a family in Santa Clara, CA. Richard worked in the dairy industry starting as a milkman for Golden State Farm's and worked his way up to management until his retirement from Knudsen. Richard then owned and operated Gourmet Works in Los Altos along with his family until his second retirement. Richard and Santa moved to Pleasanton where they lived until his death. His #1 passion (next to mom) was playing golf. His nickname ACES came about because he hit 4 holes in one during his golf career. He was a Marshall at Callippe golf for 16 years and golfed until he was 93. Richard aka "Big R" had a huge personality and will be missed by many. He i...

Theodore (Ted) C. Fairfield
June 20, 1935 - Nov. 7, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Theodore "Ted" Corbin Fairfield passed away at his home in Pleasanton, California, on November 7, 2021, after a lengthy illness. He was 86. A graveside service at Acacia Cemetery 801 Scenic Drive in Modesto will be held Tuesday, November 16, at 2 p.m. Also, a public memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 19, at the Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First St. in Pleasanton. Born in Modesto, Stanislaus County, California, Ted was the son of Corbin Francis Fairfield and Meta Cecilia Johansen. Ted's paternal ancestors homesteaded in Napa Valley in the mid-1800s, and his maternal grandparents emigrated from Denmark to California in the late 1800s. Ted graduated from Modesto High School in 1952 and then earned an associate degree at Modesto Junior College, followed by two years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1954-1956). In January 1959, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering at San Jose State University. Ted worked for the City of San Jose and the Town of Los Gatos before joining MacKay & Somps Civil Engineering Company. In 1963, Ted and his family moved to Pleasanton, California, where he opened and managed a branch office of MacK...

Lyle Arnold Abrott
Aug. 26, 1916 - Nov. 5, 2021
Granite Bay, CA

L. "Arnold" Abrott passed away November 5, 2021. He was born August 26, 1916 to Chester and Lenore (Sinclair) Abrott. Chester passed away when Arnold was eleven, Lenore when he was thirteen. He was preceded in death by his sister Lois Blacow, and his wife of 76 years Annette (Georgis) Abrott. Arnold is survived by his sons Arnold (Gloria) and Timothy (Kimberly), four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Arnold graduated from Amador High School in 1934, and graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering in 1939. He worked for Kaiser Sand & Gravel for 40 years where he retired as President and General Manager. Arnold was commissioned as a U.S. Navy Ensign in May 1942 and was later promoted to Lieutenant Commander during World War II. He was a Pleasanton Planning Commission Councilman for seven years, Chairman of the Planning Commission for two years, served on The Pleasanton Elementary School Board for six years, four of which he was President, and served on the Board of Directors for Valley Memorial Hospital in Livermore for nine years, three years as President. He was also a director for Community First National Bank of Pleasan...

Richard Stuart Roman
Oct. 4, 1941 - Oct. 29, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Dr. Richard S. Roman, a long-time Pleasanton Oral Surgeon, passed away October 29, surrounded by his family. Dr. Roman was born in St. Maries, ID October 4, 1941, the only child of Margaret and Richard Roman. He spent his early years in Boise, ID. At age 13, his father, who was a Civil Engineer, moved the family to San Luis Obisbo to work for Cal Trans. Richard graduated from San Luis Obisbo High School in 1959. He continued his education at UCLA and transferred to UCSB where he completed his undergraduate degree. He continued on to Dental School at UCSF and graduated in 1967. He then joined the US Army as a Captain and married Beverley before reporting for duty in Fort Dix, NJ. They spent a wonderful 53 years together. Their daughter, Kimberly was born while the two were in Fort Dix. Richard was stationed in Korea and Texas before returning with his family to San Francisco to start his Oral Surgery Residency at UCSF. Their son, Eric, was born during this time in San Francisco. In 1973 Richard and his family moved to Pleasanton, CA where they would set roots. Richard opened an Oral Surgery practice in town. He loved his patients and took great pride in providing excelle...

Laura A Oreglia
Feb. 15, 1965 - Oct. 23, 2021
Salida, California

Laura Oreglia, of Salida CA. passed away on October 23, 2021 at the age of 56, of a cardio/pulmonary failure. Laura was born in Salinas, CA. on February 15, 1965 to Bonnie and Melvin Ausmus Sr. Laura was a care provider in the Tri-Valley for many years. She, in her later life, was a homemaker. Laura was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother (nana), sister, wife, aunt and friend. She was known for her loving and helping heart. She loved her grandchildren and family, the color yellow, music especially Elvis, her dogs, Rex, Buddy, Shasta and Morgan. She loved to Smile. She was survived by her husband, David Oreglia, her son, Richard Goforth Jr, her sister Dawn Bray, her brother Melvin Ausmus Jr., her nieces Leia Ausmus, Caroline Ausmus, Emily Ausmus, Briseis Ausmus, Morgan Bray and Madison Bray, her Grandchildren, Trinity Goforth and Mason Goforth, along with a multitude of aunts, uncles and cousins. Her presence will be greatly missed....

Frederika Traini
Dec. 31, 1930 - Oct. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Frederika (Fritzi) Traini age 90, passed away peacefully in her home October 12, 2021 in Pleasanton. She was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on December 31, 1930. Fritzi was raised in San Diego, CA and graduated from Hoover High School in 1948. At the age of 19, she joined the United States Air Force where she served for four years. As a Sergeant, her tour took her throughout the United States having several adventures and occupations including meteorology. Fritzi married James Traini in 1955 where they resided in Oakland until 1967 when they moved their family to Pleasanton. She was an active leader in 4-H with her children for many years. Fritzi had a 25-year career with the Alameda County Library System, working at the Pleasanton Library. It was her calling as you never saw her without a book. Upon Fritzi's retirement, she and James enjoyed traveling and spending time with their family and friends. She also was a dedicated volunteer at the Pleasanton Senior Center for 12 years and a member of Friends of the Pleasanton Library. Fritzi will be remembered for the love and dedication she had for her family, her books, her sense of humor, and endless hours mastering Bookworm. In ...

Lisa Marie Gallagher
May 19, 1965 - Oct. 8, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Lisa Marie Gallagher died peacefully on the morning of October 8, 2021, in Pleasanton, California, at the age of 56. Lisa is survived by her husband James (Jim) Gallagher, children, Brittany Bryan (30) and Cody Gallagher (21), and grandchildren, Calvin Bryan (4), Summer Bryan (16 months), and Macie Bryan (one month). Lisa was born in Ponca City, OK to Stan and Carole Kullbom. She graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obisbo with a degree in Computer Science. She married Rick Cancilla, in 1985. Upon moving to Grover Beach, the couple welcomed their first child, Brittany. After Rick's passing, Lisa married Jim Gallagher in 1998, and later the family celebrated the birth of Cody. Lisa was a beloved member of her church and local communities and quickly became known for her deep relationships, her no-nonsense approach to life, her excellent cooking, her appetite for fun, and the ferocity of her love. To be loved by Lisa was to know how rich and abiding love can be. Despite the difficulties in her life, she was also recognized for her laugh, which was big and open and frequently punctuated her conversations. The world is better because Lisa was in it. Those of us who were luck...

Thomas John Billmeier
Oct. 29, 1949 - Oct. 5, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Thomas "Tom" John Billmeier, 71, of Pleasanton, California, passed away on October 5, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Oct 29, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois and moved to Anaheim, California as a junior in high school. He graduated from UCLA with a degree in Slavic Languages before moving to Northern California where he worked as a project manager for a number of computer firms. He was perhaps most recognized as a popular spin and fitness instructor. He began teaching basic aerobics classes in the 1980's and eventually lead full-capacity boot camp and cycling programs until his retirement in 2019. While his classes were revered for their difficulty and his passion and devotion towards teaching them, it is the community that he built through those gatherings that resonates most profoundly. He aspired to be what he called a "Rock'n'Roll fitness nerd," and cultivated this vision through his love of live, loud music, his unrelenting participation in athletics, and his boundless enthusiasm towards literature and Jeopardy and crossword puzzles. He is predeceased by his mother, Mary; father, Frank; brother, Ken; and sister, Joan. He is survived by ...

Robert "Bob" Butler (Eugene)
1938 - Oct. 5, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Bob Butler was a true renaissance man. Robert Eugene Butler was born in Cincinnati, Ohio to Eugene and Rose Butler. He studied theology before switching to engineering where he earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Toledo and later earned a master's in applied science from the University of California, Davis. In 1959, Bob married MaryAnn Hayes in Toledo, Ohio and immediately they sought (and built) a new life in California with only a two-year stint in Oklahoma to serve his active duty service for the Army. Bob and MaryAnn remained married for over 50 years. During his Army Reserve Service, he was assigned to the U.S. Army Nuclear Agency at Fort Sill (OK), Fort Bliss (TX), Fort Belvoir (MD) and the Pentagon (DC). While his family was growing up, they would drive across the country finding adventures both coming and going camping near the base. Bob would serve his two weeks of active duty and take public transportation to work allowing the family to explore. He served 28 years in the U.S. Army (Active and Reserve), honorably retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Bob's first career spanned 35 years with General Electric at their Valle...

Erik D. Olsen
Dec. 11, 1936 - Sept. 14, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Erik D. Olsen, a Pleasanton resident and retired executive passed away on September 14 at the age of 84. Erik is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jacqueline Olsen, the original "Jackie O", three daughters, Lynnea Olsen, Andrea Olsen, and Jennifer Rodriguez, son-in-law Jon Rodriguez, and three wonderful grandsons, Carl Rodriguez, Emmett Rodriguez, and Erik Olsen. Dr. Olsen has a wide-ranging record of accomplishments. Erik was a Nebraska all-state basketball player in 1954 for his Omaha Benson High School Bunnies. After graduating from the University of Nebraska, he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army. A practicing dentist, he was the first recipient of the Hillenbrand Fellowship in Dental Administration from the American Dental Association. At age 40, Dr. Olsen was named President and CEO of Delta Dental of California. When Dr. Olsen stepped down after 15 years, one of every three people in California had Delta Dental benefits. After leaving Delta Dental, Dr. Olsen became an active AARP volunteer and was appointed AARP State President in Arizona in 1996. He was elected to AARP's National Board of Directors in 2000 and was named AARP National President in 2006 wher...

Robert Roland Vollgraf
Dec. 27, 1939 - Sept. 11, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Robert (Bob) Vollgraf passed away September 11 at the age of 81. Born in Corning, New York, on December 27, 1939, Bob was a graduate of Elmira High School and Rio Hondo College. He proudly served in the US Army Military Police and Army Reserves from 1959 - 1963. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Judy Vollgraf, son Rob Vollgraf, daughter Sue Maur, his 8 grandchildren: Brett, Kelly, Bella, Olivia, Emma, Ava, Spencer, and Cole, and his sister Joan Bowers. Bob worked in sales in the automotive tools and equipment industry for more than 50 years. He was a resident of Pleasanton for 47 years and was active in the community as President of the Pleasanton Valley Swim Club, and Little League coach for many years in the 1970's. He also enthusiastically supported Judy's Assistance League events. He never met a stranger, and had a joke for everyone he met. He's now telling his bad "dad jokes" to a new eternal audience. Everyone will remember him for his sense of humor and generosity. He was most proud of his grandchildren and would regale anyone who would listen with stories of their latest accomplishments. He will be missed by many. Celebration of Life/Open...

Kyle Richard Maas
Feb. 16, 1988 - Sept. 4, 2021
Discovery Bay, CA

Kyle Richard Maas passed away at the age of 33 at 1:50 pm on Saturday, September 4, 2021. A devoted son, brother, husband, and dog father succumbed to his battle with brain cancer that he had been courageously fighting for over six years. He passed peacefully in his childhood home surrounded by his loved ones. Kyle was born February 16, 1988, in Livermore, California, to Kraig Maas and Marlene Bowen. He grew up in Pleasanton, attending Valley View Elementary School, Harvest Park Middle School, and Amador Valley High School. Kyle married the love of his life, Brittany Item (Maas), September 19, 2020, welcoming her into the family that he loved so very much. The ever-devoted wife never left Kyle's side as he continued to fight his battle with brain cancer until his call home was too strong. Kyle was known for his enormous heart, infectious smile, and razor-sharp wit. Always quick to make someone laugh and even quicker to make a friend wherever he went. He was a talented photographer, producing beautiful images published in several magazines. A lover of the water, either driving a boat or following close behind it on his wakeboard. An avid dirt bike enthusiast, a passion t...

Julianna Gladys
Feb. 15, 1942 - Sept. 3, 2021
Pleasanton, California

A long time resident of the Tri-Valley, Julianna Gladys was born February 15, 1942 in Santa Rosa, Ca. and died on September 3, 2021, at Kaiser in Walnut Creek, Ca. Her death was very sudden and a result from complications due to Covid-19. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Hope Brooks, her son, Lance George Rodrigues, and her great-grand daughter, Angel Moon Edgar. She is survived by 4 children, Anthony Rodrigues, Monica Shepherd (David), Denise Armtrout, and Amy Burchett (Jon). Her brother, Stephen Brooks and sister, Kay Brooks Thorson. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She has helped make so many wonderful memories. Being there for every babies birth, every Christmas. She has taught all of us so much and she will be greatly missed. Julianna was an amazing hair designer for about 57 years. She was also a wonderful parent, grandma, and friend. She was a Christian and member of Valley Community Church. She loved the Lord and was instrumental in gently leading many to the Cross (including her children). She volunteered by attending many Ensenada Missions trips, helping out at church with the pre-schoolers, and Stanford H...

Patricia Marie Gette
Jan. 27, 1948 - Sept. 1, 2021
PLEASANTON, CA

Patricia (Trish) Marie Gette passed away at her Pleasanton home on September 1, 2021 at the age of 73, surrounded by her loving family. Trish was born the first of four children in Columbus, Ohio to Brice and Mary Mantel. She lived in the small town of New Carlisle, Ohio until she married the love of her life, Bill Gette. Trish died 51 years and nine days after they were married. After giving birth to two sons, she fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse by attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. For almost 30 years, Trish took great joy and pride in caring for sick newborns and their families during a very tough time in their lives. Her rewards were often the notes and cards she received from families after the babies became healthy adults. Her true passion was her family, and she raised her children with loving kindness and devotion. As both boys married, she welcomed both daughters in law with love as well, and then showered the grandchildren with devoted attention. She liked to read, sew for her grandchildren, and make quilts and scrapbooks for them. Trish is survived by her devoted h...

Ronalie J. Wagle
Nov. 3, 1948 - Aug. 31, 2021
Pleasanton, California

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Ronalie Jean Wagle, 72 of Pleasanton, California passed away peacefully on August 31st. She was the matriarch of her family and the pain is immeasurable. She was simply the best mother, nana, sister, mother in law, sister in law, auntie, cousin, daughter, wife and friend you could ever imagine. Ronalie loved to go to her family cabin in Lake Tahoe, read books, watch movies and spend time with her close family and friends. She threw incredible dinner parties and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Ronalie is survived by her son Tyrone and his wife Lucie, son Kyle and his wife Nicole, grandchildren Jake, Kylie and Jack, her sister Diane and her husband Mark, her nephews and their wives and children – Troy Fontana; Jeff, Jodi, Logan and Chase Fontana; Shawn Fontana; Brandon, Sara, Hannah and Ava Mimms, her brother in law Robert Wagle and his wife and children Patricia, Michelle and Courtney. Ronalie is predeceased by her husband Ronald Wagle, her parents Ronald and Lucy Harper and her brother Ronald Harper, Jr. While her family grieves her loss, they are choosing to remember her in a way that honors he...

Joan M. Turner
Nov. 24, 1946 - Aug. 28, 2021
Union City, California

Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our beloved Aunt and friend, Joan Turner. Joan, a 50 year resident of Union City was one of the most loving, giving souls on earth, who lived life to the fullest and always gave her family and friends her devoted attention, love, guidance and support. She never lost sight of the important things in her life; God, philanthropy, the church, her family and friends. One of the happiest days of her life was when she married her beloved husband, Harold. Joan worked as an Electrical Engineer, in Training and Development for 32 years. She was one of 5 siblings, born in Binghamton, NY. She was loved by her many loving nieces, nephews, siblings, and friends. Rest in peace with your beloved Harold, a reunion we would have loved to see. We will love and miss you forever. A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 13th @ 10:30am at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 703 C Street, Union City, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Union City....

Norman Dean Butler
July 31, 1935 - Aug. 23, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Norman Dean Butler passed away Monday August 23, 2021. Born July 31, 1935 to the late Lillian Elizabeth Butler in Palm Springs, CA on an Indian Reservation. As a boy, he was called "Deanie" after Dean, the name of their Cherokee Tribe. He was the eldest of 7 brothers and 2 sisters. He married the love of his life, Judy Ann at 19 years of age, Judy was 16. They were married 63 years until Judy's passing March 2018. They raised their sons, Kenny and Kerry and daughter Shari in Fremont CA. Norman was an incredible person. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, brother, and a fun-loving loyal friend to many. He and Judy instilled love and caring family virtues that will continue through generations. He touched many lives with his kind, generous and loving soul. Quite the jokester through-out his life, always ready for a good laugh and a fun time. Norman was an entrepreneur as a young boy, standing on the street corner shining shoes. As a teenager he was a truck driver, working for his stepfather's trucking company. In 1967 he started his own business South Bay Welding Supply in Hayward, CA. He built a successful business with...

Samuel Terry Scavone
May 2, 1933 - Aug. 23, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Terry was born in Detroit, MI to Angelo and Leah Scavone. He is survived by his wife, Judy, children, Mary (Guy), Rebecca (Mark), Angelo (Mary) and five grandchildren, Tessie, Tommy, Max, Sam and Jac. He is also survived by his identical twin brother, Mike and brother, Tom. Terry was in the Army from 1956 to 1958. He graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. Shortly after graduation, he moved to San Francisco where he began a long career in Heating and Air Conditioning. He owned Felix Sheet Metal, worked at Marina Mechanical, retired and found a new job & hobby. Golf! He worked at the Pleasanton Driving Range and also worked on his golf game. Terry lived in Pleasanton for 55 years. He was active in his Children's activities, Indian Princesses, soccer, baseball and had much fun working with the Foothill Booster Club. One of his joys was having his grandsons come over for a cut throat game of Mexican Train. He also looked forward to his semi-weekly golf game and breakfast at Vic's. He & Judy travelled throughout the US and Europe. Terry was known for his delicious spaghetti sauce. He also was a master at the bar-b-que...

James Leland Teare
Sept. 26, 1946 - Aug. 23, 2021
San Ramon, California

On August 23, 2021, a great man came to the end of his mortal life after succumbing to Covid despite being vaccinated. This man held many titles during his time on Earth: son, brother, student, Eagle Scout, swimmer, lifeguard, vet student, convert, husband, father, veterinarian, doctor, builder, gardener, president, uncle, bishop, grandpa. This is that man's story. James Leland Teare was born on September 24, 1946, in Santa Fe, New Mexico to Elzada Bessie Young and James Lindgren Teare. Growing up in nearby Los Alamos provided opportunities for many adventures: learning, from Grandpa Young, to stealthily tear off the corner of a Christmas present wrapping to learn what was inside; first gun at 11-years-old; Eagle Scout earned at 12; survived a tornado at Philmont Scout camp; first job (construction) at 14. Known to his family as Jamie, he played football for a couple of years but settled on swimming as his sport of choice. As a junior at Los Alamos High School, Jamie took a future-defining job: an assistant at the Los Alamos Veterinary Hospital. He said he was, in his own words, "entranced." After graduating from high school, James began studying to go to vet school. ...

Aimee Ann Vickers
June 3, 1932 - Aug. 19, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Aimee Ann Vickers passed away peacefully, after time surrounded by her family, early in the morning of August 19. She was vibrant, alert and beautiful up to her last day which is one of the many gifts she gave her family and community. Aimee was the fifth child and only girl in her family, born in Indonesia of Dutch ancestry in 1932. She immigrated to the United States from Holland with her husband and her sons' father in the early 1960s and spent many years in Palo Alto. She moved to Pleasanton in the late 1990s to help raise her grandchildren and became "Oma" to a generation of Pleasantonians who loved her. Aimee was always active in the community. She served as a crossing guard for many years in Pleasanton and Dublin. She was a member of the choirs at Valley Community Church and St. Philips Church in Dublin. She also sang with the Broadway Chorus through Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre. She loved her Red Hat Society ladies and never missed a Red Hat gathering. Aimee is survived by her three sons, Jim Vickers (Karen) of Fremont, Mike Vickers (Virginia) and Robert Vickers all of Pleasanton and her daughter Yvon Kessler Koole (Guiss) of Holland. Aimee was Oma to six ...

Robert 'Bob' Swansen
Dec. 28, 1939 - Aug. 16, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Robert was born to teach young people and teach he did for 34 years. Bob was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon to James and Elizabeth Swansen. He later moved to California and attended the University of California at Santa Barbara. Bob received a BA in Spanish Language in addition to a Life Teaching Credential in Spanish. He loved spending his summers in Mexico taking classes and enjoying the culture. Later he earned a MA in Latin American Studies. Bob would use funny rhyming songs to help his students learn. It was his passion to teach his students Spanish and share stories of his trips to Mexico, which made him a great teacher. He and his wife, Margery, moved in 1969 and made Pleasanton their home. On his days off you might find Bob playing with his dog, swimming in their pool or strumming his banjo in a local band. Bob was an active member of Pleasanton's Sister City Program. Margery and Bob would attend meetings and help with exchange students. They traveled with the group to Tulancingo, Mexico and even opened their home to one of the exchange students. Bob was predeceased by his father, mother and sister, Galya. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marger...

Kenney Lee Shepard
May 28, 1941 - Aug. 16, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Kenney "Ken" Lee Shepard passed peacefully and comfortably on August 16, 2021 with his family near. Ken was born to Norman Shepard and Margaret (Kenney) Shepard in Stockton, California. The family relocated to Oakland, California where he grew up with his surviving brother Fredrick Von Shepard. Ken attended Bishop O'Dowd High School in Oakland and graduated in 1959. He participated in track and basketball which he always loved to play. One of his proudest achievements was attaining the status of Eagle Scout. He later went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from California State University Hayward (East Bay). Ken met his wife Thea Ella (Gorman) Shepard of over 50 years in Oakland and they married on October 19, 1968. They were destined, meeting in high school with a friendship that grew into a loving relationship. The two eventually settled down in Pleasanton, California to raise their two boys. Ken is survived by his sons James (Julia) N. Shepard of Burson, CA and Scott (Veronica) M. Shepard of Chino Hills, CA along with his grandson Vaughn M. Shepard. He was an amazing grandfather, giving Vaughn rides on his boat, going fishing and teaching him about the i...

Max Arlen Allison
July 2, 1933 - Aug. 15, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Max Arlen Allison passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 15, in his sleep. He touched many lives with his positive outlook and his words of wisdom. Some of his favorite pastimes were music, Dixie Land Bands, dancing, golfing, and partying with his friends and family. He started every morning with his cup of coffee and a Cryptoquip. Max is survived by his wife Linda; daughters Eve Dulay, Vicki Hallett, Priscilla McRae; son Greg Allison; nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, one great great grandchild and many friends. Preceded in death; daughters Paula Blackwell and Pam Gallatin. He will be missed by all. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a future date....

Gary Jay Purnell
May 15, 1942 - Aug. 14, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Gary Jay Purnell passed away Saturday, August 14 after a long battle with Interstitial Lung Disease. Gary loved his family, the outdoors, and sports, especially running track and playing basketball. He was a good cook and an avid gardener. For over 50 years he made yearly trips to Pinecrest Lake and shared his love of the area with his family. Gary was born in Oakland, California and graduated from Fremont High School. Gary started out as a Groceryman at independent grocery stores Sid's and the Co-Op. He also served as a member of the National Guard for 5 years. Following his service, he found what would be his calling and was hired by the City of Alameda Fire Department in 1971. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1978, and to Captain in 1989. He retired from the Fire Service in 1998 after a 26-year-long career. Gary continued his service to others through volunteer work. He was a regular at the City of Alameda Fire Department's Food Bank, Annual Pancake Breakfast, and Toys for Tots. At age 65 he became a regular on the soccer field for BUSC when his grandsons started playing. He helped coach and referee and continued on even after his grandsons were no longer playing as ...

Warren Lyal Straight
March 8, 1928 - Aug. 14, 2021
Livermore, California

Warren Lyal Straight passed away on August 14, 2021 at the age of 93. He was a beloved father, grandfather, husband, coach, and pillar in the community. He was a Golden Gloves champion in the Navy and helped fight for the United States in the Korean War. He was an active member of the First Church of Christ Scientist in Livermore. He loved coaching sports, umpiring softball, spending time with his family, and helping people any way he could. He is survived by his wife, two children, four grandchildren, and will be greatly missed....

Herbert Roy Hamilton
Sept. 10, 1944 - Aug. 13, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Herbert Roy Hamilton passed away at his residence on August 13, 2021 at the age of 76. Born in Greensburg Indiana, Roy came to Pleasanton California at the age of 5 in 1949 with his parents Robert and Virginia Hamilton. He graduated from Amador Valley High in 1963 and started his long career with United Parcel Service in 1965, retiring in 1997 after 32 years of service. He married classmate Sherrill in 1966 and they raised their family in the Pleasanton Victorian home he lived in since 1959. He took great pride in the historic home and Sherrill made it a special place where all the children and grandchildren wanted to be at the holiday season. Roy and Sherrill enjoyed traveling the world, from their trips to China and the South Pacific to Egypt and the Holy Land, north to the Arctic Circle and south to the Amazon River. Roy often said" Life is great! We've had it good and done it all!" He was preceded in death by his parents and Sherrill. He is survived by his children Cindy Twiddy (Tony), Nina Schrote (Tom), and Keith Hamilton, also 8 grand children and 4 great-grandchildren....

Brett Marshall Townley
Oct. 5, 1981 - Aug. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, California

We are extremely saddened and heartbroken that our amazing, loving son Brett passed away suddenly. He brought joy and true affection to our family, and those whom he touched, including his fiancée and her family, as well as a multitude of incredible friends. He will always be in our hearts, and his special smile will remain present in our minds. Brett is survived by his parents Gale and Biddy, his loving brother Scott and his wife Holly, the love of his life, fiancée Rachel Kent, and grandparents Delores and Lynn Townley. Donations can be made to a Go Fund Me account in his name. Special thanks go out to his friends who set up this account....

Mary Valeria Barsotti
Sept. 5, 1925 - Aug. 11, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Mary Valeria Cerro was born on September 5, 1925 in Redding, CA to Agnes and Joseph Cerro, immigrants from Italy. Over the next five years she became a big sister to Aurora, Alfred and Lena. Her family shared a ranch with Mary's uncle and his family. She grew up with her five cousins, Louie, Pete, Charlie, Gemma and Amelia, who she thought of as siblings. After graduating with honors from high school, she got a job in the steno pool at McClellan Field in Sacramento during World War II. In May 1945, she took a job at the Bank of America in Redding as the bank manager's secretary. Eventually she transferred to the Bank of America in Burlingame, CA where she enjoyed her job very much. In 1954 she met Leo Barsotti at a Young Italian Catholics dance in San Francisco. On January 29, 1955 they were married. Within a few years their family expanded to five with the births of Cathy, Peggy and Jim. As a fulltime mother and homemaker (era una buona cuoca Italiana!), her kind and giving character was evident also outside of their home. She loved welcoming her children's many friends into their family. Together with other early volunteers, she helped families in Pleasanton who needed h...

Dale Iven Poulson
Sept. 16, 1940 - Aug. 10, 2021
Pleasanton, California

On Tuesday August 10, 2021, Dale Iven Poulson of Pleasanton passed away in his home at the age of 80. The family and friends of Dale are saddened to announce his passing. Dale was born in Stratford, Iowa. His family relocated to San Lorenzo, California where he graduated high school. After graduation, Dale entered the United States merchant Marines. He moved to Pleasanton in 1971 with his young family. He raised his two children as a single dad and retired after 40 years of truck driving. Then the fun began! Dale attended burning man for 12 years. After meeting and marrying Rita, they enjoyed traveling in their classic airstream to Westport state beach with their dog Corby. Dale enjoyed going to garage sales and the antique flea market with Rita. Dale was a gifted gardener, skilled welder, and a talented woodworker. Dale was generous with his time, his talents, his tools, and his advice. Dale was quite a storyteller and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Dale is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Rita, his sister Carol, his son Ed, his daughter Daleen, and his five grandchildren....

Jo Evelyn Williams
Dec. 21, 1930 - Aug. 10, 2021
Pleasanton, California

A long time resident of Pleasanton, Jo Evelyn Williams passed away August 10, 2021, at the age of 90. Evelyn was born in Sayre, Oklahoma. She graduated from Sayre High School and from Southwestern State College in Weatherford, Oklahoma. She then began her teaching career, going on to earn a Masters degree from the University of Oklahoma with a major in business education. Evelyn came to California in 1955. After substituting in Oakland schools for a year, she became a teacher at Amador High School, where she taught for 35 years in the business education department. She was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, and member of the community who brought happiness to many people through her presence in their lives. Evelyn was a dedicated teacher who loved teaching. She had many fond memories of her fellow teachers and former students, and continued to attend alumni gatherings and reunions. She was often pleased to encounter former students while going about her everyday life in Pleasanton. Evelyn also enjoyed attending church, taking walks around town, and spending time with the people she loved. Evelyn was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Daniel Williams, her father...

Harry Franklin Miller, Jr
Aug. 4, 1935 - Aug. 10, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Harry Miller was born to coach young people. And coach he did. He coached football at Salesian High in Richmond and started the Pop Warner football program in Contra Costa County. He also coached football at Cal State Hayward (now East Bay) and Whitworth College in Spokane, WA. Turning to youth sports, he coached soccer, Little League baseball, Babe Ruth baseball, CYO basketball, and Police Athletic League basketball. But he is best known as the co-founder of Ballistic United Soccer Club of Pleasanton and the coach of its Under-12 soccer team. It was with the Ballistic United Under-12 team that he built both the soccer program and his reputation. He coached the team to multiple state titles, Western Regional titles and international tournament titles. He was named state Coach of the Year. He was honored with the Ed Kinney Patriot Award in Pleasanton. Miller has been inducted into three soccer Hall of Fames. After being in ill health for a few years, he died Aug. 10, 2021 in his Pleasanton home. He was 86. Miller coached the Ballistic United Under-12 soccer team for more than 25 years and took them all over California to play. His teams often played more than 100 games...

Virginia Carol Roberts
Dec. 16, 1922 - Aug. 9, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great grandmother Virginia Roberts (GiGi) was called 'Home' to be with the Lord on August 9, 2021 passing peacefully with family. Virginia was 98 years young shooting for 100! Born on December 16,1922 in San Diego, Calif to Grant And Teresa Skuse. Virginia resided in the San Francisco Bay Area since moving north to San Francisco in1930 living in Pleasanton for the last 35 years. Virginia was devout Catholic her entire life and a proud member of the Catholic community in Pleasanton and St. Augustine's Parish. Many did not know but Virginia was a very talented Artist, Poet, Writer and Calligraphist. She taught Art class' for a number of her earlier years. She had precise cursive handwriting and created beautiful detailed 'Calligraphy' in pen and ink which is a long lost art. In addition to her Artistic talent, Virginia also was a true 'giver'. Always thinking of others before herself. Taking care of both Her Mother and Father in their later years. She also enjoyed helping out with 'fundraising' for special events and organizing with St. Augustine's for weekly Church/Mass services while living at 'Ridgeview Commons' where she resided for a...

Doris Jean Selby
May 20, 1933 - Aug. 4, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Our dear mother, Grammy, Great Grammy died peacefully, surrounded by her entire loving family on August 4, 2021 after a brief and sudden illness. Her incredible wisdom, insightfulness, intelligence, thoughtfulness, generosity, integrity, business sense, and compassion touched any who crossed her path. After a childhood in Washington, Colorado, New Mexico and California she settled in Hayward, then San Leandro where she was wife to Pete Seymon (Fabric Lane) and raised her three children. She worked at Bancroft Junior High School and Chabot College before joining her father, Eirwin F. Selby, to run their real estate business on Jackson Avenue in Hayward. She later moved to Pleasanton, retired, and shared a household for her last 20 years with her two daughters. Here she consumed herself with quilting, gardening, cooking (amazing soups!), reading, playing Scrabble (especially with her son with disabilities), enjoying grand and great grandchildren, and promoting her daughters' teaching careers, all with her graceful energy. She is survived by her three children: David Seymon (Mary Jo Seymon), Leni Seymon, Gail Myers, three grandchildren: George Myers (Julie Myers), Gwen Anaya ...

Bernie Billen
Oct. 17, 1948 - Aug. 2, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Bernie Billen, 72, died peacefully on Monday August 2nd, 2021 at her home in Pleasanton, CA, surrounded by her family after a long battle with cancer. She was preceded by her husband, Michael Billen earlier this year. She was born Bernzetta Ann Johnson in Ellwood City, PA on October 17th, 1948 the second of six children to Meredith "Jerry" Johnson and Frances Wimer Johnson. Bernie's family lived in Pittsburgh and Butler before settling in Erie, PA where Bernie graduated from Strong Vincent High School and attended Allegheny College. Bernie began her career in banking at Marine Bank in Erie, PA while getting married and starting a family with the birth of her son Rob. The young family moved from Erie to Cincinnati, OH, where daughter Kristin was born, and then a brief stay in Atlanta, GA finally settling in Pleasanton, CA in 1979. Bernie's community spirit was inspired when she joined the Newcomers Club shortly after arriving, establishing what would become an amazing group of lifelong friends. Bernie immersed herself in many organizations and activities, including serving on the Board of Directors for the Pleasanton/Tulancingo Sister City Association, the Pleasanto...

Linda Marie Gill Spiegel
April 7, 1954 - July 28, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Linda Marie Gill Spiegel passed away peacefully, surrounded by her daughters, on July 28, 2021 at the age of 67. Linda was born the first of four children to Kenneth Paul Gill and Mary Margaret Stauder Gill on April 7, 1954 in St. Louis, Missouri. With a father in sales, she moved all over the country as a child before settling in Alamo, California, where she attended and graduated from Carondelet High School in Concord, California in 1972. She always spoke fondly of her years attending the prestigious all female Catholic school, which offered opportunities for strong women in a world not quite ready for female leadership. She then attended and graduated from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California in 1976 with a Bachelor's of Science in Journalism. While at "Cal Poly," she made many lifelong friends and mastered her skills as a writer and editor. Linda was an orator and scholar of the written word. She loved expressing herself in speech and writing, and was well known for her words of wisdom. She was also a professional editor and is likely upset that she is not able to edit this obituary! Linda was the mother of two children, ...

Robert Allen Thompson
Aug. 21, 1949 - July 20, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Robert "Bob" Thompson passed away unexpectedly at the age of 71. He was a wonderful musician, as well as a skilled athlete and tradesman who loved spending time outdoors. He touched many lives with his generosity and loved to entertain others with his great sense of humor. Bob was born in Richmond, CA on Aug. 21, 1949. After receiving his pilot's license, he left home to serve in the United States Air Force as an airplane mechanic during the Vietnam war. Upon returning home in 1971, he went on to pursue his bachelor's degree in music at Sonoma State University. Bob maintained a lifelong passion for music. He especially loved practicing with his band members and playing guitar every morning in the music hut that he built. Bob ultimately settled for a career in telecommunications. He worked for PG&E for 30 years until his retirement in 2011. Bob loved retirement and kept himself busy with new challenges and adventures. In 2014, he embarked on a journey to receive his helicopter pilot's license. He also took up an interest in backpacking and hiked portions of the Pacific Crest Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail. Bob stayed active by taking dance lessons, going on bike rides, and ...

Nancy Pennell
Aug. 13, 1942 - July 16, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Nancy Pennell, a woman known for her adventurous spirit and generosity, died July 16, 2021, after falling in her Pleasanton home. She had been battling health issues for months. She was 78. The health challenges were not slowing her down. During a time of tribute at the Pleasanton Rotary Club last Thursday, one member observed Nancy had been at meetings Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of that week, including a social event Thursday when she was sipping her signature chardonnay with ice. Nancy was drawn to Rotary after talking with a Rotarian who discussed the Wheelchair Foundation. That became her passion. She joined the club's wheelchair committee and traveled several times to distribute wheelchairs in different countries. Her sister, Patty Rabada, said Nancy did not like heat—a challenge in the tropical countries, but went anyway. She said Nancy came home "exhausted and exhilarated." She also traveled with Rotary medical missions. Both Rotarians and her fellow golfers commented that you never had to guess what Nancy's opinion was. The Rotarians said that she routinely took charge and her leadership typically worked out well. During the demotion party to end he...

Richard Lee Howard
Jan. 21, 1932 - July 15, 2021
Issaquah, WA

Richard L. Howard led a very full life from January 21, 1932 to July 15, 2021. He was a very big man with an even bigger heart who LOVED ice cream. His life came to an end as his heart simply wore out. He was born in Decatur, Illinois and in his lifetime lived in New York, Ohio, California, Colorado and the Sate of Washington. He traveled the world – one of his favorite past- times. He met his wife, Joanne, while attending Case Reserve University. They were married 67 years. He received a four year, full ride athletic scholarship playing basketball. There, while breaking many records, he received the coveted award, The Willaman Trophy, in 1955. He was indoctrinated into the University's Hall of Fame and invited to tour Asia with the Goodyear Basketball team on a USA goodwill tour. He played in the league that preceded the formation of the NBA. The quality of his leadership skills, his competitive spirit, his creativity, his enjoyment of people, his work ethic and the fun he brought to every challenge he undertook followed him throughout his life. The projects he took on were always intertwined with his sense of humor and "can-do"spirit. These same qualities have...

Jacquelyn L. Mason
Aug. 8, 1940 - July 13, 2021
Alameda, California

Mrs. Mason was born and raised in Flint, Michigan, where she was an active member of St. Luke's Catholic Church. She met her one true love, Robert Mason, in the church choir, and they married on August 29, 1969. They raised their two children in Grand Blanc and moved to California in 1997 when the nest was empty after their daughter's graduation from veterinary school. A lifelong advocate of health and education, Mrs. Mason worked as a medical technologist for over 45 years and was a passionate scholar of Shakespeare, genealogy, and medicine. After retiring, she devoted herself to the happiness and well-being of her grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her extraordinary kindness and her generosity. No matter how awkward or confused or lost we felt, she was always there to lend a sympathetic ear, listen patiently with mercy rather than judgment, and help us find our way. We owe her a lifetime debt of gratitude for the gifts of love and support we received. She is survived by her daughter Lisa Hoban; son Richard Mason; sisters Francine Vaughn and Kathleen Luer; and brothers Jonathan Lamson, Joseph Lamson, and Michael Lamson. She was preceded in death by husband ...

Jacklyn Morrison
Oct. 7, 1931 - July 9, 2021
Santa Cruz, California

Jacklyn (Brown) Morrison died peacefully at home on July 9, 2021. She was 89 years old. Jackie was born in Livermore, CA to Raymond and Jessie Brown. She grew up on the family cattle ranch outside of Pleasanton. She maintained the friendships of many fellow students throughout her life from Pleasanton Grammar School and Amador High (1949 graduation). She met her future husband Collin Morrison at Heald's Business College where she graduated. Jackie was employed at California Research & Development Co in Livermore and then at Livermore Radiation Laboratory until she married in 1953. They had four children: Doug from Utah, Rae from Chico, Jean from Santa Cruz and Don from Chico. Jackie spent many years while the children were young fundraising for the Heart Fund and the American Cancer Society. She was involved with local PTAs as well. She enjoyed and supported her children's activities from Brownies to baseball and basketball games. As the family became involved with competition water skiing, Jackie enjoyed many new friendships and became a respected tournament judge and boat driver. When the children grew up, Jackie moved to Oakland and then Santa Cruz area and worked at LDS ...

George Dennis Dunphy
Oct. 4, 1935 - July 6, 2021
Pleasanton, California

George Dunphy passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, at Mt Eden Hospital, in Castro Valley on July 6, 2021 at the age of 85. He lived in Pleasanton, Ca. for the past 40 years, where he provided for his wife and two sons. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, a passionate teacher and coach, and more than a friend to many. George grew up in Emeryville, Ca. and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on his eighteenth birthday. While serving his country, he was fortunate enough to make the command baseball team, where he honed his skills for the next level. After being honorably discharged from the Marines, George continued to follow his passion, baseball, playing for San Francisco State, while completing his schoolwork to become a teacher and coach. He began his teaching career in 1965 at Marina High School, home of the Titans. "Coach" Dunphy played an instrumental role in the development of a "big time" athletic program, that sent many student athletes on to successful endeavors. He was well respected by his peers, college and professional coaches and scouts, and was a pillar of the local community...

Joseph Howard Gordon
Jan. 10, 1958 - July 4, 2021
Pleasanton, California

On the 4th of July the world lost a great man. Joe Gordon of Pleasanton, Ca passed away unexpectedly from health complications at 63 years young. He leaves behind his two children Dan Gordon and Sarah Ewing (Jay), their mother Judy Gordon, his grandson Daniel Gordon, sisters Julie Sheikh (Junaid) and Judy Franceschi (Vince), brother Jim Gordon (Maura), his loving mother Jayne Gordon, and a whole community of friends that were as close as family. Joe grew up in Fremont, Ca. He attended Holy Spirit Catholic School, Washington High School, and San Jose State University, where he formed many lifelong friendships and gathered great stories of which he would later go on to entertain us all with the tales of. Joe spent most of his working career as a realtor serving Fremont and the Tri-Valley for over 35 years. Along with real estate he worked at the Alameda County Supervisors Office serving his community. In his free time he loved a good golf game and going to the horse races at the fair. The family knows he would have been honored that his friends had a race dedicated to him last weekend. Joe was the man you could count on and was always there to help out his friends and family. ...

Michael James Chandler
Jan. 11, 1961 - June 18, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Michael passed away suddenly on Friday, June 18. Michael touched so many people throughout is life. He was a gentle giant with a positive outlook on life, loving his family and friends and giving back to his community. He was often called Mr. Pleasanton. Michael was born in Los Angeles, California and graduated from Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton. Michael studied electronic engineering/circuit analysis and real estate law at Los Positas College. After college, Michael enjoyed a 34-year career in real estate working with many of the local Pleasanton and Tri-Valley real estate agencies, like Berkshire Hathaway, Hometown GMAC, Keller Williams, Contempo and Harris. Michael was a former award-winning realtor & ALC Board of Directors. Michael was also a basketball coach, helping teenagers and young adults master the art of the game. Michael loved his family and friends. He enjoyed traveling, basketball, baseball, football and cooking. Michael is survived by his loving mother, Carol Chandler, his brother Steven Chandler, and sisters Pam Price-Bergquist and Cindy Bower. Friends and family are invited to join Michael's Celebration of Life ceremony on Sat. July 31 ...

Gerald Norman Macauley
Jan. 6, 1935 - June 18, 2021
La Quinta, CA

GERALD NORMAN MACAULEY Age 86, passed away June 18th, 2021 In 1935, Jerry was born to Norman & Mary (McHale) Macauley in Alameda, CA and was later raised in Oakland, CA. He graduated in 1953 from Acalanes High School in Lafayette, CA. As a popular student who excelled in sports, he was most notably recognized for excelling in baseball and golf, with golf becoming a life-long passion of his. After graduating, Jerry enlisted in the Army where he was first stationed at Fort Ord before going to Nevada where he was instrumentally involved in A-bomb testing. Upon completing his service, with honorable discharge in hand, he returned home to join the family business, Auto Parts & Machine in Oakland, where he worked many years alongside family members until his father, Norman, retired and Jerry took over. He piloted the business to maintain its position as one of the premier parts stores in the East Bay as well as working in sales and as a machinist until he was almost 80 years old. During his last 15 years of running the machine shop, he also taught Automotive Machine Technology during the evenings at Chabot College in Hayward, CA. In February of 1979, Jerry and Diane (Johnson...

Allen Everett De Grange
July 2, 1931 - June 16, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Allen Everett De Grange passed away in Pleasanton, CA on June 16, 2021 after a brief illness. A third generation Californian, Allen was born July 2, 1931, in Oakland, California and spent his early years in Hayward before his family moved to the small town of Ione in the Gold Country. There were 15 students in his graduating class at Ione High School and many of them remained lifelong friends. While serving in the Army, he was stationed at Fort Ord during the Korean War. The war story that he liked to tell his friends was about his unit practicing "invasions of San Jose State looking for girls." The invasions were successful when he met and fell in love with Marion Ann Evers, a student at San Jose State. They married in 1954 and raised their five children in Los Gatos. Allen graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 1956 and set up his beloved architectural practice in San Jose a few years later. The AIA honored him with awards for his residential designs. He also designed more than two dozen veterinary hospitals in the Bay Area. When his children were young, a typical Sunday afternoon family activity was touring buildings under construction, some which he...

Cheryl Rae Alecksen Benson
Sept. 13, 1947 - June 16, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Our beautiful and beloved Momma, Cheryl Rae Alecksen Benson, left us here on Earth and rejoined the love of her life on Wednesday June 16, 2021. When you hear the stories of someone dying of a broken heart, that is exactly what she did. She lived an incredible and fulfilled life but inevitably after the recent passing of her husband of 51 years, John Anthony Benson, her heart was never the same. She is survived by her devoted daughters; Sydne Benson Roth and Jordon Benson (both residing in Pleasanton). Her three hippity-hoppity's; Holland Roth (12), Brooklyn Benson (8), and Tyson Roth (6). Her youngest Sister (of 5 siblings), Beth Bloom; to include John's surviving Sisters, Antonet O'Toole and Anna Benson. And many more important extended family members and close friends. Cheryl was born in Manitowoc, WI, to Vernon and Ruth Alecksen. She was the third of six siblings. After graduating high school, she hopped on an Amtrak train for a two-week CA visit to her cousins in San Jose, and never returned. She met John while he was working at Lucky's as a cashier. He took her number off of her check and their incredible love story began. They married in Dec 1968. He was...

Dan Patterson
Jan. 27, 1933 - June 10, 2021
Livermore, California

Dan William Patterson of Livermore, California passed away on June 10th, 2021. He passed peacefully with his wife, three children, and eight grandchildren by his side. He was 88. Dan was a selfless friend, a brilliant scientist, a devoted husband, a gentle father, and an adored grandfather. Dan was a uniquely resilient and courageous man, who braved and won a fight against stage four melanoma 22 years ago. He began his 60-year career as a nuclear weapons designer at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory in 1955. He was a gifted and renowned physicist, who pioneered many of our nation's greatest achievements in nuclear weaponry. There is no doubt that Dan made significant and impressive contributions to national security. His genius was often marveled at and his work attracted frequent praise and recognition, but Dan always remained indifferent to this attention. He was always humbled and grateful to have the privilege of doing what he loved in his work. Dan is survived by his wife of 61 years, Judy Patterson, and their three children, Scott (Debi Patterson), Tracy (Norm Escover), and Jill (Matt Boeger). Together they have eight grandchildren, Tim, Megan, and Matthew; Trev...

HR Shamblin
Oct. 15, 1931 - June 10, 2021
Pleasanton, California

HR passed away after a brief illness. He was born in Coleman Texas and moved to Pleasanton with his family in the 40's. He graduated from Amador in 1949 and served in the Army before graduating from San Jose State. He then received his teaching credential from Cal State Hayward. He started his real estate business in 1969 and remained an active agent until his retirement. HR was a ballroom dancer and could play just about any instrument. He is survived by his sons Stephen (Bonnie) and Scott (Julie) and four grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Beth Rich, and his brother Cecil Don Shamblin along with his two nephews and their families. He will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather as well as quite a character and man-about-town. The family would like to thank the staff at Abigail's Guest House for the care they gave HR during the last eighteen months. A graveside service for family was held. In lieu of flowers the family asks donations in HR's name to be made to Hope Hospice in Dublin....

Josephine (Jaye) Olympia Maestas
May 24, 1928 - June 7, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Josephine (Jaye) Maestas passed away on June 7 at her home in Pleasanton. She was born on May 24, 1928 in Garcia, Colorado to her parents Frank and Lucrecia DeHerrera. The town of Garcia was founded by her grandfather Ereneo Garcia in the 1860's. She moved to Paso Robles, California in 1943 with her brother Frank and sister-in-law Josephine. Later, she reunited with family in Oakland, California where she attended beauty school and became a hairdresser. Jaye married Tim Maestas on September 19, 1959 and they were married for 45 years. Their first son Steven was born in 1963 while they were stationed overseas in South Korea. Upon returning to California, the family moved to Oakland and their second son Stuart was born in 1965. The family moved to Pleasanton in 1968. Tim passed away in 2006. Jaye was a very active member of the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church and was instrumental in painting all the doors when it moved to its new location on Mirador Drive. She loved feeding all the neighborhood kids and enjoyed socializing. Jaye was always "ready to go" at a moments notice. She never let the grass grow under her feet. Jaye came from a family of 10 siblings. She is sur...

Marjorie Evelyn Russo
July 4, 1928 - May 31, 2021
Pleasanton, California

We sadly announce the passing of Marjorie (Margie) Russo who passed away peacefully on May 31st, 2021, at the age of 92. Our mother was truly a happy and caring person, who loved her husband and enjoyed being with family, friends and going on weekend trips, we were so blessed to have her for as long as we did, we will all most certainly miss her. Margie was born, Marjorie Evelyn Hobson, on July 4th, 1928, in San Francisco. She graduated Polytechnic High School and then had numerous jobs in San Francisco along with doing some modeling before enlisting in the Navy following in her father's footsteps, where she was Service 3rd Class Yeoman. This is where she met the love of her life Louis Russo in February 1956 while in the Navy and married him soon after on August 18th, 1956. When they were discharged, they moved to New Jersey for a couple months before settling in Hayward, CA. In 1964 they moved to their family home in Pleasanton, CA where they lived for 54 years. Margie and Lou followed their sons to Arizona in 2018 so they could be near them. They had 2 boys Mike and Tim whom she lived her life for, as they were everything to her. Margie worked for the Pleasan...

Waldo Francis Silver, Jr.
July 15, 1925 - May 27, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Mr. Silver served in the United States Army Air Force. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 1948 with a Bachelor of Science. He was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity at the University of Oregon. Mr. Silver worked at Lockheed Missiles and Space for 35 years, retiring as Director of Human Resources. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Star One Federal Credit Union. Mr. Silver is survived by his wife Jo Nita Mancebo Silver, their son Gregory Klein, his daughters Pamela Garnett, Jan Lindsell, Jill Edwards, and Joy Silver, his stepsons Barry Mancebo and Ricardo Mancebo, and 17 grandchildren. He enjoyed travelling and spending time with his family. A private memorial was held at the Graham-Hitch Mortuary located in Pleasanton, California. Mr. Silver's loving spirit will be missed by all who knew him....

Norma Batchelor
Oct. 13, 1923 - May 17, 2021
Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Norma Batchelor, a resident of Pleasanton, California from 1966 to 2011, passed away on May 17, 2021, aged 97, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Predeceased by her husband Kenneth W. Batchelor (also of Pleasanton), she is survived by her children, Susan Surfleet (Clive), Christopher Wille (Kathy Kunz), Andrew Wille (Susan), six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Norma requested no services to be held, preferring to live on in the memory of her family and friends....

Susan Foster Ludwick
Feb. 10, 1934 - May 16, 2021
Placerville, CA

It is with great sadness that the family of Susan Foster Ludwick announces her passing on, May 16, 2021, at the age of 87 years. Susan will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 61 years, Norman and her children, Curtis, Lisa (Nick), and Laurie. Susan will also be fondly remembered by her four grandchildren, Al, Anthony, Dylan and Ava. Susan grew up in Los Angeles with parents Helen and George Foster where she graduated high school and went on to nursing school. She spent much of her nursing career as an RN at the UCLA Medical Center. Susan was very compassionate animal lover and when ever there was a stray cat in the neighborhood, Susan would always take them in....

Jessie Wong Echavia
May 2, 1925 - May 9, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Jessie Wong Echavia, 96 years, passed peacefully on Mother's Day, May 9, 2021 at San Ramon Regional Medical Center. She lived in Pleasanton for over 55 years and most recently resided at Rosewood Gardens, Livermore. Born to Bing "Harry" and Lena (Tom) Wong, she shared her childhood years with her siblings in Oakland Chinatown. She attended Lincoln School and Oakland Technical High School. In 1941 she married Wing Yee. She worked as a typist at Mare Island Naval Shipyard during World War II. In 1953 she married Margarito "Mike" Echavia. Her excellent organizational skills highlighted a long career in the apparel industry where she began in Oakland and led later to managing offices in San Leandro and South San Francisco. While working full-time and raising six children, she and Mike also managed several restaurants including the Red Coach in Pleasant Hill and Wagon Wheel in Pleasanton. Jessie lived her life to the fullest. She was an avid traveler who savored cross-country road trips and also visiting the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. She enjoyed crochet, museums, Barry Manilow music, root beer floats, murder mystery documentaries and she never turned down an opportu...

Patricia Harper
Dec. 6, 1949 - May 8, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Patricia Marie Harper, 71, a long time resident of Pleasanton, passed away on May 8, 2021 surrounded by friends and under the care of hospice in Medford, Oregon after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. She enjoyed her volunteer work at the Pleasanton Senior Center and Cancer Society Thrift Store as well as sharing meals and laughter at Jim's restaurant, and easily made friends wherever she landed. Pat made her home in Medford, OR for the past three years. A graveside service will be held at a later date in Grants Pass, Oregon....

Corrine Mavridis
May 1, 1934 - May 3, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Corrine Mavridis was born to George and Despina Natseos on May 1, 1934 in Astoria, OR. She grew up in the logging camps of Naselle, WA where her parents were cooks for the loggers. Around age 18, her family moved to Portland, OR, where she continued to live until she married in 1961. She passed away in her home on May 3, 2021 after a brief battle with illness. Corrine is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ted, her daughter Melodee (Spencer), granddaughter Kim, and her brother, James Natseos. She is preceded in death by her only son, John. Corrine was extremely active in Pleasanton organizations, from Junior Women's League, sitting on the board of Pleasanton Little League, Pleasanton Downtown Association Executive Board, Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee, Amador Valley High School Band Boosters, Soroptimist, to the Pleasanton-Tulancingo Sister City Association, and as the last reigning Mardi Gras Queen in 1976. Along with Ted, they opened Pleasanton Bakery on Main Street in 1966. Corrine worked tirelessly behind the counter daily, chatting with everyone who would come in. When the bakery closed in 1987, Corrine kept herself busy around town, as a propert...

Nino Pompilio
June 20, 1933 - May 2, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Nino Pompilio passed away on 5/2/21 at the age of 87. Nino was born June 20, 1933 in the Bronx, New York City to parents who had immigrated from Italy. He lived in "Little Italy" and immediately after WWII ended moved to Queens, NYC where he attended Middle School and graduated from Richmond Hill High School. He attended The College of Engineering at NYU in pursuit of a Metallurgical Engineering Degree. After 3 years, he enlisted and served in the Army during the Korean War. While he primarily served Stateside, he attended a multitude of Army Schools where he met his wife-to-be Rose. After he was Honorably discharged from the Army in 1955, he returned to NYU graduating in 1956. He and Rose were married on 9/2/1956. He worked as a Chief Welding Engineer in Nuclear Technology first in the construction of nuclear submarines, culminating with construction of nuclear power plants. He retired in 1993. Nino and his family moved to Pleasanton in 1968 where he resided for the past 53 years. He was active in the community, particularly in youth sports. He was a coach and served on the boards of PJFL, and Competitive Girls soccer for over a decade. He became a licensed soccer referee and w...

Nancy Ann Stevens
Jan. 3, 1949 - April 27, 2021
Twain Harte, California

Born and raised in Sacramento, Nancy and her wife Patricia lived in Pleasanton before retiring to Twain Harte in 2016. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Chico State College. After college she worked as a botanist, a park ranger at Muir Woods and an auto mechanic. She began her 30-year long career at AT&T in pole climbing school to be an installer and she retired as Project Manager in October 2011. Nancy loved nature; her dream was to become a forest ranger. She and Patricia loved hiking, biking and snowshoeing. She loved a challenge, she joined Soldality CrossFit after their move. Nancy valued volunteerism; she was active in various organizations through-out her life. She was a great fan of John Wayne and Westerns, hence the theme of her memorial She was a true and loyal friend to many. She was a kind, thoughtful person, and a great listener. She is survived by her beloved family; she was a devoted spouse of 21 years to Patricia Herrera; a loving sister to John Stevens (Sonora); a dear sister-in-law to Alicia Bergman (John), John and Myrna O'Brien, Dudley and Karen Herrera, Mark and Yvonne Davies, Jose and Candy Zambrana, and Walt and Tina Herrera; d...

Doris Anne Slater
April 10, 1936 - April 20, 2021
Pleasanton, California

A public celebration of the completed life of Doris Slater will be held at 11:00 a.m. on July 23, 2021 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1225 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, California. The connection between Doris and her music cannot be overstated. As early as a teen-ager, she was the go-to soprano soloist in church choirs at First English Lutheran Church (St. Paul's Lutheran) in Cheyenne, Wyoming. For many years, she was also a frequently requested soloist at Schrader Funeral Home. Later at Evergreen Lutheran Church in Evergreen, Colorado, she either sang in or directed the adult choir over a 20 year period. Doris sang for many years with Denver's Classic Chorale, was a founding member of The Evergreen Chorale in 1972, and appeared in several musicals with The Evergreen Players. Since moving to the Tri-Valley area of California in 1983, she sang with the Valley Concert Chorale for 25 years and had prominent roles in many musicals including The Mikado. In addition she served two terms as president of VCC. She also had the talent to sing with the San Francisco Symphony Chorus for one season. Doris was well-known, and will be missed, by both staff and patrons of Peet's C...

Bill Selway
Dec. 8, 1946 - April 14, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Heaven didn't know what they were getting Wednesday, April 14, 2021 when Bill Selway walked through the Pearly gates. We imagine he got teary-eyed when he found his mother Margaret, father Roy Selway and brother-in law Eric and his friends. He probably had them laughing in seconds and organized a party. But Kathryn Steinberg, his mother-in-law, would be wary of Bill's tricks. Bill was a prankster. He hooked mannequin hands on the back belt of wife Kate's coat during mall shopping, set all the alarm clocks in Macy's electronics to go off at different times and his scary Thor mask popped up at kitchen windows or in the dark on the way to the Mohr Mansion. The mischief started at a young age. Billy was born in Dillon, Montana on December 8, 1946. When he was four, the family moved to Richmond, California and Billy welcomed six brothers Pat, Jimmy, Chuck, Danny, Dell, Joe and sister Helen. As big brother he could change a diaper quicker than his mother. The Selway boys and their "Spanky and the Little Rascals gang" from St. Paul's Elementary wreaked havoc in the neighborhood; they left poop bags on doorsteps, launched Billy out of a soap box car resulting in his iconic...

James (Jim) Anthony
1934 - April 13, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Jim passed away 8 days after his 87 birthday with his devoted wife, Donella, always by his side. Jim was born in Petaluma and raised in Oakland. He attended Fremont High and graduated in 1952. After a short stint working for Southern Pacific, he was drafted to the Army where he served in France as a truck driver. He loved to tell his family about his time driving around Europe. Upon his return from the Army, he began his 50 year career at PG&E, where he had great success and made many life long friends. Jim and Donella moved to Pleasanton in 1968 where they raised their family. His greatest joys were his wife, children and grandchildren. Jim loved to have his family over for dinners as he always loved to cook. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He never missed a game or event of his children and enjoyed many sporting events of his grandchildren. The happiest time of his life was when he received his job as Papa! He loved taking care of his two oldest granddaughters everyday from when they were born until they started to drive! He is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Donella Anthony. His daughter, Stacy Kovisto, son Jim Anthony and daughter in law Nicole Anthon...

Pamela Lynn Chestnut
Nov. 19, 1951 - April 7, 2021
Astoria, Oregon

Pamela Lynn Chestnut died peacefully, surrounded by friends, family, love, and light, in the wee hours of the morning on April 7, 2021, just as a light rain began to fall, in Astoria, OR. After a few years challenged by ovarian cancer and its effects, she is finally at rest and at ease, and surely enjoying a regained freedom and wholeness that she lacked in her final time on Earth. Pam is survived by her beloved daughter, Erin, of Astoria; two dear brothers, Ron and Vince, of Petaluma and Magalia, CA, respectively; four noteworthy nieces and nephews, Robin, Ryan, Shane, and Sarah; two exceptional cats, Punkin and Mimi; one amazing dog, Lady; and multitudes of lovely, interesting, and devoted friends and relations. Pam grew up in San Diego, CA, and graduated high school in Lodi, eventually making her way to Pleasanton, where she met her handsome, kind husband of a few years, Bart, who would help her create her life's work, their daughter. She spent many years as a well-respected escrow officer before leaving her career to go to college in 2000, something she'd always wanted to do. She chose Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA, because of her love of the area from the...

Joan Marie Van Cleave
May 28, 1930 - April 3, 2021
Pleasanton, California

It is with great sadness we announce that Joan Van Cleave, 90, of Pleasanton, Calif., passed peacefully in her sleep on April 3, 2021. She was a daughter, sister, mother, and great grandmother who firmly rooted her life around family. Joan was born on May 28, 1930 to Joseph Bertino and Mary Nounnan in Los Angeles, Calif. Shortly after graduating high school, she welcomed her first and only child, Denise Cathleen, into the world. After marrying Robert Ghiglione, Joan moved her new family to Dublin, Calif. in 1961. In 1967, Joan moved to Pleasanton, Calif., where she remained for the duration of her life. She spent her life devoted to serving others, working as a waitress at local staples like The Brass Door & Sunol Country Club. In 1980, she married Thomas Van Cleave, a bartender and veteran. In her later years, she volunteered for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) helping to welcome home and feed returning vets. She was predeceased by her daughter, Denise, and husband, Thomas. She is survived by her boyfriend, Robert; grandchildren Jason, Steven and Vincent; and great grandchildren Jonas, Michael, Cora and Kenna....

Stella K. Burkes
July 29, 1927 - April 2, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Stella was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She sadly passed away at the age of 93 after an unexpected, short illness. She was predeceased by her husband, Lee, daughter Liz, and sons Kenny and Tommy. Stella is survived by her children, Ida, Chuck, Gary and nephew Sonny Murphy, as well as many grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren. Stella worked at many thoroughbred racetracks in Northern California throughout her life, occupying a big list of different jobs within. She loved horse racing and was sure to instill its beauty into her family. Stella touched many lives with her genuine smile, knowledge, and abundance of love. There will be no funeral service at this time, but we will hold a celebration of life later on....

Stephen Anthony Kalthoff
June 29, 1940 - March 31, 2021
Livermore, CA

Stephen was born in San Francisco during the summer of 1940 to parents Hazel Garatti Kalthoff and Herbert Kalthoff. Stephen's family eventually moved to San Leandro to be closer to his extended Italian-American family in Pleasanton and Livermore. He grew up largely in the vineyards and wineries of Pleasanton, including his grandfather Frank's eponymous Garatti winery. A curly haired young boy, Stephen was adored by his family for his boundless energy, sharp intelligence, and sense of humor. He graduated from St. Joseph's High School in Alameda and received his bachelors degree from USF and MBA from UC Berkeley. During his college years he worked for Southern Pacific Railroad where he developed a life long love affair with trains. As children he would take us to watch trains at all hours of the day and night. He knew every schedule. He even planned trips along rail lines throughout the U.S. and the world; taking the Trans Siberian Railroad with his brother Phil and nephew Brian in 1993 and most recently with his daughters through Texas in 2018. Stephen married Alice Painter in 1964 and moved to San Antonio, TX to join the Air Force. When he returned, he accepted a posi...

Teresa McCarthy McKinsey
Oct. 14, 1947 - March 27, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Teresa McCarthy McKinsey, affectionally known as "Terri" and "GMa Terri," passed away peacefully on March 27, 2021 after a sudden illness. She was 73 years old. Born October 14, 1947, in Oakland, CA, to Francis and Barbara McCarthy, Terri was five-years-old when the family relocated to Palo Alto, CA. She lived in Palo Alto for 63 years, graduating from Palo Alto High School in 1965 and obtaining an accounting degree from De Anza College in 1998. She worked for over 30 years for various companies in the Silicon Valley until her retirement in 2016. Her first marriage in 1965 to Michael Calhoun produced 2 Children Michael and Patricia. On November 8, 1981, she married Dennis McKinsey. They were married for almost 40 years and raised four children in Palo Alto before moving to Livermore in 2016. Terri was known for her love and dedication to family and enthusiasm for making memories. Her first trip to Disneyland at age 8 launched a lifelong passion for 'the happiest place on earth.' As an adult, she and her brother Tim, sister Lauren, and her children, grandchildren and extended family continued to travel annually to the resort, often multiple times a year. Terri also he...

Tom James Silva
Jan. 9, 1942 - March 26, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Tom James Silva, retired public utility serviceman and life long resident of Alameda county died March 26, 2021. He is survived by his devoted Wife, Sharon Silva, Daughter and Daughter-in-law Amy & Erin McCann, and 1-year-old Granddaughter Piper James McCann, Brother and Sister-in-law Allen and Sandy Silva, nephews Todd and Jim Silva. Tom was born January 9, 1942 in Oakland, Ca. He was the youngest son born to Elizabeth and Joseph Silva. As a young man Tommy completed carpentry school and worked in truck & brake sales at Friction Materials. He drove across the country and coached basketball. Tommy enjoyed bowling, water skiing, and seeing Broadway plays. In 1975 he married his beloved, Sharon, a book keeper at a local electrical supply house. He became a father in 1979. Tommy retired from PG&E in 2003 after 27 years of service . He was promoted to grandfather in 2020 and was affectionately know as Papa Beep Beep. Tommy enjoyed being someone others could depend on. He frequently donated his time, labor and knowledge of trades to family and friends. Tommy continued coaching basketball for many years with Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) and Pleasanton Middle School. He regular...

Patty Dickerson
April 6, 1947 - March 23, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Patty Pfardresher Dickerson passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love and care of her family on March 23, 2021, reuniting with her parents, Frank J. Pfardresher and Margaret "Peggy" Henderson Pfardresher. Born April 6, 1947 and raised in the Arden Park neighborhood of Sacramento, Patty graduated from University of the Pacific and became a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. She moved to Pleasanton in 1976 and worked part time for ValleyCare while raising her two children. Post-retirement, she served as a community volunteer at Lawrence Livermore Lab. Over the years, Patty enjoyed walking her beloved dogs through the Sports Park, riding her horse along the Pleasanton Ridge, cheering on the San Jose Sharks as a season ticket holder for 23 years, and above all else, spending time with her family. She devoted much of her later years to her four grandchildren, never missing a school show, dance recital, sporting event, or just the daily activities of their lives. Patty is survived by her husband of 51 years, Edwin G. Dickerson, son Frank Dickerson (sons Graham and Michael), daughter Melissa Alexander (husband Marshall, daughter Clare, and son Drake), and her three...

Jean Patricia Cole
April 22, 1938 - March 23, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Jean Patricia (Jean) Zoernsch was born on 22 April 1938 in Chicago, IL to William Frederick and Elizabeth Mary (Kerr) Zoernsch of that city. Her sister, Sandra Lynn (Sandy), was born five years later. At the age of 16, following her sophom*ore year in HS, Jean's family moved to San Jose, CA where she completed high school and attended San Jose State University. Majoring in Primary Education and working her way through college, Jean was active in her sorority and graduated with Honors in 1960. After teaching for two years in the San Francisco Bay area, she decided to use her teaching credentials as a ticket to see the world. Applying for the DOD Dependents School System in 1962, Jean was posted to Baumholder, Germany where she taught first grade. Soon after her arrival, Jean met her husband to be, Bob, who always declared it was "love at first sight". Jean, however, maintained that she wasn't so sure about that "co*cky paratrooper", and besides, she had come to Europe to travel, not "to find a husband", as Bob often joked. At any rate, the stars aligned and they became engaged among the flowers of Luxembourg Gardens in Paris and began to plan their wedding which led...

Olga Bethune
Dec. 22, 1930 - March 19, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Olga Bethune passed at age 90 of natural causes. She was the daughter of Russian immigrants and a 50 year resident of Pleasanton. She is survived by her daughter Cindy Ramos and four grandchildren Alexandra, Briana, Jacob and Taylor. Bethune was preceded in death by her husband of 13 years, Kirk Bethune, who died in Pleasanton in 1974. During the last few years of her life Olga estranged herself from her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren, leaving the family estate to a neighbor who she complained about for years prior. #mentalhealthawareness...

Mel Nelson
July 12, 1936 - March 16, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Melvin "Mel" Peter Nelson left this world to join his heavenly father on March 16, 2021 from his home in Pleasanton, CA at 84 years old. He was born July 12, 1936 in Oakland, CA to Carl & Viola Nelson. After attending Hayward High School, he served in the U.S. Navy, first in the Reserve, and then in Active Duty, a Radioman Petty Officer 3rd class. Once honorably discharged, Mel put his strong work ethic towards developing his career as a real estate appraiser, first with Wells Fargo and PG&E, then starting his company Nelson & Associates, where he practiced in the greater East Bay. To describe Mel in one word: a gentleman. He had a great smile, and a special sense of humor, and was often chuckling to a subtle joke on the Big Bang Theory or another show on TV. He was thoughtful, generous, and patient. He loved dogs, especially co*cker Spaniels; his latest, the beloved Bentley. Mel was an avid follower of current events, loved sharing trivia or playfully teasing friends about their days. Mel was known for his work with Toastmasters International, his love of photography, and beekeeping. He was an avid RV enthusiast and enjoyed cooking and entertaining, especially for family an...

Mary Ann Gregory
April 26, 1948 - March 15, 2021
Fair Oaks, CA

Mary Ann passed away peacefully at Mercy San Juan Hospital in Carmichael, California on March 15, 2021 at age 72. She was born on April 26, 1948 in Livermore, California to Manuel and Marie Santana. She grew up and enjoyed her childhood in Pleasanton, living only a few blocks from the town's Main Street District. She attended and graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1966 and went on to Chabot College, earning an Associate in Arts Degree in 1969. She worked at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in preparation for the Alameda County Fair during her summers. She met her husband, William Edgar Gregory, Jr. at a church dance in 1969. They were married at St. Augustine's Catholic Church on October 24, 1970 in Pleasanton. In the early 1970s, she worked as a Clerical Assistant for Blue Cross in Oakland. After the birth of her first child, she became a homemaker, dedicating her time to her children. She also briefly worked as a teacher's aide in her children's schools for the Alum Rock Union School District in San Jose. Mary Ann had a passion for learning. Besides Chabot College, she attended various colleges and universities, including California State University, Haywar...

Tom Drengacz
July 27, 1956 - March 10, 2021
Colusa, California

Born in Chicago, IL to Florence and Frank Drengacz, the youngest of 3 children. At age 6, Tom's family moved to Baltimore, MD then to Pleasanton, CA. Tom spent his youth in rural Pleasanton in the 1960s, exploring creeks, riding bikes and going on adventures with his close friends. He stayed close to many of them for the rest of his life. In high school, hang gliding became Tom's passion. He built his own gliders in the garage, eventually taking off from Glacier Point in Yosemite. Tom was a sportsman, playing soccer in high school, rugby with the Hayward Area Griffins, and then the famous Dirty Dozen rowing team, getting to the Olympic quarterfinals in 1984. He worked in the gem industry for several years. His passion for flight now focused on airplanes, Tom became a flight instructor then corporate pilot. Flying for the UN in Africa in the 1990s led to many years flying Learjets, Challenger 605s and Gulfstream 450s for FlexJet, till his recent medical retirement. He saw the Earth from above and toured almost all the land on the globe. Tom was born to fly, and born to be wild. He lived life his way. Tom is survived by wife Blair LeGette, sister Nancy Drengacz Abramson (Curt) ...

Robert Langsam
May 4, 1938 - March 3, 2021
Pleasanton, California

It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Robert Langsam. He was a born and bred San Franciscan and considered himself lucky to have lived in San Francisco when it really was The City that knows how. He graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in San Francisco and served in the U.S. Navy for four years. After that he worked at Playland at the Beach where he met his future wife, Sheilah, who worked there part time while attending SFSU. He was a games operator on the midway and she was the popcorn/cotton candy girl. There are not many people that can say that. They were married February 2, 1963 and were together 58 years. In 1969 they moved to the Tri-Valley and bought their first house in Livermore. After six years, they moved to Pleasanton and lived in the same house for 46 years. It was the house he died in. Robert worked for Eastman Kodak for 21 years as a warehouseman. It was a job he truly loved, the forklift, the packing, and shipping. His orders never went out incorrectly. After he retired, he enjoyed playing cards, mostly poker and gin. He loved watching baseball and football on tv. His real favorites were old movies, sentimental romances, and...

Christopher David Pope
Oct. 6, 1952 - Feb. 27, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Christopher David Pope, 68, of Pleasanton, Ca., died February 27, 2021 at the Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center of cancer. Pope was born Oct. 6, 1952, in Bonne Terre, Mo., the son of William H. and Carmen Perrier Pope. He attended St. Joseph Catholic grade school in Bonne Terre, St. Joseph Catholic High School in Farmington, Mo., and graduated from North County High School in Desloge, Mo., in 1971. Pope worked at Thomure's Standard station and Merchants Wholesale in Bonne Terre during high school. Following graduation, he attended Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Mo., for a year. He joined the United States Navy in October of 1972. He served on the USS. Vreeland and the USS Albany, spending most of his naval career in the Mediterranean. He earned the rank of Postal Clerk Petty Officer 3rd Class and received the National Defense Service Medal. With an honorable discharge from the Navy in May of 1974, Pope moved to California and worked at National Semiconductor in Santa Clara, Ca. He married Evette LaPoint in 1985 and they had two children, Tyler and Danielle. The family made their home in Pleasanton, Ca., for 35 years. Pope worked for C...

James Rogers Dillon
Oct. 31, 1939 - Feb. 27, 2021
Pleasanton, California

James Roger Dillon was born on October 31, 1939 in Montclair, New Jersey. He lived in Jersey City, New Jersey, graduated from Snyder High School, attended the University of Kentucky, graduated from The University of Delaware and took a graduate degree from California State University, Hayward. He worked for Caterpillar Tractor for twenty years as a shop foreman and accounting manager before retiring to start a CPA firm on his own. Blessed with three children; Kathy, Chris, and Jim, and four grandchildren; Ashley, Matthew, Jack and Logan. Jim lived an active, full life highlighted by running, cajun dancing, reading and spending time with his many friends. Jim encouraged and helped many people through his kind and gracious personality. He was loved by many, will be greatly missed and forgotten by none....

Scott Alan Kinney
Oct. 4, 1961 - Feb. 22, 2021
Clayton, California

Scott Alan Kinney, 59, of Clayton, passed away on February 21, 2021. Scott was born in Concord, California to Ed and Robert Kinney on October 4, 1961. He went to high school at Amador Valley in Pleasanton and graduated in 1980. He went on to earn a football scholarship to the University of Pacific in Stockton as a kicker. Scott worked as an Insurance Broker for Epic Brokers in Concord, California. He enjoyed spending time with his family, taking lake vacations, and attending sporting events. Scott was preceded in death by his father Ed. Scott is survived by his wife Ann Kinney, and children Ryan Kinney (24), and daughter Emily Kinney (18). He is also survived by his mother Roberta and brother Brad. Scott was also known as one of the most upbeat, friendliest people, and could always be counted on the leave his friends with a smile on their faces and laughter in their hearts. He will also be remembered for being dependable and conscientious, always putting the needs of others before his own. Scott was a star on the athletic fields, playing goalie for the highly touted Amador Valley soccer team, helping to lead the team in the No. 1 national ranking in his junior ...

Michael Earl Reichlin
Nov. 10, 1939 - Feb. 18, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Michael Earl Reichlin (81), beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away on February 18th. He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer after being admitted to the hospital on February 1, 2021. It was a short battle with cancer but that is what he wanted since there was no treatment. He passed away peacefully at home with his son and daughter by his side. He was born in Oakland, CA to Frank and Ione Reichlin. He worked at PACO Pumps in Oakland from the time he was 19 years old until he retired 43 years later. He started off as the "broom boy" and worked his way up the ladder to Salesman to Sales Manager to Branch Manager. He made lots of friends with his coworkers and clients and kept a lot of them for the rest of his life, they became family. He married Janet June Reichlin on July 27, 1963. They had two children, Lori Bailey and Michael Reichlin. They moved to Pleasanton in 1967 and were happy to call Pleasanton home for the rest of their lives. He coached soccer teams for his son for years. When Dublin Bowl opened, there were family bowling nights and countless tournaments. He was a great sport when it came to driving everyone around. He wi...

Eleanor Anna Wilson
Aug. 8, 1923 - Feb. 15, 2021
San Leandro, California

Eleanor was born in Oakland, CA to John and Jennie Laplagne. She graduated from Oakland Highschool. After high school, Eleanor got her cosmetology license and then worked as a hairdresser. She would often talk about taking the streetcar to the USO dances, where she had so much fun meeting the servicemen. Eleanor married Frank D. Yunker on June 1, 1947. They had 2 children, Mike and Nancy. Frank died January 23, 1975. Eleanor then went to school to become a nurse's aide. She did not think she would marry again. However, through a mutual friend, she met Bill Wilson. After only 3 months they were engaged and married on April 17, 1977. Eleanor and Bill belonged to a retired firemen's group and enjoyed traveling with their friends to Graceland, Alaska, Canada, the Panama Canal, the Mississippi, and many other places. Bill passed away from Alzheimer's on July 15, 2003. Eleanor is survived by her devoted children; son, Michael Yunker of Livermore, daughter, Nancy Marks (Gary) of Pleasanton, son, Greg Wilson (Sean) of Oakland, daughter, Patti (deceased) (Michael) of Brentwood, granddaughters Juliet Grossman (Joel) of San Ramon and Jeanine Anderson (Ryan) of Livermor...

George Pires
Nov. 8, 1929 - Feb. 11, 2021
Pleasanton, California

George Manuel Pires, Age 91, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2021 at Kaiser Hospital, San Leandro. George was a long-time resident of Pleasanton and had many friends and interests, especially football and his beloved Oakland Raiders. He lived in Alameda County his entire life, except during his service with the US Army in the Korean War. George was a proud Veteran and supported many veteran groups and was a faithful member of St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Pleasanton. Born and raised in "Jingle Town" Oakland, California, where the vast majority of the population was Portuguese, George was very proud of his Portuguese heritage and had visited Portugal several times. When George came back from Korea he began working for Pacific Bell, where he remained for the next 40 years. George is preceded in death by his first wife Berniece Pires, his life partner, Marge Galli and his parents and siblings. Deeply loved by his family, George leaves behind his nieces, Diane Spencer, Cynthia (Michael) Palmer, Kathleen Neisse and nephews, Kevin Bass and Edward (Patricia) Bass, Donald Hyde and many great nieces and nephews. Services shall be as follows: Viewing will be hel...

Kimberley Rathjen Traversi
July 25, 1966 - Feb. 9, 2021
Elk Grove, California

Kimberley Rathjen Traversi July 25, 1966 – February 9, 2021 Kim Traversi was a force of goodness who truly resonated with everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. It didn't matter if you grew up with her, looked up to her, barely knew her, or saw her every day; she made you feel important, loved, and deeply cared for. This was her nature, and she made it look effortless. Her loss is a deep and impactful one to so many, and a true heartbreak to her family and friends who loved her most. There is great solace in knowing that she has shed her pain and can run freely and joyfully again. She loved to cook, run, travel, and learn something new at any opportunity; but most of all, she loved her family and was loved by them. Kim was born in Livermore, CA to Ann & Don Rathjen. She graduated from Amador HS in 1984 and UC Davis in 1988, where she received her teaching credential the following year. She is survived by her husband David, her two children Steven and Olivia, her parents Ann and Don Rathjen, her brothers Mark (Liz) and David (Jill), nieces and nephews Connor, Julia, Emma, and Luke Rathjen, and her beloved cousin Paige Schreiner. Kimberley was a teacher in Sacramen...

Attilio (Art) Crosetti
April 21, 1936 - Feb. 7, 2021
SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Attilio "Art" Crosetti passed away on February 7, 2021 at St. Mary's hospital in San Francisco. He was 84. Born April 21, 1936 in San Francisco, Art graduated from Bellarmine Prep in 1953 and from The University of Santa Clara in 1957. As a senior he captained the Santa Clara boxing team. He moved his family to Pleasanton in 1971 where he and his wife Sandra raised their five children. He was an active member of St. Augustine's parish for 40 years, volunteering to head its St. Vincent De Paul and Legion of Mary chapters, coaching CYO basketball and conducting prison ministry. He owned several businesses and properties before retiring to Marysville in 2011. He is survived by his sisters Leora Crosetti (90) and Joyce Crosetti (88), and his children Paul Crosetti (58) and daughter-in-law Maria Crosetti (56), Claire Crosetti (57), Teresa Atzmon (55), Lisa Yee (50), John Crosetti (42) and daughter-in-law Futura Crosetti (31). He is also survived by his grand children Danny Crosetti (31), Lucia Crosetti (26), Gabriel Crosetti (23), Emily Robles (21), Angela Crosetti (20), Zach Atzmon (11), and Alec Crosetti (3). A funeral mass was held in his honor at St. Augustine's ...

Frank Auf der Maur
Aug. 3, 1926 - Feb. 7, 2021
Pleasanton, California

On August 3rd, 1926, in the village of Steinen, Switzerland, Josef Leo and Rosa Anna Marie Auf der Maur welcomed their second son, Franz, into the world. Franz learned his trade by working in his fathers cabinet shop and trade school in Switzerland. In 1952, Franz was introduced to Konrad Rickenbach's cousin, Alma Rickenbach. Who had two girls, Alma and Pauline (Cookie) from an earlier marriage. Franz moved to Pleasanton, California and changed his name to Frank On December 5, 1953, he and Alma married. Frank then opened Pleasanton Cabinet Shop in an old barn. He and Alma had two children, daughter, Anita Rosa and son, Frank Jr Frank bought an old horse ranch on Santa Rita Road and relocated Pleasanton Cabinet Shop there. He encouraged his friend Konrad Rickenbach to come to America and become his partner. Frank and Konrad started Pleasanton Development and began building apartments, medical of?ces and commercial buildings. Frank and Konrad partnered with Frank Schmidig, Robert (Bob) Armknecht and DR. Ralph Juhl D.D.S. By the late 1970's Frank and Konrad found themselves developing Stanley Business Park. Stanley Business Park provided opportunities for...

Tiffany Ashworth
Nov. 30, 1964 - Jan. 27, 2021
Livermore, CA

On January 27, 2021, Tiffany left this world, surrounded by her husband Charles, her children Auston and Kira, daughter in-law Molly, and her sister April, who all loved her dearly. The world welcomed Tiffany on November 30, 1964, and the world became a little brighter due to her presence. Tiffany lived a full and warm life, filled with so much joy, happiness, and kindness. All who knew her were forever touched by her generosity and selfless love; always putting others needs ahead of her own. Throughout her life Tiffany was fortunate to travel the world with her husband of 36 years. She was graced with an amazing passion for cooking, and enjoyed entertaining her family and friends. She also was blessed with twins: Auston and Kira, as well as her granddaughter Gemma. Being silly and playing with her the last several years was a delight. Tiffany faced several obstacles in her life, most notably, scoliosis at a young age requiring her to wear a back brace for many years. Beating breast cancer in 2002, going through surgery and aggressive chemotherapy, and she fought very hard against the latest diagnosis of sarcoma, seeking aggressive clinical trials to combat the disease. Th...

Michael Paul Billen
Aug. 25, 1945 - Jan. 27, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Michael Paul Billen was born August 25, 1945 in Walters, Oklahoma, to Paul H Billen and Cora M (Cranford) Billen. Michael left this life January 27, 2021 at his home after a brief illness. Michael married the love of his life Bernie on August 4, 1990. Michael led a full life and was beloved by his family and friends. Because his father was career Air Force, Michael lived and attended school in several states, including Alabama, Alaska, Michigan, Washington, Florida, and California – finally graduating from Walters H.S. in 1965 and attended Cameron College. Michael began his career with the St. Louis Shoe Company. After early stints in Ft. Worth, TX. and Sedalia, MO., Michael was given the opportunity to relocate. He chose Oakland because of the warm weather and moved his young family to the Bay Area. Building on his success, he bought out the local store and grew the ladies shoe stores to several locations renaming them The Shoe House. After many years of success running the businesses, Michael sold the stores and began his long career with Nordstrom. Michael loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with his father, which he continued throughout his life. As an ...

John G. Gualandri, Jr.
Aug. 2, 1935 - Jan. 23, 2021
Withee, Wisconsin

John P. Gualandri, Jr., age 85, of Withee, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at his home under the tender care of Hope Hospice. A private graveside service at Riverside Cemetery will be held at a later date. John was born on August 2, 1935, the son of John and Jennie (Mordini) Gualandri, Sr. in Highland Park, IL. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1953 in Illinois. John served in the US Air Force as a Staff Sergeant during the Korean War. He attended DeVry Institute of Technology. He then worked as an Air Traffic Control Supervisor in Fremont, CA retiring in 1986. John was united in marriage to Martha Atchley on Dec. 22, 1957 in Chattanooga TN. Martha preceded him in death on June 14, 2014. He later married Laura (Mitchell) Bruckschlager on Sept. 11, 2016 at Holy Rosary Parish in Owen, WI. John was involved with coaching youth sports such as: ice hockey, football, and baseball. He loved traveling extensively with family throughout the United States. John was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers, the American Legion in CA, and Holy Rosary Parish in Owen, WI. John is survived by his wife: La...

Jacqueline Jeanne Elkins
Sept. 28, 1926 - Jan. 20, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Jacqueline Jeanne Elkins passed away peacefully after a brief but valiant battle with the coronavirus. She touched many lives with her kindness, determined spirit for living and her spontaneous sense of humor and quick wit. She was an avid reader, watercolor artist and loved to play bridge. She was also known to be an excellent cook and enjoyed anything chocolate. Jackie was born and raised in St. Louis, MO where she later met her husband Allan Elkins while attending Washington University studying fine arts. Allan and Jackie moved to Little Rock, AR in the 1950's and then later retired to Eden Isle in Heber Springs, AR, where they loved to play golf and enjoyed traveling the world. She was also active in the Presbyterian Church. Jackie was preceded in death by her husband in 1992. She was also preceded in death by her son, Polk Andrew Elkins in 2002 and daughter, Christine Anne Elkins in 2013, and is survived by her two sons, Allan David Elkins of Ivins, UT and Stephen Robert Elkins of Pleasanton, CA and their spouses. She is also survived by her loving friend and former roommate, Dorothea Fournier of Dublin, CA. Jackie moved to Northern California in 2013 to be in the ca...

Arlene Marie Novacek
Dec. 14, 1937 - Jan. 19, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Pleasanton – Arlene Marie Novacek (née Czarny), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, passed away on Jan 19, 2021 at the age of 83. Born in the Chicago suburb of Summit, Illinois on Dec 14, 1937, Arlene was raised in the family neighborhood in houses built by her grandfather. She graduated from the Nazareth Academy in 1955 and was hired as a teller at the Bank of Lyons. There she captured the heart of Anthony Novacek and on Nov 28, 1957, they were married in Berwyn, Il and soon started a family. In 1961, to the shock and sadness of the family, they moved to Southern California where Tony could pursue more career opportunities in banking. Busy raising four children, Arlene and Tony enjoyed the fun and the sun of Southern California. More career changes came in 1971 and the family moved north to Pleasanton California, where Arlene lived for the next fifty years. Arlene volunteered at the hospital, led campfire girls, and in 1973 went back into banking. Hired by Bank of America in their purchasing department, Arlene was a hardworking employee and deeply appreciated by the bank. She held several important positions, made many friends and truly loved her work which...

Anita Braz Silva
Aug. 21, 1931 - Jan. 18, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Anita Braz Silva was born on August 21, 1931 in Madeira, Portugal. She peacefully entered into rest on January 18, 2021 in Fremont, California. She was a Portuguese immigrant who resided in California for 59 years with her family. She was an avid cook who loved to share her Portuguese cuisine with anyone who entered her home. She is survived by her sister Lourdes Caldeira, her children Charlie Silva, Maria Ussery, Phyllis Sousa, Deolinda Caldeira and Theresa Stucky, her fourteen grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren....

Ronald Sandberg
Sept. 14, 1936 - Jan. 18, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Ronald Sandberg, long-time resident of Pleasanton passed away January 18th. Ron is preceded by his wife of 50 years Marlene Sandberg who passed in 2014. He is survived by his children Anne Bradford and husband Dan, and Kurt Sandberg and wife Jennifer, and his six grandchildren. Ron was born in Laramie, Wyoming in 1936. He graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in June 1960. He journeyed to California for his first job at Lockheed Aircraft Co., and soon met Marlene and settled in Pleasanton in 1963. He enjoyed long career at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory beginning in 1966. He also served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in April 1966. After 27 years of service at the Lab, Ron retired to pursue his passion for hiking, traveling and woodworking. He was an active member of Pleasanton Presbyterian Church where he served as an Elder and also Lynnewood Methodist Church in Pleasanton. Ron was a lifelong traveler and outdoorsman. He and Marlene traveled the world hiking across Great Britain, traversing the French Alps and walking the New Zealand countryside. He and Marlene spent their 50th wedding anni...

Lori Anne Lecco
Nov. 24, 1962 - Jan. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Lori Lecco passed away peacefully at home January 12th. She was born in 1962 and raised in San Jose, California. Lori was a varsity athlete at Blackford high school and went on to graduate from beauty college and opened her own hair salon. Eventually, Lori went to work for the family business, Gagliardi Brothers Realty. During a vacation to Hawaii, she met her husband, Ed Lecco where he was stationed in the Navy. Lori and Ed married, and they started a family in San Jose, California. The young family moved to and spent 7 years at Barbers Point Naval Air Station in Hawaii. During her time in Hawaii Lori worked with the YMCA's after school program organizing activities for kids including a stint as the Jets Flag Football coach. Lori also volunteered as a Navy Ombudsman assisting military family with their needs. In December 1999 Lori and her family moved to Pleasanton California where she returned to the family business working side by side with her Mother Donna the past 20 years. She wore many hats including "Cheer Mom" and "Soccer Mom" for her children. Although She couldn't swim Lori enjoyed sailing on San Francisco Bay with her family and was an active ...

Bettie Jean (Erker) Hunt
May 19, 1934 - Jan. 12, 2021
Brentwood, California

Bettie Jean (Foster) (Erker) Hunt, age 86, formerly of Pleasanton and Groveland, CA passed away on January 12, 2021. Bettie was born in Montebello, CA and soon after she moved to Alameda, CA where she spent her younger years growing up. She met her first husband, Howard Erker, in Alameda and they spent their first years of marriage in the Bay Area. Most of their married life was spent raising three children in Pleasanton, CA. Bettie decided to go to work once her children entered school. She worked in the Pleasanton School District in various jobs, most prominent was being a teacher's aide. She also went back to school herself and received her AA degree in Child Development. Bettie enjoyed working with her fellow teachers and students for over 30 years. Bettie and Howard were married for 35 years until Howard's passing in 1986. Bettie was fortunate enough to meet and later marry Larry Hunt. They enjoyed a wonderful country club life at Pine Mountain Lake in Groveland, CA for 29 years. The two of them spent the last few months in Brentwood, CA. Bettie belonged to many groups, two of them being the VFW Auxilary and the R.O.O.F.B.B. group. Bettie was a loving mother and...

Guenter Johann Drewes
Dec. 8, 1934 - Jan. 12, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Guenter Johann Drewes, a longtime Pleasanton resident, entered into rest on January 12th, 2021. He was a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, Opa, brother, brother-in-law and friend. He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Luise, daughter Diane Bowers, husband John, daughter Susan Michael, husband Gene, granddaughter Kelly Bowers, grandsons John Bowers, Gary Michael, wife Amber, David Michael, fiancée Courtney, Daniel Michael and great-grandson Thomas Michael. He also leaves behind his brother Helmut, wife Cathe, brother Reinhold, sister-in-laws, Karin, Phyllis, and Gerda as well as many other family and friends. Guenter was preceded in death by his parents Hinrich and Erna, brother Horst, nephew David, sister-in-law Helga, father-in-law Fritz, mother-in-law Grete and brother-in-law Gunter. Guenter was born in Germany on December 8th, 1934. He was one of four boys; twin brother Helmut, brothers Reinhold and Horst. Guenter and Luise met in Germany and were married in May 1957. They followed his parents and brothers to the United States from Germany in August of the same year. They resided in Oakland, California; then San Leandro before moving to Pleasanton in...

Anne Emery
July 7, 1937 - Jan. 5, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Anne Emery (July 1937-January 2021) long term resident of Pleasanton, has passed away. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother. Anne was born in Sacramento, California and attended McClatchy High School. She graduated from UC Berkeley in 1959 with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and received a certificate in Physical Therapy from UC San Francisco. In her 30-year career as a Physical Therapist, she worked at several hospitals including the VA, Valley Memorial, and John Muir. Anne met Wayne Emery at UC Berkeley, and they married in 1961. They had three daughters and have lived in Pleasanton since 1964. She had numerous special interests including arts and textiles and enjoyed volunteering with many different organizations including Girl Scouts, 4-H, Children's Theater Workshop and the schools of her children and grandchildren. She also served as PTA president of Valley View Elementary. She was an active member of her sorority Alpha Xi Delta, as well as the Pleasanton Art League, Spindles & Flyers, Wayside Weavers Guild, and Presbyterian Women. She and her husband were long-standing members of the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church and later became members of L...

Stephen Salvatore Cusenza
June 3, 1954 - Jan. 2, 2021
Pleasanton, CA

Stephen Salvatore Cusenza passed away on January 2, 2021 in Walnut Creek, CA, surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born in Visalia, California on June 3,1954 to Jasper and Evelyn Cusenza. He attended George McCann Elementary and Mt. Whitney High School. As a young man growing up in Visalia, Steve spent endless hours working in his father's hardware store while enjoying his free time with friends hiking in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Steve lived in Visalia until his college years where he attended Santa Clara University and studied Civil Engineering. At Santa Clara, Steve met LeeLee, his wife of 42 years. Following Santa Clara, Steve's career in Civil Engineering focused on the planning and design of public utilities for the cities of Santa Cruz, Taft, and ultimately Pleasanton where he spent 21 years with the City of Pleasanton Public Works Department. Throughout his life, Steve found joy and freedom traveling the world with his family and many friends. He often played the role of tour guide, where he created countless memories for those traveling along with him. His recently acquired dual Italian citizenship often brought him and LeeLee to Sicily where he reuni...

Sylvester DeFazio
Sept. 1, 1936 - Dec. 25, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Sylvester DeFazio died of heart failure on his favorite holiday, Christmas. Although he had been in failing health in recent years, his passing was unexpected. He was 84. Sylvester, known as Sub or Sil to his friends, was born Sept. 1, 1936, to proud parents Aneillio, an immigrant from Naples, Italy, and Anna DeFazio, of Gypsy, West Virginia. The family, with nine children, lived in the coal-mining town of Spelter, West Virginia. Although Sil was supposed to try out for the Pittsburgh Pirates after high school, he opted to join the Navy to help with our nation's efforts in the Korean War. Sil hopped on a bus for a five-day journey to the San Diego Naval base where he ultimately shipped out to Japan for his wartime service. When Sil returned to the states, he moved west to Oakland, California, in 1957 to find work and marry his lovely bride, Jacqueline. He attended refrigeration school at Laney College and started a career with Coca-Cola and Admiral, which inspired him to open his own appliance repair business. Sil saw potential in that field and purchased Appliance Parts Distributors in San Leandro. His business acumen led him to expand his business with locations in Du...

Samuel Leland Morris
June 6, 1986 - Dec. 25, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

On Friday, December 25, 2020, Samuel Leland Morris, of Pleasanton, CA, passed away at the age of 34. "Shotgun Sam," also known as "Slammy Sammy," will be missed dearly by his parents, Gary and Kelly Morris; his girlfriend, Leah Lyons (and honorary mother-in-law, Margaret); his siblings, Amanda Morales, Benjamin Morris (and wife, Kristina), Emily Wearne (and husband, Will), Meg Sanders (and husband, Miles), and Ally Frasier (and husband, John); his brother-in-law David Morales; grandparents Mr. & Mrs. Robert Morris and Grandma Georgie Beavers; ten nieces and nephews; seven aunts and seven uncles; eighteen cousins; his godchildren; his coworkers; his endless number of friends; and his beloved German Shorthaired Pointer, Goose. If you were fortunate enough to know Sam, you know he had a larger-than-life personality. People couldn't help but gravitate towards him, and he was often the center of attention wherever he went without trying. Sam's loving nature led people to gather together around him. His spirited competitiveness encouraged others to be more outgoing and sometimes even daring. But Sam wasn't just hilarious and a good time, he was an absolutely selfless per...

Darlene Rickard
Dec. 16, 1945 - Dec. 24, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Darlene Ann Rickard passed away at 75 years of age on Thursday, December 24, 2020 in Pleasanton, CA. She was born in Corning, CA, grew up in Sacramento, and graduated from Hiram Johnson Senior High in 1963 and Sacramento City College in 1965. Darlene was a beloved wife, mother, sister, niece, aunt, and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald and her mother, Joy. Darlene is survived by her husband Donald, sons Michael (Maribel) and David (Amy), grandchildren Ryan, Kathryn, Jacob, and Jared, sisters Linda and Barbara, and brothers Danny and James. Darlene and Donald were married 55 years, moved to the Bay Area in 1967, and have lived in Pleasanton for 43 years. Darlene retired from working at AT&T in 2002. A celebration of Darlene's life will be held on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 2pm at East Lawn Cemetery, 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento, CA 95841....

Glenda Marie Beratlis
Nov. 22, 1933 - Dec. 14, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Glenda Marie Beratlis passed away peacefully at her home in Pleasanton, CA on Monday, December 14th with her family at her side. Glenda was born on November 22, 1933 to Leonard and Lorena Mills (McReynolds) in Chickasha, Oklahoma. From there the family moved to Texas. In the 1940's the family came out to California for a vacation to visit family that lived in the town of Sunol. Glenda's father liked the area so much he ended up buying a house in Sunol and they never returned back to Texas. Glenda went to Sunol Glen Elementary School and then graduated from Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, in 1951. Glenda worked at the Lawrence Livermore Lab for a few years until she met her husband Chris Beratlis through mutual friends. They got married in 1965. They worked together in the family business in Pleasanton. They had two sons, Christopher and David and lived in Pleasanton for over 50 years. Glenda enjoyed sewing, lunch with her friends, and helping to care for the sheep on their ranch in Pleasanton. Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. Glenda was preceded in death by her husband Chris and her youngest son David, as well as her brother, Don. Glenda is survived...

William B. Allender
Feb. 19, 1934 - Dec. 11, 2020
New York City, New York, USA

Bill Allender (Amador class of '52) passed away peacefully at his home in New York City after a long struggle with lung cancer. He was a man of many interests and talents: attended University of California after high school; served his county in the US Navy; studied to be a Presbyterian minister; served as an arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association; was a administrator for Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City from which he retired in 2010. His kindness and caring nature will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his wife, Elvira Robbins Allender and his sister, Mary Allender Chaboya (San Jose, Ca.) plus several nieces and nephews. No services are planned at this time....

Dona Belle (Kiser) Simoni
Nov. 16, 1933 - Dec. 11, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Dona Simoni was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a marvelous grandmother, a cherished friend, and an accomplished Realtor and businesswoman. She was born in her family home on a peach orchard in Forest Grove, OR, where her father ran a trucking business. After she finished high school, she was invited by her sister Bonnie to come and stay with her and her husband Ted, who was a Naval Officer. Dona accepted the offer, and joined them in Concord, CA. She settled in and she soon met Bob in Oakland, CA. They have been married for 66 years. They started their life together in Oakland, CA. and relocated to Hayward, CA after their first child was born. Dona raised three children and was well known to all of their friends and neighbors as a Room Mother, Cub Scout Troop Leader, Brownie Troop Leader and Girl Scout Troop Leader. She was also well known in the neighborhood for being active in the HOA, the Editor of the neighborhood newsletter, and the Avon Lady. Dona's interest in investment property inspired her to become a Realtor. Her passion for real estate drove her to start her own venture, and she co-founded NorCal Realty. She started as a female Realtor in a man's p...

Mardono "MJ" Jaimeto Micheletti
July 17, 1982 - Dec. 10, 2020
Danville, California

Mardono was born in Woodland, California on July 17, 1982 and passed away on December 10th, 2020 in San Francisco, California. He is survived by his son Trey Micheletti, his father Mike Micheletti, his mother Ophelia D. Butler, his sisters Darcy Wills (Donald), Landi Micheletti, Veronica Micheletti, and Jaymee Micheletti (Jason), his niece Andrea Wills, nephews Derek Wills, Robert Lignell and Romeo Lignell. MJ spent his first four years in Woodland, before moving to San Ramon in 1986. In 1990, he moved to Danville and attended Greenbrook Elementary School, Charlotte Wood Middle School and San Ramon Valley High School. MJ spent most of his time working as an electrician with his father and joined the Army in 2005 before returning to his trade. MJ's passion for life came through with his contagious laugh, love for Mustangs whether they were old or new and care for others. He had an uncanny ability to try to calm those around him and bring joy in the middle of a storm. MJ spent his life living with the simple pleasures; drinking coffee with too much sugar, dancing like no one was watching, and trying to make his sisters laugh. MJ is loved dearly and is the link that will f...

Robert Joseph Sinz
Nov. 5, 1946 - Dec. 2, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Robert J. Sinz (Bob) died at the age of 74, after a sudden battle with widespread, aggressive cancer. He passed in his sleep in the early morning of December 2, 2020, surrounded by his family at the bedside: his devoted wife of 53 years (Isabelle), his two children (Sandra Sinz Duong and Chris Sinz), his son-in-law (Tuan Duong) and his youngest brother (Frederick). A nurse, Fred helped to keep Bob comfortable in his home. His third battle with cancer and facing a terminal diagnosis, he approached his last weeks of life with great courage. He celebrated Thanksgiving quietly at home with his wife and two adult children. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, John Peter and Dorothy Marie (Roolf) Sinz. The second of ten children, he was preceded in death by his older brother John (Cheri) and is survived by Kenneth (Renee), Michael (Flora), Ruth Ann (Jim), Dorothy "Dottie" (Tom), Gregory (Cindy), Clara, Virginia, and Frederick (Carol). Additionally he is survived by wife Isabelle, and his three grandchildren – sources of great pride – Matthew Duong (Sandra and Tuan), Anna and Henry Sinz (Chris and Claudia). Bob is remembered lovingly by many for his quick wit, lifel...

Randall William Reber
Oct. 20, 1945 - Nov. 25, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Randy was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Bea and Emil Reber. After a severe Wisconsin winter in 1947, the family moved to Concord, California, where Randy grew up with his sister Janet. Randy lived the rest of his 75 years in the greater Bay Area. He was a member of the first graduating class at Clayton Valley High School in 1963 and continued his education at San Francisco State during the turbulent '60s. It was there that he met his first wife, Kathleen Colburn. After receiving a degree in business administration, he began his 39-era career in retail management at J.C. Penney, from which he retired in 2005. During those 39 years, Randy lead several company philanthropic efforts, including designing and building the first Penney Exercise Trail in Concord, working at United Way for six months, and setting up the first Pleasanton Hospice store with fixtures and registers. Randy's life-long passion was people, especially bringing people together and making opportunities for those people to stay in close contact. He and Kathy started an annual Christmas part that brought friends and family together, a tradition he continued even after Kathy's death in 1988. He introduced ma...

William J McGlinchy
June 1, 1926 - Nov. 24, 2020
Walnut Creek, California

William Joseph McGlinchy June 1, 1926 – November 24, 2020 William "Papa" McGlinchy passed peacefully in his home in Walnut Creek, California, on November 24, 2020 at the age of 94, surrounded by his loving children. He was the son of William "Willie" McGlinchey (born in Donegal. Ireland) and Anne McGlinchy (born a Curran in California). McGlinchey lost the "e" upon Willie's arrival at Ellis Island. Bill's parents came from very large Irish families. Papa had over a dozen aunts and uncles from both Ireland and California. Bill was born in Oakland, but he lived his entire childhood in the Italian/Irish neighborhoods of San Francisco. Bill served in the Army at Fort Benning, GA, during WWII. While stationed in Georgia and on a weekend pass, he met the love of his life, Lillian "Jean" Riddell. She was sitting on a bench in Columbus, Georgia tabulating payroll for her magazine crew. As luck would have it, prior to being in the Army, Bill ran a magazine crew and was good with numbers. Bill assisted Jean and the rest is history. They married during Mardi Gras in New Orleans on February 1, 1947. They remained married for over 55 years until Jean's...

Arthur Stanley 'Stan' Troia
July 29, 1942 - Nov. 16, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Stan, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, joined his late wife Bobbi in Heaven. Stan passed away in his daughter's home after battling pancreatic cancer. Stan was a loyal friend and neighbor, beloved by all who met him. Once you became a friend of his, you remained so for life. He kept everyone connected to each other and we counted on him to keep us all together. A resident of Pleasanton for 45 years, he was known as "The Mayor" of his court. Always available to help anyone with their home improvement and gardening projects, he was a father and friend you could rely on. Stan was well known for his vegetable garden, fruit trees, handiwork, and the blue jays that would follow him around landing on his hand for a peanut. His daughters will look back on their childhood with wonderful memories of camping, hiking, fishing and sailing with their father. His long-time friends will remember skiing, cars, camping and the "Birthday Club". As a retired UPS driver, Stan will be remembered fondly by his co-workers, managers, and customers alike. In retirement, Stan loved to garden, travel, volunteer for Pleasanton Military Families, and most recently volunteer at...

Helen Ann Perry
Nov. 24, 1931 - Nov. 14, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Helen Ann Perry, age 88, formerly of Saratoga, CA, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2020 at Sunrise of Pleasanton in Pleasanton, CA. Helen was born in St. Cloud, MN on November 24, 1931 to William and Rosemary (Schumacher) Litchy. Helen graduated from St. Cloud Cathedral High School, received a nursing degree (RN) from the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, MN and completed anesthesia training at St. Joseph Hospital in St. Paul. Helen married James Perry on September 8, 1953 and moved to California where she worked as a nurse anesthetist at Fort Miley VA Hospital in San Francisco. They eventually settled in Saratoga where they raised their family. Helen was a member of Saratoga Country Club where she played golf, served as chair of House and Grounds in the Saratoga Foothill Club, and belonged to PEO (Philanthropic Education Organization), LOTE and Tokalon clubs. Her hobbies included reading, golf, computers, traveling, and playing bridge. Her passion was to learn something new every day. Helen loved fine jewelry and loved seeing other people wearing it. She earned her GIA degree, appraised jewelry and traveled the world to purchase fine gems. She taught classe...

Zachary Patrick Scanlan
April 29, 1998 - Nov. 11, 2020
Pleasanton, California

It was not a coincidence that God needed another angel on 11/11/2020. The significance of the spiritual number 1111, means guardian angels are nearby. Our beloved 22-year-old son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend Zachary Patrick Scanlan (Zack) transcended into heaven to be with God and his family of angels. The fact that it was also Veterans Day, November 11, is remarkable. The world became a brighter place on April 29, 1998 when Zack was born in Normal, IL. He also called Kansas City, MO, Highlands Ranch, CO, and for the last 15 years, Pleasanton, CA home. Zachary was a beacon of light who fought Ewing's Sarcoma Cancer for over 30 months like a brave warrior soldier. Zack kept his spirits up as well as those around him with his great wit and sense of humor. At the age of 4, it was discovered Zachary was gifted with numbers and could multiply double, then later, triple digit numbers in his head. You could tell him the date you were born, and he would immediately tell you how old you were. Zachary was a boy scout in Sunol where instead of trying to achieve Eagle scout rank for himself, he would help his fellow scouts reach their goal by helping with several com...

Lila Dorothea McAlhany
Dec. 19, 1927 - Nov. 11, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Lila Dorothea McAlhany, a 51-year resident of Pleasanton, passed away on Wednesday, November 11th, after a six-month battle with cancer. She was 92 years old. Lila was born December 19, 1927, in Watsonville, and was the only child of Howard and Agnes (Hansen) Meade. She grew up in Santa Clara and Los Gatos and graduated from Los Gatos High School in 1945. Desiring to be a nurse, she applied for and was accepted to the US Cadet Nurse Corps which provided tuition, room and board for her to attend the Nursing program at Santa Clara County Hospital which was operated in conjunction with San Jose State University. After graduation in 1948 she worked for several years in San Francisco as a Registered Nurse before joining the Air Force, where she obtained the rank of Captain and spent two years in Alabama and then two years in Germany where she met her husband, James C. McAlhany. They were married in 1961 in Switzerland and returned home to California in 1964. Lila worked at several hospitals and clinics in San Leandro, Oakland, Danville and Pleasanton, working for 17 years at Kaiser Permanente's Pleasanton facility before retiring in 2007. Lila enjoyed being an active member of t...

Donna Hayes
Feb. 26, 1950 - Nov. 10, 2020
Livermore, California USA

Donna Hayes, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on November 10, in Livermore, California, due to heart failure. She was born on February 26, 1950 in Sacramento, California. She was a tri-valley small business owner. And loved being a part of the delta lifestyle. A celebration of life will be held at a later date due to COVID restrictions....

Shirley Ann Hack
June 8, 1935 - Nov. 7, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Shirley Hack, a matriarch like no other, has passed on unexpectedly. Shirley lived a full life. She was born and raised in San Francisco where she met her husband Robert Hack at a roller rink. They were married 56 years before Bob passed in 2010. Shirley and Bob moved to Pleasanton where she began the job title that knew no hourly restraints: Home Maker. They raised three children in their home on Walnut Dr. where they lived out their respective days. Shirley had one of most beloved Christmas scenes on Candy Cane Lane, complete with a moving Merry-go-round and Ferris-wheel. She loved the happiness it brought to families each year, including her own!. She loved to travel and to entertain. Her fair-time backyard barbeques are legendary. To Shirley, everyone was family. When you showed up for what was planned to be a small family dinner, the green spaghetti on the table could have fed the whole street. Everyone was welcome at the table, as long as you could take a joke. She was everything to her family and more. And now, we are tasked to find a way to carry on in her absence and to be even half the person she was. Shirley is survived by her three children, Kim Chanu,...

Leo Roy Barsotti
Dec. 1, 1928 - Nov. 4, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Leo Barsotti was born December 1, 1928 in Bakersfield, CA to Natalie and Clay Barsotti, immigrants from Italy. In 1945 his family moved to Santa Rosa, CA. His natural curiosity and interest in science converged and he dreamed of becoming a chemist or a science teacher. After two years at Santa Rosa Junior College he transferred into the Chemistry department at UC Berkeley, graduating in 1950. Soon after he began his 40+year career as a chemist. In 1955 he married Mary Cerro and within a few short years their family grew to five with Cathy, Peggy and Jim. He often said that Mary and the kids were the best things that ever happened to him. In 1957 he joined Kaiser Aluminum where he worked for almost 35 years. During his working career as a chemist he enrolled in the MBA program at St. Mary's College, graduating in 1978. He retired in 1991 to explore new opportunities and enjoy more travel with Mary. One of those opportunities was becoming the science teacher at Sunol Glen School. Teaching science to children became one of his greatest challenges and joys. Leo served as an inspiration and role model for many chemists and budding scientists he met in the children he taught. ...

Robert James McKim
July 29, 1956 - Oct. 28, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Loving Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle & Friend, Proud U.S. Navy Veteran Robert (Bob) James McKim died peacefully on Wednesday, October 28th, surrounded by his loving family after a hard fought battle with Liver Cancer. Bob died knowing that he was loved and respected by his family, friends and colleagues. Bob married his best friend and the love of his life, Cathy Maureen (Pope) McKim in December, 1976 and they would have celebrated 44 years of marriage this year. Bob is survived by his "amazing" children Robert Laroye McKim, Brian James McKim (& Crystal Dawn Karasiewicz), Stacey Lee (McKim) Tomson (& Justin Edward Tomson) and Scott Edward McKim; his sisters Debbie (McKim) Baker (& Brad Baker) and Shirley (McKim) Puhalla, his sister-in-law Vickie (Pope) Lachney and step-mother Rosina McKim. He is also survived by many beloved nephews and nieces. (He loved you all) Bob was born in Youngstown, Ohio and was proceeded in death by his beloved parents, Robert & Lois (Gould) McKim; his father and mother-in-law Laroye Edward and Geraldine Lee (Roberts) Pope and his sister-in law Lynne Anne (Pope) Hopper. Bob was a proud Vietnam Veteran of the U.S. Navy and a dedi...

Joseph A. Juarez
March 17, 1943 - Oct. 20, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Joseph was born in San Salvador and spent most of his early life under the care of his dear grandmother, Estefana. He remembered his early years fondly and remained forever grateful to his loving abuela. He immigrated to San Francisco with his parents and sister Nellie in the early 1950s. Growing up near West Sunset Park, he attended St. Gabriel's, St. Ignatius, and finally Lincoln High School where he met Cindy, his future wife, in 1959. Joe enlisted in the US Army in 1961 and served as Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin. He was a Cold War warrior as his life expectancy during the Cuban Missile Crisis was 10 seconds! Cindy joined him in Germany and the two were married October 10, 1962 in Augsburg. They resided in Germany for 2 years, then returned to San Francisco where they had two children, Kamara and David. Joe was an example of reaching the American Dream. He began his career in banking as a check processor, but through hard work, talent and charm became the youngest Vice President in Union Bank history. He eventually branched out to International Foreign Exchange, where he became a Trader and then a Broker. His career took him and his family first to Los Angeles, then to New...

Jean Pollard
Aug. 31, 1945 - Oct. 16, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Jean Verry Pollard ("Jean Bean"), a long-time resident of Pleasanton, died October 16, 2020 at the age of 75 after a 10-year battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Jean was born to Russell and Annie Verry in Wilmington, NC. She graduated from New Hanover High School where she was a member of the marching band. She went on to earn her nursing degree from James Walker Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1966. She worked as a registered nurse in Alabama and North Carolina before she met the love of her life and moved to California. She then began her 38-year career at the Veterans Hospital, Livermore Division. She volunteered at the East Bay Stand Down for homeless veterans and would often talk about the time she went to Southern California and helped injured civilians after the Northridge Earthquake in 1994. Jean retired from the VA in 2013. She was honored to care for Americas veterans. After moving to California, she married her "sweetheart' David Pollard, Sr. on October 8, 1977. Together they built a beautiful life and enjoyed boating and fishing together with their family. They loved the holidays and started many traditions that have continued over the years. Jean is survived ...

Donna Elaine Redgrave
Jan. 4, 1949 - Oct. 16, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Donna Redgrave, a 40 year resident of Pleasanton, passed away on October 16, 2020 with her family right by her side. She had been battling kidney disease for over 6 years. Prior to moving to Pleasanton, she was a resident of Oakland, CA where her family grew up and went to school. It's also where she met her late husband Douglas Redgrave. Donna and Douglas were married in 1973. They made their way to Pleasanton in 1980. Donna was a 30 year employee of Wells Fargo Bank, mother of 4: Darrellyn, Jason, Brian and Kelly Redgrave, grandmother of 3: James Childers, Josh and Kaylie Oliver and lucky enough to enjoy her great grand-daughter Rosie for 5 years. She always played an active role in her kids life whether it was room mother, talent show coordinator, brownie troop leader or retiring from her career at Wells Fargo Bank to be a grandma. Family was always first and what made her happy. Putting a baby in her arms always brought a smile to her face. She was a natural mom. Donna was the sweetest person. A kind and patient soul that would welcome you to her home. Always decorative and festive for any holiday. The more she could gather around her table for food and con...

Thomas John Sheridan
Oct. 25, 1941 - Oct. 12, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Thomas John Sheridan passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, October 12, 2020 at the age of 78. Tom was the first of seven children born to Thomas and Phyllis Sheridan on October 25, 1941 in Oakland, California. He attended St. Elizabeth Elementary and High School where he read every book in the library and became passionate about basketball. Tom spent his childhood summers at the family lodge in the Lakes Basin Area of Northern California. He learned the value of hard work - making beds, doing dishes, cooking, repairing pipes and entertaining guests, and developed a life-long love of the mountains, returning there throughout his life. Tom earned a four-year basketball scholarship to St. Mary's College in Moraga, where he earned a baccalaureate degree in economics and established friendships that lasted a lifetime. Upon graduating, he worked for Del Monte Foods and as a real estate agent in Arizona. He then found his calling as an educator and spent 30 years as a teacher, coach, athletic director and/or administrator in San Lorenzo and Pleasanton, California. He was a committed teacher in and out of the classroom, encouraging students and inspiring a desire t...

Gordon Ross Rasmussen
Jan. 13, 1935 - Oct. 9, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Gordon Ross Rasmussen, 85, passed away of natural causes on October 9, 2020. He was a lifelong rancher in Tassajara. Born in Livermore, Ca. on January 13, 1935, his parents, Edward and Selma Rasmussen brought him home to Tassajara to meet his sisters, Joann and Claudia, a year later his sister, Nancy was born. As a young boy, he loved the ranch and learned to ride his horse so he could gather cattle with his Father and Grandfather, John C. Rasmussen. Gordon attended school at the Tassajara Schoolhouse until the 6th grade when the students were sent to Danville School District. Gordon graduated from San Ramon High School in 1952 and earned his college degree in Animal Husbandry at University of California, Davis. He enlisted in the United States Navy, Naval Air Division in 1956-58, and the Naval Air Reserve 1958-59. Anxious to begin his Beef Cattle career, he returned to Tassajara and worked with his Father, and rented available ranches in the area. He became involved in the Beef organizations and served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Contra Costa - Alameda County Cattlemens Association, later as Vice President and President, receiving Cattleman of the year award in 1964. He als...

Roderick (Rod) O'Brien
Feb. 23, 1945 - Oct. 2, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Rod passed away peacefully with family by his side in Pleasanton, California on October 2, 2020. Born in Chicago, Illinois on February 23, 1945, he would later graduate with a Bachelors' degree in Psychology from Loyola University. He married his high school sweetheart, Diane Souder, in 1964. They raised three boys in Chicago and Clinton, NJ. After college, Rod worked at Illinois Bell and AT&T – before retiring to Fallbrook, California in 2000. He is preceded in death by his wife, Diane O'Brien and son, Sean O'Brien. He is survived by his other children, Liam O'Brien and Roderick O'Brien, and grandson, Griffin O'Brien. For more information and posting memories, please go to: https://www.facebook.com/obrien.sr...

Helen Emily Changras
May 18, 1930 - Sept. 27, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Helen Emily Kuh was born in Chicago in 1930, the youngest of three children. She graduated from New Trier High School in Winnetka, IL. In 1948, Helen moved west to attend Colorado College. She married the next year in her hometown of Glencoe, IL, and moved to Boulder, then Denver, CO, to raise her family. In 1960, Helen and her three children relocated to the Bay Area to be nearer to her beloved brother, Fred Kuh, then owner of The Old Spaghetti Factory and Excelsior Coffee House, and later of The Savoy Tivoli, in San Francisco's North Beach. She and the children lived in Mill Valley and she worked as a legal secretary for Melvin Belli, joining the exclusive Belli's Belles. Helen later moved to Moraga before settling in Orinda. She devoted many years to managing the Savoy Tivoli, helping to create a one-of-a-kind community of friends that still feels like family today. Helen's love for the natural world was a big part of the nurturing she provided her children. She loved all animals and had a special affinity for birds, especially hummingbirds. She was also passionate about the arts. She adored blues and jazz and, in her twenties, sang professionally. Later in life, classical ...

Gloria Sagan Green
Aug. 25, 1935 - Sept. 25, 2020
Pleasanton, California

My grandmother died on the 25th of September, 2020, at the age of 85. Her death was thankfully a peaceful one. Yet it created a void of what is essential: Wisdom. A quintessential portrait would be her sitting in her townhouse, laying back in her 'evil chair' (because it was so comfy you could not get up), and reading a book. One example of her wanting to share her love of books was when teaching a class of adult men to read. She engaged them with Mark Twain and comic books. She would finish any books she read, even if she personally did not like what they had to offer (she recently finished reading Nietzsche). To her right would be a couch where her family and friends would sit. Going counter clockwise was the entrance to the yard where the sun would come beaming in. To her front was the TV, where she would always put on classical music. Next to it, a small painting of men debating in an animated manner, which reminded her of the Polish family she was raised with; this was given to her by her son Marvin III. And to her left, is her library. It took up her entire wall, with every classic book she had read, her favorite spy novels, poetry, and more. Recently, she was rereadin...

Verna Marie Wolfenberger
Sept. 14, 1924 - Sept. 24, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Verna Amaro Wolfenberger was born September 14, 1924 in a small home on St. Mary's Street in Pleasanton. She was a lifelong resident of Pleasanton up to her death September 24, 2020 at 96 years of age. She is preceded in death by her husband Martin, parents Emma and Manuel Amaro, and her sister Gladys. Verna graduated from Amador Valley High in 1943 where she met her love Martin. They married in June, 1944 at St. Augustine's church prior to Martin enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Upon Martin's return, they built a home on Bernal Avenue in 1950 where she lived 68 years. Verna was a lifelong member of St. Augustine's church. She is survived by her loving family, daughters Marsha Waller (Bruce), Shari Anderson (Michael), grandchildren Lori Ng, Shannon Morgan, Mark Waller, and their spouses; and Jordan Anderson and Justin Anderson. Also survived by five great grandchildren. A memorial Mass will be scheduled in the near future. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Tributes Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or stjude.org. Verna is missed by friends and family....

Bernadette Dantzig
Dec. 8, 1940 - Sept. 20, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Bernadette was born in Queens, New York to Mary Feeney Flynn and Melville Flynn. Her brother Frank preceded her in death in 2009. After eight years at St. Barts Grammar School in Elmhurst, New York, Bernadette was awarded an academic scholarship to Bishop McDonald High School in Brooklyn. After graduation, she attended Grace Institute in Manhattan for a year, before joining the legal department of W.R. Grace. Bernadette married Ed Dantzig on October 30, 1965 and later moved from Long Island to Pleasanton in 1973. Together she and Ed raised their three children, daughter Kerry, and sons Brian and Michael. She is also survived by her loving daughter-in-laws, Melissa and Carrie Dantzig. She cherished her grandchildren and loved seeing them often. She talked, listened, and doted on them. Grandsons Alex (Briegan), Dylan, Tanner, Connor, Liam and granddaughter Nicole, will cherish their memories and time spent together with Grandma. Bernadette's friends from St. Augustine Catholic Church, her work and volunteer friends at Hope Hospice and her exercise, bookclub, & coffee girlfriends gave her great love, support and encouragement during her long battle with ALS. Bernadette wa...

Ruth Pauline Coe
July 3, 1924 - Sept. 17, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Pauline Coe, who taught Navy pilots to fly after World War II, died September 17, 2020 at the Pleasanton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was 96. Pauline was born to Charles H. Sprague & J Elizabeth (Thomas) Sprague in Clarks Summit, PA. She graduated from Clark's Summit and Clark's Green Joint High School in 1942 and enrolled at Penn State University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism in 1944 and planned to work in the advertising industry. That proved to be a challenge during the war, so she enlisted in the United States Navy. She learned how to fly at the US Naval Training School in the Bronx and earned her pilot's license in 1947 as a member of the women's reserve. She trained fledgling Navy pilots in a Link Trainer (a simulator). She served until she was honorably discharged in 1958. She moved to California and was living in Palo Alto when her roommate introduced her to Kenneth M. Coe. They were married in Palo Alto on July 12, 1959. The family moved to Pleasanton where she raised her two children. Her daughter, Laura, fondly remembered her mother serving as a leader in the Campfire girls. The family enjoyed regular trips to Yosemite and Monter...

Karen Joy Ellgas
May 1, 1953 - Sept. 14, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

The energetic life of Karen Joy Ellgas ended September 14th at home, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She grew up in Orinda, CA in a family of five that spent most weekends camping, boating, or skiing. She married her high school sweetheart, Rick, in 1976, graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and then moved back to the Bay Area with Rick. She has been a resident of Pleasanton since 1985, where she raised two wonderful sons, Casey and Cody. She was predeceased by her loving parents, Bill and Marlys Howard. Karen was always busy taking care of her family, working on projects, tending the garden, taking her dog on long walks in the park or planning the next vacation. In addition, she was an active member in the community serving the city of Pleasanton as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner, served on the board of directors for the local Little League Baseball organization and participated in the local Prayer Group. Her professional career started as a Dietitian and then evolved into a rewarding nursing career at several hospitals. After nursing, she took on the role of Property Manager for her parent's rental properties. Karen enjoyed her tenants and in turn they...

Marilyn Wright
April 5, 1943 - Sept. 13, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Marilyn Wright (77). Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully on September 13, 2020 in Pleasanton, CA (the town she loved and called home for almost 50 years). Marilyn loved being a mom and was happiest chatting in a crowd of people and making connections. She loved to entertain friends, garden and travel. She is survived by her daughter Laura, son Stephen, son Michael, sister Sue Vaughn and three beautiful grandchildren. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Robert and parents Stephen and Eleanor Roark. Memorial donations may be made in Marilyn's name to AMADOR VALLEY SCHOLARSHIPS, INC. at 4764 Harrison St., Pleasanton, CA 94566 amadorvalleyscholarshipsinc.org...

Lisa Marie Galvin
June 5, 1966 - Sept. 12, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Lisa Marie Galvin of Pleasanton, California, entered into the rest of her Savior Jesus Christ on September 12, 2020 at 54 years old. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. Lisa was born to Johnny and Lola Harrell on June 5, 1966 in Oakland, California, and grew up in Livermore, California. Lisa married Thomas Warren Galvin of Pleasanton, California, on August 27, 1995 and moved to Pleasanton the same year. On June 17, 1999, Lisa and Thomas had their twin children—Matthew and April. Lisa was the happiest, kindest woman. She truly loved being a blessing to everyone around her and taking every opportunity to share her faith with others. Everyone who knew Lisa knows that she loved Jesus Christ and her family more than anything else. Lisa also enjoyed making things look beautiful, which is one quality that all her life occupations had in common. The thing Lisa considered most beautiful—and something that she had an abundance of—was love. She deeply loved the people in her life, and she will continue to be deeply loved and missed. Lisa is survived by her husband, Thomas Galvin; children, Matthew Galvin and April Galvin; sisters, Tamara Harrell and Linda (Ro...

Garland (Bill) Wooldridge
April 21, 1940 - Sept. 5, 2020
Pleasanton, California

On Saturday, September 5, 2020, Garland (Bill) Wooldridge of Pleasanton, passed away at the age of 80. Bill was born in Antlers, OK on April 21, 1940 to Delcie Carter Wooldridge and Raymond Wooldridge. Bill grew up mainly in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he graduated from Central High School and attended Tulsa University. He then served 2 years in the Army which took him to Korea, where he enjoyed everything - except the food! He started his career at Noble Drilling in Tulsa, and then went on to Sioux Tools where he excelled as an industrial tool salesman for 20 plus years. Working at Sioux Tools brought him to the Bay Area of Northern California, where he fell in love with the area and never left. He ventured out on his own and continued selling for another 20 years. You could always find Bill working in the yard or building something outside. He loved relaxing to the "oldies" music or watching a movie on the big screen. He is survived by his loving partner of 26 years, Judy Holthe, his son Lance, daughter Jini Farrell (Mike), granddaughter Ashley, his sister, Pam Thomas (Bill), nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends....

George Curtis Hawley
April 19, 1924 - Sept. 2, 2020
Livermore, California

On September 2, 2020 George Curtis Hawley of Livermore passed on to his eternal life in Heaven after 96 years filled with love, faith, and humor. Though his long battle with cancer and COVID precautions made his final months frustrating at times, his devotion to his family and his strong belief in God brought him comfort and peace. George was born to the late Lydia and Joseph Hawley in Madera, CA. Before he was school age, his family had moved a few times and then settled in San Ramon, CA to manage a walnut and Pear Orchard. George loved to share stories of his childhood on the orchard, his pet duck, and all the mischief he got into over the years. On October 2, 1942 George joined the United States Coast Guard where he spent four years patrolling the California coast during World War II, he was honorably discharged on March 13, 1946. After the war, George went on to Bible school, married his first wife Mary Saponas, and had a variety of different jobs before his long-time career as an insurance adjuster that lasted until he retired in 1990. He went back to a variety of different jobs when retirement bored him, finally fully retiring at 80 years old. Mary and George did ...

George Glenn Skeith III
July 17, 1940 - Sept. 1, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Mr. George Skeith III died peacefully in the hospital on 9/1/2020 in Pleasanton CA. at the age of 80. George was preceded by his wife Sandra who passed in August of 2018. George is survived by his two sons George Skeith IV of Shelby NC and Scott Skeith of Pleasanton CA; daughter in law Angela Skeith and two grandchildren Madeline and Dane Skeith. George was born on July 17th 1940 in San Diego CA to George and Jeneviv Skeith. He attended High school in Santa Ana CA and married Sandra in 1963. George and Sandra had two boys who remember him as a loving father who taught them the value of hard work, resourcefulness and conservative values. As a boy who's father was in the navy he spent his early years in Hawaii and Guam. George enjoyed hot rods and motorcycles. He taught his boys how to work on cars at an early age. They have fond memories of him telling stories of his Model A Ford and his youth in southern CA. He was also an independent business owner who ran a successful foundry in Santa Clara CA for 30 years. He was a loving husband to Sandra for 54 years and the family they shared will miss him deeply. A memorial service will be held at a later date. We would like to thank t...

Jeannine Woolery
Aug. 26, 1933 - Aug. 25, 2020
Danville, CA

Jeannine Woolery was born in Springfield, Missouri, to Donald and Mae Thompson. She is preceded in death by her husband, Edgar Woolery, sister, Donna Sue Armstrong, and her daughter-in-law, Debbie. Jeannine is survived by her three sons, Bruce, David (Laurie), and Alan (Laura), and two daughters, Susanne Wagner (Mike) and Virginia Rogstad (Steve); fourteen grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Jeannine, a pianist, organist, and flutist, was an accomplished musician, member of the American Guild of Organists, teaching, conducting, and accompanying orchestras and choirs on both the East and West coasts over her lifetime. Her greatest joys, besides her family of course, included singing in or accompanying many church and school choirs, most recently the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church and Foothill High School choirs; and for many summers accompanying the children's choir at the annual Carmel Bach Festival. As a grandmother, Jeannine is remembered for her chocolate chip cookies, her aversion to bears in Yosemite campsites, and never forgetting a birthday. Due to current Covid regulations, services are not planned at this time, however family will ...

Eulailah "Laila" Zinke
Jan. 27, 1929 - Aug. 16, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Eulailah Zinke passed unexpectedly from natural causes on Sunday, August 16th having lived a complete and blessed life. She was the foundation of a large extended family and valued as a true friend by many. Laila was preceded in death by her husband William "Bill/Billy" Zinke. She was the cherished mother of three daughters Mary, Laurie and Beth with six grandchildren, Noël, Erin, Brett, Brandon, Jon and Tony and nine great-grandchildren, Natalie, Kate, Ethan, Isabella, Peter, Brandon Jr., Jaxon, Jazmin and Brayden. Eulailah and Bill were foster parents to her cousin Shelia, who went on to foster many children of her own. Eulailah was also an adored "exchange" mother (mor) to Hanne and bonus grandmother (mormor) to Frederikke. Eulailah was born and raised in Marshall County, Minnesota on a Red River Valley farm in the small town of Oslo sixty miles south of the Canadian border. Her parents Carl Hoff and Myrtle Engstrom Hoff were also Minnesota natives. Eulailah was the oldest of five Engstrom-Hoff children. In 1949 Eulailah earned her nursing degree from Grand Forks Deaconess Hospital in North Dakota while Bill earned his degree in engineering from UND. Laila and...

Helen Ryan Martin
Dec. 1, 1936 - Aug. 14, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Helen Therese Martin, a longtime resident of Pleasanton, CA, went to be with the Lord on August 14th, 2020. Born the fifth of six children to Lawrence & Gertrude Ryan, Helen entered the world in her family's farmhouse in Emery, South Dakota on December 1, 1936. Helen's Family moved to Northern California when she was 12 years old and they settled in Redwood City. She adjusted to her new surroundings, made many friends and proudly attended Mercy Catholic High School in Burlingame. At the age of 20, she met and married her husband, Richard Martin. Together they raised their four children, established careers and were active members of St. Augustine's Catholic Parish after moving to Pleasanton in 1970. Helen worked for nearly 20 years as an Executive Secretary at the Farmers Insurance Regional Office in Pleasanton. She often reflected on the many fond memories and dear friends she met there. Helen was a deeply committed wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her deep faith in God was ever present to all who knew her and provided her with the wisdom and strength to help others. Besides spending time with her friends ...

Renee Helen Bridges
Aug. 31, 1941 - Aug. 13, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Renee Helen Bridges passed away unexpectantly from complications due to Lymphoma at Stanford ValleyCare Hospital after 78 wonderful years on this earth. Renee was born and grew up in Hayward, CA and has been a Pleasanton resident for the past 47 years. She worked for both Dublin High School (Attendance Office) and the Pleasanton School District (Pupil Services) over the span of 20 years. She will be remembered for her multitude of friendships lasting over decades, for being a 23-year season ticket holder and passionate fan of the Oakland A's, her caring and loving personality while making a lasting impression on all those she met along the way, and for her eternal beauty inside and out. She enjoyed traveling to her annual trip to Mendocino, where she first honeymooned, while also enjoying trips to Hawaii, Italy, France and a special recent trip to Portugal, her family's origin, with her daughter, sisters, nieces and cousin. She was most proud of her relationship with her tight knit family, who she loved dearly. "Auntie Nae" was always fussing over everyone and making her family feel so welcomed, special and loved, always wanting them gathered together for special celebrati...

Robert Germain Athenour
June 8, 1929 - Aug. 10, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Robert Germain Athenour passed away on Monday, August 10, 2020 at the age of 91. He touched many lives around the world with his caring spirit, and his love of people. He was an amazing family man, teacher and friend. A native of Sunol, Bob graduated from Amador High School in 1947, with only 26 students in his class. He attended San Jose State University, and received his undergraduate degree in Spanish, French and Social Studies; and then his teaching credential in 1952. After college, he joined the US Air Force and was stationed at Parks Air Force Base in Pleasanton. He completed a tour of duty serving the Education Centers for the Air Force bases in Japan, Korea and Okinawa. Upon his discharge he returned to Pleasanton and began teaching at Amador Valley High School, where he taught Spanish (and French) for 27 years. He was one of those teachers that changed many lives. In 1957 Bob married Marilyn Culford Vargas whom he had known since high school. They raised three children - Karl, Tom, and Anne. Bob and Marilyn were married for 61 years. Somewhere along the way, Bob caught the travel bug and in 1972 opened Athenour-Macchi Travel, which later became Athenour Travel...

Kimberlee Faye Hammond
Aug. 9, 1959 - Aug. 10, 2020
Millersville, Pennsylvania

Kimberlee Faye (Henry) Hammond, 61, of Millersville, Pennsylvania, passed away at her home on Monday, August 10, 2020 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. She was the beloved wife of Brian Lee Hammond, with whom she shared 24 years of marriage. Born in Livermore, Kim grew up in Pleasanton, and was a graduate of Amador Valley High School, class of 1977. After high school, she went on to earn an Associate Degree in Acting from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Pasadena. For most of her life, Kim was a professional actress and vocalist and performed in both musicals and theater. In her spare time, Kim enjoyed sewing, embroidery and crafting projects. She was an avid doll collector. Kim loved all things Disney. She was a former member of Pleasanton Presbyterian Church. Most of all, Kim loved spending time with her family - her daughters, Alice Renier and fiance Nick Shea, Emilie Renier and fiance Garrett Schnathorst and Katherine Hammond, her mother, the late Mary (George) Williams, father Philip Henry and stepmother, Terry Henry, of Pleasanton, brother Chris Henry and wife, Anne, of Livermore and sons Christopher and Michael. She was a descendant of the...

Norman A Krueger
Oct. 11, 1938 - Aug. 9, 2020
San Ramon, California

On Sunday, August 9, 2020 Norman A. Krueger passed away at home in San Ramon. Norman was born in Cape Girardeau, Missouri on October 11, 1938. He and Janis Johnson were married on January 27, 1968. Norman and Janis spent their 52 years together living in San Ramon. Norman served his country from 1956 through 1962 in the United States Marine Corps. He had a long carrier as a Maintenance Machinist with Norton Packaging in Oakland CA. He loved to restore old cars, fly his plane, and ride his Harley Davidson. He is survived by his wife Janis of San Ramon, CA, his sister Helen Groves of Pacifica, CA, and his brother Ron Krueger of Lewisburg, TN....

Annette Mulder
Aug. 8, 1935 - Aug. 9, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Annette Mulder aka Netty passed away peacefully 8/9/2020 She was 85 years old. Born on 8/8/1935 in Amsterdam, Annette was always good for a story and a laugh. She had such a bright spirit. She will be dearly missed by so many. She leaves behind a son, a daughter, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a great great grandchild....

DEE (born Genevieve Monica Quinn) KLEIN
Nov. 19, 1934 - Aug. 7, 2020
Pleasanton, Madera, Paradise, California

Dee Klein EA, (born Genevieve Monica Quinn) has passed away at the age of 85, on Friday, the 7th of August, 2020. She died peacefully in her home in Manteca California, surrounded by loving family members. Dee was born in Vallejo, California to Evelyn Cecilia Barcroft Quinn-Craig, RN and Dr. Edward Morgan Quinn, MD. Her early years were spent in Watsonville and Madera. In 1954, she was married to her husband, Lieutenant Donald Louis Klein in Monterey, CA before relocating to Southern California where the couple had three children. The family moved to Pleasanton in 1967 and in later years, Dee eventually made her home up in Paradise, CA where she enjoyed her businesses, gardening and home life up until November of 2018. During her professional years Dee remained active in her private practices of bookkeeping, tax preparation, real estate and mortgage brokering. After starting the Alligator Tax Service in Pleasanton, she moved her offices to Dublin in the 80's and 90's and eventually formed and operated Abode Realty in Paradise, CA, over the years serving in several professional associations such as the California Society of Enrolled Agents and others. A woman of...

John Michael "Mike" Watson
July 4, 1936 - Aug. 5, 2020
Livermore, California

John Michael "Mike" Watson, 84, passed away at his home on August 5, 2020. He was born July 4, 1936 in Livermore, California, the son of Merle Kamp and John Marion Watson of Pleasanton, California. Mike was raised by his mother and stepfather, Paul Kral. He has one younger sister, Patsy Flores (Andy) of San Jose. Mike loved growing up in Pleasanton. His family lived on East Angela and later on Silver Street. His fondest early memories centered around all the wonderful years he spent at his grandmother's (Eilene Mohr Kamp Sheffield), at the many big family gatherings at the nearby Mohr Estate, and, later, his fun-filled years at "PES#56" (his jovial moniker for Pleasanton Elementary) and Amador High (Class of '54). While at Amador, he was active in sports and worked on the school newspaper. He also worked as a stringer for the Pleasanton Times and the Livermore Hearld. He covered all the local high school sports. He loved Pleasanton! He got his AA Degree at College of San Mateo, then proudly served 8 years in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant. When he returned, he went to work for the Oakland Tribune as a copy boy, which brought endless exploits and tales. He...

Marilyn June Helmers
Feb. 26, 1957 - July 28, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Marilyn was born in Berkeley to Barbara and Walt Helmers and was raised in Santa Barbara, California. Marilyn passed peacefully in her room in Pleasanton on July 28, 2020. She was preceded in death by her parents, and is survived by her brother George Helmers, sister-in-law Yvette Helmers, her nieces and nephews Jason, Gwen, Valen, Christina, Andrew, Aaron and her grand niece and nephews Cruz, Ruby, and Lincoln. Marilyn was a faithful Christian and volunteered throughout her life with her church. She was an animal lover, especially dogs, and she loved walking in the park. Marilyn was a hamburger enthusiast, and would always order one at any restaurant she went to. Despite the challenges she faced in life, Marilyn always maintained her kind and loving personality and her own quirky sense of humor. She will be missed. Private services have been held and Marilyn was laid to rest in Goleta Cemetery in Santa Barbara on August 3, 2020....

Robert Molinari
Feb. 14, 1946 - July 19, 2020
Pleasanton, California

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bob Molinari. He was born on Valentine's Day in 1946 to Mary Cull and Guido Molinari in San Francisco, California. He was a deeply loved and adored husband, father, grandfather and brother, who lived a full and beautiful life, enduring Parkinson's Disease for the past seven years. Bob graduated from Sacred Heart High School in San Francisco, CA, and then from San Jose State University. Bob was proud of his devoted career as a San Francisco Fireman, retiring as a captain after thirty years of service. Two of Bob's greatest passions were music and tennis. Bob was a drummer throughout his life, playing with various bands as a member of the Musicians Union Local 6. Playing tennis with friends and family gave Bob a lifetime of wonderful memories. Bob's greatest love was time spent with his family. He will be deeply missed by his adoring wife of fifty years, Kathy (Farr), son Steve (Julie), and daughter Leslie (Nigel) Pugh. Bob was a devoted grandfather to his five grandchildren, Lucy, Matthew, Tommy, Nicholas, and Ava who lovingly called him their 'Nonno". He is survived by his brothers Jim and Jerry, and his s...

Barry L. Schrader
Dec. 27, 1940 - June 30, 2020
DeKalb, Illinois

Barry L. Schrader (79), a community leader in Livermore for more than three decades, died June 30, 2020 in DeKalb, IL from pancreatic cancer. Schrader, a native of Illinois, lived for 37 years in Livermore after moving to the valley in 1967 to serve as editor of the Livermore Herald & News. He moved back to Illinois for three years and then returned to Livermore to edit the Valley Times and then led the Herald again. In 1980, he moved to Sandia National Laboratories in Livermore as Manager of Public Affairs and Employee Communications. He retired from Sandia in 2001 and moved across East Avenue to join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a group leader in community affairs and later served as the lab's oral historian. Throughout his professional life, Schrader served the community in a variety of organizations. He co-founded Friends of the Vineyards that has worked for decades to preserve vineyard lands from development. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Livermore for 33 years and served as club president. After moving back to Illinois, he was a member of the Sycamore Rotary and helped organize the Oak Crest Area club in the retirement community where he live...

Eugene Leroy Sawatzky
Dec. 11, 1933 - June 23, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Eugene (Gene) Leroy Sawatzky passed away peacefully on June 23, 2020 near his longtime home in Pleasanton, California after a long and brave struggle with complications due to a stroke. He was 86 years old. Gene was born in Oklahoma to John and Agatha Sawatzky on December 11, 1933. As the youngest of eleven children, he was an infant when his family emigrated from Oklahoma to Merced, California during the Dust Bowl. There he attended grade school, middle school, and Merced High School. After high school, in an effort to gain independence, Gene moved to Calaveras County, California to live with his older sister, Agatha. It was there and then when he met, fell in love with, and married the love of his life, Carolyn (Carol) Lorraine Acosta. Soon after, they had three daughters (Melonie, Jackie, and Robin) and subsequently moved to Morgan Hill, Campbell, and eventually settled in Pleasanton, California. Gene and Carol had a great love affair for over sixty years and in many ways they lived the American Dream. Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, provider, and friend. Gene enjoyed being with extended family and friends, hosting backyard barb...

Joan Marlene Campanile
July 13, 1935 - June 18, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Joan Marlene Campanile of Pleasanton peacefully entered into rest due to respiratory failure. Joan was born in Omaha, Nebraska, moved to Oakland, CA in 1942 and graduated from Oakland Technical High School in 1953. She went onto Business College to study shorthand, which she excelled at. She began working for Chabot Community College, Hayward in 1966 and later transferred to Las Positas Community College, Livermore as Secretary to the President. She retired in 1993 with many high honors. Joan enjoyed traveling, animals, gardening and life at home. Joan was graceful, eloquent, sophisticated, mild mannered, caring, kind, thoughtful, compassionate, strong, very bright and just plain special. She made you feel special and loved. The day you meant Joan is the day you met an Angel. The memories of her will make you smile as she meant so much to every life she touched. She made anything dark become bright. Joan is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Frank, devoted daughters, Valerie Ann Fontes of Copperopolis and Carrie Lynn Bradley of Livermore. Her love excelled for her grandsons Forrest Bradley and Nicholas Bradley. Services were held Thursday, July 2, 2020 at Gr...

Jacquelyn Marilyn Holder
Oct. 31, 1935 - June 16, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

A long-time resident of Pleasanton, Jacque Holder loved serving her Lord in church and in her community. Jacque went home to be with her Savior on June 16 after battling dementia. She was 84. She and her late husband of 58 years, Carl Holder, lived in Pleasanton from the early 1960s until her death except for five years spent living abroad. They were active members of the Presbyterian church throughout their time in Pleasanton. Jacque led Challenge, the youth group at church, for several years. She also participated in Bible studies throughout her life. She was born in Oklahoma City, OK to Odessa Myrl Beard Caudle and Leo Hardin Caudle. She graduated from Capitol Hill High School and married fellow Capitol graduate Carl Holder on April 26, 1958. They had three daughters that she raised in Pleasanton. She loved entertaining people in her home and was known for her homemade hot fudge sauce. Her friends and family knew very well that she was not a morning person. NO calls before 10 am. Later in Carl's career as an airline pilot, Carl transferred his flying base to Berlin where he and Jacque lived for five years. He captained jets for Pan Am and they were there when the Berlin ...

Stephen Andor Helgeson
May 29, 1950 - June 12, 2020
Eureka, California

On June 12, 2020, Steve Helgeson, Mr. Moonstone, lost his two-year battle with cancer. It was two weeks after his 70th birthday. Steve was born in Richland, Washington, to Lew and Carolyn Helgeson; Lew a nuclear physicist and Carolyn an artist and musician. They moved to Pleasanton, California in 1956, where Steve spent his childhood running through and exploring the local fields and hills with his brother, Peter, and sister, Julie. He displayed an exceptional ability to design and construct at an early age, building a three-story treehouse and more than a few go-carts. Among his favorite childhood hobbies was making rockets with his brother, Peter, and conducting various experiments, many of which resulted in an explosion of some sort. In his teens, Steve was a falconer, raising sparrow hawks and his red-tailed hawk, Ike. Steve adored Ike. He would let Ike fly the neighborhood during the day and, with the help of liver treats, had trained him to return home in the evening. Steve graduated from Amador High School in 1968, after which he worked for several years at the GM Plant in Fremont. He also traveled extensively with his family and was able to see much of the worl...

Donald Victor Kleffman
Dec. 27, 1926 - June 6, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Don, a devoted family man and former president of Ampex International in Redwood City, CA, passed peacefully at home with his wife of 71 years and other family members at his side. He was 93 and succumbed to complications from a head injury. Don was born in Creston, Iowa, to Arthur and Neva Kleffman and lived there through high school. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy as a communications technician. He graduated from Central Technical Institute in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1948, studying broadcasting during the pioneering days of television. It was in Kansas City that he met the love of his life, Virginia Purtle of Rosston, Arkansas, who was there visiting her older sister for the summer. He began his career as a radio broadcast engineer at WHBY(AM) in Appleton, Wisconsin, and a few months later switched to WHO-AM-FM-TV in Des Moines, Iowa, to focus on television. Don and Virginia married in 1949, beginning their decades of devotion, and had three children, Sandra, Debra and Timothy. In 1959, Don answered an employment ad and obtained a job as the first video applications engineer at Ampex, moving his young family across the country to California and settling i...

James Allen Evdokimoff
Dec. 30, 1944 - May 24, 2020
Loomis, California

James "Jim" Evdokimoff passed away peacefully in his home in Loomis, CA on May 24, 2020 surrounded by his loved ones. Jim was born on December 30, 1944 in Redwood City, CA to George and Helen Evdokimoff. He was preceded in death by his brother Dick. Jim is survived by his loving wife Lory of 42 years of marriage, his daughter Claire (Trevor) Luna, his son Scott and two grandsons, Drake and Hudson. Jim was a Real Estate broker and sold new homes for over 40 years with various builders. He had a love for the outdoors which included camping, fishing and many beach vacations...Maui being his favorite! Jim also loved playing dice with his family and friends. He even got a "final, final" dice game with his family in his last days. We will miss his kind heart and warm smile. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date....

Marjorie Ann Muentz
July 25, 1941 - May 20, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Marjorie Ann (Heath) Muentz born on July 25th, 1941 to Earl and Grace (Miller) Heath in Milan MI. At the age of 16 she graduated as valedictorian from Milan High School. 4 years later in 1962 she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Central Michigan University and moved to California in 1963. In college she felt strongly that women were not valued enough as serious thinkers and wanted to experience New Age culture out in California. After short stays in L.A. and Berkely she got a Masters in English and eventually took a job teaching at Livermore High School where she met her husband Don. They married in 1966 and had two boys, Aaron and Mark. In 1971 they moved to a house in Pleasanton where Marge would live for the rest of her life. Although they divorced after 11 years Don stayed close and they continued to celebrate holidays as a family. Marge also taught English at Chabot College. However she would later start a career in massage therapy which is a pursuit she took very seriously, taking an endless amount of seminars and classes and studying physical therapy, she became proficient in several techniques, always trying to further her education and improve her ability to treat people wit...

Mary Louise (Haynes) Lewis
July 10, 1929 - May 18, 2020
Danville, CA, California

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend passed away on May 18, 2020 at the age of 90. Mary is survived by her four children, Linda Gibson, Dauna (Bruce) Erickson, Teresa (Guy) Wentzel, and Randall Lewis, 14 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oren "C" Lewis, son, David Lewis, son-in-law, Roger Gibson, her parents, her sisters, Ruth Franklin and Evelyn Williamson, grandson, Hallie Wentzel, and great-grandson, Brady Erickson. Mary was born on July 10, 1929 to Hallie Halbert Haynes and Ada Louise Payne Patton in Klamath Falls, Oregon. She grew up in Po Valley in southern Oregon. In the summer of 1946, at an armory dance in Klamath Falls, Mary met her future husband, Oren, who had recently returned from serving in the Pacific during World War II. They were married four and a half months later. After living in Louisiana and Puerto Rico, they ultimately settled in the Sacramento area in 1952. There they raised their family. Mary worked as a secretary at the San Juan Unified School District for a number of years. The family's favorite leisure activity was centered on weekly ...

Linda Kay Channell
Sept. 9, 1948 - May 18, 2020
Jackson, Tennessee

Linda Kay Channell (nee Young) passed away May 18, 2020, in Jackson, TN, at the age of 71. She was born September 9, 1948, to Reba (nee Michael) and Alva Dale Jr. Young in Salem, IL. Linda was raised in Aurora, IL, and married James Channell on Nov. 30, 1964. They eventually made their home in Oswego, IL, where they raised two children. The couple retired in Tennessee in 2008. After receiving her Realtor's license, Linda worked with Century 21 Mohler Realty for several years. She earned her broker's license and opened a very successful real estate office, Channell & Team, in Oswego. Linda is survived by her husband of 55 years, James Channell; her children, Gina Channell (Steve Wilcox) of Danville, CA, and Jeffery (Heather) Channell of Oswego, IL; her grandchildren, Zachary (Erin) Allen of Cornelius, OR, Joshua Allen (Chandler fa*ggiano) of Henderson, NV, and Ashleigh Allen of Sonoma, CA; cousins Dale (Sue) Jourdan of Three Way, TN; Joyce (Bill) Pounds of Carthage, MO; and Jerry (Amanda) Jourdan of Beech Bluff, TN. She was preceded in death by her mother, Reba Masters, in 2003. A memorial service will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family ask...

Johnathan LaFountain
Sept. 2, 1976 - May 11, 2020
Livermore, CA

With a heavy heart we share that 43 year old Johnathan Mark LaFountain went to be with the Lord on May 11, 2020. Sadly he battled depression and tragically took his life. He grew up in Pleasanton and was a resident of Livermore CA. The world lost a sweet soul that brightened anybody's life that was lucky enough to come in contact with him. If you knew Johnny, you loved Johnny. You never smiled faster, laughed louder or hugged harder than when you spent time with him. He deeply loved his two teenage boys and spent his free time creating outdoor adventures with them. All God's creatures brought him joy and he had many pets and reptiles. He was an avid outdoorsman and motorcycle rider. His amazing talent on a motorcycle both street and dirt led to his famous nickname "J Wheelie". He was also a talented artist and happy to make a custom wrench ring for anybody. Friends and family often received one of his famous metal creations. Johnny lived life large and he will be forever missed. Johnathan is survived by wife Jamie, sons Mark & JJ, father John LaFountain, mother Kerry LaFountain (husband Jim Moore), sisters Aimee Ose (husband Scott), and Sara Brown (husband Matt), Fat...

Elizabeth Ann Jones
Nov. 22, 1934 - May 5, 2020
Pleasanton, CA, California

Elizabeth Jones died on May 5, 2020, of natural causes in Pleasanton, CA. Elizabeth (aka Lizzie or Liz) came to California in 1945 with her mother and father, Lorene and Joseph Septer, and brother Tom. They packed up all their belongings and headed west from Danville, Arkansas to Oxnard, CA. Graduating from Oxnard High School in 1952, Liz started working at Point Mugu Naval Airbase in Oxnard. Later she worked in the public school system until relocating to Grass Valley, CA with her husband, Bill Jones, who preceded her in death. Liz worked for and retired from the County of Nevada, in Human Resources. She remained in Grass Valley until 2013. She then moved to the Livermore/Pleasanton area. Liz is survived by her brother, Tom Septer; three children Maribeth Linhart, and her husband Jim; Jeffrey Kushon and his wife Cherie; and Linda Hothem; four grandchildren, Kierra Schaumkel, Rob Jones, Aaron & Christian Hothem; three great granddaughters: Lexi, Hayley, Teah Schaumkel; nieces Michelle Cowan, and her husband Jeff; Tommi Berry; Shawn Barcelona, and her husband Bobby; and nephew Kevin Septer. She was laid to rest at St. Patricks Catholic Cemetery in Grass Valley on May ...

Gladys Murray
March 18, 1932 - April 16, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Gladys Murray passed away at Sunol Creek Memory Care in Pleasanton on Apr. 16, 2020, at the age of 88. She was born and raised in Pleasanton. She was the 11th and last child of Manuel and Mary Cardoza. Gladys attended Amador High School where she met the love of her life, Mert Murray, who predeceased her in 2009. They were happily married for 57 years and resided in Pleasanton and their second home in Penn Valley's Lake Wildwood. Gladys became an avid tennis player at Tennis Town and enjoyed watching tennis on TV and in person. She especially loved spending time with her family. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed entertaining and having family gatherings. Gladys was the school secretary for Camp Parks and Fairlands Schools. Later on, she became a travel agent and loved setting up trips for many friends and family. She loved traveling, going on cruises and was especially fond of her trip with Mert to the Azores in Portugal. She is survived by her daughter Lori Fraser and husband Bruce; her son Kevin; her niece Susan Ferrari and husband Roger; and many nieces, nephews, and numerous loving friends. She was predeceased in 1969 by her beloved daughter Leslie...

Donald Curtis Peters
Feb. 9, 1936 - April 13, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Don Peters passed away on April 13, 2020 after a battle with cancer. He was born on Feb. 9, 1936, the first child of Betty and Dave Peters. The family had fruit orchards in the San Jose area for several generations and Don attended the same kindergarten at Willow Glen school that his grandmother had attended. He was in the first graduating class from Willow Glen High School and earned his engineering degree from San Jose State where he met his wife, Ann Stikeman Peters, on a ski club trip. After working a year for the Navy in Pasadena, he was hired by UC at Lawrence Livermore Lab. He continued to work for the UC system for over 30 years, retiring from UCSF. He enjoyed camping, backpacking and spending time at the family cabin at Lake Tahoe. He was a private pilot with the Flying Particles and late flew sail planes from Hummingbird Haven outside of Livermore. After retiring he and his wife went on more than 20 hiking trips with Elderhostel/Road Scholar in many parts of the world. They also spent three summers as volunteer interpretive aides at Lassen Volcanic National Park Don spent several years as a volunteer for the Livermore Police Department, but the love of his retirement ...

Steven James DeCoite
Aug. 30, 1942 - April 6, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Steven James DeCoite, 77 years old, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Monday, April 6, 2020, in Pleasanton, California. He was born August 30, 1942, in Oakland, California, to Pauline Hansen and Ernest DeCoite. He was the older brother to siblings Eddie and Linda. He was raised in San Leandro, California. Steve was a graduate of Bishop O'Dowd High School '60, San Jose State University '64, Georgetown University School of Dentistry '68 and Loyola University Chicago School of Orthodontics '70. Shortly after graduating Orthodontics School, Steve by then had married his high school sweetheart and settled in Pleasanton to start a family and begin his Orthodontics practice. Steve and Dr. Gerald Lamberti opened their offices in Pleasanton and Fremont. Steve was a member of Catholic Community of Pleasanton's St. Augustine's Church and a member and past President of the Pleasanton's Men Club. He was a dear friend to many people in Pleasanton. An exceptionally kind and caring man; he met weekly at Vic's for breakfast with a group of close friends from the Men's Club. He loved the Raiders, the Warriors and the Oakland A's. He grew up a...

Ralph K. Bleier
March 12, 1947 - April 5, 2020
Danville, California

Ralph Kleinert Bleier, of Danville, California peacefully passed away at home on Sunday, April 5, surrounded by his wife and three children. Born in New York City on March 12, 1947, he was the third son of Jeanette and Richard Bleier and grew up in Chappaqua, New York. He graduated from Horace Greeley High School in 1965 and earned a Bachelor's of Science in Business Economics from New England College in 1969. He was a Ski Instructor at Pat Peaks in Henniker, New Hampshire and an avid baseball and soccer player. After graduating, he joined The Peace Corps, became a social worker in New York City, and a youth group leader at Temple Beth El in Chappaqua. In the winter of 1971, he met the one true love of his life, Kathleen Kelley, in White Plains, New York. They were married less than a year later. Their first child Kenneth, was born in 1974, their daughter Kelley in 1976 and Jason in 1979. They raised their children in Chappaqua, New York, before relocating to Alamo and Danville, California in 1989. From vacations to the lake house in Vermont to ski trips to the White Mountains back East, and later, Lake Tahoe, he did more for his family than most fathers could provide in mu...

ElRoy Rakstad
Feb. 3, 1934 - April 5, 2020
Henderson, Nevada

ElRoy Norin Rakstad of Henderson Nevada, former resident of Pleasanton California for over 50 years, joined his next survey crew, holding hands with his wife and surrounded by family, on April 5, 2020. Born on February 3, 1934 in Palermo North Dakota, to Norin and Violet Rakstad. Raised in Parshall ND, he attended University of North Dakota, Grand Forks ND and University of North Dakota, in Minot ND. While in college he served in the US Air Force. He graduated with a Degree in Math and Education, with the intent of becoming a teacher. ElRoy started his career surveying minuteman missile silos in North Dakota, before moving his young family to Pleasanton California in 1965. He worked at Martin and Bissel, before it became Bissel and Karn, and then Greiner Engineering for over 30 years before his retirement. ElRoy was also on the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Bay Counties Civil Engineers and Land Surveyors Association, Inc. and was an instructor for the California Surveyors Joint Apprenticeship program. ElRoy was very involved in his community by coaching soccer for both boy and girl teams. As a member of the YMCA, he supported the Indian Guides program and st...

Leslie Alfred Morris
April 8, 1933 - March 29, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Alfred Morris (Al) was born April 8, 1933, to Les and Hilda Morris and left this earth on March 29, 2020, peacefully in his sleep. He graduated from Hayward High School, was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and spent his working career as an architect for his partnership firm Mullen, Morris and Alexander. His favorite activities included tending to his roses and birdhouses, fiddling with his model trains, hunting for eggs the chickens hid, and looking after his grandchildren's pig, goat, and sheep 4-H projects. He was always a willing volunteer for cookie tasting and had a weakness for ice cream and popsicles. Al had a way of making you feel like you were the most important person in the world when you talked to him. Most of all, Al lived for his family. The love of his life for 68 years was Beverly Jean Hamilton Morris. He was father to Jay (Wendy), Dale (Dana), Jan (Jim), Karen, and David (Carrie); grandfather to Tammy (Drew), Ashley, Jimmy, Joey, Barric, Jenna, Cheyenne, Brennon, Jessica, and Emma; great grandfather to 3 and brother to one sister, Carol Paiva (Brentwood). His humor and compassion will be missed. Due to the current shelter-in-place restrictions,...

Shirley Maurine Dunlap
June 2, 1931 - March 27, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Shirley Dunlap, 88, passed away March 27, 2020, in Pleasanton, CA, with family by her side. She was born to "Shorty" & Elsie Echols in Corpus Christi, TX, on June 2, 1931. She married the love of her life, David R. Dunlap, Jr., in 1949 and they moved to Fremont, CA, with their three children in 1959. She loved to read for her own pleasure and to inspire young readers & was a librarian in Fremont elementary schools for 29 years; she also loved to serve, through her church & community services, throughout her life. She sang in her church choir for decades, and her strong soprano voice rang out many solos over the years. Family meant everything to Shirley! She will be forever missed, but we rejoice that she is "home" with her Lord! Shirley was preceded in death by David R., her beloved husband of 60 years. She is survived by her children: David, Diane & Ronald Dale; grandchildren: Will, Vanessa, Gabriel, Taylor, Austin & Hannah; great-grandchildren: Cade, Dakota Jo & Oliver; and sister Alice and brothers John & Terry. Now that COVID precautions have eased, a memorial service is scheduled for August 21, 2021, at 11am at Valley Community Church, 4455 Del Valle Parkway, Pleasanton, CA, w...

Frank Karl Schmidig
May 10, 1930 - March 23, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Frank Schmidig (Gumel) passed away peacefully on March 23, 2020. He was born May 10, 1930 on a mountainside farm in Schonenbuch, Switzerland. Gumel was the oldest of 6 children. After his father's death, Gumel had to help his mother with the care of his younger siblings. When his siblings were old enough to work, Gumel set out for America on a ship via Canada. He worked on a farm outside Montreal to help support the family back home while learning English. He then set out for Vancouver with his longtime friend Paul Von Euw and worked in a papermill for a year, finally ending up in Pleasanton where he had an Aunt, Josephine Wipfli. Gumel spent the remainder of his life in Pleasanton. He met the loving and outgoing Bertie Christensen, they married and they had a son named Frank Jr. Bertie who preceded Gumel in death in 1999. Gumel worked first at Hansen and Geiger Dairy then later with his friends Frank Auf Der Maur and Konrad Rickenbach at Pleasanton Cabinet Shop. The Cabinet shop closed down in 1981, but the friendships remained with weekly lunches and Swiss club events. In addition to working together the families enjoyed many vacations all over the world traveling ...

J Neville Shore Jr
Aug. 2, 1947 - March 18, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

J. Neville "Jay" Shore Jr, aged 72, passed away peacefully at his Pleasanton Home on Wednesday March 18th, 2020. He was born August 2nd, 1947 in San Gabriel, California to Marion Margaret Dibble Shore and J. Neville Shore Sr. Jay is a veteran of the Vietnam war for both the Navy and the Army. He also boasts multiple college degrees, and a successful career in the Information Technology field for Accounting. He enjoyed life through the simple pleasures of watching the stock market, spending time with family, chatting with everyone around him, and playing with his two dogs Emma, and Skippy. During his prime he was a multiple engine Instructor, commercially licensed pilot, and loved flying airplanes. He loves comedies of all sorts, everything with a smile on their face. He was also an avid amateur radio operator, communicating with fellow hams throughout the bay area. Jay is survived by his wife of thirty-seven years, Victoria Shore, his Son Jonathan Shore, and his Daughter, Jennifer Shore Holder. Due to the Corona Virus restrictions a memorial will not be held until Summer. A small graveside service is planned for family at the Pioneer Cemetery in his Hometown of Pleasanton, CA....

Barbara Ruth Spanskie
May 7, 1926 - March 13, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Barbara Spanskie, a 23 year resident of Pleasanton California, passed away in her sleep on March 13 while under hospice care. She was born on Long Island in Port Washington, New York on May 7, 1926. Barbara grew up in Port Washington, New York and for a while in Buffalo, New York. Barbara had a career with Gruman Aerospace Co. in Bethpage, New York for over 30 years. For many of those years she worked for the division that designed and build the Apollo Lunar Module where she had the opportunity to meet some of our astronauts. After retirement, Barbara and her husband Charles moved from their home in Massapequa, New York to Pleasanton, California in order to be near her daughter and her daughter's family. After arriving in California, Barbara began studying painting and became an accomplished artist with her paintings displayed in many art shows in the Bay Area. Barbara loved gardening and for many years she enjoyed the Garden Club with her daughter Lynne and other friends. Barbara was a member of the Lynnewood United Methodist Church in Pleasanton. In her later years she was active in The Widows and Widowers of Northern California. Barbara was preceded in death by Ch...

Martha Mark
May 6, 1938 - March 2, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Martha D. Mark, 81, of Pleasanton, CA passed away from Lewy Body Dementia on March 2, 2020. Martha was born to Jesse and Viola Scott of Fowler, CA on May 6, 1938. Born and raised in Fowler, she met and married the love of her life, Leonard Mark of Selma, CA in 1957. They soon moved to Pleasanton where they resided for 60 years. They raised their three children, Kelly McDonough, Darin Mark, and Jennifer Hart. Martha had a keen eye for décor and with her husband, they spent a lifetime of making their surroundings beautiful. Music was a big part of her life, as she taught piano lessons and worked with the local school music programs. She was very involved with the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church -- she sang solo in the choir, for weddings, and funerals. Additionally, she proudly sang at the Monterey Jazz Festival. At 45, she became a licensed cosmetologist and for over 20 years she had made it her passion to beautify her clients. After formally retiring, she continued accomodating her clients in her home. In her spare time, she constructed the most beautiful designer button bracelets, which she sold and shared with her friends and family. She will be sorely missed by her children, gra...

Maureen Ann Kostalnick
Dec. 9, 1940 - Feb. 21, 2020
Livermore, California

Maureen Ann Richards Kostalnick passed away on Friday, February 21, 2020. To know Maureen was to love her. She touched the hearts of everyone she met. Her life was dedicated to her beautiful family and to the children she worked with as a sign language interpreter. Maureen was born in Avon, Ohio and graduated from Avon High School. She went on to become a sign language interpreter and loved the children she had the privilege of working with. She was also an author, having written an adult novel based on her life, and a humorous childrens' book. Maureen began her writing career as a humor writer for the American Greetings Corporation in Cleveland. Maureen is survived by her loving husband and high school sweetheart, Chuck; her devoted children, Kathleen Antrim of Pleasanton, CA; Charles Kostalnick II and Kay Kostalnick of Castle Rock, CO; Daniel Jon Kostalnick, MD and Suzanne Kostalnick of Pleasanton, CA; and her wonderful grandchildren Kaitlin Antrim Laines of San Francisco, CA; Taylor Antrim of Lone Tree, CO; Charles Kostalnick III of San Francisco, CA; Michael Kostalnick of Livermore, CA; Elizabeth Kostalnick of Pleasanton, CA; Madeleine Kostalnick of Pleasanto...

George C. Mayo
Oct. 23, 1931 - Feb. 20, 2020
Pleasanton, California

George C. Mayo, known as a kind and devoted Christian, went home to his savior Feb. 20, 2020. He was 88. George and his wife of 64 years, Dorothy, moved to Pleasanton in 1969 and still live in that same Pleasanton Valley home. They raised their family of five children there, while George ran Mayo Radiator in Oakland, a business he purchased from his father. At its height, he was distributing radiators and accessories to more than 2,700 customers, prompting him to purchase the first computer installed into an automotive business in Oakland in 1983, according to a trade magazine. He enjoyed more than 30 years in retirement, traveling the country with Dorothy, camping in a trailer. The family also enjoyed outings to their second home in Arnold where he could pursue his passion for fishing and spending time with the family. He also traveled to Alaska to fish. He and Dorothy sang for decades in the choir at GraceWay Church. He marched in the church's Balloon Platoon as well as participating in weekly Bible studies. In retirement, he spent nine years as a regular volunteer at Stanford ValleyCare hospital in Pleasanton. He also enjoyed golfing and scored two hole-in-ones. He was k...

Susanne Michelle Woods
Dec. 26, 1972 - Feb. 19, 2020
Pleasanton, California

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Susanne Woods on February 19th, 2020, at the age of 47. Susanne attended Alisal, Harvest Park, Amador, DVC and UC Berkeley. She began her book publishing career in New York, before moving to London and Colorado. She then started her own publishing company, Lucky Spool, specializing in quilting, here in Pleasanton in 2012. She loved spending time with her family, traveling, cooking, quilting, reading and gardening. She loved people, was a Pleasanton Library Booklegger for several years, and was involved in community volunteerism with her two boys. She leaves two sons, Archie and Oliver, and her husband Bruce. She was warm, loving, talented and so very dear to our hearts. Mum Jan, dad Ralph, sister Carolyn and niece and nephew, Sarah and Justin. At Susanne's request, a private family goodbye was held. Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society....

James Lavell Cox
March 24, 1938 - Feb. 16, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Beloved brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather. Jim passed away on February 16, 2020, at the age of 81. Jim was born in Columbia, MS. He proudly served in the Airforce from 1955-1958. Upon discharge from the service, Jim raised a family and owned a few businesses, including a southwestern Indian jewelry and supply company in New Mexico. Jim enjoyed music, dancing and traveling. His greatest pride and accomplishment was his family. Jim is survived by daughter Dawn, grandchildren, Tabitha, Joseph, Linsay, and Dylan, great-grandchildren, Chloe, Evelyn and Henry as well as his sisters Johnnie Earl and Janet. He will be forever in our hearts. There will be a celebration of life and military honors at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton at 2PM on Saturday, March 7, 2020. The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to support cancer research....

Gloria Jane Watson
March 19, 1937 - Feb. 15, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Gloria Jane Watson, a long-time Pleasanton resident and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 15 surrounded by her family after fighting a long battle with kidney disease. Gloria was born in Oakland, California on March 19, 1937. She graduated from St. Elizabeth High School in Oakland, where she was very active in sports such as basketball and softball. After high school, she worked for the Office of the Alameda County Superintendent of Schools. In 1959, she met her husband Robert Watson and they married in 1960. They lived in San Leandro and started a family before moving to Pleasanton in 1965. Gloria worked for a pediatrician and then several different attorneys as a legal secretary until she retired in 1999. Gloria and Bob loved to travel and be in the outdoors. She enjoyed playing golf with her husband and close friends at different golf courses in California, Nevada and Arizona. She was a member of the San Ramon Women's Golf Club and was the club champion in 2001. She loved boating and waterskiing on the San Joaquin Delta with her family during the hot summer months. Gloria loved creating beautif...

Annie Montez
Nov. 3, 1929 - Feb. 13, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Ann (Annie) Montez Resident of Pleasanton since 1964 Annie passed away in peace and comfort at age 90 of natural causes in her own bed at home under the care of her eldest Son and full-time Caregiver, Matthew Jesse Montez Watts with the wonderful care of A Plus Hospice of Pleasanton. Annie's former daughter-in-law, Beverlee Tribuiani and her Daughter Jessica remained in touch over the years adding joy to her life. She is also survived by her other children: Cat Adrian, Mike Montez and Marty Montez, and her Grandchildren; Jessica, Andrew, Desiree, Shelsea, Trevor, Sophie, and her great-grandson Jaimz. She was the last surviving member of her family, including a sister and two brothers, and she wished for no services or fuss of any kind. Special thanks to her longtime friend and former neighbor Evelyn Wilson and her neighbors Todd and Laura Ryan and Jan Gardner for being such awesome people in her life even if she did not see them much especially in her later years. Having good neighbors added to what she loved about living in Pleasanton. She is also survived by her loving and devoted dog Lucy who added comfort and enjoyment to her life. Herbie and Annie Montez move...

Richard C Thorstenson
June 16, 1967 - Feb. 12, 2020
Colorado Springs, CO

Celebration of Life Services: March 14th 1:00pm Cornerstone Fellowship 348 N Canyons Parkway Livermore, CA 94550 925-447-3465...

Beverly Kay Redgwick
Aug. 23, 1935 - Feb. 12, 2020
Monterey, California

Beverly was born in Cedar Rapids, Nebraska on August 23, 1935 to P.D. and Winifred Wright. She grew up in Hebron, Nebraska as the second of four children. Bev met Donald, her husband of 61 years at University of Northern Colorado where she earned a degree in Education. After graduation, Bev moved to California with her new husband, Donald where she worked as a teacher until they started a family. She and Don raised three children in Pleasanton, and she eventually returned to the workforce, where she enjoyed being a teacher, then a preschool director, a legal secretary and an accountant. Bev loved animals and adopted several shelter dogs throughout her life. Beverly was passionate about music, art and literature. In her 50s she returned to school, taking art classes at the Academy of Art College in San Francisco. She painted and sketched, and enjoyed collecting art. In retirement, she also enjoyed traveling with her husband, taking many cruises and exploring Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. Bev was thrilled to achieve her life-long desire to retire near the ocean and spent many years walking the beaches in Carmel and Pacific Grove. ...

Dottie Somersett Berck
Aug. 22, 1932 - Feb. 11, 2020
PLEASANTON, CALIFORNIA

DOTTIE SOMERSETT BERCK August 22, 1932 – February 11, 2020 A 50-year resident of Pleasanton Dottie went to her rest surrounded by loving family at Kaiser Hospital after suffering cardiac arrest. She will be remembered by all as an outgoing vivacious woman who had a smile and a hug for everyone she met. Dottie was born in Camden, Arkansas to Deleta Patterson and Irvin Williams. Her father's work advancements moved her across the country through Savannah, Georgia, Kansas City, Kansas, and Seattle Washington before settling in Oakland, California at the age of 15. She graduated from Oakland High School at the age of 16 and went on to attend San Francisco Community College for a year before entering the workforce.There she met her first husband, David Somersett, while employed at Bank Of America. Following their marriage in 1955, they moved from San Leandra to Hayward where they raised two wonderful children, Dwight and Dorri. The family bought a new home in the up and coming Del Prado area of Pleasanton in 1969 and quickly became established members of their community.. Dottie became a loyal and contributive employee of Allied Brokers where she rose to the rank of Executiv...

Konrad Dominik Rickenbach
April 5, 1927 - Feb. 8, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Konrad D. Rickenbach of Pleasanton, CA passed away on February 8, 2020. Konrad's journey began April 5th, 1927 in Steinen, Switzerland. During his youth, he was surrounded by lakes, mountain meadows and peaks. Growing up in this environment, led to his passion for skiing, cycling and travel. In his mid-twenties his curiosity took him to North America working his way across Canada into Northern California. He settled in Pleasanton and got involved with cabinet manufacturing and property development with his school mate Frank Aufdermau. Konrad enjoyed being with family, skiing friends, and a nice bottle of wine. He leaves behind his wife of 65 years, Elisabeth, sons Konrad (Doris), Andreas (Kristen), daughter Suzanne (Thomas), six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. No services will be held. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Kindred Hospice, Dublin or local Humane Society....

Helen Pearlstein
April 14, 1932 - Feb. 3, 2020
Alamo, California

Helen Pearlstein (nee Gardner), a resident of Alamo, died peacefully on February 3, 2020 after a bout with an aggressive knee sarcoma. She was 87 years old. She lived in Danville, and then in Alamo for a combined 44 years. During that time her focus was taking care of her combined family and working as a volunteer at the Danville Library. At the Library she served in virtually every capacity, including several terms as President. She and a friend originated the Friends of the Danville Library Endowment in 1998 that reached 1 million dollars in early January 2020. Recently Mrs. Pearlstein served as Secretary for the Northern California branch of the American Research Center Egypt. Mrs. Pearlstein was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and grew up in Philadelphia. She graduated from Ursinus College in 1954 with a degree in history. She married John Isely in 1957 and they moved to San Diego with their two children, Ann and Brian. She covered local news for a twice-weekly newspaper, and later worked for Hydro Products, San Diego Magazine, and as editor of the award winning San Diego Constructor, a trade magazine. Following her marriage to Don Pearlstein in 1976, and a move to nor...

Ann M. Evanson
July 21, 1935 - Feb. 3, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Anna Maye (Hein) Evanson, born July 21, 1935, left this world for a better place on Monday, February 3, 2020 to be reunited with her husband of almost 60 years and love of her life - John David Evanson. Ann passed away peacefully at the age of 84 in her home in El Dorado Hills surrounded by her daughters. Ann grew up in Lake Stevens, Washington with her parents, John Elden Hein and Katherine Koestlin, and two brothers. She was active in her community, attended Lake Stevens Jr. College where she studied to be a dental hygienist, and even served as an Air Spotter during World War II. Ann first met John when she was 13 years old and fell in love. Being seven years her senior, John considered it only a teenage crush, however, after serving in the Marines, being drafted into the Army and spending a tour in Korea, John returned home to ask Ann, now 21, for her hand in marriage. They were inseparable and their love, honor and care for one another was a gift and legacy to their family. Ann will always be remembered for her passion for family, friends, food and fun. She had a heart of service, deeply cared for people and was never shy about showing off her spunky sense of humor. Ann ...

Michael Loyd Lester
July 16, 1955 - Jan. 29, 2020
Fremont, CA

Michael Loyd Lester July 16, 1955 – January 29, 2020 The oldest of 4 children, Michael was born in Livermore, CA, to Loyd and Beverly (Fenton) Lester. Born the day before Disneyland opened, Mike, or Mikey, as many called him, was adored for his mischievous smile and larger-than-life, child-like personality. Whether he was putting on an elaborate holiday show, dressing up as "Pharmacy Dog" at his company picnic, or building an over-the-top backyard slide, he loved throwing a party and making people smile. A romantic husband and dedicated father of 3, he was the ultimate 90's dad, winning Christmas decorating contests, filming Ninja Turtle movies with his children, and unapologetically showing up to every school play, science fair, and dance recital with his VHS camcorder, lab coat, and Tom Selleck mustache. He is famous for his epic, Chevy-Chase style road trips, packing 11 people into a seven-seater van with a camper on top that said "Going to Wally World." An impatient explorer, he took his family on madcap, educational adventures across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Philippines, only stopping at McDonald's to offer people two choices: "Hamburger, or H...

Rose June Branchini
Jan. 25, 1926 - Jan. 28, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Rose June (Antone) Branchini passed away January 28, 2020 in Pleasanton, California at the age of 94. Rose is survived by daughter Janet (Joe) Cristiano and son Rick (Pamela) Branchini, sister Jane Bianchetti (Pittsburgh, Pa.), grandchildren Vance (Mary) Branchini, Jennifer Branchini (Cam Inman), Scott (Sophie) Piper, Gina Piper (Shawn Farrell), Lisa (Alan) Coursey, John (Sally) Cristiano, Joe (Debbie) Cristiano, Dawn Cristiano, Denise Cristiano, Chelsea (Marc) Souza and Ashley (Mike) Stevens; great-grandchildren Anthony, Krystal, Joseph, Alexis, Jessica, Makena, Samantha, Michael, Kate, Brooke, Grant, Jocelyn, Luca, Paloma, Blake, Gianna. Rose is preceded in death by her husband Gino Branchini, her sister Elma Crawford and her brothers Carlo Pierucci and Frank Pierucci. Rose was born Jan. 25, 1926 in San Francisco to Sebastiano Antongiovanni and Mary Pierucci. She was raised there and attended Balboa High. Rose and Gino were married 59 years before he died July 12, 2003. They met working at the Fibreboard Box Company and later worked together in tax and insurance businesses. They moved to San Leandro in 1949 and went on to live in Castro Valley, Danville, Pleasanton and Liver...

Margaret 'Peggy' McLain
May 7, 1932 - Jan. 24, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Margaret 'Peggy' McLain passed away peacefully at home after a long illness with Parkinson's disease. She lived in Pleasanton for 53 years and had many ties to the community. She is survived by her two daughters, Pamela and Cynthia, granddaughter Nicole and many bonus grand and great-grandchildren. Friends and family are invited to her memorial service on Saturday, February 1st at 1:00p.m. at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton with a reception at Graham-Hitch following the service. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to either the Parkinson's Foundation or the Wounded Warriors in Peggy's name....

Howard G Seebach
Aug. 18, 1930 - Jan. 23, 2020
Livermore, California

Howard Seebach passed away from heart failure in this home at Heritage Estates, Livermore, CA, on January 23. He was 89 years old. He was born in Germantown, PA, to Louis and Mildred Godfrey Seebach, the older brother of George Louis Seebach. Howard graduated from Wilmington (DE) Friends School, the University of Delaware and then Cornell University with a M.B.A. in 1960. He served in the Army for six years and was honorably discharged as Captain and Commanding Officer of a Basic Training Unit in Fort Hood, TX. While in Germany, he served as 2nd Lieutenant, Company Commander, 510th Tank Battalion, 5th Corp. It was in Germany that he married his first wife and mother of his four children, Alma Stevens Seebach, who was an American teacher on the base. Howard later married Emilie Green in 1988 and enjoyed 24 years of marriage, until her death in 2012. Howard worked with the DuPont Company for over 30 years in sales and marketing leadership roles and, after he retired, produced Sales Meetings with his wife Emilie, as Seebach & Seebach. After retirement, Howard served as Pleasanton, CA Parks & Recreation Commissioner and later Civic Arts Commissioner. He was very a...

Marcia Bloomgarden
Nov. 16, 1929 - Jan. 21, 2020
San Ramon, CA

Marcia passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 90. Survived by her daughter Teresa (Joseph) Ayres, son Russell (Michelle) Bloomgarden; grandchildren Matthew (Pamela) Ayres, Adam (Dr. Janelle) Ayres, Sarah & Amy Bloomgarden and one great grandchild Aidan. She is also survived by the Radler nieces and nephews. Marcia was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, Richard Bloomgarden in 2009. Marcia and Richard ran a very successful business U-CAN-DO Products for 25 years. A native of Detroit, MI, Marcia lived in San Ramon, CA for the last 54 years. Marcia was a long time Club Sports member in Pleasanton and enjoyed going to the gym. Marcia will be missed by family and friends....

Stephen M. Sullivan
May 23, 1958 - Jan. 21, 2020
San Ramon, California

Stephen "Sully" Michael Sullivan was born May 23,1958 in San Jose, CA to Stanley and Irene Sullivan. Steve grew up in Livermore, CA and attended Granada High School where he may still hold the school record for pole vaulting. A natural athlete, Steve especially enjoyed cycling and the outdoors, but his true love was always rock 'n' roll. When he wasn't attending concerts, Steve built a career for himself primarily at Orchard Supply Hardware where he worked for over 30 years. During his adult life, Steve raised 4 children: Daniel Sullivan, Kathleen Sullivan, John Sullivan, and Shane Sullivan. Steve's home was always filled with his laughter, music, award-winning BBQ chicken wings, and the SF Giants or 49ers. Steve is survived by his wife, Melody Whicher Sullivan; his 4 children; his mother, Irene Sullivan; 3 step-daughters, Brittany Whicher, Jessica Whicher, and Ashley Whicher; his older sister, Linda Attebery (m. Michael Attebery); his younger sister, Theresa Horton (m. Jerry Horton); and his 4 nieces, Andrea Attebery, Beth Attebery, Sara Horton, and Caitlyn Horton. A Celebration of Life for Sully will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2020 at The Livermore-Pleasanton Elks...

James Stewart Kane
Dec. 14, 1925 - Jan. 21, 2020
Pleasanton, California

James (Jim) Kane of Pleasanton died on Tuesday January 21. Jim was born in the Bitterroot Valley, in rural Montana, near the town of Corvallis, on December 14, 1925. He graduated from Corvallis High School in 1943 and enlisted in the Army in September of that year, where he was assigned to the Infantry. He saw combat in Europe and was awarded battle stars for the Rhineland and Central Europe as well as the Silver Star and the combat infantry badge. His unit liberated the Nazi concentration camp at Flossenburg, Germany. After the conclusion of the war in Europe he served in the occupation of Japan. He was discharged from the military service in April, 1946. In the fall of 1946 Jim enrolled at what is now Montana State University, in Bozeman, majoring in Chemistry. During the summers he worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a lookout-smoke chaser in the Bitterroot Forest of Western Montana. Upon graduating from Bozeman Jim was employed as a process chemist, working for General Electric Company at the Hanford, Washington facility which produced plutonium. In February 1952 Jim became a graduate student in Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley. He received his Ph...

Willa Lurleen Young
May 17, 1928 - Jan. 19, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Willa Lurleen Young died January 19, 2020, after an extended battle with congestive heart failure. She had been married 72 years to the love of her life, Raymond, who died in October 2019. Willa was born in Lawton Oklahoma in 1928, the youngest of three children. At a time when many women didn't graduate from or even attend college, Willa graduated with an undergraduate degree in English and a Masters in Education from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. in 1951. OSU was where she met and married Ray Young on May 29, 1947. Willa and Ray were always a team act. When Ray got a job working at the Oakland Zoo as the zoo director and veterinarian, Willa transferred her teaching credentials to California and went to work teaching deaf students in Oakland's middle and high schools. When Ray left the zoo and opened two veterinary hospitals in Pleasanton, Willa handled the bookkeeping. When they began to acquire rental homes, she got her real estate license in 1987 to handle the day-to-day property management requirements. When they made money to invest in the stock market, Willa joined a local women's investment group to help identify promising stocks to ...

Janette Ann Pappas
July 18, 1947 - Jan. 17, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Janette Ann Pappas was born on July 18, 1947 in Stanley, North Dakota to Herman and Elizabeth Dzubur. Jan passed away peacefully at the home of her son on January 17th, 2020 surrounded by family and friends. Jan attended Arroyo High School in San Lorenzo where she met her husband, Tom Pappas. Tom and Jan were married in 1966 and had three children, Thomas, Timothy, and Elizabeth. Tom and Jan moved to Pleasanton in 1979. Jan retired from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in April of 2019 after a wonderful 39-year career. Jan and Tom enjoyed traveling, attending their grandchildren's sporting events, and being with family and friends. A celebration of life will be held for Jan at the Sunol event center, Saturday February 1st at 11am....

Dorothy Mae Barnes
May 25, 1932 - Jan. 10, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Barnes, Dorothy M. Aka Dottie and Papa. Dottie has left the building. On January 10, 2020 at the age of 87 she passed away in Pleasanton, California. She was born May 25th 1932 in Nashville Tennessee. Dorothy was a Navy wave during the Korean conflict where she met and married her husband Donald L. Barnes. She was traveling around the country as a military wife finally settling in Fremont California. She is survived by her two sons, Donald and Danny, her two granddaughters Tania and Tiffany along with four grandchildren Drecee, Brayden, Annabella, Amber and great granddaughter Chloe. Services will be held at Chapel of the Chimes in Hayward, California....

David E Boyd
Feb. 13, 1927 - Jan. 9, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Our family's most beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, David E. Boyd, passed away peacefully January 9, 2020, a few weeks prior to his 93rd birthday. Born in Ohio, to Dorothy and Freeman Boyd, Dave was a proud veteran who left high school to serve in the Navy during WWII. Following his military service, Dave and his bride moved to Arizona where he worked at the Salt River Project. Later he changed careers, becoming a manufacturer's representative for Spalding Corporation, selling sporting goods across the Western United States. Known affectionately as Pop, Gramps, G-Pa, Poppa, and Pappy, Dave lived a full, vibrant life filled with love and protective loyalty for his family, friends, and community. Fueled by his innate optimism and persistence, Dave worked hard his entire life, often proclaiming proudly, "I'm a worker!" He took his first job shoveling snow for money at the age of seven. The last job he worked, until the age of 90, was as a golf course marshal, champion schmoozer, and golf aficionado at the Wente Vineyard Golf Course. Dave worked and lived independently until a year ago at his Pleasanton home of over 45 years. A passionat...

William Dean Melton
Sept. 26, 1934 - Jan. 5, 2020
Pleasanton, California

Bill Melton passed away peacefully at his home in Pleasanton on January 5, 2020, at the age of 85. At age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he honorably served his country on the USS O'Bannon during the Korean War. He leaves his wife (Jo), children (Renee, Keith & Lisa), grand children (Katrina, Jennifer, Jon & Danni), and great-grand children (Parker, Logan & Watson). He was predeceased by his brothers, Richard & Roger. A special thank-you to Hope Hospice for their caring and kindness....

Carole Ann Williams
June 22, 1943 - Jan. 2, 2020
Pleasanton, CA, California

Carole Ann Williams, 76, a 40-year resident of Pleasanton, died Jan. 02, 2020. She was born June 22, 1943, Youngstown, OH. Attained a BA in Education from Youngstown State University. Relocating to the Bay Area she spent 35 yrs in education. She loved teaching, she was avid water colorist, lover of nature, whether at the mountains, the shorelines, the golf courses, or just her own backyard. She is survived by her husband Dennis Williams of Pleasanton, her son, James Ward, and two daughters, Paige Caron and Jennifer Brons, and five grandchildren. In lieu of flowers or cards sent please feel free to make a donation in Carole's name to the Alzheimer's foundation: https://alzfdn.org/support-us/donate...

James Bernard Heiner
July 16, 1943 - Dec. 25, 2019
Livermore, California

On Christmas Day, our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, music teacher, and friend, James Bernard Heiner passed to walk with our savior. Born July 16, 1943 to Marie and Bernard "Barney" Heiner in Vallejo, CA, he is survived by his wife Jody Praklet; daughters Elisabeth Heiner and Sheri Paulo (wife Vina Wilks); and stepchildren Trisha (Daniel) Christison, Marci (Tommy) Nedialkov, and David (Jaime) Praklet. Jim loved spending time with his grandson Benjamin Heiner, and step-grandchildren Emma and Reade Christison, Zak, Owen and Connor Nedialkov, and Chase and Kenna Praklet. He is also survived by his beloved sister Diane Jones, her two sons, Carl (Lori) Welch, and Jimmy Welch. Jim attended Santa Clara schools and graduated in 1961. Determined to experience life, he traveled a year throughout Europe on a motorcycle. After attending UCLA, he earned his Masters in music from San Jose State. There he met Linda Willis, married in 1967, and had his daughter Elisabeth. Later he was blessed with his second daughter, Sheri who joined the family in her teens. Jim was a talented fly-fisherman, loved camping with family and friends at Lake Almanor, playing guitar and harmonizing...

Herman Paul Lewis Jr
Aug. 18, 1932 - Dec. 22, 2019
Dublin, California

On December 22, 2019, Herman Lewis, Jr. passed peacefully in his sleep. Born in Oakland on August 18, 1932, Herman developed a strong work ethic from a very early age while assisting his father during the Depression era. He also developed a rebellious spirit in order to overcome an education system that did not understand his severe dyslexia at that time This experience did not impact his enthusiasm for learning which he maintained throughout his life. He especially enjoyed nature and cataloged many of the birds and wildlife he encountered in the Bay Area outdoors. He later volunteered for animal organizations and assisted rescuing local strays that he found as well as attempting to have the city post warning signs on busy rural roads to protect the many wild turkeys. Another of his passions was physical fitness; from his self-taught understanding of fitness that began during his teens, he eventually set a weightlifting world record for his weight class. After serving in the Air Force during the Korean War, he became a successful barber known for not only his skill but also his stories. Never one to want to be stagnant, he eventually utilized his knowledge of physical fitne...

Richard Donald Hannigan
Aug. 3, 1935 - Dec. 14, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Richard Donald Hannigan, aged 84, a long-time resident of Pleasanton, CA, passed away at home December 14, 2019 surrounded by family after a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Richard was born in Leominster, Massachusetts on August 3, 1935. He grew up in Lowell, MA, where he attended Lowell High School, and met the first love of his life, Helene (deceased 1991). He attended Bentley College of Accounting in Boston, MA. Upon graduation, he married Helene and had 3 daughters, Janice, Gail & Jill. In 1963, with $1500 in his pocket, he packed his wife and 3 daughters in the family car and drove across country to Tempe, Arizona. In Arizona, Richard started his career at Motorola in the semi-conductor industry. In 1968 he moved to Cupertino, CA where he continued to elevate his career at National Semi-Conductor, Fairchild Semi-Conductor and Eaton Corporation. After 30 years in the industry, he concluded his career as CFO of Genus Inc. He met and married the second love of his life, June Kennedy, in 1994 and moved to Pleasanton, CA. They cherished 25 years of marriage during which they enjoyed frequent visits with children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; trips to...

Judith Frances Farro
March 9, 1940 - Dec. 12, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

Judy went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 12 after a short illness. Her last day was in the company of her loving family. Judy was born and raised in Oakland, California. She went to St. Elizabeth's grammar and high schools and graduated from Providence College of Nursing with an RN degree. Judy lovingly cared for her patients for 48 years, 33 years at Providence Hospital and 15 years at Washington Hospital. Judy was preceded in death by her parents William (Bill) and Lorraine Hansen and grandson Kaden Farro. Judy was married to her loving husband Donald (Don) for 58 years and had four sons, Stephen, Kenneth (Laura), Brian (Shelley), Ricky (Tamarra), with 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Judy's brother Thomas (Patty) Hansen and their children were constant people in her life. Her nieces and nephews and cousins were always close to Judy also. She will be greatly missed. Judy was active in her faith as a communion minister and daily mass attendee at The Catholic Community of Pleasanton. There will be a celebration of life for Judy on January 11, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Drive, Pleas...

Mike Kevin Carter
May 1, 1956 - Dec. 9, 2019
Merced, California

Former Pleasanton resident and Amador graduate of 1974, Mike Carter, passed away on December 9, 2019 in Merced CA. Mike was born May 1, 1956 in Castro Valley CA to Stuart and Barbara Carter. He is survived by his two older brothers Jeff and Jim Carter, three nieces, Kelley, Kimberly, and Barbara Carter, and nine great nephews and nieces. Services were held Saturday February 1 2020 at the LifePlace Church in Merced CA....

Frank C. Teixeira
Sept. 9, 1941 - Dec. 8, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Frank C. Teixeira, 78, passed away at home in Pleasanton, CA on December 8, 2019 after a long battle with heart and kidney disease. Originally born in Honolulu, HI, He grew up and spent nearly all his life in Pleasanton. Frank was generous and always willing to lend a helping hand for any project, treating it as if it were his own. He had a passion for training and racing horses, as well as gardening and yard work. Frank is survived by his love and wife of 48 years, Diane Teixeira, along with their son Paul Teixeira, and his brother Franklin Teixeira (Pancho). Other survivors include nieces Millie Teixeira, LeAnne Maroney, Diana Lynn Beggs Jones, and nephew Kody Teixeira....

Howard W Neely
May 8, 1932 - Dec. 5, 2019
Pleasanton, California

After 87 years of well-lived and well-fought life, Howard W. Neely passed away on December 5, 2019 in his Arroyo Grande residence with family at his side. Howard was a 53 year resident of his beloved city of Pleasanton. He was actively involved in his community, dedicating countless hours to committees, his church & his family. Howard was the son of Captain Neely of the US Navy & Howard honorably served in the army in his younger years, stationed in Fort Leonard Wood, Colorado. His mother was Helen Adams & he loved his Adams heritage. He was a skilled draftsmen and dedicated industrial arts & history teacher in Fremont, impacting many youth in our community. He was a long-time member of Pleasanton Presbyterian Church & enjoyed marching with the Balloon Platoon for many years. While serving on the Park & Recreation Commission for the City of Pleasanton, he was instrumental in establishing several parks for the City. He was also a part of the Affordable Housing Authority, working to ensure housing opportunities for those in challenging financial situations. Along with a few other community members, Howard was a catalyst for securing the securing the Pleasanton Pioneer Ce...

Patricia Ann Mielke
March 23, 1934 - Dec. 2, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Pat Mielke, born March 23, 1934, died on December 2, 2019, after having an unexpected cardiac arrest three days earlier. She is survived by her two children - Lynne and Eric Mielke; five grandchildren - Maxwell, Erica, and Madalyn Mielke of Indianapolis and Spencer and Connor Gowey of Pleasanton; her sister Karen Case of Denver; and four nieces and one nephew. Her loving husband Keith Mielke passed away almost exactly three years earlier. Pat was born in the small town of Norton, Kansas, where she grew up the daughter of Alice and Marion Harper. She attended Phillips University in Enid Oklahoma, where she met her future husband Keith while playing piano for the dance band where he sang and played saxophone. They spent two years in Germany while Keith was in the army, then moved to Syracuse New York and then East Lansing Michigan for his graduate school, and then to Bloomington Indiana where the family lived for many years while her husband was a professor at Indiana University. They joined the Unitarian church while in Bloomington. Pat's college degree was in Early Childhood Education, and she taught nursery school and eventually bought and ran her own nursery school in Blo...

Gilbert E. Machado
Jan. 28, 1925 - Dec. 2, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Gilbert Machado passed away on Monday, December 2, 2019. He touched many lives with his positive outlook on life. He worked at Lone Star for 48 years and loved his job. Gilbert was born in Pleasanton on his family's ranch on Vineyard Ave. He loved hunting up in the Ruby Mountains in Elko, Nevada, with his friends Charley and Kirk Malot. Gilbert is survived by his loving wife, Dolores Machado, of 70 years, devoted children; Michelle Casey Machado, Kathy Rizzo (passed), grandchildren; Tom Cohan, Ty Poorman, Erik Dayton, Tony Rizzo, Shane Rizzo, Misty Rizzo, great-grandchildren; Alaze, Elean, Anthony, and Emma. Gilbert will be truly missed by all who knew him. At Gilbert's request he did not want any services. His daughter will take his ashes up to the Ruby's in the springtime....

Gary Rose
June 9, 1956 - Nov. 29, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

Gary was born on June 9, 1956 in Barstow, California to Douglas and Maxine Rose. He grew up in a suburbs of Pleasant Hill with his sister Victoria and brother Brian. Gary had fond childhood memories of playing with model trains, trekking over Dinosaur Hill, and vacations with his family. After a brief hospitalization at the age of 11 years old, Gary was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes. Gary excelled in school and completed 9 years' worth of math classes during high school. He went on to receive his bachelor degree in computer science with a minor in mathematics from UC Berkeley. After graduation he started working as a programmer for the Alameda County Office of Education. He really loved his job, especially being there to help those in need. Gary worked his way up to Director of Data Management and retired June 28, 2019 after 41 years of dedicated service. He was known as the ultimate problem solver and was titled, "The Wizard" among colleagues. He gave a beautiful, heart felt speech at his retirement party, and was looking forward to working once again at the office in January. Through this job, he was introduced to his future wife Loretta. They married and had the...

Cristine Mary Annen
July 31, 1950 - Nov. 28, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Cristine Mary Annen passed away with family by her side on November 28, 2019 at the age of 69. She was a strong, independent, generous, and well-loved woman. Cris touched the lives of many students in the community through her work as a teacher. She was passionate about teaching, gardening, music, walking around Pleasanton, hiking the ridge with friends, keeping up with her sports teams,"her boys," and being the best mom, sister, aunt, Nana, and friend around. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends. Cris was born in Brainerd, Minnesota on July 31, 1950. Cris received her undergraduate and teaching credential from Chico State University and master's degrees in Special Education from San Francisco State and Cal State East Bay. While attending Chico State, Cris met Steve Annen, whom she was married to for 42 years. They settled in Pleasanton in 1976 where they raised their two children and Cris taught for almost 33 years. She was preceded in death by her father, Vernon. She is survived by her mother Esther (Alan), daughter Heidi (Matt), son Grant, grandsons Blake and Evan, sisters Sonja and Annette, brother John, nieces Sarah (Akim) and Natalie, and neph...

Margaret Mary 'McCutcheon' Maas
Feb. 15, 1937 - Nov. 22, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Margaret's journey began when she was born in Oakland, California February 15, 1937. She grew up in Oakland and graduated from Oakland High School in 1955. She met her husband of twenty years, Richard Norman Maas (1940-2015), with whom she raised their three beloved sons: Kurt, Kevin, and Kraig. Margaret and Richard parted ways in 1981, but they remained loving parents to their three boys and their families until the end of their lives. She eventually settled in Pleasanton where she lived in the same home for the last 49 years, and it is there where she drew her last breath on November 22, 2019, exactly how she wanted it. Margaret was a dedicated mother who's greatest joy came from spending time with her sons, daughters in law, and all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had the gift of always having a smile on her face, and only seeing the good in every one and every situation. She cherished the time she spent surrounded by loved ones telling - and retelling - stories. She spent twenty years working at JC Penney where she lived to brighten the day of all she met. In her spare time she had a passion for cooking, baking, sewing, volunteering, and caring for ...

Hollis Harold Beckett
March 2, 1921 - Nov. 19, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Hollis Beckett loved to fly, and his life personified flying. He always wanted to become a pilot, and he was granted his dreams to fly. Hollis Harold Beckett Jr. passed peacefully on November 19th 2019 at the age of 98 years young. He lived the life of a dedicated member of the Armed Forces. Enlisting in the Army the day after Pearl Harbor, he was probably surprised when some time later he took a test and was accepted into the Army Air Corps, and spanning over 30 years of service with what later became the Air Force, and switching to the Air National Guard, ending at the 234th Mobile Command Squadron at Hayward, CA in 1976 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Cataloging over 6600 hours in flight, Hollis had flown most every airplane, including the AT-6, the U-10, and the C-45. He served as a flight instructor for many of his years, such as for the B-25. His personal manual on technical instruction and pre-flight checks gave direction in preparing lesson plans for his students. Hollis married Nadine in 1954 in a chapel at March Army Air Base in Riverside, CA. Celebrating 65 years of marriage, amazingly the second marriage for both of them. They raised their two daughters, Hei...

Lloyd Martin Jantzen
June 18, 1936 - Nov. 12, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Lloyd Martin Jantzen passed away on November 12, 2019 at the age of 83 after a long illness. A resident of Pleasanton for over 50 years, Lloyd was a gentle soul with a positive outlook on life who made friends easily throughout the community. He was born in Seminole, Oklahoma and lived in Colorado in his youth. Lloyd was a veteran of the United States Navy which brought him to the Naval Air Station in Alameda. While in the service, he was trained at various Aviation Electrical Schools. Upon completion of his tour of duty, Lloyd continued to expand his technical education working as an engineer. He worked for 30 years in telecommunications with Pacific Telephone, Telegraph Company and Pacific Bell. For 22 of those years, he worked in different management capacities. When his children were young, he volunteered with Alameda County 4-H, was active with Livermore Lions Club, and Guide Dogs for the Blind. Lloyd is survived by his children Cindy Ford (Jim), Catherine Rivenes (Andy), and Jeffrey Jantzen (Christine), along with his grandchildren Collin and Keith Lewis, Logan (Kirsten) and Drake (Tara) Rivenes, and Haley and Reed Jantzen. His surviving sisters, Ronna Cornella, Evely...

Kaye Elizabeth Decker
Nov. 8, 1927 - Nov. 3, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Kaye Elizabeth Decker passed away on Nov. 3, 2019 with family by her side. She was a beautiful and generous soul, a strong and independent woman, a marvelous mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, wife, and friend whose love made a difference in every life she touched. She is at peace now and her love and kindness live on within those blessed to have known her. Kaye was married to Wally Decker and moved to Pleasanton in 1963. She was active in the community by serving as President of the Golden Acorn chapter of the Children's Home Society, helping as a home room mother at her daughter's school and working on the census in the 1970s. She had a passion for politics, cooking and charities supporting nature, animals and helping those in need. She was an avid reader and knowledgeable expert on FDR. She and Wally loved to travel abroad to Europe as well as within North America, learning and appreciating different sights, cultures and cuisine. Kaye is survived by her daughter Courtney (Michael), son Bill (Sheila), son Dean, six grandchildren, Anna (Jake), Wendy (Jim), John (Marisa), Jeff (April), Christine, and Sean and six great-grandchildren, Anna, Sarah, Dominic, Xavie...

Claude (Skip) Wilson Hinsley
July 10, 1946 - Nov. 1, 2019
Oro Valley, Arizona

Skip passed peacefully into Heaven on Friday, November 1 st 2019 at St. Joseph's Hospital with family at his side. He was 73. Skip was a brilliant man, loving father, generous human, devout Christian and active member of Alive church in Oro Valley, Arizona. He is survived by his children Nicole M. Schmidt (Bradley), James C. Hinsley (Hazal), Tyler W. Hinsley, and three grandchildren, Quinn L. Kalabolas, Sean J. Tchorzewski, and Atlas D. Hinsley. Skip was born William Frederick Kemp and was renamed Claude Wilson Hinsley after adoption by James (Percy) and Lillian Hinsley in Baltimore in 1946. Percy worked at Bethlehem Steel in Sparrows Point until his retirement in 1969. Lillian was a loving stay at home mother. Percy passed in 1998 in Sarasota, Florida at 94 and Lillian in 2006 in Pleasanton, California at 102. Skip grew up in Baltimore near Cold Spring Lane and Loch Raven Blvd. He graduated high school from Baltimore Poly in 1963 and from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1967 with a degree in Economics. Skip then moved to New England for four years where he received an MBA from Dartmouth College in 1971. After graduating, he moved to Boise Idaho for a position with B...

Cathleen Cordova
Nov. 25, 1946 - Oct. 31, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Cathleen Cordova, age 72, passed from this world on Thursday October 31, 2019 while visiting her sister Emily in Bella Vista, Arkansas. Cathleen was born on November 25, 1946 in Magdalena, New Mexico to Remey and Petra (Salas) Cordova. Graduated from high school in Portola, California and went on to receive her baccalaureate degree from the University of California at Davis. She later went on to receive a master's degree from the school of International Training in Vermont to work in student exchange programs in Europe and New York. Cathleen served in the Army Civilian Special Services in Vietnam 1968-69 as a Service Club director and was awarded the Vietnam Civilian Service Medal; and later served two more years in Korea 1969-70. She worked in NYC and Italy as a student travel planner agent; and also a Banquet Manager at the Windows on the World restaurant in the World Trade Center. Began her police officer career in Alabama where she completed the Police Academy and served in the Huntsville Alabama Police department. She later joined the Pleasanton California Police Department. She was active in the Speakers Bureau while a Community Services Officer and retired as an Evid...

Paul James Bras
June 19, 1965 - Oct. 28, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Paul James Bras, a life-long resident of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 28, 2019. He was born on June 19, 1965 and graduated from Amador High School in 1984. He attended college at St. Mary's College of Moraga and graduated from University of California Santa Barbara. After returning to his hometown, he married Leslie Croft of Livermore on March 26, 1994 and had two beloved children. Paul owned and ran Older's Landscaping in San Jose. Paul was an avid soccer player as a child and delivered newspapers for the Valley Times, early developing the habits of hard work and entrepreneurship. He was the first of his siblings to buy his own car, a Volkswagen Beetle. He loved to windsurf as a young man, and taught windsurfing at Del Valle and Shadow Cliffs. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch his children play sports—cheer, football, and basketball. He loved traveling with his family to destinations near and far and riding his motorcycle on long scenic rides around the Bay Area. Paul is survived by his wife, Leslie Bras; his children Lilly and Logan; his parents, Jack and Flo Bras; a sister and brother, Diane Bras and David Bras; and numerous niece...

Sheila Evelyn Reid
Dec. 31, 1924 - Oct. 25, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Sheila Evelyn Reid passed quietly on October 25, 2019, she was 94 years old. Sheila was born in 1924 in Edinburgh, Scotland to parents William Charles and Sabina Maria (Duffield) Eves. She was the youngest of 8 children. Sheila married Robert Kennedy Reid in March of 1951, whom she had met while ice skating. Sheila worked as a seamstress in Scotland before relocating to the Unites States. Bob and Sheila arrived in the US in 1963 with their daughter, Lesley. Sheila lived most of her life in Albany, California. There she enjoyed bowling, golf, and creating beautiful handcraft works including blankets, scarves, and clothing. She relocated to Pleasanton, California where she was active in social clubs, played bocce, and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially with her new great-granddaughter. Sheila is survived by her daughter Lesley and son-in-law Frank Napoleon, grandchildren Christin (Napoleon) Clark and Reid Napoleon, and great-granddaughter Kaleigh Clark....

Elizabeth Ann Peterson
Dec. 24, 1934 - Oct. 25, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Elizabeth Ann Peterson was born in Chicago, Illinois on December 24, 1934 to Ferne Johnson Pearce Larson and James S. Pearce. During her first year at college Liz joined the Phi Mu sorority. In the spring of 1954, Liz had a blind date with a fraternity man who "needed to meet a nice girl!". The couple met at the Illini Union restaurant and Liz and Ron were married September 1st, 1956 in Chicago! Liz graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana campus in 1957 with a BS in Chemistry. In January of 1957, Liz and Ron left the University and started off life in Chicago as a mother and a new working man, respectively. Four more children were born, and Liz was busy raising their kids, supportive of her husband, and active in church and in the children's schools. In 1967, they moved to Pennsylvania where their sixth child was born. Liz served as a den leader in Cub Scouts, brownie and Girl Scout leader, and continued volunteering in the church and school. In 1979, Liz, Ron, and their younger 3 children moved to Pleasanton, California while the three oldest remained to work or attend college in Pennsylvania. Lynnewood became their church home. Up until the last...

Carolyn Anita Namanny
Oct. 14, 1947 - Oct. 20, 2019
Santa Rosa, California

Carolyn (Copeland) Namanny, a long-time resident of the bay area, passed Sunday the 20th of October at CPMC Bernal Heights Hospital in San Francisco. Born in 1947 in St. Louis, MO to the late William and Hazel (Russell) Davis, Carolyn was blessed with a baby sister just before she graduated from Cleveland High School in 1965. The following year she married Darrel Copeland. The couple had two children before moving the family to California in 1980. Carolyn remained in the bay area after a divorce in 1984 and raised her children by taking on various secretarial jobs. She was a long time member of Beta Sigma Phi and enjoyed friends within the group both in Missouri and California. At the age of 59, she suffered a massive stroke due to a fall and impressed us all with her resiliency and faith in God. She often encouraged others to trust the Lord during trials. In 2013, Carolyn married Dean Namanny in Maui. An animated story-teller and lover of history, Carolyn lit up a room and put others at ease with her warm smile. She was an avid reader and enjoyed going on walks but her favorite place was the ocean, which Dean took her to often. She is survived by her loving hu...

Harry R. Sheppard
Nov. 5, 1936 - Oct. 19, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Harry R. Sheppard, a long-time resident of Pleasanton passed away at home surrounded by family on October 19, 2019. He was 82 years old. Harry is survived by his wife, Joanne, son Scott (Samantha) grandchildren, Dylan and Shane Sheppard, Justin Burns and Ashley and Ronnie Recore, niece SueAnn Sheppard, nephew Roger (Tracey) Sheppard and many grand nieces and nephews. Harry was born on November 5, 1936 in upstate New York son, of Ray and Marge Sheppard brother of Jack (deceased 2008). Harry attended Nott Terrace High School where he picked up his first golf club, which became a lifelong passion. He attended and played basketball at Colgate University where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. After college, Harry served four years on active duty and six years in the reserves with the U.S. Navy and attained the rank of lieutenant commander. While stationed in Long Beach he met Jackie Skelsey (deceased 2004) and they married in August of 1963. Harry and Jackie had two children Scott and Pamela (deceased 2005). Harry received his law degree from U.C. Hastings Law School in 1965. He joined the Alameda County's District Attorney's office after graduating from law schoo...

Frank Richard Shenave
Sept. 19, 1943 - Oct. 17, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Frank Richard Shenave, age 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday October 17, 2019, at the Veterans Hospital in Palo Alto. He was born September 19, 1943, in Livermore, to Frank and Rose Shenave. A Pleasanton native, Frank married his High School sweetheart Jackie Nelson. Frank proudly served his country in the Army as a paratrooper in 1965-1967. After the army he followed in his father-in-law's footsteps and became a roofer. He pursued his roofing career into the 90's. In 1979 he and his wife decided to start their own business venture with his in-law's Jay and Jeanne Nelson, they purchase Pastime Poolhall, which closed its doors in 2014 after 35 years. Frank truly lived life to the fullest, his love for his family and friends was as deep as his ties to the Pleasanton community. He preceded in death his parents Frank and Rose Shenave, Brother Will Mendonca, sisters Donna Martin and Patti Correa. He is survived by his wife, Jackie Shenave, brother Norman (Patty) Mendonca, sister Sandy (Ray) Sevier, sons Frank (Chessa) Shenave Jr, William Shenave, daughter Jennifer (Avery) Flores, Grandsons Derek (Cassie), Josh, Kole, Kyler, Dylan, Connor, ...

Patricia Lee DuSesoi
Aug. 22, 1941 - Oct. 11, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Patricia DuSesoi, 78, formally of Naples, Florida, died peacefully at home in the company of family in the early morning of October 11, 2019. She was born on August 22nd, 1941, daughter of Claude Moroe McDonald and Audrey Eva McDonald, in Savannah, Georgia. She was a top realtor in Naples, Florida for 24 years before retiring and moving to Pleasanton to join her family. She is survived by her daughter, Melissa O'Brien and her caring and giving son-in-law Joe O'Brien, her grandaughter's Samantha O'Brien and Madison O'Brien who were the true light of her life, and her special friend, Betty Melchor who brought love and smiles every visit. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Hope Hospice Team that gave their care, friendship and love and became more than "caregivers" during the final months of her life. A Celebration of life will be held in both Pleasanton and Naples, Florida....

Raymond Darrill Young, DVM
Oct. 3, 1924 - Oct. 5, 2019
PLEASANTON, CA

Dr. Raymond "Buck" Young, an innovative veterinarian at the Oakland Zoo who later served Pleasanton pets and their owners for 20 years in private practice, died October 5, 2019 at the age of 95. He was married 72 years to the love of his life, Willa. Ray had an incredible life. Second Lieutenant Young served in the Army Air Forces during World War II as a flight engineer and navigator from 1942 to 1945, flying in B-29 Superfortress airplanes mapping the Japanese coastline. After his discharge, he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, and married Willa Lurleen Lutner, on May 29, 1947. He graduated from the School of Veterinary Medicine at OSU in 1952. He was born on a diary farm in Hollis, OK. Ray did large and small animal veterinary work in Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana before moving out to California in 1960 to become the zoo director and veterinarian of the Oakland Zoo, located in Knowland Park. As director Ray oversaw the building of the first exhibits at the zoo that included exotic animals from Africa and Asia. As part of his job as zoo veterinarian, he had to develop ways to treat exotic animals such as lions and tigers without getting hurt or h...

Linda Lee Wood
Jan. 31, 1955 - Oct. 4, 2019
Pleasanton, California

"Peace is not something you wish for; it's something you make, something you do, something you are, and something you give away." —John Lennon Linda Lee Wood was a beloved presence during her time on Earth, touching innumerable lives with her abundantly caring nature, endless generosity, and beautiful, loving spirit. Growing up in Loomis, California, Linda enjoyed riding horses, raising sheep with 4H, and singing along to the inspiring music of the 60s. She married her best friend in life, Eric Knowles Wood, in 1983, and in 1989 they welcomed the birth of their son, David Anthony Wood. This trio of Woods found their home in Pleasanton in 1990, where they created a wonderful life together. Linda's intuitive intelligence and radiant kindness had a particularly full expression in the company of children. She was ceaselessly dedicated to the flourishing of her own son's creativity, and after receiving her Bachelor of Science from Golden Gate University in 1999, Linda began reaching many more children's lives through a twenty-year career with the Pleasanton Unified School District. Starting with administrative office work at Vintage Hills Elementary while her son ...

Louis Francis Hewitson
Aug. 3, 1944 - Sept. 24, 2019
San Diego, CA

Long time Pleasanton resident, Louis 'Rusty' Hewitson died at age 75 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Funeral and burial services will be held in San Diego where he resided. There will be a memorial mass at St. Augustine's Church, Pleasanton on Friday, November 8 at 11 am. Please see Rusty's complete obituary at https://dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/san-diego-ca/louis-rusty-hewitson-8868204...

Mickey Lowrey
April 16, 1926 - Sept. 22, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Mickey Lowrey, a longtime Pleasanton resident of 61 years, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 22, 2019 at the age of 93.3 years. Mickey had a long, happy life initially working to build trigger housing in rifles for WWII soldiers. Mickey loved taking care of many of Pleasanton's children for 19 years at Shober's Gym. Every Christmas Mickey played an elf at the Pleasanton Stoneridge Mall, and was a proud member of the Presbyterian Women's Guild, YMCA Y-wives, and the Pleasanton Red Hats. Mickey loved life, never had a mean word to say to anyone, and will be missed by many. Mickey is survived by her beloved husband Maurice Lowrey, son Mark Lowrey, daughter Kimberly Lowrey, and grandchildren Mitchell Lowrey, Katelyn Blum, and Timothy Macor. Funeral services including a viewing at 10:00 a.m. will be held Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Graham-Hitch Mortuary Funeral home, 4167 1st Street, Pleasanton, California, 94566. A family only private burial will be held later in the week....

Kevin M. Kelly
Oct. 11, 1943 - Sept. 16, 2019
Modesto, California

Kevin M. Kelly October 11, 1943 - September 16, 2019 Beloved son of Ann Carolan Kelly Nelson & Edward Kelly. Kevin was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Helen Dudenhoffer and Edward Kelly. Kevin is survived by daughters Heather Kelly and Tara Kelly and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Kevin was born in Brooklyn, NY and lived and attended Catholic Schools through High School in Queens, NY. He attended NY Queens College & Brooklyn College. Kevin served in Naval Reserve and saw action during the Vietnam era. Upon discharge worked for America Airlines then Trans International Airlines which allow him to travel the world. Kevin moved to California in 1970 and settled in "P-Town" Pleasanton, CA in 1975. A devastating car accident in 1982 revealed what a fighter Kevin was. All of his Doctors predicted he would never walk or drive again, Kevin proved them all wrong. However it did cut a promising career short. Kevin moved to Sonora in 1992. Unfortunately due to compilations from accident Kevin was placed in a Skilled Nursing Facility in 2009. Kevin lived the remainder of his life in these care facilities. Kevin loved his daughters, the water and mou...

Carl Thomas Klenk
Oct. 26, 1934 - Sept. 7, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Carl Thomas Klenk passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at Silver Oak Manor in Livermore, California. Carl was a long-time resident of Pleasanton, California, living there for over 53 years. He was born in Chicago, Illinois. As a boy, he and his family lived in Hawaii and were on the island of Oahu the day Pearl Harbor was bombed. Shortly after his family moved to Southern California and later settled in Galt in the Central Valley. The Pearl Harbor experience fostered a lifelong interest in World War II. Carl attended University of California at Berkeley on a baseball scholarship and graduated from Fresno State University. There he met and married his wife, Joan Halls. He was a member of the Air National Guard and Reserves for many years. Joan and Carl shared a love of gardening at their home in Pleasanton that they built in 1966. Carl also enjoyed model airplanes, slot car racing and for years participated in the Model Railroad Club of Pleasanton at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joan Klenk. Remembrances may be sent to Valley Humane Society Inc. 3670 Nevada Street, Pleasanton, California 94566....

Elizabeth S. "Betty" Rose
Sept. 24, 1922 - Sept. 5, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Betty Rose passed away on September 5 at her home in Pleasanton, California. Betty was born in Benton, Illinois, the daughter of Dr. C. N. Stilley and Ruth Munday Stilley. She earned a bachelor's degree at the Southern Illinois Normal University, a master's degree from San Jose State, and a PhD from the Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. She married Jack W. Rose, also of Benton, in 1946. They moved to Pleasanton in 1957 and divorced in 1967. She taught school and finished her career with 27 years as a business teacher at Amador Valley High School. Betty enjoyed travel, golf, and playing bridge. She treasured her friends and neighbors and had fond memories of the many students she taught over the years. She was always pleased when she was greeted by a former student. She is survived by her son, Kenneth Rose and his wife Mishell, of Fallbrook, CA; grandchildren Coral Baker, Nicholas Rose, and Nathaniel Rose; and great-grandchildren Jack Holm and Violet Rose Baker. Betty's son Michael Rose died in 2009. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 21 at 4pm at the Lynnewood United Methodist Church, 4444 Black Ave., Pleasanton. Those who wish t...

Annette Louise Langer
Dec. 9, 1943 - Sept. 3, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Annette Langer passed away unexpectedly at her home in Pleasanton on Tuesday, September 3 after a long battle with cancer. A loving sister, aunt, and cousin, dedicated community member, author, and friend to many, Annette brightened the lives of everyone she knew. Annette was born in Chicago, Illinois and graduated from Alvernia High School and Loyola University Chicago. Following a rewarding career in Chicago with the Federal Government — in jobs from court reporter to office manager — she became a travel agent, a career she enjoyed for many years. She traveled frequently with her mother Ann M. Langer, and together they visited all seven continents. Annette relocated to California in 1997. She was a parishioner at the Catholic Communities of Pleasanton and a member of the California Writers Club and the Tri-Valley Writers Club. Annette is the author of two books — Healing through Humor: Change Your Focus, Change Your Life! and A Funny Thing Happened on My Way to the World: Diary of a Fearless Travel Agent, and many short stories that were published in anthologies including the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Demonstrating her firm commitment to community servic...

Hedy Wee
March 6, 1932 - Aug. 30, 2019
San Ramon, California

Hedy Wee, a resident of San Ramon, CA and former resident of Alamo, CA, passed away on August 30, 2019, in Walnut Creek, CA, after a short illness. She lived an extraordinary life that began in Wuxi, China in 1932. Her family then lived in Nanjing, China, fleeing just before the Japanese invaded. Her father, a leading Chinese journalist and editor, moved the family to Chongqing, China's wartime capital. Hedy and her family remained there for the rest of World War II, enduring Japanese bombing raids for seven years. There, she was among the youngest students in one of China's top high schools (Nankai Secondary School). She eventually returned to Nanjing with her family where she remained until the communist revolution forced her family to flee to Taiwan in 1949. There, she met her future husband, William Wee, before she won a scholarship to attend Mount Marty College (now Mount Marty University) in Yankton, SD. She later transferred to and graduated from the College of Puget Sound (now the University of Puget Sound), where she studied business and English literature on a full scholarship. Hedy married William Wee in Tacoma, WA, while they were still students. After graduat...

Raeia Jean Marshall
July 7, 1946 - Aug. 28, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Raeia Jean Marshall passed away on August 28, 2019. She touched many lives with her genuine smile, gentle spirit and positive outlook on life. Raeia was born on July 7, 1946 in Lousiana to Ronnie and Sally Solomon of San Lorenzo, CA. She graduated from Arroyo High School and went on to work at Xerox Co for more than 20 years as an administrative assistant for a number of division presidents. Raeia truly enjoyed spending time playing bridge with her friends from the Dublin Senior Center and Vineyard Estates in Pleasanton for many years. Raeia was a devoted mother to her children and a very devoted grandmother to her boys. Raeia is survived by her husband Doug Marshall of 46 years, her children; Doug Marshall, David Marshall, and Jeannie Jefferies, her grandchildren (her boys); Jace, Luke and Kane. Raeia's natural ability to light up a room when she walked in will be missed by us all....

Frederick Paul Niedermyer
Nov. 28, 1940 - Aug. 26, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Fred passed away on Monday after a courageous battle with cancer. He has been a 44 year resident of Pleasanton. Fred was born in Fresno, CA and grew up in Concord. He graduated from Mt. Diablo High School in 1959. After Fred served with the Army for 3 years, he settled in the Bay Area. He had a 56 year career as a cement mason. He was an avid sports fan of the A's, Raiders, and Warriors. He also enjoyed his hobby of "betting on the ponies." But his favorite passion in life was spending time with his family. He was survived by his loving wife Jan, devoted daughters Kelly Gossett of Pleasanton, and Carrie Swany (Chris) of Alamo, and his four grandchildren. He is also survived by his 5 younger siblings. Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Mass on Friday, September 13 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustine's Catholic Church, 3999 Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers, a Memorial may be made in Fred's name to Hope Hospice of Dublin....

John M Silvia
Jan. 11, 1934 - Aug. 24, 2019
Gilroy, California

John M. Silvia (85), AKA "Sonny", 1/11/34 to 8/24/19, passed away in Gilroy, surrounded by his family. Sonny was born in King City, CA. Lived in San Jose, Roseville, Gilroy and spent time in Pleasanton. As a young man, Sonny enjoyed working on cars and playing sports. Sonny is survived by his Aunt Rose, Sister Susan, three sons Mitch (Miguel), Perry (Pear), Todd (T) and one daughter Nicole (Tooters) and many loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family. Preceded by his wife, Mary Ellen Silvia Sonny was a loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend to everyone. All who knew him, would say he was a kind and gentle man. Sonny enlisted in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956. He retired from the U.S. Post Office. Sonny loved sports, especially the S.F. Giants and was thrilled when Giants finally won a World Series. Sonny will be greatly missed by all who knew him....

Irma Reichmuth
Dec. 3, 1925 - Aug. 16, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Irma M. Reichmuth, a long-time resident of Pleasanton, died peacefully on August 16, 2019 at the age of 93. She was born on December 3, 1925 and raised in Frick (Canton Aargau) Switzerland. In 1949 Irma, along with her sister Martha, immigrated to the United States residing in Washington State then relocating to California. Soon after, Irma met her future husband Albert Reichmuth at a Swiss social and married in August 1953 making their home in Pleasanton. Irma loved to cook and had a passion for baking, especially Swiss pastries. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6298. Irma will be remembered for her bright smile – a devoted mother and devout Catholic who will truly be missed by her family and friends. Irma is survived by her loving sister Martha, children Betty, Fred, Rosemarie (Michael), Marie Louise, grandchildren Christina, Larry, Mason (Brittany) and great-grandchildren Elizabeth, Olivia, Tatum, Lucy and Daisy. Irma was preceded in death by her husband Albert in 2005, sister Antoinette and recently her brother Anton (Tony). A service to celebrate Irma's life will be on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at G...

Lois Bass
May 16, 1933 - Aug. 15, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Lois Corinne Bass passed away peacefully with family by her side, at her Parkview home on August 15, 2019 at age 86. Lois is survived by her 2 sons Kirk Bass (Polly) and Jay Bass (Krissi); her 4 grandchildren Ryan (Olivia), Kevin (Katja), Sean, & Laura (Jacob); 3 great grandchildren Arthur, Chester & Emma; her brother Wayne Loucks (Gail) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Lois was born on May 16, 1933 in Conrad, Montana to Cecil and Laura Loucks. In 1934 her brother Wayne was born and soon after the family moved to northern California. Lois graduated Hayward High School in 1951 and soon after met and married her husband Darrell "Sam" Bass. In 1955 she gave birth to her first son Kirk. In 1970 Lois and Sam were blessed with a welcome surprise of another son Jay. Lois was an amazing mother while also having a full time career. Lois worked in the telecommunications department at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory for 43 years before she retired in 1996. Lois enjoyed reading, discovering and trying new food recipes, spending time in her garden with her beautiful roses, attending plays and traveling across the US, Hawaii, Alaska, and many countries in Europe. Any time Lois spe...

Roberta Garland
Jan. 19, 1927 - Aug. 7, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

Roberta "Bobbie" Garland passed away peacefully following respiratory failure, surrounded by her loving family. She grew up in Pasadena, graduated from UC Berkeley in Fine Arts, and continued her interest and talents in the arts her entire life. Newly married to J. Jepson Garland, Bobbie worked at the Wind Tunnel at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab (part of Cal Tech, our dad's alma mater), then moved to the Bay Area to raise her family. As an empty nester, she expanded her skills in desktop publishing at Menlo College Admissions and Alumni offices, and then branched off into her own business. Bobbie loved family, friends, church, music, sports, and travelling the world. She sang in choirs from a young age, played piano and guitar, and was a SF symphony season ticket holder for many years. Bobbie enjoyed playing and watching tennis, golf, and skiing; and was an avid fan and supporter of local teams the Warriors and the Giants, as well as her kids' sports and music endeavors. Bobbie volunteered in many organizations, including PTA, UMA, CAR, Kiwanis, and as a church deacon. She relocated to Pleasanton about six years ago to be closer to family, and greatly enjoyed her Stoneridge C...

Edmond William Faustina, Jr.
Aug. 4, 1947 - Aug. 4, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Edmond William Faustina, Jr., 72, of Pleasanton, California, passed away on August 4, 2019. A loving and devoted husband, father and "Papa", Ed was a mentor and friend to many. Ed was born to Edmond William and Esther Faustina (Andrade), August 4, 1947, in San Leandro, California. He graduated from San Leandro High School in 1965. In 1966, Ed married the love of his life, Sharon Louise. Ed and Sharon have been synonymous ever since. He leaves as his legacy four children and six grandchildren: Donna Kimmel (David) and their children, Adam and Grant, Steven Faustina (Kelly) and their children, Brody and Kayla, David Faustina (Eric), and Daniel Faustina (Jessica) and their children, Danica and William. To the four children and their spouses, Ed was not just a father, he was their dad. He is survived by his sister, Lorraine Hawkins of Livermore and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. 1n 1973, Ed moved to Pleasanton with his family and they have been residents ever since. Ed worked for Berkeley Farms for 45 years until his retirement in May of 2010. Ed was a proud and lifelong Teamster. In the community, Ed was known as "Coach" having volunteered...

William "Bill" Dwayne Walker
May 31, 1936 - Aug. 2, 2019
Priest River, Idaho

William D. "Bill" Walker May 31, 1936-August 2, 2019 William D. "Bill" Walker passed away suddenly on Aug. 2, 2019 in his hometown of Priest River, Idaho. He was the oldest of 5 children and is preceded in death by his parents, Al and Lela Walker of Pocatello, Idaho, and a brother, Alton (Sheila) of North Ogden, Utah. Bill grew up on a dairy farm just outside of Priest River. In his youth, he was a star in football and boxing. Bill won the district boxing championship in his weight class his senior year. Bill married his high school sweetheart, Marian, shortly after graduation in 1954. After that, Bill entered the United States Army, where he spent most of his three-year enlistment at Ford Ord in Seaside, CA. Bill then went on to earn his bachelor's degree at Idaho State University in Pocatello graduating in June 1961. He finished his four-year program in 3 years. Upon graduation, he accepted a teaching/coaching position back at his alma mater, Priest River High School. One of his favorite memories from those days was that "the coaching staff could beat the 440 yd relay team in a race". Bill spent one-year teaching in Idaho before moving on to Lakev...

Mark Lee Goodwin
Oct. 13, 1958 - Aug. 1, 2019
Longtime Resident of Pleasanton, California

On August 1, 2019, at the age of 60, Mark Goodwin, son, brother and friend passed away peacefully in his sleep at his residence in Valley Springs, California. He was born October 13, 1958 in Portland, Oregon to Jerry and Viola Schenk Goodwin. He was the 2nd of four children. While Mark most recently resided in Valley Springs California where he lived with dear friends, many years were spent in Pleasanton, California where in 1977 he graduated from Amador Valley High School. Mark's love of life was infectious as was his smile. He loved his family and his friends and he always made sure that they knew it. For the past 5 years, he struggled with a variety of health conditions which changed his life. Mark was a gifted athlete and his love of sports, particularly baseball, golfing, boating and fishing, kept him active for most of his life and it was devastating to him when his health declined and he was no longer able to play. He loved going to NASCAR races with his friends, was an avid Oakland Raiders fan and enjoyed building model cars and airplanes. He worked side by side with his father doing construction for several years until his father retired. Then Mark worked fo...

Jay Joseph Nelson
Dec. 18, 1944 - July 30, 2019
Dublin, California

Jay J."JayBird" Nelson December 18 1944-July 30 2019 Jay passed away suddenly at his home in Dublin on Tuesday July 30. Jay was the youngest of his family preceded in death by his parents Joe and Sylvia Nelson of Pleasanton and his brother Ronald Nelson also his wife Jeanne Nelson all of Pleasanton. Jay grew up as a young boy off Happy Valley Rd. (otherwise know as Chicken Alley) on a farm. He worked the farm with his father until they decided to move closer to downtown Pleasanton. In his 30's he purchased the local favorite hangout Pastime Pool located at 511 Main st. with his in laws Frank and Jackie Shenave also of Pleasanton. They all ran Pastime Pool as a family business for 37 years until 2014 when it closed its door for the last call. Jay was an avid horse racing fan. He also was a horse owner and loved watching and betting the ponies. Every year you'd find him in the same spot at the Alameda County fair in his favorite chair routing on his picks of the day. Being a longtime Pleasanton resident Jay touched the lives of many people. He had hundreds of friends from years of working the bar and following the horse racing circuit around California. Everywhere he went people wou...

Bernard Gerard Monahan
May 22, 1933 - July 10, 2019
Pleasanton, California

On Wednesday July 10, 2019 Bernard (Bernie) Monahan passed after a lengthy illness. He leaves behind wife Margaret (Peggy) Monahan, daughter Jo Ellen Anderson, son Chuck Monahan and daughter in law Amy Adams and 5 Grandchildren Mike, Topher, & Liz Anderson, and Quinn & Reid Monahan. Bernie was the son of Joseph & Helen Monahan born May 22, 1933 in Altoona PA he graduated Penn State with a Bachelor degree in 1955. After serving four years of active duty in the Air Force, he remained in Reserve until retirement 1984. He came to California 57 years ago to work at the Lawrence Livermore National Lab and remained there until his 1990 retirement. Bernie was very involved with the America Chestnut Foundation and the Rare Fruit Growers Assoc. He requested no services be held....

William John Lindke Jr.
Sept. 11, 1946 - July 6, 2019
Livermore, California

William John Lindke Jr. passed away on July 6th, 2019 after a valiant battle with lung cancer. He has touched the lives of many by sharing his love of music through his guitar and song. Bill was born September 11, 1946 in Medina, New York to parents William John and Irene Rose Lindke. After graduating from Niagara Wheatfield High School he attended State University of New York College at Brockport. He also attended City University Washington graduating with an associate of science degree. He began his military career joining the US Navy In 1965. Bill was stationed at Norfolk Naval Air Station, Norfolk, VA; Naval Air Station Quonset Point North Kingstown, RI; Naval Air Station Cecil Field, FL; Navy Recruiting District Buffalo, Buffalo, New York and Naval Air Station Moffet Field, Mountain View, CA where he was the Command Master Chief of VP-31 and Commander Patrol Wing Pacific. He retired after 27 years of service. Following his military career, he joined the staff at Foothill College, Los Altos, CA where he worked in the Admission and Records Department as the Registrar. Following his retirement, he spent most of his time volunteering in the community by singi...

Patsy Anne Lund
March 2, 1934 - July 6, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Patsy passed away on Saturday evening surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Throughout the years, she has touched the lives of many with her leadership and optimism. Patsy was the rock for her family, and many others. Patsy was born in Dubuque, Iowa. She and her family which included her mother, father and 4 siblings. Her siblings included 2 sisters, Elizabeth and Barbara, and her 2 brothers, Ed and Richard. They moved to the East Bay in 1944. In 1949 her father moved them all to Pleasanton. She later graduated from Amador High school and shortly after was hired at the Livermore Lawrence Laboratory. In 1954, she married the love of her life, Victor Lund. They later had two sons. The eldest was Michael shortly fallowed by Jeffery. Patsy and Victor raised their two sons on a cattle ranch in Pleasanton when they eventually moved their cattle ranch near North Livermore. While also being a rancher's wife and a mom of two boys, she worked for the City of Pleasanton in the financial department. She worked there for 29 years! She retired in 1991 and started her career with Mary Kay where she received many awards for her accomplishments. One o...

Patsy Lund
March 2, 1934 - July 6, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Patsy Ann Lund passed away on July 6, 2019, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Throughout the years, she has touched the lives of many with her leadership and optimism. Patsy was the rock of her family and many others. Her family will be hosting a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, October 19, at 11:00 am, at the Inderbitzen Ranch in Livermore. Directions to the Ranch are: I-580 then North on N. Livermore Ave, right on May School Road and left on Dagnino Rd. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hope Hospice, The Junior livestock Auction Boosters, the Main-street Museum in Pleasanton, and the American Cancer Society....

Nancy Carol Lowden
March 22, 1935 - June 28, 2019
Cary, North Carolina

Mrs. Nancy Carol Lowden (née Mobley) passed away peacefully on the morning of June 28th, 2019 in Cary, North Carolina at the age of 84. Nancy is survived by her children; Stacy Louise Stoner (CA), Gary Thomas Lowden (NC), Maya Patrice Lowden (CA), and her sister; Beverly Dean Mobley (CO). Her legacy includes her grandchildren; Chester Charles Stoner III (CA), Spencer Bonay Lowden (NC), Ashleigh Aileen Palino (CA), Zachary Tyler Lowden (NC), Adeline Lowden (CA). She was preceded in death, 14 years prior, by her loving husband; Harold Spencer Lowden. Nancy was born on March 22nd, 1935 in Fresno, CA to Carroll Lehman Mobley and Ruth Aileen Mobley (née Cheek). She married her high school sweetheart, Harold Spencer Lowden in 1954. Living and growing together in the Central Valley and Bay Area of California, primarily in the towns of Hayward and Sunol, Nancy lived surrounded by dogs, cats and a menagerie of horses, cattle, goats and of course chickens. In her later years she lived independently in Colorado, California and North Carolina, always enjoying reading a good book, gardening and watching professional baseball. Our gracious thanks to WakeMed Hospital of Cary, NC and the ...

David G. Ker
Dec. 25, 1948 - June 27, 2019
Newberg, Oregon

David's incredible journey through this life on earth has ended. Born on December 25, 1948, David lost his battle with Lewy Body Dementia on June 27th. His sole purpose in life was to bring love, laughter and joy to those around him. He touched many lives with his humor, kindness and good graces. He will be most remembered for his intense devotion to his family, and his wry, quick witted sense of humor. He loved to make others laugh! David was a proud volunteer with the Pleasanton Police Department for many years and was passionate about serving the Pleasanton community in this way. David grew up in Palo Alto, CA and lived the last 30 years of his life in Pleasanton. He will be deeply and profoundly missed by his wife, Carol Ker, his daughter Courtney Grant, son-in-law Russell Grant, and two amazing grand-daughters, ages 2 and 6 months. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Ker, his best friend Rich Stein, Aunt Ellie and Uncle Larry. and many wonderful friends....

Patricia Jean Daniels
Aug. 16, 1925 - June 25, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Patricia Daniels passed away peacefully on June 25 at the age of 90. Born in 1928 to Scottish immigrants, Alfred and Isabel Smart. She attended Fremont High, where she was senior class president. After graduation she attended Heald Bookkeeping School in Oakland. Pat married her high school sweetheart, Gene and they soon moved from Oakland, settled in San Lorenzo and later moved to Pleasanton. She leaves two children, Steve (Marty), Sue, two grandchildren, Nick and Emily (Brett), three great grandchildren, Ainsley, Avery and Zachary, sister Maybelle and three nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene, of 53 years. Pat worked for Paco Pumps in Oakland for twenty-five years as a bookkeeper. She loved fishing, reading, Christmas crab dinners and her family. The family wishes to thank the employees at Creekview Assisted living, and the employees and Hospice team at Sunol Creek for helping guide her through the final years of her life. No services are being held per her wishes. Donations may be made to her favorite charities the ASPCA, and St. Jude's Hospital, or to Hope Hospice....

Shawn Joseph Imlig
July 10, 1981 - June 22, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Shawn Joseph Imlig passed away on June 22, 2019 at the age of 37 in Oceano, CA. Shawn succumbed to his injuries from a fatal off road vehicle accident. Shawn was born July 10, 1981 in Livermore, CA. Throughout his life he lived in Pleasanton, Livermore, and Brentwood. Shawn grew up a very young age. He lost his father to cancer when Shawn was in elementary school. This tragic incident greatly affected Shawn and he struggled to overcome his loss. This incident also taught Shawn to live his life to the fullest, which he always did. Shawn loved his family. In his early years he enjoyed annual camping trips to places like Trinity, Millerton, and Bear Lake. He loved tailgating in the Oakland Coliseum and watching the Raiders play football. Shawn loved to spend time with his step-father fishing the delta. He really enjoyed the holidays at Grandpa Jacks house. There was always a competition between the two of them to see who could antagonize each other the most. Shawn loved his friends. He would always lend a helping hand whenever needed. He loved spending time with them camping at Oceano Dunes SRV Park. He also liked spending time with them on the water in the delta or local lakes. S...

Richard Sutton
June 26, 1962 - June 22, 2019
Dublin, California

Richard Sutton passed away on Saturday, June 22nd after a valiant battle with cancer. He touched many lives along the way with his one and only sense of humor, backed by the most genuine caring heart. Richard was born in Los Angeles and moved to the Bay Area to continue and grow a long standing, respected career with Arcadia, Inc. He achieved many successes both personally and professionally and the architectural skylines of Northern California are proof of that. He mostly enjoyed spending time with family and friends, boating, swimming, snowboarding, barbecuing, cracking jokes and laughing all along the way. He loved to travel vowing to never go to the same place twice because there was so much of the world to see. He was an avid dog lover and spared no expense on his dog Molly. One of his most charming qualities was his genuine desire to want the best for those around him, silently building up others with tools that he had learned thru hard lessons of life, never asking for anything in return. Through his unselfish nature he helped others to see the potential in themselves, encouraged them to be their best and to always do the right thing. Richard is survived by his lovi...

Rick Giusti
Aug. 9, 1946 - June 19, 2019
Pleasanton, California

On June 19th, Rick Giusti passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Rick was 72 years old and is survived by his wife Kim, and children, Lauren and Spencer. Rick lived a fun-filled and energetic life, spreading his contagious energy everywhere he went. He will be forever remembered for his dance moves, "dad" jokes, and desire to have a good time anywhere he went. Rick came to the US from Italy in his childhood years and made his way to Chicago, followed by Oakland and lastly Pleasanton. He retired from working construction for 40+ years, coached baseball in the Bay Area for over 20 years, and loved backyard parties with his family. Rick and Kim were married for 33 lovely years, traveling together, and making memories that will last eternally. Rick is loved, missed, and will forever be remembered in our hearts, spirits, and mind....

John Rex Cloak
May 20, 1955 - June 12, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

John Rex Cloak of Pleasanton, CA passed peacefully surrounded by his family on June 12th. After a long battle with Cancer. He is survived by his son, John, (Ally) and daughter Erin, His Grandsons, Cole & Caden. His Sister Barbara, (Jay) and his Uncle Ken Montelius in Denver CO. He was proceeded in death by his beautiful wife Mary-jo. John made many friends along this path. He was retired from East Bay MUD where he worked for many years. He was an amazing father, brother, and friend to many but his greatest accomplishment was being "Papa" the Grandfather Extraordinaire. We ask that those of you who knew him, honor his memory by passing along a kind word or deed, and remember to tell those special people around you that their love makes a difference....

John William Bordes
Oct. 18, 1943 - June 2, 2019
Meridian, idaho

John "Jack" William Bordes, age 75, passed away on June 2, 2019 in Meridian, Idaho. Born and raised in Livermore, California, he was the son of Mary and William "Bill" Bordes. John leaves his wife of 47 years, Nancy Bordes, their son, Jeffery Bordes and his wife Tarrina, daughter Amy Vandagriff and her husband David, son Christopher Bordes and his wife Shannon, and 9 grandchildren: Kaylee, Eric, Shaun, and Bryan Vandagriff; Jonah, Kyle, and Natalie Bordes; and Julian and Ella Bordes. John and Nancy lived in Pleasanton until 2018 when they relocated to Meridian. John attended St. Michael's School, graduated from Livermore High School and San Francisco State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, which led to a career of more than 30 years with the Alameda County Sheriff's Department. Spending time with his wife and family was most important to him and included camping, visiting their cabin, and traveling. Following his retirement, he and Nancy traveled extensively, visiting over 45 countries. He especially enjoyed trips to Disney World and Universal Studios with the grandchildren. John loved to collect clocks while traveling, especially cuckoo clocks. John...

Kathryn Anne Foley
Aug. 6, 1943 - May 31, 2019
Fountain Valley, California

Kathryn Anne Foley passed away peacefully with her husband of 54 years by her side on 5-31-2019 of ovarian cancer. She was born August 6th, 1943 in Newark New Jersey. She was the only child of Ernie and Peggy Simpson growing up and living the normal '50s childhood in New Jersey. She was adored by her father who wrote many touching letters to her while he was away during the war. After graduating high school, she graduated from St. Vincent's School of Nursing, NYC in 1964 as a registered nurse and worked at Mountainside Hospital in Montclair, NJ. Kay met and married her husband of 54 years Peter Foley becoming Kay Foley. Peter and Kay had two children, Maureen and Peter Jr while in New Jersey and eventually moved to the west coast, settling in Fountain Valley CA. Kay had a "green thumb" and created elaborate gardens in every home in which she lived. Kay's passion was decorating for holidays especially for the Christmas where she is especially known for her elaborate decorations. Her love for Christmas was shared by all who had the privilege of knowing Kay. When you think of Kay, you always think of Christmas! Kay and her husband relocated to Pleasanton, CA in ...

Arlene Virginia Walker
Oct. 1, 1952 - May 30, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Arlene Walker passed away on Thursday, May 30 after a 5-year battle with cancer. She was an inspiration to many who knew her with her continued generosity and positive approach to life, even during the worst times of her illness. Arlene was born in Santa Barbara, CA and then moved to Atascadero, CA where she graduated from Atascadero High School. Arlene went on to have a successful career with IBM and was promoted to Area Security Director in Los Angeles and later in Washington D.C. She loved art, books and travel. Arlene is survived by her devoted husband, David Wheatley, her sister, Sheryl Wakeman of Citrus Heights, CA, brother in law, James Wakeman and their children, Becky, Kimberley and Mike. Also included in the family is Arlene's devoted friend, Reba Johns of Austin, TX. The light that she gave to all who knew her will be sorely missed. Arlene is at peace now and no longer suffering the pain and soreness of recent times. The world is a darker place without my best friend, "David"...

Marilyn Lee Athenour
April 8, 1929 - May 27, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Marilyn Lee Athenour passed away on Monday, May 27, 2019 at the age of 90. She touched many lives with her gentle and caring spirit. She was an amazing mom, wife, grandma, aunt, neighbor, and friend. A native of Livermore, Marilyn graduated from Livermore High School in 1947, and maintained lifelong friendships with many of her high school friends. Shortly after graduating, she married Ralph Vargas. Their son Karl was born shortly thereafter. Heartbreakingly, Ralph was killed in a CHP motorcycle accident when Karl was two years old. Five years after losing Ralph, she reconnected with an old friend who had returned from the service – that friend was Robert Athenour of Sunol. They married shortly thereafter in 1957. They bought their first home together in Pleasanton and lived there for more than 60 years. Lots of great memories were made in that home! Marilyn loved young people and cherished her job as a teacher's aide and health services liaison in the Pleasanton public schools. She believed each student had unique qualities, gifts and strengths, and she brought out the best in each of "her kids." Marilyn enjoyed being a mom, grandma (to her grandchildren and her gran...

Daniel Francis Brown
Nov. 25, 1929 - May 22, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Daniel Francis Brown, a long-time resident of Pleasanton, CA, peacefully passed away from heart failure on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at the VA Hospital in Palo Alto. He was 89 years young. Dan was aware that he had completed all that was required of him on earth. He was in no pain, and just before he passed, Dan opened his eyes and saw that his immediate family was with him, namely his sisters and brother-in-law, Kathleen, Margaret and Wayne,. Having visited with his family and countless AA buddies over the previous several days, Dan left believing in his higher power and that he would again be with those who had passed before him, especially ToriLynn Lithgow and Alicia Morales (his step-daughter and grand-step daughter). Dan was also preceded in death by his father (Daniel Francis Brown, Sr.), mother (Ethel Lucille Cliff), brother (Douglas Cliff Brown), and grand nephew, Galen Alexander Baldwin. He is survived by his son, Keith Daniel Brown Smith, sisters Kathleen Ann and Margaret Mary Brown; brother-in-law, Wayne Gordon; nephews, Daniel Edward, Erik Harald and Mark Douglas Baldwin; niece Hannah Brown Gordon; grand nieces and nephews, John Daniel, Matthew Winston ...

Maria Carmen Peterson
Aug. 16, 1939 - May 16, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Carmen Peterson, 79, passed away peacefully in her Pleasanton home Thursday, May 16, 2019. Born in 1939 in Santa Paula, CA, Carmen was 1 of 7 children of Narcisa and Geronimo Garcia. Her family relocated to Pleasanton during her toddler years and she attended Pleasanton Elementary and Amador Valley High School. She graduated in 1958 after 4 years of playing field hockey and being a pom pom girl; which led to a lifetime love of sports and sealed her role as her family's #1 cheerleader. Carmen and her late husband, Donald "Foots" Peterson raised 4 children, John, Jean, Ann and Jim, and later two grandchildren, Christina and Billy. She spent her weekdays working at Farmers Insurance and taking kids to practices. On the weekends she could be found on the sidelines of soccer fields or baseball diamonds, rain or shine. Her love for local sports extended beyond her children and grandchildren's teams. Everyone knew never to change Grandma's tv when the Giants, Niners, or Warriors games were on. She cheered loud and was notorious for closing her eyes when a game was too close for comfort. In her later years, Carmen truly enjoyed her younger grandchildren and great grandc...

Timothy Andrew McCarthy
Dec. 13, 1951 - May 12, 2019
San Ramon, California

Timothy Andrew McCarthy, nicknamed "Father Tim" for his poignant prayers, went home to be with Jesus on May 12, 2019 after battling cancer. He was 67. He died at Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto while undergoing a stem cell transplant to battle Hodgkins Lymphoma. Tim enjoyed golfing as well as restoring classic cars and marched for years with the Balloon Platoon of Pleasanton. He found joy in baking, particularly cakes and pies. He brought a careful attention to detail to both his professional and personal life. Professionally, he worked as a project manager for QuadraMed. He held a business degree from Holy Names College. Active in Bible Study groups and church choirs throughout his life, he loved lifting up prayers to his Heavenly Father. He and his wife, Sherry, were enthusiastic, long-term members of Lasers through Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church and he also served as an elder at First Presbyterian Church in Livermore. He was born in Utica, NY to Edgar Eugene (Mac) and Carolyn McCarthy. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Sherry McCarthy of San Ramon; his children Scott (Amy) McCarthy of Livermore, Patrick (Jolane) McCarthy of Folsom, Heather (Sean Bolen) ...

Anne Marie Tadlock
April 21, 1941 - May 4, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Anne Marie Tadlock passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at Sunol Creek Memory Care in Pleasanton, CA at the age of 78. Anne Marie was born on April 21, 1941 to Doris and Vincent Lariviere of Southbridge Massachusetts. She was a 1959 graduate of Notre Dame High School. At the age of 19, she moved out west to San Francisco to pursue a career as a flight attendant. However, that never materialized, and she began to work for Standard Oil as a secretary. It was there she met, and later on, married Thomas Earl Tadlock. They both lived in various bay area cities, before finally settling down in Pleasanton, CA. After the birth of her two children, Anne Marie became a homemaker and enjoyed sewing and making crafts. She was a devoted wife and mother. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family and traveling to New England every October to visit family and enjoying the fall foliage. Her hobbies included gardening and watching TV, especially her soap opera "The Young and the Restless", various shows on HGTV, and watching A's, Warriors and 49er games. She will be greatly missed. She is survived by her son Steven Tadlock, daughter Cheryl Bethe, son-in-law John Bethe, sist...

Mark Anthony Tierney
Dec. 30, 1972 - May 3, 2019
San Ramon, California

Mark Anthony Tierney passed away peacefully on Friday, May 3, 2019 surrounded by his family. Mark was born on December 30, 1972 in Livermore, CA to parents, James and Tally Rose Tierney, and grew up in Pleasanton. He graduated from Cal State Hayward with a degree in history and later earned his teaching credential from Chico State. Mark taught eighth grade history at Hart Middle School in Pleasanton for 19 years. He coached baseball and soccer, and enjoyed fishing. Mark is survived by his wife, Erin Tierney, daughters Mackenzie, Madison, and Mia; his mother Tally Rose Tierney of Pleasanton; his sisters Mary Kay Fleming of Antioch and Maureen Olsen of Rio Vista. He is also survived by several nieces, a great-niece, and a great-nephew. His generous, loving spirit will be missed by all who knew him. Friends and family are invited to a funeral service on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at 1:30 pm at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Boulevard in San Ramon....

William Glover, Jr
Aug. 27, 1929 - May 1, 2019
Pleasanton, California

William M. Glover, Jr (Bill) passed away peacefully in Walnut Creek, California on Wednesday,May 1, 2019. Bill was born August 27, 1929 in Omaha,Nebraska to William M. Glover, Sr. and Harriet Ann Lawson. He was raised in Los Angeles and San Francisco, California, where he graduated from Mission High School in 1949. Following high school, while visiting the soda fountain at Woolworth's in the city, Bill met Elizabeth L.Clifford (Betty). The two married on December 30, 1950, and six weeks later, Bill was drafted and inducted on February 7, 1951 into the US Army for whom he served in an artillery unit, the 2nd Armored Division "Second Division, Second to None", a unit operating a half track during the Korean war. After an honorable discharge two years later, Bill returned home to San Francisco with a medal for bravery. It was during this time, he converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Bill worked for O'Connor Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning for a number of years before starting his own business, Glover's Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning, in 1959. In the next two years, Bill and Betty were blessed with two daughters, Kimberly Ann and Kathy Lynn...

Marie Boss
Aug. 8, 1923 - May 1, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Marie Boss, 95, died peacefully with her daughters by her side. Born in San Francisco to Theophile and Caroline Cerles, she grew up in Orland, attended Dominican College, and was a long-time teacher. Marie loved music, art, travel, people, and life. She is survived by beloved family: daughters Judy Del Tredici, Nicki Sauer; grandchildren Tom (Delanie), Christina (Ken), Lisa (John), Michelle, Chris (Jenn), Jennifer, Aaron (John), Eric (Lynette); great-grandchildren Drew, Nick, Lizzie, Marcus, Calvin, Beatrice. She was predeceased by husband Louis, sons Joe and Michael, and sons-in-law Richard and Bruce. Memorial: June 1, 1:00, SGI-USA Buddhist Center, 3834 Opal St, Oakland....

Gary Allen Wright
June 30, 1940 - April 27, 2019
Pleasanton, California

GARY ALLEN WRIGHT OF PLEASANTON PASSED AWAY ON SATURDAY, APRIL 27TH. GARY WAS BORN ON JUNE 30TH, 1940 AT MERRITT HOSPITAL IN OAKLAND. HE GRADUATED FROM CASTLEMONT HIGH SCHOOL IN 1958 & PROUDLY SERVED IN THE US MARINE CORP FROM 1958-1961. GARY IS SURVIVED BY HIS LOVING WIFE, DIANE; 4 DAUGHTERS, KATHY RATHJEN, JANET WRIGHT, LISA HUDSON & ASHLI HUDSON; SON, BRIAN ALLEN WRIGHT; & 2 GRANDDAUGHTERS, BRITTANY VARGAS & MADDY HUDSON. GARY WAS PROCEEDED IN DEATH BY HIS PARENTS, EVELYN WRIGHT & MAX ALLEN WRIGHT; & BY HIS SISTER, JUDY GOOCH. GARY'S PASSIONS WERE HIS FRIENDS & FAMILY. HIS HOBBIES WERE GOLFING & HUNTING FOR AGATES AT THE BEACH. GARY WAS A WELL RESPECTED REALTOR & OFFICE MANAGER IN PLEASANTON. MOST RECENTLY, HE SERVED HIS COMMUNITY AS A CROSSING GUARD. HE LOVED "HIS KIDS" AND HE TOOK THE JOB VERY SERIOUSLY. GARY SERVED AS A MENTOR TO MANY IN AA FOR OVER 37 YEARS. HE UNDERSTOOD RELATIONSHIPS ARE WHAT MATTER MOST. A CELEBRATION OF LIFE WILL BE HELD AT 11:30 ON SATURDAY, MAY 18TH AT THE VETERANS MEMORIAL HALL, 301 MAIN ST IN DOWNTOWN PLEASANTON....

Margaret "Sue" Vierk
April 8, 1935 - April 22, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Longtime Pleasanton resident Margaret "Sue" Vierk left behind her devoted husband Stanley and family on April 22, 2019, after a feisty, hard-fought battle with vascular dementia. Sue was born in 1935 to Dorothy and Dr. Eugene Powell, in Lincoln, Nebraska, the only girl after five older brothers. Her stories about her brothers' mischief kept our family laughing for years. Her saucy wit and sense of humor continued well into the progression of her illness. After graduating from University of Nebraska, Sue taught high school English, and went on to teach computer literacy to pre-schoolers in Pleasanton, while developing a secret love of computer games. Her passion for literature, history and education led her children to work in educational fields. Her children include Kerry (m. Paul) Nozicka; Pamela (m. Matt) Ballin; Matthew (m. Claire) Vierk; Victoria (m. Peter) Kazarian; and Todd Vierk (passed in 1966). Her beloved grandchildren include Peter, Armen, Lisa, Emmy, Hannah, Braeton and London. Sue loved people and any activity that connected her with people. She bowled, played bunco, games and cards, and enjoyed neighborhood get-togethers, crafts and genealogical acti...

Orville "Ole" Clifford Olesen
March 16, 1924 - April 21, 2019
Pleasanton, California

It is with great sadness that the family of Orville "Ole" Clifford Olesen announces his passing at his home after a brief illness on Sunday April 21, 2019, at the age of 95 years. He was a long time Pleasanton resident and touched many lives with his outgoing personality, positive outlook on life and generous spirit. Orville was the 11th child of Ole C. Olesen and Christina (Hendrickson) Olesen born in Graettinger, Iowa on March 16, 1924. He was a World War II veteran and served at the Naval Air Station Alameda, CA during the war. He met his future wife Betty Reali at a USO dance during the war and they were married February 17, 1946. Ole and Betty started their married life in Emeryville and San Leandro while Ole worked in San Francisco as a typewriter technician. He started his own office equipment business, Valley Office Equipment, renting a small space (ex Western Union office) on Main Street in Pleasanton in 1959. He later expanded this business to Livermore with a new building on 3rd street and then to a larger store on Portola Avenue. He was well known in the Tri-Valley area for his strong work ethic and personal service for the community's business needs. H...

Ronald Robert Wing
Nov. 26, 1948 - April 21, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Ron "mosquito bite" Wing, formerly of Pleasanton, departed this life on Easter Sunday, 2019; he was 70 years of age. Ron started in the family farming business at an early age, and was known for his mechanical and welding skills. He was retired from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Ron graduated from Amador Union High School in 1966, and studied Automotive Technology at Chabot College. He had a love of the outdoors: enjoying camping, skiing, boating, fishing, hunting, racing, gardening, canning (those peppers!), and many other endeavors. His annual vacation included trips on the Jeepers Jamboree, starting before he was actually old enough to drive it. He was active in his community, supportive of local 4H and FFA groups, Livermore Gun Club, the Livermore Rodeo, a past vice-president of the Gladiators Car Club, a member of Joaquin Murrieta #13 ECV, a former Mountain House School District Board member, and many other unassuming roles. Ron loved animals, and was never without at least one dog at his side. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Robert "Bob" Wing and Laurine Wing. Ron leaves behind his beloved, LoriAnn Bayless, and his children: Jamie (Eric) C...

Wilda Kay D'Arcy
March 19, 1947 - April 16, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Wilda passed away at home with her family by her side after a battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband of 17 years, Robert, her two daughters, Melanie and Natalie, stepchildren Michael and Michelle, and six grandchildren. She was born in Newton, Kansas, to William Darney and Naomi Jean Minard, and grew up in San Francisco. She held office positions at Orchard Supply, Linford Heating and AC, and Legacy Heating and AC before her retirement. Wilda was a loving wife and mother, a doting grandmother, and a devoted friend. She was an avid flower and vegetable gardener and happily shared the fruits of her labor with everyone. She was also a dedicated Bay Area sports fan, greatly enjoying watching and attending Giants, 49ers, Warriors, and Sharks games with family and friends....

Donald Coulthart
May 24, 1946 - April 15, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Donald passed away peacefully on April 15, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. He grew up in Grafton, North Dakota, the son of Walter and Edith Coulthart, and was a resident of Pleasanton, CA for 35 years. He had a wonderful sense of humor, and a kind and caring spirit. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and his departure will leave a big hole in the hearts of all the people who loved him. He is preceded in death by one brother Bob of Grand Forks, ND and his son Jeffrey Coulthart. He is survived by his wife Linda, son Christopher, grandson Owen, daughter-in-law Maiko, brothers Daryl and Roger and sister in-laws Sharon, Beverly, and Gail. There will be no memorial service but at his request a celebration of life TBA....

Erik Woodward
Feb. 9, 1994 - April 13, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Erik Keith Woodward died unexpectedly Saturday, April 13, 2019 when he was accidentally struck by a vehicle near his Napa home. He was 25. Erik was born to proud parents, Denise and Fred Woodward, on February 9, 1994, in Fremont, CA. He was welcomed by his excited big brothers, Shane and CJ. The family moved to Pleasanton when Erik was 5 years old, living near Lydiksen Elementary School, which the three brothers attended. He continued his education at Hart Middle School and Foothill High School. Erik, eager to keep up with his big brothers and hang out with his friends, dabbled in several sports – Little League baseball, lacrosse, CYO basketball, football and wrestling. "He loved lacrosse because it was something new," his mom, Denise, recalled. "He was a little guy. He was quite good." But all those sports paled in comparison to his zeal for skateboarding, a sport he picked up when he was only 8 years old. Once Erik wrapped up his final wrestling season, he turned his focus to his two main passions – skateboarding and cooking. "All other sports were off the table, and he just wanted to skate," Denise said. "He really loved to skate. He was just a ...

Duane "Norm" Norman
Feb. 14, 1931 - April 13, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Duane Norman passed away on April 13th, 2019 in Pleasanton, CA at the age of 88. He touched many lives with his outgoing spirit, kindness and generosity and will be greatly missed. Born on a farm in Kindred, North Dakota on February 14th, 1931 to parents Arnold Norman and Clara Bergh, Duane was the oldest of three children. The family moved to California in 1936 and settled in Hayward. Duane graduated from Hayward Union High School in 1949 and, after a year of working on his uncle's farm in North Dakota, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1951. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Oriskany and saw action during the Korean War. He received several commendations and was honorably discharged after serving for four years. This service was followed by a 35+ year career at Clearprint Paper Company in Emeryville where he retired from his position as Plant Superintendent. Duane married the love of his life, Sandra Creech, on June 25th, 1961. They were introduced by Duane's brother Doyle who set them up on a blind date. They bought their first house in Hayward and started a family. The couple moved the family to Pleasanton in 1976, and Duane remained in the same home until his pass...

Sadie Serena Skinner
Dec. 8, 1925 - April 2, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Sadie Skinner, a longtime resident of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, the 2nd of April. She was 93. Sadie was born as an identical twin in 1925 to immigrants, Abraham and Regina Issac, in North Vandergrift, Pennsylvania. Sadie traveled the world in her job for the United States Department of Defense, serving in Hawai'i, California and the Philippines. Following her distinguished civil service career, Sadie became deeply involved with the Dental Auxiliary and served as the President of the Southern Alameda County Dental Society, managing dental offices in Hayward, Pleasanton and Fremont. She was a key part of the growth and success of the dental practice of Dr. Ward Skinner. Sadie volunteered at the Valley Care Cancer Research Library in Pleasanton and was an active member of the Great Books Book Club. She was also an active member of Castlewood Country Club and served on the Membership Committee. Sadie loved traveling, reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing bridge and was an avid follower of the news, current events and politics. She loved her grandchildren dearly and was so proud of all of their accomplishments. One of her favorite things to do was buy...

Barbara "Bobbi" Lee Troia
Dec. 21, 1942 - March 24, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Bobbi passed away in her hometown of 43 years, Pleasanton, CA, after her courageous fight against metastasis Breast Cancer. Bobbi was very passionate about her family, painting, gardening, and was also involved in numerous community events and issues. Her memory will live on by her husband, Stan Troia, of almost 50 years, brother, Michael Richie, 3 beautiful daughters, 4 grandchildren, and the love of many great friends. We welcome all that knew and loved her to join us in celebrating her life on Sunday, April 7th from 2:00 - 5:00 pm at Alden Lane Nursery, 981 Alden Lane, Livermore, CA 94550. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Hope Hospice or purchase flowers/plant for your home from Alden Lane Nursery, in her memory....

Lee Shilts
Sept. 25, 1950 - March 11, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

Lee Shilts, owner of Hilt Construction, passed away unexpectedly on March 11, 2019. Born in Oakland, CA on September 25, 1950, Lee was the second of five children born to parents Harold Shilts and Sadie Joseph. Not sure of what to do after graduating from Sunset H.S. in Hayward, Lee joined the Navy and became a gunners mate aboard the U.S.S. Floyd B. Parks destroyer during the Vietnam war. After his 4 years of service, he returned to Hayward and attended Chabot College. He completed his Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management from Cal State Sacramento and went to work. In 1978 he started his own small, but highly successful, construction business. His projects took him throughout the greater Bay Area, but he mostly worked in the Tri-Valley. With his fine attention to detail and utmost professionalism, Lee brought beauty and enjoyment into the lives of his lucky customers. Although his first marriage to Elaine Dexter was not successful, they maintained a unique friendship over the years. Together they raised their daughter, Elida, while Elaine worked as Lee's bookkeeper. Lee was a devoted father and loyal cheerleader as he attended Elida's various dance recita...

Lynn Green
May 17, 1945 - March 7, 2019
Copperopolis, CA

Lynn Green, 73, passed away March 7, 2019 peacefully at home with family after a courageous 3-year battle with Ovarian Cancer. She was born in Wallingford, England in 1945 to Clara and Wilf Thomas. In 1962 she married Charlie Green, her beloved husband of 57 years. They had two children while living in England. They chose to leave England to pursue a career path in Canada. While living in Canada they had 3 more children. This path took them from Canada to Wisconsin, then on to Mississippi and they finally settled in San Ramon, CA in 1981. Lynn and Charles lived in San Ramon, Pleasanton, and El Dorado Hills before retiring to the peaceful mountain area of Copperopolis, CA. Lynn loved being a homemaker and was closely involved in the lives of her kids and grandkids- joyfully celebrating each milestone with many gatherings and group photos. She had an incredible talent for decorating and she also loved gardening, shopping, taking care of her little dog Sandy, and having a cup of coffee at Starbucks with her long-time best friend, Montez Thalman. Lynn is survived by her loving husband, Charles Green, their five children, Kevin Green (Gretchen), Teresa Vickers (Kevin), Jacqueli...

Edwin Maxwell Bridges
Jan. 1, 1934 - March 7, 2019
Stanford, California

Edwin Bridges, 85, passed away of heart failure on March 7, 2019 in his home on the Stanford campus with his loving family present. Prof. Bridges was born Jan. 1, 1934 in Hannibal, MO, son of E. Otto Bridges and Radha Maxwell Bridges. After graduating from the University of Missouri and marrying his college sweetheart, Marjorie Pollock of Baytown, Texas, 20-year-old Bridges worked as a high school teacher, and by age 26 was principal of a high school in Griffith, IN. Bridges earned Masters and PhD degrees at the University of Chicago before beginning an academic career that included professorships at Washington U, U of Chicago, UC-Santa Barbara, and Stanford University. He was noted for his books and articles on low-performing teachers and a teaching method called Problem-Based Learning. Bridges is survived by his wife Marjorie, sons Brian of Stanford and Bruce Bridges (Cynthia Gaertner) of Los Altos, daughter Rebecca Bridges Altman (Rick) of Pleasanton, granddaughters Erica and Jamie Altman, grandsons Anson and Nolan Bridges, and dozens of former students who were an important part of his life. He was preceded in death by his oldest son Richard Bridges in 2016. C...

John Forrest Goard
Aug. 10, 1952 - March 5, 2019
Pleasanton, California

John was born in Oceanside, California and raised in Santa Clara, graduating from Buchser High School in 1970. After high school he enlisted in the US Air Force where he became a sergeant, focusing on veterinary clinic work. He spent 3 years serving out of the US Air Force Base in Ramstein, Germany. After an honorable discharge, he returned to California where he met his wife Carol. They lived in Pleasanton for 36 years, raising 2 children and adoring, fluffy dogs. John loved spending time at Donner Lake: lounging on the beach, fishing, and going for walks in the alpine air. He received his Bachelors of Business Science from the University of Phoenix. John worked for 31 years at Toshiba/Canon Medical, starting as an ultrasound engineer and eventually working as a national support specialist. John was a "Mr. Fix-it" who could be often found tinkering in his tool shop or in the garden. He also enjoyed spending time at the Del Prado community pool, cheering on Bay Area sports teams, and trying his hand at new recipes. He was a friend to all who would share a beer and a foe to the squirrels that trespassed in the backyard. He is survived by his wife Carol Brach...

Kevin Allan Young
May 1, 1950 - Feb. 19, 2019
Pleasanton, CA

Kevin Young passed away at the age of 68, Tuesday February 19, at home peacefully after a well fought battle with esophageal cancer. He was born May 1, 1950, to Robert and Marilyn Young in Albany, Ca. He was raised in Eureka and for 50 years lived in the Bay Area, with 30 years of that in Pleasanton. He was employed by GoldenGate Truck Center for 40 years as a parts salesman and developed many treasured relationships with customers and co-workers. He was very personable and a stranger to no one. He enjoyed supporting his childrens' activities and the grandchildrens.' He was involved with Boy Scouts, P.TCruisers of Pleasanton, his church, ballroom dancing, "raised" on cribbage at Yosemite and enjoyed traveling with best friends, the McNamaras of Eureka and the Levasseurs of Elk Grove. One of his favorite memories was leaving a "love lock" in Paris. Kevin is survived by his loving wife Ruth of 38 years, his children Patrick (Lexi), Julie, (Marc), and Joshua. Four beloved grandchildren, Phoebe, Izak, J.T. and Mason.His brother Lorin,(Marva), brother-in-law, Russ (Susi), his favorite Uncle Ed, his mother-in-law, Lois, and many nephews, nieces and cousins....

Russell Harry Sperber
April 11, 1938 - Feb. 19, 2019
Manteca, California

Russell Harry Sperber, 79, a 15 year resident of Manteca, died on Feb. 19, 2019. He was born April 11, 1938, in Redding Pennsylvania. He proudly served in the Naval branch of the Military for several years. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley Sperber, sons Michael Sperber, Stephen Sperber, daughters Brenda Skaggs, Joyce Messer, Kimberly Heath, daughter-in-laws Anna Sperber and Dana Cox-Sperber, sons-in-law Gary Messer and Leroy Skaggs, seventeen Grandchildren, thirty-five Great grandchildren, and one Great Great Grandchild....

Jay Graves
April 20, 1943 - Feb. 16, 2019
Brentwood, California

Jay Graves passed away on February 16, 2019 after battling cancer. Jay was born on April 20, 1943 in California to the parents of Paul and Edna Graves. He attended school in San Leandro before joining the Navy and serving as an Aviation Ordnanceman. Upon leaving the Navy, Jay became a police officer in Pleasanton, CA. Jay had a distinguished career where he was Pleasanton's first K9 officer. Pleasanton recently dedicated its newest dog park after his K9 partner Cubby. Jay also served as a Narcotics Detective and a Field Training Officer. Jay retired after 29 years as a Sergeant. Jay was a long time and dedicated member of the California Narcotics Officers Association, an organization dedicated to battling drug abuse in California communities. Jay is survived by his two children, Valerie and Keith Graves, who both served in Law Enforcement in the Tri Valley. Jay is also survived by his two grandchildren, Caitlyn and Tyler Graves. Jay spent his retirement years in Brentwood, CA. He was an avid fisherman, a mentor to many, a friend to all and will be fondly remembered and missed for his guidance, sense of humor, and the stories he told. A memorial service is planned for March 2, ...

Marjorie Ellen Bowles
Sept. 16, 1927 - Feb. 12, 2019
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

On February 12th, 2019, heaven gained a beautiful angel by the name of Marjorie E. Bowles, age 91. Born and raised in Alameda, California, Marge met her husband Robert Bowles playing badminton at a local gym. The two quickly fell in love and moved to Pleasant Hill, then to West Covina in Southern California where they raised three amazing daughters. After spending many years there, the two returned to the Bay Area and settled in Pleasanton, where the memories continued. Marge was the social butterfly of the family, spending her time with multiple groups including her colleagues from Lydiksen Elementary, the garden club of Pleasanton, bible study, water aerobics, and her friends of Alameda from high school. She enjoyed baking for her family, gardening in her yard, and was a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors, particularly Steph Curry. She is survived by her three daughters, Susan, Barbara (Mike), and Robin (Bob) as well as five grandchildren; Tyler, Teresa, Dana, Chris, and Stephanie and five great-grandchildren; Kaleb, Isabella, Owen, Fitz, and Ellie with another joining them in April. She also leaves behind her pride and joy, her cat, Pixie. The family would like ...

Dorathy Lois Bartelson
Dec. 18, 1933 - Feb. 3, 2019
PLEASANTON, CALIFORNIA

A Pleasanton resident for over 50 years, Dotty passed peacefully on Sunday, February 3 while under Hospice Care at Queen's Care Home in Pleasanton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hobart and Bertha Putnam of Hartley, IA; sister Thyra McElvogue of Hartley, IA; sister Carol Sanford and brother in law Bruce (Sandy) Sanford of Des Moines, IA and brother in law David Bartelson of Soquel, CA. She is survived by her husband, Albert "Larry" Bartelson of Pleasanton, CA; daughter Stacey Romero and granddaughters Franchesca and Alexa Romero of Charlotte, NC; son Brent Bartelson, daughter in law Ann Bartelson and granddaughter Teresa Bartelson of Fort Dodge, IA; sister in law Audree Tuttle of Campbell, CA, and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins in the San Francisco Bay Area and Des Moines, IA area. Dotty was born on December 18, 1933 in Hartley, IA. She graduated from Hartley High School in 1952 and from the University of Iowa in 1956 with a degree in Education. She was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority, and a proud member of the University of Iowa Scottish Highlanders Drum and Bagpipe Corps, which performed on the Ed Sullivan Show and also travelled and performe...

Kim Ferdinand Bretoi
June 27, 1957 - Jan. 29, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Kim Bretoi passed away in his sleep unexpectedly on January 29, 2019. Kim will be remembered for his kindness, big heart, and enthusiasm for life. He touched many lives with his ever-present smile and upbeat personality. He will be sorely missed. Kim was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Remus and Yvonne Bretoi. A graduate of Gunn High School in Palo Alto, California, he went on to complete his undergraduate degree in Computer Science Engineering at Arizona State University and later earned his MBA. His love for sports, especially ice hockey and tennis, was a big part of his life, both playing and watching. You could find him out on a tennis court hitting balls just about any day of the week. Living in California he developed an appreciation for wine. He was a member of several wine clubs in the area, where he would go enjoy a sip, or glass, regularly with his friends. Kim is preceded in death by his father Remus Bretoi. He is survived by his mother Yvonne Bretoi; brothers Christopher and Stephen; sister Anita Ralston; sister-in-laws Marilyn and Arlene; brother-in-law Christopher Ralston; nephews Daniel, Travis, Alexander, Nicolae Ralston, and Andrew Ralston; Nieces ...

Rosetta (Rose) Marian Guinn
June 30, 1959 - Jan. 27, 2019
Concord, CA

Rose Guinn passed away in hospice care in Alamo at the age of 59. She was born to Evelyn and Frederick Curtis in San Francisco on June 30, 1959. Growing up, she spent a significant portion of her childhood living in foster homes. She graduated from Ygnacio Valley High in Concord. Rose married Gerald Maurice Guinn in Carson City in 1979. They had two children together and Rose spent her time caring for them and volunteering for more than 20 years at the Clayton Library. She also served as a Girl Scout troop leader and taught preschool. Her hobbies were sewing and quilting. She regularly attended Bible studies and was known for helping others. A favorite memory was helping deliver her first grandson, Aaron Guinn, while her son, David, was working in China. She is survived by her children, David Guinn (Lili Zhou) of Alameda, CA and Rosetta McCloud (Andy McCloud) of Vancouver, WA; her grandchildren Aaron Guinn, Daniel Guinn and Griffin McCloud; her mother Evelyn Curtis; her sisters Cherrie Curtis of Patton, CA and Rita Curtis of Mill Valley, CA. Her dear friends Dawn Padelford, Barbara Padelford, Julie Anderson and Caroll Martin also survive her as do her 14-year-old cats, Merry ...

Audrey Maude Wood
May 9, 1924 - Jan. 25, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Audrey Maude Wood, 94, formerly of Pleasanton, California, died peacefully at home in the company of family early the morning of January 25th, 2019. She was born on May 9th, 1924, daughter of George August Larson and Alice Zelda Larson, in Zap, North Dakota. She worked as a bookkeeper for Davey Tree Company in Livermore for 10 years, retiring at the age of 55 to travel internationally and spend time with friends and family. Audrey had a wide circle of friends, many of whom were fellow members of P.E.O. Chapter NO. She loved a fun party, particularly if a game of cards was involved. Audrey was a longtime member of Eden United Church of Christ, where she served on the board and various committees. Audrey was married for 55 years to Charles D. Wood, who predeceased her in 1997. She is survived by her children, Kevin C. Wood (Kathryn) of Oakley; and Kimberly W. Egan (Robert) of Oakland; 4 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter; and a brother, George N. Larson (Carole) of Roseville. Her sister, Verna M. Oase, predeceased her in 2016. A memorial service will be held at Eden United Church of Christ in Hayward, California, on Sunday, February 10th at noon. In lieu of ...

Jeanne Marie Stiers
July 30, 1961 - Jan. 25, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Jeanne passed away peacefully in the arms of her loving family on January 25th after a long and courageous battle against cancer. She was born in Angels Camp, CA to Joanne and Loren Whittle, and welcomed by big brother Bruce. The Whittle family took many road trips and Jeanne had an amazing memory of the towns and historic sites visited, and even the meals they enjoyed. But her greatest memories were made riding her pony Rocky alongside her Grandpa Clenn on the old Whittle Ranch. She attended local schools and graduated as valedictorian of Bret Harte High School in 1979. Jeanne earned her BSN in nursing with honors from Sacramento State in 1983 and went on to work at UC Davis Medical Center as an oncology nurse before joining Sonora Community Hospital. She became Mrs. Joseph Senn in 1986 and they celebrated the birth of their son Daniel Joseph on March 6, 1988. In 1992 daughter Katharine Blair was born and in 1995 Jeanne enrolled in the first class of Nurse Anesthetists at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA. She received her Master of Science and became a CRNA in spring 1997. While living in Pleasanton, CA she married William Stiers on April 12, 1997 and they had their...

Carolyn Lorraine Sawatzky
April 10, 1937 - Jan. 11, 2019
Pleasanton, California

On Friday, January 11, 2019, after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease, Carolyn (Carol) Lorraine Sawatzky, formerly of Pleasanton, California passed away peacefully; she was 81 years old. Carol is survived by her husband of 64 years, Eugene (Gene) Sawatzky, daughter Melonie Washburn and her husband, Stephen of Webster, Massachusetts, daughter Jacqueline Windle and her husband, Thomas of Stockton, California, daughter Robin Bogoshian and her husband, Matthew of San Francisco, California. Also surviving are her seven grandchildren, Lynn Ellen of Hayward and her husband, Taylor, Marissa Washburn and her fiance, Jeff Pfaffinger, Matthew Wipfli, Daniel Wipfli, Zachary Bogoshian and his wife, Lauren, Benjamin Bogoshian and Gabrielle Bogoshian. Carol was born in San Juan Bautista, California to John and Ellen Acosta on April 10, 1937. She was the fifth of 10 children, and when she was young, her family moved to San Andreas, California, where she attended grade school, middle school and Calaveras High School. While in high school, Carol fell in love with and married Gene Sawatzky. They met at the Calaveras County Frog Jumping Jubilee, and over the years, family attendance at the �...

Richard Lee Sharp
June 27, 1946 - Jan. 5, 2019
Pleasanton, California

Richard Lee Sharp passed into eternal life at his home in Pleasanton, California on Saturday, January 5th, 2019. He was born in Glendale, California on June 27th, 1946 to the late Joseph and Lorene Sharp. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Jane Sharp and is survived by his son David (Christine) and granddaughter Natalie, as well as his son, Steven and granddaughters Sierra and Jorga. He is predeceased by his in-laws Jim Nielsen and Catherine Nielsen Trieman and is survived by his sister Nancy Hull (Tom) and their children Jennifer Doherty (PJ) and Stefanie Hull, as well as his brother-in-law Ray Nielsen (Rose) and their children Michael Nielsen and Amy Nielsen (Vinny Silay) and Great Uncle to Katie Nielsen, James and Josh Doherty and Dante Silay. Richard passed away after many years from his battle with Pulmonary Hypertension. Numerous family and friends have loved, supported and helped Richard throughout his battle. After Rich was born in Glendale, his family moved to Cupertino, California where he grew up and graduated from Cupertino High School. While growing up Rich played multiple sports, went boating and camping with his family and helped his dad build a house in Lake...

Joan Dailey
Jan. 6, 1937 - Dec. 26, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Joan Louise Dailey passed away peacefully at home in the presence of family on Dec. 26, 2018. Joan will be forever loved and missed by her husband of 57 years, Richard Dailey, their four children, Michael Dailey (Liz), Jennifer Dailey, Jeff Dailey (Kathy), and Anne Hill (Andy), and eight grandchildren. She was very close to her sister, Janice Catalano of Moraga, as well many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandma, aunt, cousin and friend. She was born in Oakland, CA to Eda and Louis Zavattaro and raised in Albany. Joan attended Albany High and UC Berkeley, where she met her husband. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, and after her children were born she stayed home and dedicated herself to her family. As her kids got older she returned to work as a teacher's aide. Joan was a dedicated volunteer and a member of the Assistance League of Amador Valley. She was active in many local clubs and loved to cook, sew, walk, garden, travel and read, but most of all she loved to be with her family....

Arthur Leon McCutcheon
July 2, 1935 - Dec. 24, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Arthur "Sonny" Leon McCutcheon Jr., born on July 2, 1935 in Denver, Colorado, passed away at age 83 on December 24, 2018 in Mesa, Arizona. He was an employee at Pacific Gas & Electric for 35 years until retiring in 1990. Arthur was the loving husband of the late Jacqueline McCutcheon. Arthur and Jackie lived in Pleasanton for over 35 years. He was preceded in death by his great-grandchild, Olivia Caldwell. Arthur is survived by his daughters, Diane Branson and Denise Holmgren; sons, Tim McCutcheon and Sean McCutcheon; grandchildren, Katie Caldwell-Burchett, Michael Branson, Derek Holmgren, Matthew McCutcheon, Jackie McCutcheon, Ali McCutcheon, Andrew McCutcheon, Connor McCutcheon, and Taylor McCutcheon; and great-grandchildren, Wyatt Caldwell and Landon Caldwell. Arthur's hobbies included wood carving, camping, fishing, and square dancing....

Robert (Bob) Paxman Pyper
June 7, 1927 - Dec. 22, 2018
Mesa, AR

Robert Paxman Pyper, 91, recently of Mesa, Arizona, passed away at his home on December 22, 2018. He was a 49-year resident of Pleasanton and leaves a legacy of honorable service to his faith, family, and friends. Robert was born to Edward Gerald Pyper and Louise Ann Paxman, June 7, 1927, in Nephi, Utah. He graduated from South High School in Salt Lake City in 1945 and was immediately drafted and served in the US Army. After his stint in the Army, Bob honorably served a mission in New Zealand for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He also attended the University of Utah where he was active in the Phi Kappa Alpha fraternity. On November 25, 1953, Bob married the love of his life, Mary Wright Newman in the Salt Lake Temple and they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Together they forged a bond of love, dedication and service as an example for their children. He leaves as his legacy five children: Denise Houghton (George), Robert Gerald Pyper (Susan), Craig N. Pyper (Valerie), Ann Botteron (Bradley) and Judith Malmrose (Roger). He also leaves to cherish his memory 16 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. His children remember him as a teach...

Richard Ludt
May 17, 1955 - Dec. 18, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Rick Ludt went home to be with the Lord early December 19,2019. Wife Marilyn, and daughter Kristen were present to sent him off. Rick served God as a deacon at Christ Church. Rick was born in San Gabriel, Calif., and lived in Pleasanton for the past 21 years. He worked in Blind Rehabilitation at the Palo Alto V.A. for 30 years. Rick was diagnosed with lymphoma for the third time in November. He died unexpectedly after just starting chemotherapy. A Memorial service will be at Valley Bible church. Time and day are pending....

John (Jay) Robert Harris
June 21, 1929 - Dec. 16, 2018
Pleasanton, California

John (Jay) Harris, a 50-year resident of California, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 16 in Livermore. He was predeceased by his daughter, Sandra Harris. He is survived by his children, Barbara Lynn Jarnagin of Brentwood, Patricia Ann Takens (Bruce) of Pleasanton, John Robert Harris II (Bobbie) of Pleasanton, and Megan Lighty (John) of Livermore. He is also survived by five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. John (Jay) was proud of his service in the Air Force and loved to wear his Air force cap. The family would like to thank the VA Medical Centers in Livermore and Palo Alto for their excellent care. John (Jay) lived the last ten years making many friends at Ridgeview Commons in Pleasanton. He owned The Coral Drive-In in the early '70's, Towne House restaurant in the '80's, and Pane In the Glass window washing business thereafter for many years. Mass and private burial January 3 at St. Michael's Livermore. In lieu of flowers, family requests that any donations be made to a charity of your choice....

Brandi Shasta (Blotz) Costa
July 29, 1984 - Dec. 12, 2018
Oakley, California

The world lost a shining light and beautiful soul on December 12, 2018, when Brandi Shasta (Blotz) Costa passed away unexpectedly of natural causes. Brandi was born on July 29, 1984 to Jan Arnold Blotz and Douglas Blotz in Walnut Creek, Ca. and grew up in Pleasanton, Ca., graduating from Amador High School in 2002. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature at California State University, East Bay in 2008. She was a valued employee and had a successful career at "Ports 1961". Brandi cherished her friends and family and adored being a Mom to her son, Isaiah. She recently married her beloved soul-mate, Mark, and was enjoying building their home and lives together with Isaiah. Her passions were helping those in need, as well as her creative outlets; cooking for those she loved and journaling her thoughts and joy for each day's adventures. Her beautiful smile was most radiant when she was visiting the Santa Cruz Boardwalk to ride The Big Dipper and enjoy a walk along the beach. Most importantly, Brandi loved deeply and lived her life with the greatest enthusiasm. Brandi will be forever missed by her Husband, Mark Costa Jr.; Son, Isaiah Blotz-Nic...

John F. "Jack" Bostedt
Oct. 31, 1928 - Dec. 10, 2018
Bigfork, Montana

Jack Bostedt passed away in Kalispell, Montana, at age 90 on December 10, 2018. He was born October 31, 1928, in Oconto, Wisconsin, the second child of Wilfred Earl and Palmy (Jilot) Bostedt. His father and grandfather were commercial fishermen, and Jack spent his childhood enjoying the outdoor life. He was a lifelong fan of his beloved Green Bay Packers, and attended his first game in 1945. He began his career in civil engineering with the City of Salinas. His profession led the couple and their four children to Sunnyvale, California, in 1960, and two years later to Pleasanton, California, where Jack was employed by MacKay & Somps Civil Engineers for many years. Jack moved to Bigfork, Montana, in 1971. He continued his engineering career in the Flathead Valley.Jack's final resting place will be Lone Pine Cemetery in Bigfork....

Rosemary Gabrielle Gallagher
Feb. 17, 1929 - Dec. 8, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Rosemary Gallagher passed away on Dec 8 at Kaiser hospital in Walnut Creek. Rosemary leaves her son David Gallagher and Brandie; daughter Carrie Astorino and Dr. Richard; daughter Wendy Gallagher and Eric Chalifour; grandson Rob Gallagher and Diana, and great granddaughter Colette; granddaughter Laurel Nguyen and Danny, and great grandsons Benjamin and Joseph; grandson Michael Astorino and Joan Castenada; and granddaughter Parin Gallagher. Rosemary was born in Hayward, Calif and shortly thereafter her family moved to Oakland where she was raised and eventually met her loving husband of 63 years, Cedric Gallagher. As a child Rosemary had a strong interest in drawing. Her interest expanded to oil painting and watercolors, which she pursued through the Livermore Art Association for many years after moving to Pleasanton in 1958. She formed many lasting friendships in the Association and remained active with her art until late in life. Rosemary always loved gardens and some of her happiest memories are from her years as an employee at Alden Lane Nursery in Livermore. It was a period in her life of camaraderie and hard work in the open air working with plants. She loved relating stori...

Douglas Eloyd Safreno
Oct. 6, 1924 - Nov. 28, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Douglas Eloyd Safreno passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 28th with his family by his side. He was 94 years old. He was bright and spry up until his last few days. He never lost his mischievous smile or the twinkle in his eyes. Doug was born in Pleasanton to Mary Gloria Regello, a native of San Pablo, CA and Manuel Souze Safreno of the Azores, Portugal. He was raised on First Street in Pleasanton and attended Pleasanton Elementary and Amador Valley High School where he was class president and an FFA, Future Farmers of America, member. Doug met Mary in 1953 through a friend and they were married 3 months later. They have lived in Pleasanton for the 65 years that they were married. Doug's creativity, artistic ability and business mind allowed him to successfully run several small businesses which led to a partnership in an East Bay residential construction company. He went on to purchase, develop and own commercial real estate in Pleasanton. Doug passed on his love for the outdoors to his children: Lynda, Casey and Ty. He spent many hours swimming, fishing, camping, boating, traveling and hunting. He was an avid reader of several periodicals and business tex...

Barry Winston Shoemaker, M.D.
Dec. 28, 1930 - Nov. 26, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Barry Winston Shoemaker, M.D. Pleasanton, CA Barry W. Shoemaker, M.D. passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on November 26, 2018 at 87 years old. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Dr. Shoemaker, an anesthesiologist, practiced medicine for 43 years. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force Reserve and was educated at University of Toronto Schools and University of Toronto Medical School, where he graduated in 1956. He spent one year in Vancouver, BC at Vancouver Children's Hospital for his pediatric residency and subsequently moved back to Ontario for General Practice at Niagara Falls General Hospital. During this time, he also attended Veterans Hospital in Buffalo, New York for his anesthesiology residency. Growing weary of the severe winters in Ontario and New York, he wrote his American Medical Board exams and moved the family to northern California in 1962 where he practiced at Eden Hospital in Castro Valley, Doctors Hospital in San Leandro and the East Bay Medical Surgical Center in Castro Valley until his retirement in 1997. He was a highly regarded anesthesiologist in the East Bay community and his greatest focus was patient comfort. ...

Jeffrey Scott May
Aug. 18, 1961 - Nov. 10, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Jeffrey Scott May passed away on Saturday, November 10th after suffering a heart attack. His passing was a shock and he will be greatly missed. He leaves a lasting legacy as an exemplary father, husband, coach, artist, and man of faith. Jeff was born in El Dorado, AR and graduated from Jacksonville High school. He attended the University of Arkansas, earning a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. He also held a M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Southern Methodist University. Jeff had a long and successful career as an engineer. From 1983 to 1991, he was a Sr. Systems Engineer at General Dynamics, where he designed and developed software for the F-16 fighter plane. He worked for SBC and AT&T as a Senior Technical Architect leading software development from 1996 to 2008. Jeff then worked over ten years at Amdocs, holding titles including Software Development Manager, Sales Director, and Executive IT Architect. Jeff will be remembered for his dedication in service to the Pleasanton community. He faithfully loved and attended Valley Community Church for over 20 years. He and his wife Kristi, welcomed children in need of temporary foster care into their home through the organizatio...

Margaret Blades
July 8, 1922 - Oct. 24, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Margaret Blades, 96, died Oct. 24, 2018. She and husband Jim lived in Orinda, Danville, and Pleasanton. Margaret grew up on Barbados with 5 sisters. She was a student in the Royal Drawing Society and enjoyed her artistic side until the end of her life. As a young woman, Margaret attended McGill University and trained as a RN at Montreal General. She married Jim in 1944, and they had 4 children, John, Annis, Liz, and Rick. She was grandmother to five, and great grandmother to Daisy. Margaret was very active in her community. When Orinda had no Episcopal Church, she called every family in the phone book until she had recruited almost 100 families so that the Bishop would fund the building of St. Stephen's. She was room mother, PTA President, World Book salesperson, avid gardener, and RN for Pleasanton Convalescent Hospital....

Estelle Newcomb
Dec. 31, 1950 - Oct. 18, 2018
Tri-Valley, 45 years, USA

Estelle Newcomb passed away suddenly and peacefully from respiratory failure on October 18, 2018. She was a Tri-Valley resident for 45 years, before moving to the Peninsula. Pre-deceased by her husband, Peter, and son, Steve, she is survived by her daughters, Caroline and Lucie, extended family and many friends. Canadian by birth, Estelle, who became an American citizen, was known for being a kind, thoughtful contributor. She truly loved helping others. She was active in local charitable organizations wherever she lived. Her projects included the founding of the Livermore-Amador Symphony Guild and 40 years of volunteering with the Mulberry Branch of Oakland Children's Hospital Auxiliary. Small in stature, great in heart, long on impact, Estelle will be remembered and cherished always. A Memorial Mass will be held in the coming months....

Jerry Lynn Hill
Aug. 20, 1943 - Oct. 16, 2018
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Mr. Jerry Lynn Hill, of St. Louis, Missouri was born on August 20, 1943 in Los Angeles, California, to the late Dorothea Marguerite Hill and the late Paul Wesley Hill who passed away at age 75 on October 16, 2018 in Pleasanton, California. Jerry served in the Air Force from 1963 to 1966. He was the owner of Jerry's Exxon in Pleasanton. Jerry was married to his loving wife, Pat for 51 years. He was preceded in death by his brothers, James Hill and Paul Hill. Jerry is survived by his son, Jeff Hill; daughter, Jennifer Hoobing; sisters, Shirley Sutcliffe and Mary Peterson; and grandchildren, Abby Hoobing, Zack Hoobing, Lindsay Hill, and Madison Hill. Jerry enjoyed his family most of all. He also liked fishing, western movies, Oakland Raiders football, The St. Louis Cardinals, and San Jose Sharks hockey. He was a very proud resident of Pleasanton and volunteered tirelessly with the Jaycees and Pleasanton Lions Club. His Scleroderma benefit golf tournament was his true calling and helped raise over $200,000 for research. Friends and family members are welcome to attend the celebration of life service on a later date....

Barbara Starr Christensen
Dec. 4, 1939 - Oct. 16, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Barbara Starr Christensen passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, October 16th in Pleasanton CA with her daughter and son-in-law lovingly caring for her. Barbara was born in Arizona in 1939, and grew up in both San Francisco and Walnut Creek, California. She graduated from Las Lomas High School in 1957. Distinct as a woman of her era, Barbara truly had a love for adventure. Following high school, Barbara decided to move to Hawaii, where she worked as a tour directress and immersed herself in the beauty of the islands. After Hawaii, she returned to San Francisco, where she was employed by both Bechtel & Standard Oil. While working at Standard Oil, Barbara met her husband William Christensen, who encouraged her to continue to pursue her love of travel by joining him at Matson Luxury Cruise Lines. Together, they traveled throughout the South Pacific and Australia. In February of 1967, when her only child, Laurel was born, Barbara transitioned into civilian life as a full-time mother. During her daughter's formative years in grade school, Barbara was active as the President of St. Dunstan's Women's Club in Millbrae CA, doing fundraising for the church and school. In ...

Joseph Rolland Freitas
June 8, 1939 - Oct. 14, 2018
Pleasanton, CALIFORNIA

Joseph Rolland "Joe" Freitas passed from this life on October 14, 2018 in Pleasanton, CA. As was his style, he was surrounded by family and friends until the end. Born in Vallejo, CA, on June 8, 1939, Joe was a proud Santa Clara University Bronco (Class of '61) who valued his classmates as lifelong friends. Joe retired from ServiceMaster as an environmental services manager at San Jose State in 2006, then enjoyed traveling with his family, refurbishing his home in Ben Lomond, and sharing smiles on his weekly Meals for Wheels route. Joe lived by the motto, "Let go, and let God." He is survived by wife Ellen, sons Joe (Elizabeth) of Livermore; Jim of Pleasanton and John (Crystal) of San Leandro, brother Tom (Claudia) of Santa Clara and sister Jolaine (Rob) of Fair Oaks. He loved his five grandchildren, seven nieces and nephews and the blessings of his extended family through his 23 year marriage to Ellen. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Elaine, and brother, Jerry. Services, followed by a reception, will be held at 11:00 am on October 25 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 3999 Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. He will be laid to rest at All Souls Cemetery in Va...

Janet Lee Bachand
April 19, 1961 - Oct. 14, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Janet Lee Bachand was born in Dallas, TX on April 19, 1961 to Lillian and John Cohen. They moved to California in 1974 and settled in Saratoga where Janet graduated from Saratoga High School. After high school, Janet attended Fresno State where she met her husband Steve. Janet graduated with a degree in Agricultural Business/Marketing. Janet and Steve were married in 1984 and moved to the Bay Area where Janet was a marketing manager for Almaden Vineyards. After Almaden left the southbay, she had a number of marketing related jobs before finding her passion working with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and other helpful psychological instruments working at Consulting Psychologists Press. Janet was a fun loving and outgoing person who loved reading, working out, nature and travel. She was known for her positive attitude, candor and being genuine and, of course, her smile. Janet is survived by her husband of 33 years, Steve, two sons, Kyle and Troy, sister, Deborah Cohen (Swartley), brother-in-law John Swartley, brother Daniel Cohen, sister-in-law Andrea Cohen, mother-in-law Gene Bachand, sister-in-law Michelle Bachand, brother-in-law Philip Bachand and 4 nephews; Ben Swartley,...

Martha-marie "Marty" Huntze
July 12, 1934 - Oct. 14, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Martha-marie "Marty" Huntze July 12, 1934 - October 14, 2018 Marty Huntze, 84, died as a result of a heart attack while gardening at her home in Pleasanton, California. Marty was born in Oakland, California to parents Albert and Elsie Long. In June 1958 she married Douglas Huntze and moved to Pleasanton that summer. Marty enjoyed trips to the Russian River and to McCloud where they built their second home. Marty always made the effort to keep in contact with family and friends. Her methods were stopping the car to talk if she saw you out in your yard, phone calls to keep in contact, cards through the mail, candies sent at holidays, lunches with cousins and the "softball ladies" and weekend trips with her sister Connie throughout California. For many years Marty and Doug hosted a 4th of July party to watch the fair fireworks and an annual Christmas Eve party in their home. Many have described her like a hummingbird, as she was always on the go. Marty enjoyed reading, driving on road trips, camping at Fowlers campground on the McCloud river, several trips to Hawaii, playing tennis and softball, water skiing, snow skiing, browsing through garage sales, water a...

Shirley Schwab
Feb. 18, 1932 - Oct. 12, 2018
Livermore, California

In loving memory of Shirley Schwab (Blacklock), a longtime resident of Fremont, who passed away peacefully on Friday, October 12. She was 86. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, a San Francisco native, and four sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her children: Bryan Schwab, Teri O'Callaghan (Jim), Jennifer Fields, Matt Schwab (Christine), and Joe Schwab Jr. (Anna), 11 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. A native of Taft and former Pleasanton resident, Shirley was adored by all who knew her. We are all devastated and heartbroken by her passing, but her memory also fills us with joy. Everybody loved Shirley. She had a sweet soul and the strength to raise five children. She was a longtime legal secretary, a great cook and an ardent Giants and 49ers fan. Nothing made her happier than spending time with family and friends. With a natural warmth, quick wit and sharp mind, Shirley loved her family unconditionally. She enjoyed talking sports and politics and always had something interesting to say. She was very well-read. Special thanks to Quail Garden Assisted Living in Livermore and Hope Hospice. Shirley was also a constant companion with her husb...

Diana Lee Olazaba
April 6, 1946 - Oct. 3, 2018
Fremont, California

Diana Lee Olazaba Apr 6, 1946 – Oct 3, 2018 Fremont resident Diana Lee Olazaba died Wednesday at Brookdale North Fremont Assisted Living. She was 72. Born in Portville, CA., she lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 56 years and owned a business in Fremont with her then husband, Richard for over 28 years. She is survived by her daughter Nicole Berens of San Jose and her sister Janet Gove of Angels Camp. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Dorothy Meeks; and first husband Edward Berens....

George Harold Becker
April 4, 1931 - Sept. 28, 2018
Pleasanton, California

George Harold Becker Jr. died Sept. 28 after a long illness. He was 87. A native of Chicago, George moved from Southern California to Pleasanton with his young family in 1971. He commuted long hours to his job with the San Francisco Newspaper Agency as a journeyman pressman and member of the Graphics Communications International Union. At home, he grew roses and tomatoes and he was a tremendous supporter of his late wife Kristina's quilting and needle arts. During the Korean War, George served aboard the destroyer USS Porter. His tour of duty to 22 ports in 13 countries ignited a lifelong passion for travel and he and Kristina enjoyed many trips together throughout the United States and abroad. George was a humble man, well known to the neighborhood children and beloved by his family and friends. He liked reading the daily newspaper, watching history documentaries and enjoying a good meal. A son, Eric; daughter, Ingrid and son-in-law, Joe Cabrales, survive him. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Svante Mannervik; sister in-law, Margareta Mannervik; two nephews, Bjorn and Ulf and two nieces, Ylva and Asa....

Marge Johnson
April 29, 1936 - Sept. 19, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Marge Johnson passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 19th in Pleasanton. Marge was born in Minnesota in 1936, grew up in Long Beach, California, and attended Stanford University where she met her husband of 57 years, Rudolph Johnson, whom she married in 1958. She worked as a teacher for many years before becoming a successful realtor, working in Palo Alto and Pleasanton. Marge was active in community affairs her entire life, including serving as president of local organizations including the Stanford Club and local chapters of the American Association of University Women and the Great Books Council. Her hobbies included reading and travel. Marge is survived by her brother, Martin McNair; sister-in-law Janis McNair; son Kurt Johnson; daughter-in-law, Anne Johnson; grandson, Luke Johnson; daughter, Kirsten Otey; son-in-law, Ned Otey; and grandsons Nathan Otey, Travis Otey, and Andrew Otey. Marge's Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday morning, September 29th at St. Clare's Episcopal Church: 3350 Hopyard Road in Pleasanton, CA, followed by a reception. All are invited. Memorial donations may be made to St. Clare's Episcopal Church i...

James Wayland Reding
Aug. 27, 1969 - Sept. 8, 2018
Pleasanton, California

James Wayland Reding, a life-long resident of Pleasanton, passed away on September 8, 2018, after a courageous 22-month battle with brain cancer. He was 49 years old. Jim attended Vintage Hills Elementary, Harvest Park Middle School, and graduated from Foothill High School in 1988. He continued his education at Chico State University, where he received his BA degree in 1993, and at Chapman University, where he received his teaching credential. Jim spent the last 14 years as a teacher at Wells Middle School in Dublin. Jim was a devoted family man. He enjoyed camping and fishing and had a love for travel and family traditions, which included a cherished annual Thanksgiving trip to Maui. Jim was a genuinely kind and accepting friend to all and was always the life of the party. He was known for having the best barbeque ribs around. Jim is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 22 years, Laura, and his beloved daughters, Katie (19) and Ellie (16); his parents, John and Mary Reding; his brother, Josh (Kindall) Reding; his father- and mother-in-law, Ron and Roanne Hobizal; his brothers-in-law, Erik (Anna) Hobizal and Craig (Melissa) Hobizal; his nephews, Cade, Paxt...

William Walburn Halvorsen
Sept. 24, 1945 - Aug. 29, 2018
Livermore, CA

William Walburn Halvorsen, a 50 year resident of Livermore, died on August 29, 2018. He was 72 years old. Born on September 24, 1945 in Oakland, CA; "Billy" grew up on 77th Ave and was an Oakland Tribune newspaper boy for 4 years. The family then moved to Castro Valley where he graduated from Castro Valley High School in 1963. He immediately enlisted for the United States Marine Corps serving as a combat aircrew member in Santo Domingo (1965) and a tour in Vietnam (1966-1967). Bill was awarded the Purple Heart and Air Medal among other citations during his time in the Marine Corps. In later years, Bill and his wife Penny would gather with his HMM-163 brothers at their "Popasmoke" USMC Helicopter Combat AirCrew Reunions to unite with … "such good men". He started his "whatta job!" at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Fire Department in 1969. In 1973, he joined the Pleasanton Fire Department which merged into the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department where he dedicated the rest of his 32 years of service. He started as a firefighter and retired as a Fire Division Chief in 2002, knowing his firefighters were his "second family". Bill met and ...

Mary Jo (Penny) Catherine Evans
April 24, 1937 - Aug. 25, 2018
Menlo Park, California

Mary Jo (Penny) Catherine Evans April 24, 1937 – August 25, 2018 It is with great sadness that our wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Penny Evans passed to the waiting arms of the love of her life, Bill Evans Sr. Everyone who knew Penny loved her. She lived a full and rich life surrounded by the people she loved and felt blessed to have a wonderful family and friends. Born in Duluth, Minnesota to Virgil R. Nichols and Catherine J. Smith, Penny was the eldest of three children. The family, including her two younger brothers moved to California in 1945 and settled in Sacramento. Penny met Bill Evans Sr. and after a whirlwind romance, they married on February 15, 1958. Home from college in San Francisco, she met Bill at a USO dance in Sacramento. Bill was a young, handsome Air Force Lieutenant stationed in nearby Travis Airforce Base. It was love at first sight, the couple were inseparable, and they married after a short courtship of eight weeks. Their marriage was loving and kind and lasted 53 years until Bill's passing in February 2012. She missed him every day and often spoke of joining him in heaven. Penny and Bill were blessed with fo...

James Wulferdingen
Oct. 8, 1939 - Aug. 22, 2018
Discovery Bay, California

James Louis Wulferdingen died of cancer on August 22, 2018. His charm and sense of humor were the last of his attributes to go, remarkable for a man who additionally had Alzheimer's. Jim was born in Berkeley, California in 1939, and was a fifth generation Berkeley native. Jim was an amazingly creative person with the ability to build just about anything, a talent he freely shared with friends and family. He was an animal lover and had many pets but his favorite was his parrot which would perch on his shoulder as he mowed the lawn. A fan of jazz all his life, Jim learned to play piano, guitar and harmonica as a child and performed in a local band. Jim began working as a plumber's assistant at the age of 11, and was given a thorough education in the use of plumbing, machine shop and hand tools which he refined all his life. At 17 Jim joined the Coast Guard, attending the academy in New London, Connecticut, and enjoyed the jazz scene in Greenwich Village, NY while on leave. He became a Chief Petty Officer while stationed in Honolulu, HI, where he traveled to islands such as Pohnpei and Yap with the Coast Guard and reveled in his role as helper and protector of people throughout Mi...

Kristen Janet Winslow
Dec. 29, 1952 - Aug. 20, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Kristen (Kris, Abuela) Winslow, a long-time resident of Pleasanton, CA passed away at her home August 20th, 2018. A lifelong resident of the Bay Area, Kris was born December 29th, 1952 to John and Sigrid Banks and grew up in Palo Alto. While still in high school, Kris spent time traveling in Mexico where she quickly developed a love for the people and their culture, and subsequently an aptitude for the Spanish language. Following graduation, she enrolled in the University of California at Davis where she majored in Psychology and minored in Spanish. In the years after college, Kris moved to Lake Tahoe and quickly developed a lasting affinity for the quiet, mountain community. Though she would eventually settle permanently with her family in the East Bay, Kris would frequently visit the Tahoe area with dear friends for the rest of her life. Kris was a devoted mother and grandmother and was always a constant fan of her boys' (Son's and Grandson's) sports teams. She missed very few local soccer or T-ball games and tournaments. When her sons were in college, she was quick to send care packages, whether they were needed or not. Her incomparable thoughtfulness, heart for serv...

Nancy Elsnab
Jan. 22, 1929 - Aug. 19, 2018
Pleasanton, California

On August 19th, 2018, Nancy Torrey Elsnab left this life for the next. Born on January 22nd, 1929 in San Diego, Nancy spent most of her life as a resident of Pleasanton, California. She made sure to immerse herself in her small town, and knew every face she passed. A fan of the restaurants on Mainstreet, she was a frequent patron of Strizzis, Pastas, and Barones. She spent most of her adult life on St. John Street, raising her 4 children and favorite dog, Flame. She was unfortunately preceded in death by two of those children, Karen Elsnab Rider and Tommy Elsnab, her parents Al and Vivian Torrey, and her brother, Robert Torrey. They have now been reunited for an endless happy hour, presumably on the shores of tropical beaches. Finding herself a single woman in the 1970s, she set out to make a way for herself. A savvy business woman, she discovered a way to have people pay for her favorite hobby – travel. She co-founded Athenour Travel Agency and spent many years leading tours around the world for both novice and seasoned adventurers such as herself. Her favorite country was Kenya, and she made several trips over the years. She would return with a myriad of local souveni...

Timothy John Berkley
May 23, 1958 - July 16, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Tim passed away peacefully on Monday July 16th, 2018 at the age of 60. Born in Los Angeles to Jack and Nancy Berkley on May 23rd, 1958 they later moved to Pleasanton in 1971. Tim married Maria, his high school sweetheart September 3rd, 1977 in Pleasanton. Tim is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Maria; his children Ryan and wife Stacy, Melissa, sister Theresa, Grandchildren Kennedy Faith and Savannah Grace, nephews Jeremy and Anthony, niece Claire and many loved ones. Tim is preceded in death by his grandmother GiGi, mother Nancy, brother Steve and father Jack. Services to be held 10:30am Saturday August 18th at St. Augustine Church Pleasanton....

John Richard Wortham
April 25, 1957 - July 5, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

John Richard Wortham, 61, of Pleasanton, California, passed away at his home on July 5, 2018, following a short battle with cancer. Born on April 25, 1957, in Castro Valley, California, John attended Chabot College and Cal State East Bay, and served in the United States Marine Corps for three years. He enjoyed reading, writing, singing in his church choir, playing guitar, Bible study, travel, and spending time with his family. He worked for State Compensation Insurance Fund in Pleasanton for almost 15 years. John is survived by his wife of 33 years, Gail Lynette; son, Ian Richard; step-mother, Dorothy Wortham; sister, Courtney Clements; brother, Edwin Wortham V (Cynthia); step-siblings Michael McGlynn, Jr. (Nafisa), Brian McGlynn, Kathleen McGlynn (Ann), Patricia Ketner (Darrell), and Jeanne Wurzel (Paul). He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin Wortham IV; mother, Georgene Dawn Wise and step-sister, Ann McGlynn....

Sally Jean Jantzen
Sept. 8, 1937 - July 3, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Sally Jean Jantzen passed away on July 3, 2018 at the age of 80. She was a long time resident of Pleasanton who hailed from Alameda. Although she had been in frail health for sometime, she was a fighter and always rallied back. She is now at peace and can rest. Sally is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Lloyd Martin Jantzen, along with their children- Cindy Jantzen Ford (Jim), Cathy Jantzen Rivenes (Andy), and Jeff Jantzen (Christine). She is also survived by her grandchildren whom she loved very much- Keith, Collin, Logan, Drake, Haley and Reed. Her surviving siblings Mike Davies, George "Bud" Davies III (Evea), and Nancy Horton (Ken) will miss their eldest sister. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her youngest sister, Barbara Webb. When her children were young, she was active with 4-H and Girl Scouts. She also worked as a bookkeeper for 19 years prior to retirement. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date....

Ward Davison Belding
March 15, 1941 - June 27, 2018
Walnut Creek, California

Ward D. Belding, Jr., beloved husband of Patricia M. Belding, devoted father of Susannah and Eileen Belding, dear brother of Richard (Sharon) Belding, and loving uncle of Andrew and Mariana Belding, passed away peacefully in Walnut Creek, CA, on June 27. A son of the late Ward D. Belding Sr. and Helen Elizabeth Belding, Ward was raised in South Pasadena, graduated from Pomona College and Syracuse University, and was a long time Pleasanton resident. He had a long career as a planner and manager for BART. Ward had many interests that he loved and pursued with energy, but even more important to him was sharing those interests with friends and colleagues throughout his life...from college, from BART, from the many choral organizations with which he sang, from the hiking fraternity, and from his community. He enjoyed meeting new people, cherished relationships with long-time friends, and valued the memories of shared adventures. He was a generous spirit and friend to many....

Everett Teves
July 22, 1929 - June 25, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Everett Teves passed away in his Pleasanton home of forty-nine years after a courageous battle against acute myeloid leukemia. He is now at peace. To meet Everett was to be in the presence of an intelligent, loving, and kind human being. Everett was born in Fall River, Massachusetts and drove across country with his family at the age of fourteen to make a life in California and in the Bay Area. Everett was a quiet, yet fierce patriot who served his country in the U.S. Marines during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Everett found his next profession at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and after thirtythree years, retired as a Senior Class II Machinist. Everett is survived by his devoted wife, Ilda Teves. This year they would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Everett is also survived by his two adoring daughters Christina Teves (Bertha) and Michelle VerKuilen (Steve) and two grandchildren, Maxwell and Trenton. Everett considered his grandsons the 'apple of his eye'. The surviving family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Kavitha Raj and the staff at Valley Medical Oncology Center. They are also appreciative of t...

Alan Wiggins
June 15, 1957 - June 23, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Alan "Al" Glenn Wiggins, 61, went peacefully home to be with the Lord on Saturday evening, June 23, 2018, with his devoted wife Sherry by his side. Al was born in Utah on June 15, 1957, to Shirley and Bill Wiggins. Al's firm belief in his Savior Jesus Christ gave him the courage to live these last several months in peace and acceptance that there was no earthly cure for his stage four lung cancer. Al and Sherry were husband and wife for 32 years, with each year bonding them ever more deeply. Al was blessed with a large and loving family. Al loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He was kind, soft-spoken, and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how small. Al also had a never-ending love for his mom and dad, his three brothers and two sisters. Al had many friends, passions and hobbies, including Nascar, playing guitar, listening to favorite music, and joining his ECV (Clamper brothers) for memorable outings that made for great stories to tell. Al was talented in carpentry and construction as well. When Al and Sherry's younger son entered the United States Marine Corps in 2005, Al enthusiastically joined Sherry in supporting the mil...

Leonard Mark
Jan. 6, 1931 - June 19, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Leonard G. Mark, a 60-year resident of Pleasanton, California passed away in his home surrounded by his family at age 87 on June 19th. He was born in Selma, Ca to Glenn and Edith Mark. In 1952, Leonard enlisted in the Air Force and during the Korean War he piloted one of the first military jets as a member of the 310th Fighter Bomber Squadron. Returning from Korea, he attended Fresno State and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and a minor in Art. In 1957 he met and married Martha Scott of Fowler, Ca. They lived in Oakland shortly before putting down roots in Pleasanton where they raised their three children; Kelly, Darin and Jennifer. Leonard worked at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Business Operations for 33 years. He was very active in the community and the Presbyterian Church where he was the substitute organist and enjoyed being part of the church choir, as well as being one of the original members of the Balloon Platoon. He would often lend his artistic abilities and creativity towards town events. After retiring, he started a framing business, walls, et cetera. Leonard always took the time to listen to others and truly cared about the ...

Gisele Stickler
March 10, 1960 - June 4, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Gisele Stickler passed away on June 4, 2018 after a 14-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. She had a fierce passion for life, an infectious smile, and unwavering strength. Her ability to find the positive in every situation, no matter how difficult it may have been, was not only inspiring to all, it also was what made her truly one of a kind. Gisele's life and resilient fight was motivated by the commitment and love she had for her family. For thirty years she was a devoted wife and lifelong companion to Greg Stickler and beloved mother to Kevin and Danielle. Gisele was the backbone of the Stickler family and a trusted, empathetic friend to so many people. Gisele was born and raised in Oakland, CA, to Maurice and Paulette Besse, both lifelong Oakland teachers whose selflessness, compassion, and generosity transformed the lives of countless students over their careers — rare traits that were passed along to their only child, Gisele. After attending California State University, Chico, she began her life's work as a medical administrator at Peralta Hospital in Oakland where she met her future husband, Greg. The two married on November 14, 1987, in San Francisco, CA. I...

Donald Hayes Devlin
June 16, 1926 - May 31, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Donald Hayes Devlin passed away on May 31, 2018. He was born to Virginia and Dr. Harold Devlin in San Francisco, California. He attended George Washington High School and joined the ROTC. He graduated UC Berkeley in 1945 and from Dental school at UC San Francisco in 1949. He later trained as an Oral Surgery resident at the University of Oklahoma and Northwestern University and later joined the Army Dental Corp. He spent two years in the Army at Fort Ord, CA. He finished his Oral Surgery residency in Chicago at Cook County Hospital in 1955. He was in private practice in San Francisco and in San Leandro for more than 30 years and taught for 60 years at the University of California San Francisco and San Francisco General Hospital. He later was the Chairman and Program Director of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery at Alameda County Medical Center (Highland Hospital). He was responsible for joining Highland Hospital's Oral Surgery program with the University of the Pacific Dental School. He was an avid photographer, boater, movie maker and an 83 year member of the San Francisco Olympic Club. He was a devoted husband, father and a positive influence on family, friends and his...

Bob Shigemoto
Dec. 2, 1952 - May 30, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Bob Shigemoto passed away on May 30, 2018 with his family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. Bob grew up in Oakland, Ca, and moved to Pleasanton in 1989. As a avid sports fan, Bob thoroughly enjoyed every Spring season as a PGSL coach and assistant coach for his daughter's softball teams. Between softball seasons, Bob spent time bicycle touring, riding hundreds of miles throughout the Tri-Valley and Northern California. He also loved watching all manners of sports on TV. Bob will always be remembered for his easy going nature, kindness, and patience. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Lisa, daughter, Katie, mother, Miyo , sister, Joanne Makishima (Dennis) and many cousins and close friends....

Janice Mickelson
July 23, 1937 - May 23, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Chipper, perky, enthusiastic about everything, game for anything. Energetic w/a friendly smile for all. This was Jan at hello. She grew up in Piedmont, went to Cal Berkeley and settled in Pleasanton to raise her family. Jan loved to cook, had a way of making all feel welcome and at ease. She was artistic with beautiful handwriting. She loved to travel, camp, hike, but she loved her family & friends most. She leaves a legacy of love to her husband Ron, daughters Pam and Kim and their husbands, and her 5 grandchildren who were the joy of her life. She truly left the world a better place, & will be deeply missed. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, June 10 at 2:30 pm at Valley Community Church, 4455 Del Valle Parkway, Pleasanton....

Franklyn David Smith
Dec. 31, 1932 - May 18, 2018
Reno, Nevada

The world lost a wonderfully warm, loving yet ambitious gentleman on May 18, 2018. Reno, Nevada resident Franklyn "Frank" David Smith passed quietly on, Friday afternoon, after brief complications from CHF. Born in Grand Junction, CO. Dec 31, 1932, Frank was one of 8 children, in a tight-knit, hardworking family. This clan ultimately moved and settled in Glendale, CA, where Frank grew up and attended Glendale High and College, eventually receiving a bachelor's degree from St. Mary's College in his adult years. Working all through his younger years as a paperboy and draftsman in Glendale served him well, paving the way for future successes in business. Many years later, Frank relied on this cultured ingenuity, as he bought into a small company named Porter Seal in the Bay Area. He eventually grew it and molded it to be The Bay Seal Company, which remains a vibrant business and a testament to Frank's life and work ethic. In advance of this love affair with business, he met and married the true love of his life, Dessie Mae Shealy (a nearby resident and nurse at the time); they recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary surrounded by their many friends and family wh...

Jean Ramos
Dec. 15, 1927 - May 16, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Jean Ramos, age 90, passed away on May 16, 2018, in Pleasanton, California. Jean was born December 15, 1927 in Monrovia, California, to parents Finis William "Bill" Smith and Jean Frances Martin. Jean is survived by two brothers, Page Williams and Bobby Smith, three sons, Bruce, Lynn (Cheryl) and Craig (Lisa) Ramos. She is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Joseph Ramos. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Johnny (Allison) Ramos, Ryan (Allison) Ramos and Katelyn (Chi-Chao) Peng, and four great-grandchildren, Kaitlynn, Haley, Chloe and Ella Ramos. Since early childhood, Jean had a special love and appreciation for horses. Her Grandfather gave her a horse when she was a very young girl which she loved riding in Horse Shows. On June 14, 1946, Jean met Joe, who also loved horses and was a thoroughbred racehorse trainer at Santa Anita Race Track and Hollywood Park. Two weeks later, Joe proposed and said, "You are the one for me." They were married in Santa Barbara two months later. She and Joe lived in Southern California, Palo Alto and eventually brought the family to Pleasanton in 1962. She was a homemaker, dedicated wife and a loving mother. J...

Wayne Allen Dodge
Dec. 26, 1946 - May 9, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Wayne Allen Dodge died of a brain aneurysm at Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley at the age of 71. Wayne was born in Hilo, Hawaii to Chow Fung and Fred Dodge. The family relocated to Rubidoux, CA where he and his siblings grew up. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966-1972 and then earned a bachelor's degree from Cal Poly Pomona. He married Roberta (Bobbie) Dodge on July 30, 1983 in Orange County. They moved north to Pleasanton in 1989 where they lived until his passing. Wayne spent his professional career in the insurance industry, earning the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation from the Insurance Education Association. He taught underwriting classes for the institute for many years. He served as a loss prevention specialist in workers compensation. He retired as an Assistant Vice President of Republic Indemnity Insurance Co. after a 40-year career. He will be remembered for his unconditional love for his family and friends, his incredible sense of humor, his devotion to Bobbie and his unfailing gift for happiness which he gladly shared through his radiant smile for all he met. He was a wonderful husband, brother, uncle and "Papa" extra...

Susan Jill Miller
Oct. 21, 1945 - May 8, 2018
Sacramento, CA

Former Pleasanton resident Susan Jill Miller died of a stroke at the age of 72 in Sacramento. Jill was born in Sioux City, IA to Richard Henry Heitman and Florence Marian Farr-Heitman. Growing up with her three sisters, she always wanted to be a nurse. Her favorite books were the mystery nurse series about Cherry Ames. The family and later her own family loved to play board and card games. Her family moved to Patterson, CA when she was three and then relocated to Pleasanton where she graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1963. She married Robert V. Miller on December 30, 1967 at the original Presbyterian Church at 100 Neal Street in Pleasanton. They had two children and divorced after 10 years. After 16 years in Pleasanton, she moved to Hawaii for 16 years before returning to Pleasanton for the final 18 years of her working career. Jill loved chocolate and always had a stash somewhere in her home. One of her favorite activities was travelling, particularly going to Disneyland with her grandkids and Europe. Her deep faith in God sustained her throughout her life. Jill was a three-time breast cancer survivor and participated in the Pleasanton support group. She worked a...

Gretchen Piscotty
Aug. 18, 1962 - May 6, 2018
Pleasanton, California

She was a woman who touched all with her love, care and grace. She has moved on to prepare the Piscotty family's heavenly home, liberated from the shackles of ALS. Beloved mother of Stephen, Nicholas, and Austin, devoted wife and companion to her husband Mike, she was the bedrock of the Piscotty family and a trusted, empathetic friend to the scores of people she met. Born in Queens, NY to Elke and Artin Mikaelian, she was raised in Albuquerque, NM. She attended Del Norte High School and the University of New Mexico, where she met Mike on a spring break camping trip. They were married in 1985 at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Albuquerque. Following the wedding, Gretchen and Mike took up residence in Livermore, CA where they began their careers. As their family grew, Gretchen lovingly devoted herself to raising their three sons. As the boys started high school, she began to work at Foothill High School and enjoyed working there throughout their college years. She was exceptionally proud of her sons graduating from Stanford, Duke, and soon, St. Mary's College. When not in the stands supporting her sons at baseball games, she nurtured their ambitions off the field. ...

Mun J Mar
Oct. 17, 1931 - May 6, 2018
Fremont and Los Altos Hills, California

Mun J. Mar of Los Altos Hills, California, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on May 6, 2018. He was 86 years old. Mun is survived by his wife of 25 years Robyn Ledwith Mar, daughter Camrin (John) Harris, son Craig Mar, daughter Traci (Greg) Fung, and daughter Robin Mar (Randall Hoffman), stepson Mark (Laura) Ledwith, stepdaughter Alyson (Michael) D'Auteuil, stepson Ryan (Tamara) Ledwith, stepson Tyler Ledwith, brother Art (Emily) Mar, brother Yue (Jean) Mar, sister Carol (Al) Woo, and many grandchildren, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife Helen Mar. Mun was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all. When Mun was 7, he immigrated from China to the United States. He graduated from Salinas High School and earned a degree in Civil Engineering from UC Berkeley. He started his career as an engineer for the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and concluded his 33 years of public service as the General Manager of the Zone 7 Water Agency. Mun will be remembered for his genuine warmth, diplomacy, knack for gathering people, fun on the golf course, and being a Chinese foodie befor...

John E. Harding
Sept. 5, 1963 - April 30, 2018
Pleasanton, California

John E. Harding loved life. He loved time with his family, good friends and food, traveling the world, and practicing law. He managed cancer for nearly nine years with a singular focus to keep doing the things he loved with the people loved. His truly courageous battle ended on April 30, 2018, surrounded by his family. At 54, he was not able to live a full life, but he most definitely lived his life to the fullest. John was born in San Francisco and raised in San Ramon. He played baseball at Cal Poly, graduated undergrad from St. Mary's College, and focused on his future at Golden Gate University School of Law, where he met his wife, Lisa. John practiced law for 29 years, becoming a certified family law specialist and a fellow in the American Association of Matrimonial Lawyers, serving as the organization's president in 2016. He was also an active member in the International Association of Matrimonial Lawyers and always looked forward to their annual gatherings around the globe. John had a passion for traveling the world and was always looking for a new adventure. He visited over 40 countries on six continents, and prided himself on knowing just about everything. Jo...

Joseph Rose
Dec. 25, 1924 - April 30, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Joseph Anthony Rose passed away on Monday, April 30, 2018. He touched many lives with his outgoing personality and lovable spirit. Joe was born in Hayward, CA. After high school, Joe joined the United States Army and served during WWII. He later joined the United States Navy and served during the Korean War. Once he returned home, he moved to Pleasanton in 1956 and became a police officer with the city. Joe served the city of Pleasanton for 29 years and retired as a sergeant in 1985. After he retired, he enjoyed teaching traffic school, as well as working on his 1955 Chevy pick-up truck. Joe was predeceased by his loving wife, Millie Rose and is survived by his children Joseph Rose II (Donna Rose) of Pleasanton, Luanne Rose (Bob Kitson) of Pleasanton and Frank Rose of Stockton, as well as his grandchildren Mirissa Rose and Millie Sansom of Pleasanton. His laughter and generosity will be missed by all who knew him....

Frederica Flach Murphey
May 1, 1952 - April 28, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Pleasanton, CA – Rickie Flach Murphey, 65, died Saturday, April 28, 2018 at her home surrounded by her loving family due to complications from lung cancer. She was the wife of Thomas J. Murphey formerly of Elmira, NY. Born in New York City, NY she was the daughter of the late Patricia Kane Flach and Frederic Francis Flach, M.D. Rickie attended the Convent of the Sacred Heart in New York City and spent her childhood summers in East Hampton, Long Island, New York. She attended the University of the State of New York and graduated with an AAS in Nursing of which she was very proud. Her specialty was outpatient psychiatry. In 1990 she wrote a book titled Rickie with her father and subsequently lectured extensively about psychiatry and mental illness. She practiced in New Jersey before relocating to California. She loved traveling with her husband Tom in their RV, riding her horse Harry at Reins in Motion and spending time with her grandchildren. She was the loving mother of Brian Christopher Hartman of Pleasanton, CA, Erica Anne Hazen of Dublin, CA and Heather Kristen Hartman-Pratt of Hayward, CA. and the dear grandmother of Dakodah, Lytning, Thunder, and Rayn Hazen and Tyler, Toby...

Ross Howell Hoblitzell
March 25, 1926 - April 27, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Ross H. Hoblitzell of Pleasanton, Ca passed away April 27,2018 at Stanford/Valley Care in Pleasanton. Mr. Hoblitzell was a native of Wheeling, West Virginia and lived most of his life in Livermore, CA. Ross was Ordained Deacon in the Roman Catholic Church at St. Augustine's in Pleasanton in March 1978. After his ordination he was assigned to St. Charles Borromeo in Livermore, CA. He served there several years before moving to St. Michaels. he also served in the Diocese at Fresno and later the Diocese of Stockton. He retired from LLNL after 24 years, prior to his retirement he and his late wife Barbara bought the Livermore Mortuary and operated that from 1978 to 1994. Ross is survived by his seven children, Ross Jr of Villaricca, Italy, James of Parkdale Or, Christine of Livermore Ca, Barbara of Baltimore Md, John of Atascadero Ca, Mary of Livermore Ca, Kathi of San Diego Ca. 9 Grandchildren and 1 great Grand Child. A Rosary will be held on Thursday, May 3rd at 8 pm and Mass Friday, May 4th at 10:00 am, both at St. Michaels Catholic Church 458 Maple St, Livermore, CA 94550. Remembrances may be made to the First Tee (https://thefirsttee.org) and Livermore K9 Foundation (https://ww...

Gary Edward Barzee
May 30, 1941 - April 25, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Gary was born in Beaverton, OR on May 30, 1941. He graduated from Beaverton H.S. and received his Bachelor's Degree in 1963 from Oregon State University where he was also a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. In 1969, Gary received an honorable discharge from the United States Air Force Reserves and the California Air National Guard. He worked as manager with Sears, Roebuck and Co. throughout Northern California for 30 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Gary is survived by his wife Carol (Pool) of 51 years, daughters Wendy Balanon of Tracy and Julie (Glenn) Fietz of Pleasanton, five grandchildren, Justin, Samantha, Alexandria, Derek and Kelly, and his brother Dean (Margie) Barzee of North Carolina....

Mary Ellen Coffey Pierson
June 1, 1927 - April 23, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Mary Ellen Coffey-Pierson beloved mother of Lori Raun, died peacefully Monday April 23, 2018 at the age of 90. She is survived by two sons, Paul and John Pierson of Milwaukee Wisconsin, and daughters Mary Cassidy of Livingston Montana, and Ellen Eschenwald of Lancaster Pennsylvania. 17 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren are mourning their loss as well, of Mary Ellen, affectionately known as "Gramsie." Mary Ellen was a proud graduate of Marquette University and became a gifted teacher for over 40 years, touching lives that spanned three states. She earned her Masters Degree in Speech and Learning Disabilities from Cardinal Stritch College in Glendale Wisconsin. She was a devout Roman Catholic and dedicated her life to her family. She traveled all over the country to spend time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her wonderful sense of humor, infectious laugh, and exceptional flair for fashion earned her the fond nickname of "Hollywood Mary." Her beautiful smile, generous spirit and loving heart will be missed by all those who had the privilege in knowing her and who's lives she touched in such a profound way. I will miss you, sweet mother of mine. Res...

Steven John Wahl
May 24, 1954 - April 20, 2018
Pleasanton, California

"After an extended illness, Steven John Wahl, 63, passed away Friday evening, April 20th, at the Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley, surrounded by his loved ones. Steve was born on May 25th, 1954 in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, to John and Irene (Sticka) Wahl. He graduated from Cathedral High School in 1971, and worked in his hometown in men's clothing sales, as a bartender, and as a maître d' until heading west in the early 80's. A short stay working construction in Las Vegas was followed by a project management position in San Carlos, California, which ultimately led to a 35-year career in wholesale and retail floor covering sales at California Custom Carpets in Dublin, California. He met the love of his life, Deborah Mulick, while working as a part time bartender at the Customs House in Foster City, California. They were married on June 15th, 1985 in Pleasanton, California and have made their home there for the past 34 years. With a great flair for the dramatic, Steve had a passion for memorizing baseball statistics and all things athletics-related, loved his Oakland A's and Cal Bears, and had become an extraordinary chef, acquiring a massive collection of skills (...

Marjorie Carol Edney
Oct. 27, 1932 - March 30, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Mrs. John W. Edney Jr. of Pleasanton Ca, surrounded by her family passed away on March 30, 2018. M. Carol Edney was born in Needham Ma. to Elizabeth and Scott Fader. Carol's achievements in life were numerous, but she will be forever remembered as loving wife of 62 years a fierce mother of 6, and a stern and respected elementary school teacher. Carol was preceded in death by her 5 siblings, her eldest son David, and her grandson J. Casey Mack. She is survived by her beloved husband and of 62 years John "Jack" W. Edney and her 5 courageous children, 10 amazing grandchildren and 2 energetic great grandchildren. A memorial service is to be held at the Veterans Hall of Pleasanton, CA on April 29th at 1 PM. In place of flowers please make donations to the ARNOLD RIM TRAIL ASSOCIATION or Marylin Avenue School STEAM LAB of Livermore CA or First Candle and CJ Foundation for SIDS....

Barbara Simonson Hill
Aug. 27, 1961 - March 28, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

We lost our beloved Barbara Simonson Hill tragically and far too soon on March 28, 2018. Barb was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on August 27, 1961 to parents Ray and Thelma Simonson and was raised with her sister Mary in nearby Fairfield. In 1983, she earned a BS in Industrial Engineering at Purdue University. Proud to be an engineer like her dad, she started her career at Naval Avionics in Indianapolis. In 1986, she married and then earned an MBA at Indiana University, Bloomington before moving to Hawaii in 1988 where she had honeymooned. She felt like family among those she worked with there at a financial software company, Users, Inc., and she enjoyed sailing, snorkeling, hiking and many wonder-filled adventures throughout the islands. In 1993, she took a job at Pac Bell Directory in San Francisco and enjoyed living city life with her husband, commuting to and from work via cable car. In 1995 they moved to the Indian Rock neighborhood in Berkeley where they had son Griffin in 1997. Barb was, first and foremost, a loving mother and while she continued to excel professionally as a Director at Pacific Bell, she decided to focus on her children soon after daughter Emily was born in 200...

Alex V. Spotorno
Aug. 25, 1926 - March 26, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Alex V. Spotorno passed away on Monday, March 26, 2018. A rancher in Pleasanton for almost 70 years, living on the family ranch established in 1867, he was highly respected in the industry for his expertise as well as the high quality of his cattle and lambs. Alex was born in San Francisco, CA, son of Alexandre V. Spotorno and Isabel Marie Roberts. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII piloting landing craft in the Pacific Arena, followed by graduation from U.C. Davis in 1949. In addition to ranching, he was land manager of the watershed lands for the City and County of San Francisco Water Department for thirty years. He was a member of the state and county Farm Bureaus for many years and served for a time as Vice–President of the CA Woolgrowers Association. Alex is survived by his loving wife, LaVerne; devoted children Kenneth Spotorno (Jan), Joanne Zachariades, John Spotorno (Jennifer), Kathryn Spotorno, Marianne Spotorno, son-in-law Lee Zachariades; loving step-children Stephen Quartarola (Peggy), Michele Motekaitis (Paul), AnneMarie Bjorklund (Erik), Gina Angulo (Joe); fourteen adoring grandchildren Katie and Allie Zachariades, Gregory Spotorno, Anneka and Kiana Pi...

Justin Michael Meinert
May 20, 1980 - March 18, 2018
Livermore, California

Justin Meinert passed away Sunday morning, March 18th, in his childhood home in Pleasanton, surrounded by his loved ones, after a valiant 6-month battle with cancer. He touched many lives with his unique sense of humor and positive attitude. He was 37. Justin was born in Hayward and grew up in Pleasanton. He graduated from Amador Valley High School, class of 1999. He earned his associates degree at Feather River Community College in Quincy, CA. After returning from college, Justin worked at DeSilva Gates, Delta, Shimmick Construction (where he met his wife), Peterson Caterpillar, and finally Vulcan Materials where he was a heavy equipment operator and mechanic. Justin was a member of Operating Engineers Local 3. Justin loved fishing with his buddies, camping, being outdoors and spending time with his family. He was a huge Oakland Raiders fan, and a Clamper with E Clampus Vitus (ECV) Matuca Chapter #1849. Justin is survived by his wife, Michelle and children; step-daughter, Destiny and son, Hank of Livermore. Justin is also survived by his father Bruce (Kathy) Meinert of Pleasanton, his sisters Melanie (Victor) Pereira of Tracy, and Heather (Gary) Ever...

Judy Ann Butler
April 27, 1937 - March 12, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Judy Ann Butler passed away on March 12, 2018, Born April 27, 1937 to the late Dorothy and Kenneth Bauer in Wichita, Kansas, the Sunflower State. Judy passed away at her home in Pleasanton CA, accompanied by her family during her sleep. Judy was an extraordinary woman, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and friend who taught us the meaning of kindness, giving, gentleness and love, something she demonstrated throughout her entire life. She enjoyed her many adventures in the sand, water and her favorite- the beach. She was an avid reader & gardener, sunflowers being her favorite. Most of all, she loved caring for and spending time with her family, especially spoiling her precious Grandchildren. Judy is survived by her husband of 63 years Norman D Butler, son Kerry Butler (Jill), daughter Shari Schanen (Tim), and grandchildren: Jessica, Danielle, Ryan, and Karalee. Among those, she has also left behind loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. Proceeded in death by her son Kenneth Butler. Her legacy will live on through the hearts of those lives she touched. Although she will be terrible missed, we know that she is dancing in Heaven, watching over us. Until we ...

Scott Kurt Kienhofer
May 15, 2000 - March 12, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Scott Kienhofer passed away peacefully and entered Heaven on March 12, 2018. Scott was surrounded by loving family. Scott was born and raised in Pleasanton, California. During that time, he attended Lydiksen Elementary, Hart Middle School and was currently a senior at Foothill High School. Scottie recently developed a passion for fishing and loved spending the weekends at his family's cabin in Clearlake, California. Scott had a profound respect for nature and loved animals, especially his family's pets. He played baseball for Foothill Little League, several travel ball teams, and eventually played both his freshman and sophom*ore years for the Foothill High School Baseball Team. Scott possessed a love for sports. He enjoyed watching the Golden State Warriors, the Philadelphia Phillies, the WVU Mountaineers, and was so excited when the Philadelphia Eagles won their first Super Bowl just this year. Scott had an infectious smile and was seen as a "ray of sunshine" by those around him. He was wise and thoughtful, someone who seemed much older than they were, with much wisdom. His down to earth personality and great sense of faith carried him through his 10 month long ba...

Antonio "Tony" Silva
Jan. 3, 1926 - March 10, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Antonio Silva, 92, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side. He was born in Castelo Branco, Faial, Azores. In 1959, he immigrated with his wife to the United States from the Azores Islands in Portugal and settled in Pleasanton. He made his career as a carpenter, building furniture and cabinets. He worked for the Pleasanton Cabinet Shop for 23 years before becoming self-employed. His craftsmanship can be found in many homes and businesses in our community. Antonio was very proud of his Portuguese heritage. He enjoyed attending many Holy Ghost celebrations. Spending time with his family was number one. Traveling, cruising and vacationing with his motorhome brought him joy. Tony loved riding his bicycle around the neighborhood, stopping along the way to visit friends and neighbors. Watching soccer on TV was one of his favorite pastimes. Antonio is survived by his wife of 65 years, Emilia, their two daughters and their spouses, Kathy (Lyle), Maria (Mike), three grandchildren, Kevin, Brittany and Kyle and one great-grandson, AJ. He is predeceased by his parents and seven siblings....

Cecilia Andrade Hughes
Dec. 20, 1931 - March 5, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Cecilia was born on December 20, 1931. She was the daughter of Jose and Emilia Andrade, Portuguese immigrants from the Azores Islands. The Portuguese culture of belief in The Lord was the foundation of the family's life. Cecilia grew up during the Great Depression, spending years on a dairy farm in Lemoore, California. She became involved with farm duties at an early age including milking cows each morning and evening and many other chores. She graduated from Lemoore High School where she was active in sports and other activities. She married Homer Hughes in 1952 and was married for 56 years. They moved to Pleasanton in 1954 where she has lived ever since. They had three children Ricki, Vicki Lynn and David; four grandsons Bryan, Daryl, Aron and Adam; and three great-grandchildren Chayce, Caitlyn and Hudson. Cecilia was a devoted daughter - her widowed mother lived with the family for over thirty years. Cecilia worked for the Amador Valley School District for over 20 years having earned Employee of the Year awards. Most important to Cecilia was her family. She anticipated the holidays and family get-togethers with great joy. She was a great co...

Francis "Frank" DePiero
Aug. 22, 1925 - March 4, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Francis "Frank" DePiero passed away March 4, 2018 in Pleasanton, CA. Frank was born August 22, 1925 in Ashtabula, Ohio to Antonio DePiero, Bugnara, Italy and Francesca Ingorvata. Frank was the youngest of five brothers and four sisters, all of whom have preceded him in death. His first job was as a "hostler" with the Pennsylvania Railroad. He joined the Navy in WW-2 returning to the west coast where he and his Brother Rollie DePiero attended San Jose State. Frank worked for Farmers Insurance for 35 years. He has been a resident of Pleasanton, CA for 46 years. He loved playing golf, watching golf and above all he loved watching his Grandson Ryan's football and baseball games. He was an avid walker who spoke with many as he traveled around Pleasanton's downtown. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Patricia "Patsy" DePiero of Pleasanton, CA, son Steve Kerr (Paula) of Fremont, CA, daughters Denise Lizer (Chuck) of Phillipsburg, MT, Sandie Dreyer (Mark) of Rainier, OR, Nancy Duty (Russ) of San Diego and Karen King (Steve) of Livermore, CA. as well as numerous grandchildren and Great-grandchildren. A private service and burial was held at the Pleasanton Pion...

Franklin Lowenthal
Aug. 27, 1938 - March 3, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Frank Lowenthal, longtime Pleasanton resident, passed away in his home surrounded by family after his battle with cancer. Frank was born on August 27, 1938, in Breslau, Germany, shortly before his entire family escaped Nazi Germany, relocating first to British Honduras and then, in 1942, to New York City. His family seized every opportunity in their adopted country, and Frank personified their value of hard work and education. He graduated from Stuyvesant High School in 1955 and City College of New York in 1959 with a degree in Physics. The pursuit of a graduate degree brought him to the west coast. He graduated with a PhD in Mathematics from Stanford in 1965. While home on vacation from graduate school in 1963, he was introduced to Ann Kraus, also from New York City, and, knowing a good thing when he saw it, took a temporary position at New York University to be near her. They were married in 1965, just after he started as a faculty member in Mathematics at the University of Oregon. They had two children, David and Debbie, and Frank's career took him the University of Wisconsin, Parkside and ultimately California State University—East Bay, where he worked un...

Richard (Dick) D. Williams
Aug. 26, 1942 - Feb. 15, 2018
Pleasanton, CA

Richard (Dick) D. Williams, 75, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2018 at his home in Pleasanton, CA. Dick was born August 26, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois and raised in Westmont, Illinois, the son of Clydell and Virginia Williams. Dick and his wife Carol (Vlietstra) were married on September 13, 1969. Dick graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity Seminary in Deerfield, IL and eventually moved to California to serve as associate pastor for 15 years at Centerville Presbyterian Church in Fremont, CA. He was ordained into the Presbyterian Church (USA) on September 25, 1977. Dick later received his M.A. in Counseling from Azusa Pacific University. In 1990, Dick opened Cornerstone Counseling, and focused on family, child, and marriage counseling in Fremont. Dick worked passionately for many years as a Christian family counselor and retired in 2015. Dick was incredibly warm and charismatic. He was a talented communicator and incredibly passionate about helping others. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather & friend, he will be missed dearly by all who knew him. Dick is survived by his wife, Carol; son, Scott and his wife Mistry of Mount Vernon, WA; grandsons, Dane & Cole; tw...

Robbie Dean Meyer
Feb. 11, 1928 - Feb. 12, 2018
Vacaville CA, California

A former long time resident of Pleasanton....

Charles Drew (Rusty) Tiedemann, Jr
May 3, 1953 - Feb. 7, 2018
Portland, Oregon

Charles Drew (Rusty) Tiedemann Jr, former longtime Pleasanton resident, proud father, loving family man, loyal friend, and talented salesman passed away unexpectedly at his home in Portland, OR, on February 7, 2018. He was born on May 3, 1953, in Rumford, ME, to Marguerite and Charles Tiedemann Sr. Worried that people would call him "Carrot Top" due to his red hair, his Mom called him Rusty. His closest friends dubbed him "Red." Both names stuck with him throughout his life. The family called many places in Maine, Connecticut, and Illinois home, eventually landing in New Canaan, CT. Rusty graduated from New Canaan High School in 1971 where he was a cross country runner (going to multiple state championships) and a member of the ski team. While earning his Bachelor's degree at the University of Vermont he maintained his passion for competitive running (ran a 4:44 mile!) and downhill skiing. UVM was also where Rusty would gain another nickname, "Mr. Mustang." He bought a 1965 Ford hardtop Mustang the Summer after his freshman year only to roll it that Fall. What does one do when you roll your hardtop Mustang? Well, Rusty bought a 64.5 Mustang convertible (of cour...

Chilli Barlow
Oct. 2, 1929 - Jan. 17, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Long time Pleasanton resident, Mary Chilton Potts Barlow, made The Inevitable Transition on January 17, 2018. She was 88 years old. "Chilli", as she was known to friends and acquaintances, made the transition peacefully and gracefully, surrounded by the love and presence of her children and two generations of family. Chilli was born in Harlingen, Texas on October 2, 1929 and grew up in south Texas, close to the border with Mexico. Throughout college, she studied Fashion Design but graduated with a degree in Art Education in 1951 from Texas State College for Women and then began an 11 year career teaching elementary school in Fort Worth, Texas, Boulder, Colorado and settling at James Madison School in San Leandro, California. In San Leandro, she met her future husband, Bud, on a blind date at the Purple Girdle. She accepted his marriage proposal and was immediately blessed with stepdaughters Belinda and Vivian. Later, they grew the family even more with the births of Keith and Craig. In 1965, Chilli and the family settled on Alisal Street in Pleasanton. At the Alisal residence, Chilli raised the family and she raised chickens and geese, selling the eggs to neighbors and ...

John Eugene Holst
March 23, 1947 - Jan. 13, 2018
Middletown, NJ

Heaven gained an angel on Saturday, January 13, 2018 when John Eugene Holst, 70, a 30-year resident of Pleasanton, passed away. He was born in Newark, NJ and moved to the Bay Area with his family in 1982. He proudly gave his service to our country as a Vietnam Veteran. John was an avid San Jose Earthquakes and Golden State Warriors fan. He was a referee, coach and mentor for the Pleasanton Soccer Associations (PGSA, RAGE, BUSC, & PSRA) for over 20 years. John worked for AT&T and retired after 30 years of service. He recently moved to New Jersey to go back to his roots and reunite with his family. He is survived by his wife, Lumencia (Ribon) Holst of Middletown, NJ; his daughters Alexandria (& husband Michael Snow) of Livermore, CA, Christine of Acworth, GA and Kimberly (& husband Derek Lofgren) of Middletown, NJ; his son John W. Holst of San Francisco, CA; his three grandchildren; his brother Kenneth Holst of Wall Townhsip, NJ; his sister JeriAnn (& husband Gerard Melillo) of Long Branch, NJ; and an abundance of close extended family all around the world....

Pamela Sue Campion
Dec. 10, 1949 - Jan. 5, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Pamela Campion died peacefully at home at the age of 68 following a quick battle with an aggressive cancer on Friday, January 5, 2018. She was surrounded by family and friends. Pam was born December 10, 1949, in Modesto, Calif. She grew up in Sonora, Calif., spent 11 years in Downers Grove, Ill., and lived in Pleasanton since 1984. A graduate of California State Sacramento and Sonora High School, Pam worked as a high school home economics and health teacher for 20 years before retiring from Dublin High School in 2004. She was honored as the Dublin Unified School District Teacher of the Year in 1996 by the Alameda County Board of Education. Pam was an avid quilter and a member of the Amador Valley Quilters guild for more than 30 years. She served as president of the guild in 1990 and quilt show chair in 1989 and 2017. Pam will be remembered for her love of family, friendships and baseball, in particular the Oakland A's. She was active in her faith and found true enjoyment in recent years overseeing the hospital ministry with the Catholic Community of Pleasanton. She was especially proud when she received a certificate of recognition for visiting all 13 Presidential Librar...

Isabelle DeKoven
Jan. 22, 1939 - Jan. 5, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Isabelle DeKoven, a Pleasanton resident for 15 years, passed away on January 5th, 2018. Born in Paris, France, on January 22nd, 1939, she fled with her mother to Montpellier in the south of France to escape the Nazis. Isabelle moved to Los Angeles in 1962, and in 1963 married Michael DeKoven. Among her passions: Mozart, Beethoven, The Beatles, films, reading novels and newspapers, chocolate, and Filet-O-Fish sandwiches from McDonald's. She captivated friends and strangers with her zany sense of humor, strong political opinions, compassion, and lovely French accent. Isabelle fought for the underdog and disadvantaged, and encouraged individuality and the unconventional in every aspect of her life. Without question, Isabelle was the ultimate non-conformist. Michael DeKoven passed away in 1996. Isabelle is survived by two sons, John (and his spouse, Julie) and James (and his spouse, Jill); sister Jenny Block; brother Victor Batjaj; and "grand-dog" Tiger. In lieu of flowers, please donate to bigdawgsrescue.org...

Ron Harry Searle
June 2, 1949 - Jan. 4, 2018
Rogue River, California

Harry Ronald Searle, age 68, passed away due to complications from heart surgery on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at the Rogue Valley Medical Center in Medford, Oregon. He was born on June 2, 1949 in Yuba City, California, to John and Opal Searle, as the middle of three children. He married Mindy Holderman in 1970, with which he had two children, Sean, and Heather. After graduating from Oregon State University, he began a long teaching career, focusing on English and Literature. After a divorce from Mindy and a move to California, Ron established himself as a teacher at Amador Valley High School in 1984. He met Sharon Duncan and her son Bryan in 1991, and soon married in Fremont, California. During his tenure at Amador Valley High School, Ron was involved in many activities. He was an advisor and mentor for the Drama club, a coach for the Swimming and Diving team, a coach for the Wrestling team, and a favored teacher by many. In his spare time he enjoyed carpentry work, and could often be found mending someone's fence, building a deck, constructing a shed, or even building a house. He loved spending time with his family, and once the children were grown, would often travel with his w...

Kazuo "Kay" Hatsushi
Jan. 5, 1931 - Dec. 25, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Kazuo "Kay" Hatsushi, a resident of Pleasanton since 1971, passed quietly surrounded by his family on Christmas Day, December 25, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Takiko, his two sons, Mori and Ted, his daughter, Amy Hatsushi-Hughes, his brothers Mutsuro and Satoru Hatsushi, and his sister, Yoko Hiramine. Preceding him in death were his brothers Yasuo and Masaru Hatsushi. He is also survived by his grand children and one great grand child. Kay was born in Kagoshima, Japan, on January 5, 1931. He was the son of a farmer, and in his youth was himself a farmer, a coal miner, and a beekeeper. In 1955, southern Japan was devastated by a typhoon. Kay became an evacuee, and with more than 100 other Japanese men who would become his lifelong friends, immigrated to the United States. Penniless, he was under a three year contract to work the fields in Visalia. In 1956, he had saved enough to bring his wife to the United States. Together, they proudly became citizens of their new country, worked the fields, and raised a family. After working the fields for four years, Kay moved his family to Fremont where he made his living as a gardener and landscaper. He soon save...

Gina Gangi
June 4, 1937 - Dec. 13, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Gina Gangi (Helen Jean Dalba), age 80, entered peacefully into rest at The Parkview in Pleasanton, CA surrounded by loved ones on December 13, 2017 after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Born June 4, 1937 to Russell and Jane Dalba in Rochester, New York. She married Demetrio Donald Errigo and had three children, Jennifer (Jean Marie), Salvator Donald, and Russell Christopher. Later relocating to California in 1972, where she lived the remainder of her life. She is survived by her Aunt Hellen Pizzo, sister Joyce Purpura, brother Russell Dalba II, her children, granddaughter Cylvia Ann Vier, Gianna Errigo, Jenna Ingraham, grandsons Brian Arebalo, Joshua Arebalo, Roman Salvatore Errigo, Dominic Joseph Errigo and great granddaughter Gloria Jean Vier, in addition to many loving nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Gina was an interior designer and later in life a nanny. She was a loving mother and grandmother, an amazing cook and baker with a wonderful sense of humor. With two profoundly deaf children, she was a trial-blazer in advocating for early speech therapy for deaf children to better prepare them to thrive in a hearing world. She touched the hearts...

Jason Vitalicia Comendador
May 25, 1972 - Dec. 11, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Jason 'Jay' Vitalicia Comendador passed away on December 11th, 2017 in Walnut Creek, CA due to complications from his battle with kidney disease. He was 45. Born on May 25, 1972 in Oakland, CA, Jay was the only child of Jaime and Teresita (Vitalicia) Comendador, who both predeceased him. The lifelong Bay Area resident was a 1990 graduate of Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, CA; where he lived the majority of his life and maintained decades long friendships. Jay touched the lives of his many coworkers and customers from his professional positions. From his early years selling electronics at GoodGuys and Computer City, to doing on-air promotions at 92.7 dance radio as his alter-ego 'Munch', to taking care of his customers at Peet's Coffee, Bittersweet Cafe, and Raley's Supermarket. In his free time, Jay pursued his many passions in life, from music, digital photography and videography, to cooking and baking, to European performance vehicles. His greatest passion however, was his English Bulldog, Bella and his San Jose Sharks; cheering them on since their inception in 1991. At Jay's request, there will be no funeral services prior to his cremation. ...

Richard Michael Peel
July 12, 1966 - Dec. 2, 2017
Palm Springs, California

Richard passed away peacefully at Desert Regional Hospital in Palm Springs, Ca. On Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017. He was born on July 12, 1966 in Alameda, Ca. Richard was a graduate of Foothill High School in Pleasanton, CA and attended San Francisco City College. He worked for Wells Fargo for 20 plus years and was transferred to Portland, Oregon in 1996. He then moved to Palm Springs in June 2014. His favorite TV shows were Jeopardy and the Golden Girls. Richard also loved to watch 60 minutes religiously every Sunday with NO interruptions from the peanut gallery! He loved to travel and visited; Paris, St. Petersburg, Russia, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Alaska, Sidney, Australia, New York, Maui, and he went on eight ocean cruises. Richy's favorite restaurants were Gay 90's in Pleasanton, Mumu's in Portland and Spencer's and Trio in Palm Springs. He enjoyed bowling and swimming in his pool in the hot Palm Springs sun. He also collected Tea Pots and he loved his Teddy, "Bear"!! Richard is survived by; his life partner Peter Skirvin, Peters mother Nancy, Peters sister Julie, brother David (wife Cindy), niece Rebecca, nephew Alexander, brother Andrew (husband Robert Skirv...

Jason Curtis Goldberg
Dec. 25, 1977 - Nov. 30, 2017
Rockford, Illinios/USA

Jason Curtis Goldberg, a 23-year resident of Pleasanton, sadly passed at the age of 39 on November 30, 2017, just a month away from his 40th birthday. Jason was born in Livermore California on December 25, 1977. He was educated in Pleasanton; attended Walnut Grove Elementary, Harvest Park Middle, and Amador High Schools. Jason was gifted mentally and physically. He loved learning, especially History. He was known as a man who knew his way around the kitchen and could BBQ with the best. Jason was an athlete who excelled in multiple sports. He was a left-handed baseball pitcher who led teams to many championships in Pleasanton National Little League and at Amador High School. As a BUSC soccer team member, Jason was an inspiring leader who played the game the right way. He was a passionate golfer who devoted time to keep his skills sharp. Jason left Pleasanton to live in Arizona in 2000.While in Arizona Jason completed IT classes at the University of Phoenix then worked for a variety of companies. He reconstructed vintage bikes and taught kids who were left-handed to golf. Jason recently moved the love of his life Heather to Rockford Illinois so they could be near her loving family...

Kaoru Masuda
April 28, 1920 - Nov. 29, 2017
Modesto, California

Kaoru (Carl) Masuda, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family on November 29, 2017 at the age of 97. Kaoru was born in San Francisco and grew up in Pleasanton, CA, with his father farming hops on Hopyard Road, and in Cortez, a Japanese-American farming community (near Ballico, CA), where he, along with his wife Yuriko (Yamamoto) of 65 years, raised carrots, peaches and almonds, finally retiring from farming at the young age of 87. Kaoru and Yuri were active members at Cortez Presbyterian Church and Japanese American Citizen League (JACL), and enjoyed contributing towards their community and beyond. Through the years, Kaoru enjoyed traveling with the family, fishing, bowling and baseball in his youth, as part of the Cortez Wildcats. Kaoru was also part of the 100th Battalion/442nd Infantry Regiment combat team ("F" Company) during WWII, participating in the "Go for Broke" rescue of the Texas Lost Battalion in the Vosges Mountains of France, and the liberation of both Bruyéres and Biffontaine France. For their heroic efforts, the 100th/442nd combat team and MIS (Military Intelligence Service) received the Congressiona...

Peggy Case-Blanco
July 17, 1949 - Nov. 28, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Peggy Case Blanco July 17, 1949 - November 28, 2017 Peggy received her wings to fly cancer-free while surrounded by love in her Pleasanton home. Peggy was born in a small town in Southern California and lived in the Bay Area since age one. For the last 47 years she lived in Pleasanton, where she raised her two daughters. Peggy was very active in PTA, Girl Scouts, and volunteering at her daughters' schools: Walnut Grove, Harvest Park, Amador, and Hearst Elementary. Peggy also volunteered for Special Olympics and Open Heart Kitchen. It was Peggy's love for her family, friends, and all children—both young and young-at-heart—that made people want to be in her presence. Her kind, warm, loving, and often silly spirit was brilliant. She made everyone feel loved and cared for, which is why most called her Mom, Mama Peg, and later in life, Nana. Peggy loved being a Nana; it was her favorite season in life. She loved all three of her grandchildren deeply, and they loved her to the back of the moon. Peggy also loved going to the movies with her longtime friend, Carol. She loved a good love story and all things purple. Peggy is preceded by her husband, Fernando Blanco, and survive...

Violet Leigh Campbell
March 23, 2001 - Nov. 22, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Violet Campbell, 16, of Pleasanton, died at 11:45 p.m., Wednesday, November 22, 2017, from injuries sustained in a one vehicle accident in Livermore, California. Violet was born March 24, 2001 and grew up in Pleasanton with her grandparents. Violet brought happiness to everyone who was around her. She was always smiling and loved to live a free life, doing things her own way. Violet is survived by her brothers Devin and Jayden, mother Michele Campbell, father Duane Agamau, grandparent's Jim and Janelle Painter, along with her uncle Jesse Painter. Violet attended Foothill and Village High School and made so many friends in Pleasanton. She started her first job at Juice & Java in downtown Pleasanton. She was loved by so many and always brought light into others who were around her. She will be dearly missed....

Marjorie Slayman
Nov. 23, 1923 - Nov. 14, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Marjorie L. Slayman, 93, of Pleasanton, CA passed away in her sleep late in the evening on Tues, Nov 14, 2017. Margie was an amazing combination of grace and fire. She could gain a friend in an instant with her engagement, generosity, and sincere interest in others. At the same time, she was a fierce competitor in life and at the card table. Born in Erie, PA, Margie Lawson was a free spirit who fell in love with an airman named Frank. They moved to CA in 1946 and soon settled in Pomona, CA before retiring to Grover Beach. They remained married for 64 years until Frank's passing in 2008. Margie and Frank had two children, Robert (deceased) and Becky. Margie is survived by Becky and her husband Rick, as well as her grandchildren, Tracy, Graig, and Ryan and their spouses Dermot, Krissy, and Mary. She has 3 great-grandchildren, Zoe, Conner, and Gavin. We take comfort that "Birdie" and "Slink" are together again. In lieu of flowers or memorial, please consider donating your time or money to your local hospice organization....

Gloria June Cameron
March 11, 1946 - Nov. 14, 2017
Soledad, CA

Gloria J. Cameron, 71 of Soledad, passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer on Tuesday, November 14, 2017. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend. She will be greatly missed and our family gatherings will never be the same without her sense of humor. Gloria was born on March 11, 1946 in Pontiac Michigan to Albert Clarence Clarno and Frances Mariah Duncan. She was the only girl out of four boys and loved her brothers dearly. After graduating from Emmanuel Christian School, she moved to California. She met and married the love of her life, and they settled in San Ramon, California. When her children were growing up, she was very much involved with their youth group, with Church of the Valley, and working at Hope Hospice. She enjoyed disco music, entertaining people with her singing and playing the piano, reading a good book, and visiting San Francisco. She felt peace walking along the beach and looking out at the waves. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her family, friends, and pugs. Preceding her in death was her loving husband, Raymond L. Cameron, parents, brothers Dale Clarno, Bill Clarno, Jack Clarno and sister Barbara Clarno. ...

Clark Gunson
March 22, 1941 - Oct. 31, 2017
St. George, Utah

Clark Theodore Gunson, 76, resident of St. George, Utah since 2016, formerly a resident of Pleasanton, California for 47 years, passed away on October 31, 2017, at Autumn Park Assisted Living Home in Washington, Utah. Clark was born on March 22, 1941, at Monterey Park, California, the youngest of four children of John Theodore Gunson and Ethel Louise Wilde Gunson. He married Joanne Elizabeth Rounds in the Oakland, California Temple on July 27, 1967. Clark attended El Monte High School where he led the Lions to two league championship in 1958 and 1959. He attended Mt. San Antonio College in Pomona for two years where he was the MVP in 1961. He also played at Cal State Fullerton for two years. Clark attended Brigham Young University where he met his wife Joanne Rounds. He finished his degree in Accounting at San Jose State in 1968. Clark began his professional career as an accountant for Price Waterhouse in San Jose, California in 1968. He worked as a CPA for more than 35 years, retiring as a partner with Armanino McKenna. Clark served in the Alaska-Canadian Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1963 to 1965. He considered his mission one o...

Nancy Anne Silva
Dec. 18, 1943 - Oct. 27, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Nancy Silva died peacefully at the age of 73 in Pleasanton, CA surrounded by her children and siblings. She was born and raised in Chicago, IL before graduating from Holy Names College (CA) with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology which she used as an exceptional probation officer for Alameda County. There she met and married her soulmate of 35 years, Ron Silva, and raised four children with whom she took great pride. She could always be found supporting them, her five grandchildren and (soon-to-be) great-grandchild, traveling to graduations, weddings, holidays and other family events because it was her joy - a trait she passed on to many others. Other passions included church, social justice, bocci ball, travel and viticulture after having single-handedly saved the Livermore Valley Sauvignon Blanc industry in 2015. Since 2006, she volunteered and eventually led the grief ministry for the Catholic Community of Pleasanton, helping hundreds of survivors deal with the death of a loved one. She is survived by her siblings Kathe (Walter Nelson), Terry (Todd Mitchell), Barbara (Greg Ebstein); children Steven (Jan Silva), Chris, Melissa and Brian (Jonathan Warnock); five grandchildren ...

Donald Curtis Kallenberg, Sr.
March 14, 1931 - Oct. 26, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Donald Curtis Kallenberg Sr. passed away peacefully on October 26, 2017 surrounded by family. He was born on March 14, 1931 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Edwin and Thelma Kallenberg. Don met his wife Jean in their senior year at the University of Iowa in 1952. They were married in 1954, moved to California in 1956 and eventually settled in Pleasanton, CA where they raised their family. Don and Jean lived in Pleasanton for 46 years. In recent years, Don lived in Albuquerque, NM and Portland, OR; which allowed him to be close to family. Don's wife of 60 years, Jean, preceded him in death 3 1/2 years prior. He is survived by his children; Kathy (Cal) Joyner of Placitas, NM, Cara (Rick) Gielow of Portland, OR and Curt (Vicki) Kallenberg of Manteca, CA. Grandchildren; Chad (Ashlyn) Gielow, Ryan (Gabriela) Joyner, Jordan Gielow, Mark Joyner and Jenna Gielow. Don was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He truly enjoyed being with his family. Don spent his career in corporate real estate development for Shell Oil, Exxon and Safeway stores. He retired in 1991. During his retirement years he was an avid golfer, enjoyed travel and loved to take long walks and scenic drives. Don left...

Dominick Robert Rickenbach
Dec. 24, 1967 - Oct. 20, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dominick Robert Rickenbach announces that God has gained an Angel. After a long battle with an extended illness, Dominick, 49, returned to the loving arms of God on October 20, 2017. Dominick was born December 24, 1967, to Dominick O. and Jacklyn Rickenbach and was the youngest of four children. He grew up in Pleasanton, California and attended Amador Valley High School where he played basketball and football. Dominick was generous, kind, loyal, and good-hearted. He loved life and his infectious smile lit up any room he entered. The sparkle in Dominick's eyes showed the love he had for those around him. Dominick enjoyed fishing, golfing, and watching Raider's games; but his favorite sport was being on the water jet skiing. Dominick was a beloved son, brother, father, husband and uncle. He is survived by Amy Rickenbach and their children, Tyler Rickenbach and Alexa Rickenbach. Dominick was preceded in death by his parents Dominick O. and Jacklyn Rickenbach; and sisters Sandra, Mitzi, and Tammy....

Bill J. James
Jan. 31, 1933 - Oct. 11, 2017
Livermore, California

Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Livermore with his daughter and caregivers by his side. He was 84 years old. Bill was born in McAlester, Oklahoma to Lillie Cable and Arthur James. Seeking a better life, the family moved to California in the late 1930's settling in the Southern San Joaquin Valley to work in the orchards and vineyards. As a child of the Great Depression and the youngest of ten children, Bill's early life of adversity and poverty would shape him for the rest of his life. Although times were difficult, Bill was fortunate to have had several individuals that had a profound impact on his personal and professional life. These individuals provided guidance, compassion and mentorship setting Bill on a path to success. Upon returning home from service in the Air Force, Bill enrolled at College of the Sequoias. From there, Bill went on to pursue his degree in education at Fresno State University where he received his Bachelors and Masters degrees as well as his teaching and counseling credentials. It was in Fresno that Bill met the love of his life Cathy, on a blind date at the PalmOlive restaurant. In the early 60's Bill and Cathy moved to Santa Paula...

Nancy Pineau Higgins
Aug. 22, 1961 - Oct. 4, 2017
Naples, Florida

A loving wife, daughter, sister, and friend passed away on October 4th at Naples Florida. Nancy was born in Detroit Michigan in 1961; she graduated from Rochester Adams High School then attended Ferris State College where she earned her degree. After school Nancy worked for Saks 5th Ave. for over 20 years. Upon her retirement from SAKS she continued her retail work with Ann Taylor. Nancy met her husband, Craig Higgins, in Detroit Mi. where they were married October 13th 2006, then they settled in Pleasanton California, enjoying the northern California life style for several years. In 2013 Nancy and Craig settled permanently in Naples Florida. Nancy's life long passion was the welfare of all animals, in particular the elephants. All knew her love for the elephants, and she dreamed of the day when all elephants were safe. Nancy is survived by her husband Craig, mother Barbara Ballantyne, brothers Bob and Tim Pineau, Sister Kathy Rawlings., Craig's children Leila, Ianne, and Joseph., many nieces, nephews, and friends, and two very special childhood friends that heave been side by side for 50 years: Tracy and Michele. Nancy was preceded in death by her father Joseph Pinea...

Lucy Childers
June 10, 1936 - Sept. 24, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Lucy Childers passed away on September 24, 2017. Her life is remembered and celebrated by family and friends. Lucy is survived by her daughter Catherine and husband Gregory, son John, Immediate Family Members, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Nephews and Nieces. Lucy graduated from Stockton College, located in Stockton, California, in 1954. She married James Childers who served in the Navy, and employed at the Naval Air Station in Alameda, California. They moved to Dublin, California in 1971 to raise their family. Lucy was employed at the Xerox Corporation in Fremont, California. Upon retirement, Lucy enjoyed living at "The Gardens at Ironwood" A Retirement Community in Pleasanton, California. She loved her shopping, having lunch with close friends Tricia and Marilyn, taking long road trips with family, and watching her Great Grandchildren play sports. She also loved spending time with the family dog Cody, because she was such a pet lover, Lucy always made time for the neighbor's pets, and loved to doggy-sit for friends. Lucy will be remembered for her wonderful laugh and smile, enjoying her favorite "Chinese Food" whenever she could, and her l...

Donald Martin
Oct. 23, 1925 - Aug. 24, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Donald W. Martin passed away at the age of 91 on August 24th at his home in Pleasanton. He leaves his wife of 69 years, Joyce (Jodie) Martin, his sons Jeffrey and wife Wai Lan, Rick and his wife Carol, and Chris, along with seven grandchildren and two great granddaughters. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Minter. He was preceded in death by his brother Paul Martin and sister Mary Rehm. Born October 23, 1925 in Grinnell, Iowa to Winifred and Everett Martin, he was raised in Iowa, graduated from high school in Fort Dodge, and served in the Army Air Corps. He attended Grinnell College, where he received a degree in English and Journalism. He and Joyce (Jodie) Ogle were married in 1948. Don's career in the construction machinery business led him and Jodie to homes throughout the Midwest. The family moved to Moraga in 1971, where he pursued his passion for writing by starting Martin Communications, a small advertising agency. While in Moraga, he and Jodie were members of the Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church. He volunteered his time supporting the Contact Care Center and Moraga Historical Society. Don was an active member in SIR, branch 146, a men's retirement group...

James Robert Laing
1943 - Aug. 17, 2017
San Ramon, California

James "Jim" Robert Laing passed away from cancer at his son's home on August 17, 2017 in Livermore. He was 74 years old. He leaves behind his children, son Robert Laing and his wife Diana of Livermore, his daughter Kathleen Schoening and her husband Clark of Georgetown, Texas; along with two beloved grandchildren, Emma Schoening and Ryan Laing. Born and raised in the Bay Area, the son of Charles and Ruth Laing, he spent the last 38 years of his life in San Ramon. He was a single dad who did the best for his children. He retired in his 50's to spend time with his family....

Aubrey Leo Copher
Feb. 19, 1939 - Aug. 17, 2017
Pleasanton, Alameda County, California

Aubrey Leo Copher passed away peacefully on August 17, 2017 at the age of 78, after a long struggle with Cancer, with his Life Partner Wilma Smith by his side. Aubrey was known to Pleasanton as Al and Sonny by his family and Colorado friends. Al was born and raised in Englewood, Colorado. Al joined the Navy in June 11, 1956, serving on the USS Princeton, in the Boiler Division, until his Honorable Discharge January 15, 1960. Al participated in the USS Princeton Far East Cruise. Al then went to work for Mountain Bell in Denver, Co. until 1980, at which time he transferred to AT&T California retiring in 1985. He decided retirement needed some structured activity, began donating his time and graduated to permanent part time employment. He enjoyed all Pleasanton has to offer, music in the park, dining downtown Main Street. He enjoyed maintaining his home and sharing his garden. He also enjoyed weekend jaunts to the ocean and other points of interest. Al is survived by his Life Partner Wilma L Smith, his four sons Lee, of Arizona, Mark and his wife Nancy, Scot and Kurt of Colorado, brothers John Copher and Jerry Copher of Colorado, numerous grandchildren, great grandchil...

Eleuterio Mawili Ramos
May 27, 1940 - Aug. 12, 2017
Oakland, California

Eleuterio Mawili Ramos, 77, of Oakland, California, formerly of Tanay, Rizal, Philippines, passed away of natural causes on August 12, 2017 at his home in Oakland, California. Visitation and viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at the Holy Angels Funeral Services Center Chapel, located at 1051 Harder Road, Hayward, California 94542. Catholic funeral services will be held from 12:00 to 12:45 p.m., on Tuesday, August 22, 2017. The burial will follow at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery, located at 1051 Harder Road, Hayward, California. Arrangements will be provided by Holy Angels Funeral Services Center. Eleuterio, or "Boy" to those who knew him, was born in Tanay, Rizal, Philippines to Eugeniano Ramos and Felisa Mawili on May 27, 1940. He was educated and raised to adulthood in his hometown of Tanay, in Rizal Province, Philippines. He married Estelita Quintos Perez on August 10, 1974 in Caloocan City, Metro Manila. He worked as an agriculturist for the majority of his life until he brought his family to California in the early '90s, where he worked different jobs to provide for his family. He was quiet, patient, content,...

Manuela Carvalho Traylor
July 18, 1943 - Aug. 7, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Manuela Carvalho Traylor passed away peacefully on August 7, 2017, at the age of 74, after a long struggle with Dementia. Manuela was born in Portugal, on the Azores island of Faial. The eldest of five children, she was 16 when she and her family moved to the United States. She spent the last 35 years of her life living in Pleasanton and had lived previously in Napa, San Leandro and Southern California. Manuela held a variety of corporate jobs including positions with Prescolite, Farmers Insurance and Marlowe's Flowers, before following her passion for flowers. Her co-workers loved her high energy and positive spirit. She owned a health food store, and then a conglomerate of flower shops called Cayford's Florist with her brother Al for many years. Her love for flowers and gardening came to life in her award winning floral designs. Manuela loved her community and was active in the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce, Women's Business Network and Downtown Business Association. Manuela was widowed in 1977 and raised her two children. She was the original "supermom" who did it all, and enjoyed life very much along the way. As a member of both Napa Valley Country Club and Cas...

Peggy Schwartz
Aug. 12, 1921 - Aug. 7, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Peggy Greve Schwartz, 95, died peacefully on in Pleasanton, CA, surrounded by her loving family just days before her 96th birthday and weighed only 2 pounds 4 oz. when born. Peggy was born in Colorado to Alma and Harry Greve. She had a beloved older brother Maynard Greve who predeceased her. Peggy attended high school in Denver and then attended Colorado College where she met the love of her life, Robert Hincke Schwartz. They married when he surprised her on leave while serving as a Naval aviator in the South Pacific in WWII. Upon his return they lived in Colorado Springs and had their first two children Donna and Randy. They soon moved to Alameda, Ca while Bob was still serving in the Navy. They eventually moved to Pleasant Hill and lived in Gregory Gardens and had 3 more children, Janet, Barbara and Rick. They lived in Pleasant Hill for 12 years and then moved to San Jose. It was at their Almaden home where Peggy spread her wings and started a 45 year career in education in the Oak Grove School District that saw her serve as a teacher and counselor, She ended her career as Vice Principal in San Jose Unified School District. Peggy obtained two MA's in Counseling and Schoo...

Corrie Serrano Simon
Dec. 31, 1954 - Aug. 6, 2017
Fallbrook, California

Corrie Serranno Simon , 63, passed away from colon cancer onSunday, August 6, 2017atU.C, San Diego Medical Ctr inLa Jolla, CA.Shewas born onDecember 31, 1954inMalabang ,Lanao Province Philippines. Corrie grew up in the Zamboanga City, Philippines before migrating to the United States in 1979. In 1978, she graduated from Silliman University in the Philippines, where she received a degree in Psychology. In 1979 immigrated to the United States so she could raise her daughter as a U.S. citizen. Corrie marriedRichard Simon in1995inPleasanton, Ca. and were happily married for22years. They both had been previously married which brought together their three children as one family. She worked for over nine years at Lam Research Corp in Fremont CA as business analyst in marketing, a core acquisitions coordinator, and finally as a contractor. Corrie enjoyed a good cry while reading/watching emotional books/movies, going to concerts, cooking for friends and family, gardening orchids, and sewing and crocheting blankets for pets in the family. Over the years, she collected and was gifted many turtle figurines, which she showcased in large curio cabinet. Her f...

Kaaren Northup
May 26, 1944 - Aug. 4, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Kaaren Anderson Northup, born in Chicago, May 26, 1944; entered into the care of the Lord on August 4, 2017. Relocating to California at the age of two, Kaaren spent her early years on a ranch in the Central Valley moving to Pleasanton with her parents, Chan & Irene Henderson in 1956. Kaaren was a 1961 graduate of Amador High School. Active as Worthy Advisor of Rainbow Girls, Maid of Pleasanton, and Theme Girl for the Alameda County Fair. Kaaren attended the University of the Pacific where she pledged Tri Delta Sorority and graduated with a teaching degree. Having taught elementary school for several years, Kaaren then chose to pursue a real estate career. This lasted until the week of her 50th birthday at which time she underwent bypass surgery, a result of having become a diabetic at the age of 17. Her doctor suggested she forego the stress of her current work. She then turned to property management. Entering into togetherness with Stephen E. Northup in 1991; they married in February of 1999, and happily resided in Pleasanton for the remainder of her days. She could often be seen around town in her bright orange ELF when she could no longer drive. Nothing could...

Cher Farrell
Jan. 18, 1954 - Aug. 2, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Charisse (Cher) passed away peacefully at home on the morning of August 2 and returned to God, escaping the ravages of her long illness. Cher is best known for the care and comfort she gave to her patients, and the love and cheer she brought to her large family. She was born on January 18, 1954 in San Francisco and graduated from UC Berkeley in 1976. She went on to earn a Bachelor's in Nursing from Cal State Bakersfield. In fact, Cher met her husband while she was attending school with his sister. BJ and a friend were returning from vacation in the canyons of Southern Utah, and could return through Bakersfield. The Nursing Class was throwing a party to celebrate April 1. His friend did not want to stop because "there is nothing good in Bakersfield." Instead, BJ took his sister's guidance that "there will be 30 nursing students at this party who don't like cowboys." Less than a year later, his friend married the woman he met that night. Within an hour of meeting her, BJ knew he would someday ask Cher to marry. For 37 years, Cher and BJ referred to that day as "The Day of the Fools." Cher continued her education at UC San Francisco, earning a Master�...

Patricia Marie Halatsis
Jan. 2, 1958 - Aug. 2, 2017
Hayward, California

Tricia Halatsis, a lifelong resident of Hayward, passed away earlier this month following a short but heroic battle against leukemia. Tricia is survived by her four children—whom she loved dearly—Jessica, Alicia, Nick and Ben, as well as her husband of 33 years Nick Halatsis. Tricia was an active member of the Hayward community, working as a childcare aide for Hayward Unified School District. She was also a member of St. Clement's Catholic Church for over 30 years. She will be remembered for her loving, kind-hearted nature, and her faith and strength in the face of adversity....

Gary Hilton Palmatier
March 26, 1948 - July 21, 2017
Bend, Oregon

Gary Hilton Palmatier 3/26/1948 – 7/21/2017 Obituary Parents: Wm J. & Hilton Audrey Palmatier He is survived by Wife of 31 years, Penny D. Palmatier; Son, Seth Hilton & Darlene Palmatier; Son, Jason Palmatier; Grandson, Tyler Hilton Palmatier; Sister, Wendy & Reuben Watanabe; nephew, Mark Watanabe. Gary was born 3/26/48 in West Nyack, New York, a graduate of University of Oregon 1969, a radio DJ known as "The Wasted Potato" for a number of years at KZEL, one of the first "rock" stations in Oregon and from 1978 – 2013 a licensed Real Estate Broker in Pleasanton CA. He retired to Bend OR 2013. His loves consisted of Music, all genres, making mixed CDs & taking a thermos of coffee on 3 hour road trips at dawn on unvisited highways & by-ways. Train rides with his grandson, walking his dog Barkley, old movies, crosswords & his "A's" completed the picture of his outgoing personality. Gary: Thank you for making our family into what it became… You are loved and will be missed by so many....

Anne Zelpha Turner
Jan. 4, 1923 - July 15, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

Anne was born in Spring Glenn, Utah to Antone and Mitzie Smolic. She was happily married to Robert Turner for 70 years.They began their married life in Oakland, CA and spent about 15 of their child rearing years in San Lorenzo before moving to Pleasanton where they lived approximately the last half century. Anne was loved and is survived by four of her children; Mitzie Gadd, Robynn Turner, Robert Turner and James Turner and their families. She and Bob were blessed with 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Bob and her daughter Vicki Rosas.There will be a Memorial Service at Graham-Hitch Mortuary on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at 1:30pm. A reception will follow....

John R. Piekarski
Sept. 14, 1946 - June 21, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

John Raymond Piekarski passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 while surrounded by his loving family. John was born in Oak Park, Illinois. He attended the University of Illinois where he obtained a bachelor's degree in Forestry. He later attended the University of Oregon where he obtained a MBA in Forest Industry Management. He spent his early career in management in the forest products industry in the states of Washington and Indiana before he moved his family to Pleasanton, California thirty three years ago to hold a position in San Jose. Mid-career he received training in financial services and became an investment advisor and manager in the banking industry. After retiring he volunteered at Open Heart Kitchen and for many years at Valley Care Emergency Room, which he loved. He is survived by Sharon, his wife of forty- six years, their children Susan Piekarski Jorgensen and her husband Mark Jorgensen of Pleasanton; David Piekarski and his wife Andrea Goldstein-Piekarski of Redwood City; and his sister Gail Rowley and her husband Larry Rowley of Mountlake Terrace, WA. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life at 10:00 am on Saturday, Ju...

Lynda Rodriguez
Feb. 22, 1949 - June 10, 2017
Arizona City, Arizona

Lynda Kay (Sharpe) Rodriguez, age 68, of Casa Grande, Arizona passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2017. Lynda was born on February, 22, 1949 in San Pablo, California to Walter "Jim" Sharpe and Wanda Sharpe (Bryant). She was the oldest of four siblings. Lynda was married for 36 years to David Rodriguez, of Niles, CA. They separated January 2016 when she relocated to Arizona. Lynda graduated from Richmond Union High School in Richmond, CA in 1967. She studied music at Chabot Community College and Cal State East Bay in Hayward, CA. Lynda was an accomplished musician and played piano, violin, classical guitar and sang exceptionally well. She settled into a career as an administrative assistant, where she met her husband, David. She had two children, Robin and Heather, and stayed home with them when they were young and the family relocated to Texas. Lynda did not like living in Texas and often joked that Rice-a-Roni commercials made her homesick for California. Upon returning to California in the late 1980's, Lynda became a Realtor in Alameda County, CA. Based in Pleasanton, she served the Tri-Valley as a Realtor for over 25 years. Lynda used her leisure time to learn to play go...

Tomislav (Tom) Turkalj
Sept. 24, 1954 - May 22, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Tomislav passed away peacefully in his home on May 22nd, 2017. He grew up in Zagreb, Croatia and was a resident of Pleasanton for 21 years. He was a proud father of three children, an amazing husband and grandfather. He was dedicated to providing the best for his family. Tomislav was loved by his many friends and colleagues, who will dearly miss him. His departure leaves a big hole in the hearts of his loved ones, but his memory will forever carry on. He is survived by his wife Nada, sons Matija and Gordan, daughter Mathea, granddaughter Mikaela, brother Dusko (Lilljana), brother-in-law Dragutin (Marta), sister-in-law Cvetka and the rest of his extended family. At his request, there will be no memorial service....

Annette Georgis Abrott
Nov. 30, 1916 - April 28, 2017
Granite Bay, California

Annette Georgis Abrott died April 28, 2017. She was born to Anthony and Margherite Giorgis on November 30, 1916. Annette was the youngest of five children: Anne, Kathleen, James, and Emma, all whom proceeded her in death. She is survived by her husband of 76 plus years, L. Arnold Abrott, her sons Arnold (Gloria) and Timothy (Kimberly), grandchildren Shannon (Michael), Kayla (Lance), Brad, Evan, and many nieces and nephews. Annette attended Pleasanton Elementary school and graduated from Amador High School in 1934, where she met the love of her life. Annette worked at the First National Bank of Pleasanton upon graduation. October 5th, 1940 Annette married Arnold in San Francisco at Saint Charles Church. Annette enjoyed family time around meals and games, time with friends, knitting, ceramic painting, pilates, walking, water aerobics, golf, and traveling. She and Arnold took many trips around the world....

Virginia Caroline Hansen
June 24, 1922 - April 17, 2017
Pleasanton, California

With family at her side, Virginia Caroline Hansen, 94, died April 17, 2017 at her home in Pleasanton. Her husband Howard preceded her in death in 2012. Her son Hans died in 2013, incredibly also on April 17. Virginia will be fondly remembered by her children, Nancy (Peter Mills) of Tracy, and Tuny (Art) Dunkley of Pleasanton. She is survived by eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Virg was born in Bradley City, California and moved to Pleasanton in the 7th grade. She and Howard were high school sweethearts at Amador. She attended UC Berkeley for one year before marrying Howard in 1943. As a new bride she studied to become a nurse at St. Luke's Hospital in San Francisco. But she found it difficult to be apart from Howard so gave up her training and returned to Pleasanton. They lived their entire married life in two houses on Division Street. Virginia was a homemaker and Howard was a dairyman. The Hansens were co-owners of the Hansen & Giger Dairy on Hopyard Road. Sports were always an important part of Virg's life. As a young girl, she took up tennis and played into her 80s. For many years, she and her daughter Tuny were part of the same tennis group;...

Albert Ernst Schorno
Aug. 16, 1939 - April 15, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Al Schorno, 77, a 40 year resident of the Bay Area, died April 15, 2017 at his home in Pleasanton. Al grew up in Roy, WA on his father's dairy farm. If you talked to Al for any time at all you will know he had fond memories of the dairy farm and his life there. After attending St. Martin's College, Al worked for various companies in southern California and realized that he wanted to be an entrepreneur. After serving in the US Army, he made the Bay Area his home where he ran his own trucking business, Quality Transport, Inc and Truck Rail Handing, Inc. in Fremont, CA. Al loved traveling, Harley Davidsons and cars. He liked fast cars and old cars! He also enjoyed long walks on the beach-he could walk for hours. He is survived by his 6 grandchildren (Schane Schorno, Trevor Konopka, Nicole Castillo, Samantha Castillo, Alexandra Della Santina and Catherine Della Santina) and one great-grandchild (Schelby Schorno) as well his children, daughter (Dayna Fuller) and pre-deceased by his son (Damon Schorno) and lastly his significant other of 20 years, Sondra Simpson....

William (Bill) Arthur Mulhearn
Nov. 2, 1924 - April 13, 2017
Pleasanton, CA

William (Bill) Arthur Mulhearn, formerly of Pleasanton, California, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2017 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Ann Mulhearn. He was born in Barrow-In-Furness, Lancashire, UK to William and Catherine Mulhearn. As a young man, he travelled extensively as a merchant seaman in Asia, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. While working in New Zealand, he met and married his wife, Elizabeth in 1950. In 1953, they settled in San Francisco, moving in Pleasanton to raise their family in 1969. Bill worked for 20 years for Coca-Cola in San Francisco and San Jose, and later managed Universal Cinema Systems in Pleasanton. He received great joy from his garden and shared his flowers and produce freely with friends and neighbors. Bill was a wonderful father and very proud of his three daughters, Kathleen Schultz, of Adelaide Australia, Maureen Craig, of Winston-Salem, NC, and Colleen Griggs of San Jose, CA. Also his four grandchildren, Elizabeth Broughton, of Winston-Salem, NC, Kyle Griggs of San Jose, CA, Ian Coonen, of Winston-Salem, NC and Caty Coonen (deceased) of Winston-Salem, NC....

James Nelson Harrington
July 3, 1950 - April 9, 2017
Pleasanton, California

"Who's that good-looking guy?" would be our dad's comment to this photo. Jim was known by many for his sharp wit, sense of humor, and caring personality. James Nelson Harrington, loved father and friend, was taken so abruptly from our lives on April 9th, 2017. He was a proud father of his three kids (Spencer 27, Jonathan 33 and Emily 37) and spent many hours bragging about them to his friends. We are very proud of him as well. Jim came from a modest upbringing in Wichita, Kansas and his father Harry Harrington was born on the Potawatomie Reservation in Mayetta, Kansas. Jim was very proud of his Native American ancestry and was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomie tribe like his father. Jim's father went to Haskell Indian Nations University and started his own engineering company. Jim worked for his dad's business during high school then attended Wichita State. Our mom Helen and Jim were high school sweat-hearts and got married after graduating college. They moved to Olathe, Kansas to start a family and later to Overland Park. Jim was an active member of DeMolay and St Thomas Episcopal Church. He moved to California in 1997 for a job at ...

John Bernard Edmands
July 8, 1924 - April 8, 2017
Torquay, UK, United Kingdom

Retired Northern California newspaper publisher John Bernard Edmands passed away at a rest home in Torquay, England, on April 8, 2017, following a short illness. For 30 years, he was editor and publisher of the Pleasanton Times in Pleasanton, California, which later became The Times. Born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, on July 8, 1924, to Kathleen and Alfred Edmands, he was the youngest of six children. His father was a railroad worker and his mother was a housewife. None of his siblings—Winston, Kathleen, Marjorie, Louis and Paul—survives him. Edmands attended school in Moose Jaw and later joined the navy. He worked briefly in Vancouver, B.C., and arrived in the United States in early 1950 to begin a job as editor of the Tulelake Reporter, a small weekly in Northern California. To purchase the newspaper, he partnered with Patrick Peabody, a publisher from San Jose, California, and Lyle Hass, a Tulelake resident who ran the newspaper's print shop. In fall 1952, they sold the news operation to Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Lester of Pleasanton. Edmands soon relocated to Pleasanton, where he became editor and publisher of the Pleasanton Times through a partnership with P...

Stephen Douglas McRee
Feb. 12, 1952 - April 4, 2017
Dublin, CA

Steve McRee followed God's call to Northern California to lead Shepherd's Gate through a major expansion of its ministry so it could serve more homeless and battered women and their children in its long-term, life-changing program. When Steve and his wife, Carla, arrived in 1996, the shelter was available for 30 days with a capacity for 13 women and their children. When God took him home to be with Jesus, the ministry could serve as many as 95 women and their children at campuses in Livermore and Brentwood. He was 65 when his heart failed. Livermore Mayor John Marchand said, "Steve was a man of tremendous faith, humor and conviction, even in the face of what many thought of as adversity. He was truly a champion for the oppressed." Sandee Wiedemann, a member of the board that hired McRee, said, "The gifts I see that Steve offered for the women and kids were not only CEO leadership, but the amazing caring, interest, compassion and eagerness to help them overcome their situation." In 1996, the ministry was housed in an old home on Portola Avenue where founder Alice Ann Cantelow had established the shelter. The ministry had purchased a 2-acre ...

Marie Antonini
Aug. 26, 1917 - April 2, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Marie Antonini August 26, 1917 – April 2, 2017 Marie was born on August 26, 1917 in Livermore to Joseph and Maria Pereira. She was a lifelong Pleasanton resident and the youngest of 6 children. Her sibling's names were Joseph, Manuel, Beatrice, Olympia and Tony. Her parents were Portuguese immigrants from the Azores and Portuguese was her first language. She grew up on the family farm on Tassajara Road and attended the one room Antone School, which was not far from her home. She graduated from Amador High School in 1935 and often spoke of having to get up early to milk cows before leaving for school, then coming home for more chores before doing her homework. After high school, her first job was at The First National Bank on Main Street. At age 22 she represented Portugal at the 1939 World's Fair on Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay. Marie married John Garibaldi in 1942. The couple eloped to Reno, were married for 42 years and had two sons, David, the taller of the two and Rick. During this time, she cared for her home and family and became an excellent seamstress, often making her own clothes. In 1964, after many years as a stay-at-home mom, she went to w...

Angela Elizabeth Scatena
Nov. 27, 1992 - March 31, 2017
Chico, California

Angela Elizabeth Scatena passed from our world on Friday, March 31, 2017. Angela came into this world on November 27, 1992, the beloved daughter of Harvey and Michele Scatena of Pleasanton, California. Angela attended Walnut Grove Elementary School, Harvest Park Middle School and Amador Valley High School. Angela graduated from high school in 2010 and attended Las Positas Community College in Livermore California. Angela moved to Chico California in January of 2015. Angela had an enormous zest for life, and boundless energy. She was a bright light and that light touched many people in her lifetime. Her energy was contagious, and sometimes exhausting. There were few who could match her passion for life. Angela will be remembered for her amazing sense of humor, and her quick wit. Angela loved fiercely, and if you were lucky to be loved by her, the experience was life changing. Angela is survived by her father, Harvey, her mother, Michele, her brothers, Harvey III, Jay and Anthony. She also leaves her maternal grandmother Suzanne Coghlan, and nephew, Anthony Scatena Jr. Several loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends also survive her....

Lorraine Bernzweig
Oct. 9, 1929 - March 29, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Lorraine was born in Brooklyn, New York, but spent most of her growing-up years in the little town of Ellenville, New York, about ninety miles north of New York City, where her parents owned a bakery. She was the youngest of four. Her two brothers served in the Army during World War II, while her older sister, now 102, helped their father in the bakery and was married to a local propane gas distributor. Lorraine was active in high school, being a cheer leader, a member of the Debating Club, the Glee Club, and was also active in the Drama Club, where she played many leading roles. One of her favorite remembrances was the summer she acted in summer stock at the Cragsmoor Theater, located just outside of Ellenville, working under the direction of Hollywood director Morton Da Costa – famous for his directing a string of hit Broadway productions in the 1950s, such as "Auntie Mame" and "The Music Man." After high school, Lorraine attended New York University where she majored in dramatic arts and speech therapy. Upon graduating from NYU, she became a speech therapist in the New York City school system. It was during this period she met her husband-to-be, Eli, who was ...

Mary Dillon
March 24, 1947 - March 29, 2017
Washington, Utah

Mary Dillon, 70, of Washington, UT, passed away March 29, 2017 in St. George, UT, from asthma induced C.O.P.D. Mary was raised in CA, attended ASU in Tempe, AZ and lived in Pleasanton, CA from June 1976 to June 2013. Mary married Michael Dillon in July 1970 and together they had two wonderful children, a son, Morgan, and a daughter, Emily (Gary Hood). Mary was very proud of her children, son-in-law and three grandsons, Justin Hood, Christopher Hood and Aaron Hood. Mary and Mike retired to Cheyenne, WY in June 2013 and moved to Washington, UT in October 2015. Mary's family vacationed in Zion N.P. when she was young and Mary fell in love with the red rock country. She was very happy to wake up each morning to the sun rise setting fire to "her" mesas. When she was able, one of her favorite outings was to attend the Friday BLM Brown Bag lecture in St. George. Mary had many passions outside of her family, including jewelry making, crocheting and volunteer work, but her three main passions were people, travel and history. Her passing was quiet and peaceful and, now, she can breathe freely. She was cremated at the Cremation Center of Southern Utah. Per Mary&a...

Emma Grace Haus
Dec. 4, 2001 - March 28, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Emma Grace Haus passed from our world on Tuesday, March 28th 2017. A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00pm on Monday, April 17th at CrossWinds Church in Livermore California. The services are open to all who Emma touched in her lifetime. Emma Grace came into the world December 4, 2001 in Arizona, the beloved daughter of Rich and Katlyn Haus of Pleasanton, California. As a freshman at Amador Valley High School, she played on the girls Water Polo team -- wearing her favorite number -- the #7 cap. She was enormously curious and adventurous. She had a love for learning, and constantly asked questions and explored the world around her. She was frequently the one to lead the charge for a project, an adventure or a cause to help others. She had a passion for the outdoors and spent some of her best times backpacking, rock-climbing and riding her horse. Emma's greatest aspiration was to play Water Polo at Stanford and become a pediatric neurosurgeon: combining her love for others and passions for science and learning. Emma was an old soul and very deep thinker who challenged herself to learn and experience life to its fullest. She had a huge heart and was always kind to e...

Joyce Webb Adams
Jan. 8, 1938 - March 6, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Joyce Webb Adams, 79, passed away peacefully at her home in Pleasanton, California on March 6, 2017 after a long bout with cancer. She will be united with her husband Tom Adams who preceded her in death. Joyce had a big heart, always desiring to help others. Over many years Joyce helped countless people deal with life's most difficult problems. She will be sorely missed. Joyce was the eldest child of four children born to Harry and Lorraine Webb of San Pedro, California. She is survived by her brothers Walter Webb, Robert Webb, Larry Webb, three nieces, Mary Simoens, Kathleen Webb, Christine Ruiloba, two nephews, Michael Webb, Patrick Webb, and many cousins including Margie Nilsson of San Pedro with whom she kept close contact. Born in 1938 in Long Beach, California, Joyce was raised in San Pedro, California. She was in the second graduating class of Mary Star of the Sea High School in San Pedro. On leaving high school, Joyce became a novitiate of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. She then became a teaching nun and taught in Catholic schools in Texas and California for ten years. In 1967 she chartered a new life's course, and earned a Master's Degree i...

Thomas Edward Northam
Sept. 22, 1963 - March 1, 2017
Granite Bay, CA

Thomas Edward Northam, 53, former resident of Granite Bay and Pleasanton, CA died on March 1st, 2017 at Sutter Hospital in Roseville from injuries sustained in a car accident on February 18, 2017. Tom was born on 9/22/63 in Redwood City, CA to Ann Northam Hill and the late Raymond L. Northam. He attended Pleasanton schools and played soccer, Little League baseball and CYO basketball. He graduated with an incredible circle of friends from Amador High School in 1981 where he earned all East Bay Athletic League recognition in baseball and basketball. Tom then attended Chico State, where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, and earned a Political Science degree in 1986. After graduation, Tom went to Washington D.C. and was an aide to then CA senator, Pete Wilson, before starting his 30 year career with the Federal Aviation Administration. He started the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller at Concord Tower, was promoted to Bay Tracon in Oakland and then moved in 2002 to NorCal Tracon in Rancho Cordova, where he ended his career as an Air Traffic Control Operations Manager. Tom enjoyed sports. He played on the Tracon softball teams and coached his children's soccer, b...

Donald Streitz
June 21, 1927 - Feb. 27, 2017
Hendersonville, North Carolina

Don Streitz, former resident of Pleasanton, passed away at his home in Hendersonville, NC on February 27, 2017. Born in Madera, CA on June 21, 1927, he grew up in Livermore and graduated from Livermore High School. He met and married Bonita Jean Wheeler in 1948. They settled in Pleasanton in 1952 and were married for 28 years. He worked at Kaiser Sand & Gravel for over 30 years and was a proud member of the Operating Engineers Local No. 3 for almost 72 years. His last 16 years were spent in North Carolina as a content homeowner who had the great good fortune to find true friendship and camaraderie with several longtime local residents. Don and his children shared a great affection for his adopted hometown and for his wonderful housekeeper and friend, Ginny. Don was a man of many talents and supremely ingenious. Always mechanically inclined, he had a lifelong love of collecting and tinkering. He also enjoyed reading and learning about new and varied subjects. He was never afraid or hesitant to help a stranger in need. His children will always remember how gracefully he moved, how hard he worked, and his years of extraordinary vitality. It can be said that he heard and followed a...

Carol Jean Famariss
Dec. 20, 1922 - Feb. 24, 2017
Livermore, California

Livermore icon Carol Jean Famariss passed away on Friday, February 24, 2017 at the age of 94. As the founder of Carol Jeans Dance Studio, she taught dancing to thousands of students in Livermore from 1946 until 2007. Carol Jean who danced her way through more than six decades of wartime, and economic and social change once said that she particularly loved introducing youngsters to the joys of dance. The former Carol Jean Huddleston was born in Oakland on December 20, 1922. The daughter of Norma and Sam Huddleston, she was always known as Carol Jean and loved dancing, even as a little girl. Unable to attend school when she was young due to asthma, She and her family moved to Pleasanton at age 6 in order to help combat her asthma. At an early age, Carol Jean's mother took her to dance lessons twice a week at the closest schools in Oakland and Hayward. There she learned tap and jazz dancing. Later, she traveled to San Francisco to learn ballet. While living in Pleasanton, the pastor at the Presbyterian church saw Carol Jean's talent, and told her that she could use the church to teach other children to dance. Carol Jean and her family moved to Livermore soon after, where sh...

Charles Alden Shaw
June 8, 1925 - Feb. 24, 2017
San Rafael, California

A graduate of Harvard and Syracuse Universities, former Pleasanton resident Charles "Chuck" Alden Shaw died peacefully at his San Rafael home at age 91 on February 24, 2017, surrounded by his loving children. Chuck began as an engineer at General Electric's Electronics Park in Syracuse, NY. He finished his career in Silicon Valley, working for Cadence Design Systems on software for integrated circuits and coordinating their research programs at universities around the country. He and his wife enjoyed travel, volunteering and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Chuck is survived by his two brothers, Daniel (Fofo) and Joseph (Lyna) Shaw; two daughters, Amy (David) and Polly Shaw; four stepchildren, Tim (Cindy) Irish, Greg (Sherry) Irish, Shary (Robert) Smith, Wally (Tammy) Partridge; ten grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Sandra Jeanne Shaw, and sister Betsey Bobrinskoy. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends....

James Farrel Pruett
July 27, 1934 - Feb. 6, 2017
Pleasanton/Stockton, CA

James Farrel Pruett, 82, a long-time resident of Pleasanton, passed away surrounded by his family at St. Joseph's Hospital in Stockton, CA. Farrel was born on a farm near Bloomfield, MO to Oscar and Myrtle Pruett on July 27, 1934. He was the 9th child and the 7th son. He attended a one-room school at Acorn Ridge near the farm, where he graduated from the 8th grade, after being the only student in his class from grades 6th through 8th. He entered 9th grade at Bloomfield High School, where he first met Anne Cooper, who would become his bride in 1956. They graduated high school together in 1952. He kept the promise he had made his parents when he started high school—that he was not going to stay on the farm, but go to California. Four of his brothers and one sister were already in Southern California establishing their families. Two weeks after graduation he drove cross-country, taking his parents with him. When his parents returned to the farm in Missouri six months later, he remained in Thousand Oaks, CA living with his sister. He went to work at Camarillo State Hospital, where he was trained as a Psych Tech. Two years later, he enlisted in the Air Force. After...

Robert Bruce Donaldson
Feb. 2, 1960 - Feb. 2, 2017
Paris, Tennessee

Robert Bruce Donaldson was born in Oakland, California, spending most of his life in Pleasanton and Livermore with several periods of adventure in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada. Former neighbor and friend, Tim Hunt, of Pleasanton, recalls that he was a skilled heavy equipment operator who did excavation and landscaping work with his backhoe. "He also took great interest in caring for DJ and Shea, sons of a former girlfriend, often bringing them to work with him and sneaking them in to enjoy the neighbors' swimming pools at the end of the day during the hot summer months." Predeceased by his adoptive parents, Robert E. Donaldson in 1979 and Geraldine P. Donaldson on December 21, 2016, he is deeply missed by his wife of two years, Kathy Lenn Donaldson, sisters, Karen and Jan, niece, Amy, and DJ and Shea, whom he considered as family. He was an active, cheerful child and carried those qualities into his adult years, despite suffering from two rare forms of cancer over the past 12 years. He died on his 57th birthday after complications from surgery near Paris, Tennessee, where he had moved with his mother several years ago. He was someone whose motto might well ha...

Alvin Junji Nishimoto
Dec. 20, 1944 - Jan. 20, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Alvin Junji Nishimoto passed away on Jan. 20, 2017 after battling a rare disease. He was 72. Al was born on Dec. 20, 1944 in Topaz, Utah in a Japanese internment camp, the son of Thomas Hatsuo and Miyuki (Fujimura) Nishimoto. He grew up in Topaz and, after World War II, the family moved to Maplewood, Missouri where he graduated from Maplewood Richmond Heights High School. Al earned a Bachelor's of Science degree from the University of Missouri while participating in the Reserve Officer Training Program. He served on active duty in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969 in South Korea. He was discharged as a captain. He then earned a Master's of Business Administration from Golden Gate University in 1975. He did post-graduate work at Golden Gate. He married Vivian Fong Chan Nishimoto, on July 28, 1973. Professionally, he worked as a field service officer for the Xerox Corp. in San Francisco from 1969 to 1971. He then moved to United California Bank (later it became 1st Interstate Bank) in Los Angeles for eight years before joining First Hawaiian Bank in Honolulu where he was vice-president/training director from 1979 until he retired in 2011. He earned certifica...

Isabel Cattalini
Feb. 23, 1928 - Jan. 9, 2017
Pleasanton, California

Isabel Cattalini passed away peacefully on Jan. 9, 2017. The former Isabel Silva was a Pleasanton native and a graduate of Amador Valley High School, class of 1946. She was the loving wife of Armand Cattalini, also a Pleasanton native, who preceded her in death in 2009. They were married for over 62 years. Armand and Isabel met while Armand was serving with the U.S. Army at Camp Parks during WWII. Armand was based stateside partially due to the death of his brother Alfred Cattalini, who was killed in action during a parachute jump while serving in the Philippines with the 511th parachute infantry regiment, 11th Airborne division the previous year, which left Armand the only surviving Cattalini. Isabel lived long enough to see Alfred's plaque enshrined on the recently dedicated Veteran's Memorial in the Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery. Armand and Isabel lived in downtown Pleasanton their entire married life, and Isabel gave birth to their only child, Cheryl (Caraballo) in 1954. Cheryl is also a graduate of AVHS. Isabel was the daughter of Portuguese immigrants, Frank and Angelina Silva, born on Feb. 23, 1928, and was one of a family of five children, consisting of brothers ...

Laura Renee Blomquist
Feb. 21, 1979 - Dec. 27, 2016
Fremont, CA

Laura Renee Blomquist, 37, of Fremont, CA went home to be with the Lord on December 27, 2016. Laura was a friendly, outgoing, caring person with a great sense of humor. She grew up in the Bay Area and lived in Pleasanton for over 20 years. Laura had a passion for animals and a love for people. Her laugh and smile will be missed....

Billy Martin
May 18, 1954 - Dec. 23, 2016
Oakland, California

Billy Martin, 62, of Oakland, CA, passed away on December 23, 2016 with his family at his side. Billy was born May 18,1954 in Fort Hood, Texas son of Floyd and Mitsue Martin. He graduated from Clovis High School and continued on to graduate from California State University, Fresno. He taught surveying and engineering at UCSF, Stanford, and several other Bay Area State Universities; was a Partner at BKF for 20 years; and most recently started Pacific Land Surveys and worked with RSE Engineering. Billy's passions were his family, golfing, basketball, traveling, and practical jokes. He coached boy's basketball for 17 years including coaching for CYA, Amador Valley High School, and Berkeley High School. He and his family loved to travel together, most recently in South America visiting the Galapagos Islands, Peru, and Bolivia. His life was interrupted too soon, but while on earth he embraced opportunities, and had a great curiosity and willingness to try new experiences. His smile and sense of humor will be greatly missed. Those that will miss Billy the most include his wife, Megan Martin, his two sons Samuel Martin and Colin Martin, his mother, Mitsue Martin, his brot...

Geraldine P. Donaldson
May 29, 1921 - Dec. 21, 2016
Paris, Tennessee

Geraldine P. Donaldson, who served her patients and the students of Pleasanton for decades as a physician and school trustee, died on Dec. 21, 2016 in Paris, Tennessee. Dr. Donaldson and her husband, Robert E. Donaldson, moved to Pleasanton in 1957, when they bought a home in Pleasanton Heights. Both served on the city planning commission. Later, she moved to a home on Foothill Road, where she lived until relocating to Paris, Tennessee, with her son, Robert, in 2013. Born to Frank Puerta and Maria Puerta (née Cuirana) in Pittsburg, CA. Both of Dr. Donaldson's parents were born in Spain. After growing up in Fresno, she went to the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a nursing degree and then served in Hawaii during World War II. Returning to California, she went on to medical school, earning her MD at University of California, San Francisco, in 1951. First, a public health physician with Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, she then ran her private pediatric practice in Livermore where she specialized in treating patients with allergies, retiring at age 80. She also served as chief of staff at the Valley Memorial Hospital in Livermore, where she had surgical privil...

Richard LaMoore Waldo
April 13, 1925 - Dec. 14, 2016
Danville, California

After a brief illness and in the company of loved ones, former Danville Mayor Richard Waldo passed peacefully from this world on December 14, 2016. Dick Waldo was born in Minot, North Dakota on April 13, 1925. His mother said that he "came out of the womb smiling." Dick loved life and lived his with great passion, enthusiasm, and kindness. He was raised by his parents in Bismarck and lived there until he joined the Navy in 1943. He was a corpsman (pharmacist mate) and was stationed at the Treasure Island Naval Hospital. After the war, Waldo attended Stanford University and graduated with a BA in history in 1948. Waldo would remain a steadfast fan of the Stanford Cardinal his whole life. In 1948, Waldo began a successful 35 year career with the Bell System. He held a variety of posts during his career in Fresno, Reno, and San Francisco. Waldo was working in the Coin Division of Pacific Bell when he retired in 1983. Waldo loved nature and was an avid outdoorsman, scout master, fisherman, bird watcher, and conservationist. He enjoyed camping in the back country, spending time in the High Sierras, and traversing the vast expanses of the American West. Waldo was a ...

Irene Pignolet
Dec. 15, 1921 - Dec. 13, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Irene Pignolet, 94 Irene Baker Pignolet of Pleasanton, California passed away peacefully in her sleep two days before her 95th birthday on December 13, 2016. She was the last of her generation, joining her husband, their siblings, spouses and friends. Her life began in Amsterdam, Ohio on December 15, 1921, where she was born the youngest of four children to Blanche and Charles Baker. The family moved to Cleveland, Ohio where Irene completed high school and continued to live until after she was married. After high school, Irene began working at a light bulb company where she saved up to buy her very own Singer sewing machine. Sitting at that Singer, late at night, she became the talented seamstress she was, creating perfectly sewn, beautiful garments for decades. Often after work, Irene and her sister Betty would enjoy a Coca-Cola at the Five and Dime Store where Chuck the Soda Jerk once invited her to a show, beginning the relationship of a lifetime and a marriage of 55 years. On September 5, 1942, Irene married Charles J. Pignolet in a simple ceremony. Since she was not quite of age yet, her parents had to give their signatures of approval, while Chuck was barely ...

John Ray McAllister
June 26, 1943 - Dec. 2, 2016
Pleasanton, California

John McAllister, age 73 passed away peacefully with family and friends at his side. He was born June 26th 1943 to Pauline and Byron McAllister in Oakland California. He attended Fremont High, Oakland City College and Chico State, where he received his Bachelor's degree in History. He competed in football and track and received numerous awards, including a record for longest shot put at Chico State, which held for several years. Later, he worked as a laborer, estimator and district manager with West Valley Construction until his retirement. He enjoyed his retirement, he was known for his dry, witty sense of humor, which would have those around him in tears! He was kind and generous and loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grand daughter. It gave him great joy to see them excel in their sports and music endeavors. We all loved to eat out with him and he knew the best restaurants in each city and our forever favorite, is La Mexicana in Oakland. As the "Commish" of the 27 year old "I Could'A. I Should'A" fantasy football league, he and his buddy, Bob Goodman, teamed up as the Valley Tigers and enjoyed the fun and competition between family ...

Keith William Mielke
Nov. 15, 1933 - Nov. 22, 2016
Pleasanton, CA

Keith was born in Oklahoma in the middle of the great depression. He had a "Tom Sawyer-like" childhood that he recalled fondly. He was the first in his family to attend college. There he met and married his wife, Patricia, to whom he was happily married for 61 plus years. He died peacefully with Patricia and family by his side: daughter Lynne Mielke and husband John Gowey and son Eric Mielke of Pleasanton, two grandsons, Max Mielke and Spencer Gowey. He is also survived by another grandson Connor Gowey, two granddaughters, Erica and Madalyn Mielke, several nieces and nephews, as well as his sister, Jean Fratzke. Keith and Patricia retired to Pleasanton in 1998 to be closer to family. He served several years on the Pleasanton Cultural Arts Council and was active in his church, the Unitarian Universalist Church in Livermore. Keith served three years on active duty in the Army Security Agency, serving in Germany for two years as a Russian translator. He earned his PhD from Michigan State University and was a tenured professor at Indiana University for 13 years, ending as chairman of his department. He left academia after he received an offer to move to New York City t...

Sandra Jane Barsanti
Jan. 30, 1940 - Nov. 22, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Sandra (Sandy) Barsanti passed away quietly in her home with her partner of 21 plus years, Jack White, at her side. In the days preceding, Sandy's family was constantly by her side as she fought a brief battle with Leukemia. Born in Cleveland, OH, Sandy moved around a lot as the daughter of a career Army father. In her late teens the family settled in the Bay Area. She graduated from Oakland High School, then moved to San Francisco where she attended City College. Sandy became a wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. She always desired to help others. This prompted her return to school to become a nurse. She specialized in psychiatric nursing and made a career. In her free time Sandy enjoyed cooking and hosting family and others in her community for dinners and Bunco. She also enjoyed baking, especially during the holidays with the grandchildren. Sandy took pride in her home and lovely yard. She also loved her Yorkies Casey and Max who preceded her. Sandy experienced a rich life of travel. She visited South America, Africa, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, Russia, the Czech Republic, Australia and New Zealand just to name a few. She al...

Bernis Mendiboure
Aug. 10, 1929 - Nov. 17, 2016
Pleasanton, California

A devoted Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Bernis had a caring nature for every person that she met. Even while ill, she would know all about every care giver that she had and their families. She grew up in the Bay Area and then moved to the Central Valley. Nine years ago she moved to Pleasanton to be closer to her children. She was 87 years old when she went home to be with the Lord....

James Clyde Mayo
Oct. 16, 1959 - Nov. 17, 2016
Pleasanton, CA

James Clyde Mayo, a man of deep Christian faith, died after suffering a stroke at the age of 57. While hospitalized after the stroke, the hospital chaplain reported that he kept repeating "Jim Mayo, man of God." On other visits when she would read scripture, he would routinely finish the verse from memory. He was a graduate of Bethany Bible College in Santa Cruz with a Biblical studies major. Born in Oakland, Jim moved with his family to Pleasanton when he was nine. He attended Pleasanton schools, graduating from Amador Valley High in 1977. Professionally, he was the sales manager for Mayo Radiator and then handled outside sales for other businesses. He was a huge Giants fan and loved the mountains. He is survived by his children, Hallie Mayo and Kevin Mayo; his parents Dorothy and George Mayo; his sisters, Lou Ann Perry and Christina (Brian) Anderson; his brother, Edward (Tina) Mayo, many nieces and nephews and great nieces and a great nephew. He was predeceased by his wife, Cindy Mayo, and his sister, Laura Mayo Wigley....

Lael Arie Moffitt
June 23, 1933 - Nov. 16, 2016
Canton, Georgia

Lael Arie Moffitt passed away November 16 2016 in Woodstock Georgia at the age of 83 surrounded by her loving family. Lee was born on June 23, 1933 in Eureka California and graduated from Eureka High School in 1951. She move to San Lorenzo California where she worked at Clayworth Drugs, there she met the love of her life, William Lyle Moffitt. Together, they owned six successful pharmacies in the East San Francisco Bay Area. Lee was an avid golfer and member of the Castlewood Country Club and successful real estate agent with Alain Pinel in Pleasanton California. Retiring in June 2005, Lee moved to Canton Georgia to live near family. She will always be remembered as a stylish and classy lady. Lee is survived by her four children and their spouses, Ned and Deborah Yost of Georgia, Danny and Linda Yost of Grass Valley, Karen and Bill Lehto of Canton Georgia, and William and Nicole Moffitt of Half Moon Bay. Lee was blessed with 15 grandchildren, Ned, Josh, Jenny and Andrew Yost, Ryan, Matthew, and Nicky Yost, Katie and Emma Lehto, Michael Frazier, and Lily, Chloe, William, Gracie and Audrey Moffitt. One great grandchild Jordan. She is also survived by her sister Janet Clair B...

Todd Kenneth Montell
Sept. 25, 1988 - Nov. 14, 2016
Castro Valley, California

Todd Kenneth Montell passed away due to an unfortunate accident on Monday November 14, 2016. Todd grew up attending schools in the Pleasanton Tri-Valley area, graduated from Redwood H.S. in Castro Valley and attended Chabot College in Hayward. Todd is a kind, sensitive soul and was loved by all his family and friends. He was very passionate about all the Bay Area sport teams, Oakland Raiders, A's, Warriors, San Jose Sharks and attended games frequency. Todd loved skateboarding and perfected his skills over the years, which made him an excellent snowboarder. Todd also loved the outdoors, and spent many vacations at his mother's family property in Brownsville, CA and at his father's property in Fort Jones, CA. He loved to fish Dry Creek in Brownsville, Lake Chabot in Castro Valley, Alameda rock wall, San Leandro Marina, the California coastline from Monterey to Baker Beach in San Francisco. Todd is survived by this father Ken Montell and his fiancée Linda Burr, brother Travis Montell, mother Jennifer (McBride) Gottesman, her husband Rick Gottesman, his loving grandmother Frances McBride, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Todd is preceded in death by his gr...

Shirley Nadine Wilson
Sept. 22, 1926 - Nov. 4, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Shirley Nadine (McAdam) Wilson, a woman who lived life to its fullest, died November 4, 2016 in Pleasanton at the age of 90. When asked about her attitude while in hospice care, she responded she had a great life. In her last year, she organized a family reunion at Easter and then brought her family together for a fabulous dinner to celebrate her 90th birthday in September. Shirley was born and grew up in Oakland, the daughter of David King McAdam and Virgie Bernie Vernon. She sang with her father in live performances and on the radio, sparking a love of music. She graduated from Fremont High School. She was working in a dental office in Oakland when she met De Witt Wilson after he returned from World War II. They were married 62 ½ years and loved to sing to each other—their favorite song was "You are my sunshine." They moved to Pleasanton in 1966. While two of her sons were away at college, she joined with her daughter, Karen, to cook meals in large pots and then sealed them and sent them off to the boys at college. That's well before Zip-lock bags or vacuum sealing had been invented. The construction company they owned, Costanzo and Wilson, dona...

Pamela Sue Boni
Jan. 22, 1949 - Oct. 31, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Pamela Boni was born in Napa, California on January 22, 1949 to Jack and Patsy Finnigan. She graduated from Napa High in 1967. She earned her Bachelor's degree and teaching credential at Chico State in 1971. That same year, on June 19, she married Robert and they made their home in Merced. They spent time living in Sacramento, Concord, San Jose and Santa Rosa. Pamela, Robert and their two daughters moved to Pleasanton in 1986, where she lived for her remaining 30 years. Pam worked for the Pleasanton Unified School District for over 25 years as a paraeducator and teacher at Harvest Park, Pleasanton Middle and Hart Middle School. She had just recently retired in June of 2015. She loved to shop, travel, and spend time with her family and friends. Pam had a gift of making you feel truly special. Her generous heart, Irish charm, and loving spirit will remain in the hearts of all that she touched. She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Robert and her two beautiful daughters, Amanda Boni of Pleasanton and Melinda Boni of San Francisco. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Pamela's name to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network 1500 Rosecrans A...

Benjamin Sarasua
April 23, 1948 - Oct. 30, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Benjamin "Big Ben" Sarasua Sr., a 26-year resident of Pleasanton, died October 30, 2016. He was born April 23, 1948 in San Francisco, California. He is survived by his wife, Judy Sarasua of Pleasanton and his son, Benjamin Sarasua Jr. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 2 at 11:00 a.m. at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First Street, Pleasanton....

Dr. Gerald L. Severin
May 5, 1934 - Oct. 27, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Dr. Gerald Severin, distinguished physician, community leader and the first dermatologist to practice in the Livermore Valley, died peacefully at home October 27, 2016 after a courageous 12-year battle with Multiple Sclerosis and metastatic cancer. He was 82. Dr. Severin treated thousands of patients at his office in Livermore next to Valley Memorial Hospital, where he served as Chief of Staff for two years. He practiced for over 32 years before closing his office to accept a request to run the dermatology department at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Livermore. He ran that program for six years before retiring at the age of 70. He was known for taking time to get to know each patient and to listen to their concerns. Regarded as a brilliant diagnostician, he used that skill to save many lives. Known for his great sense of humor, his patients loved him. Jerry was a life-long adventurer and world traveler. After completing his internship in Minneapolis, MN, he and his wife, Charlotte, spent eight months travelling the world before fulfilling his doctor's draft commitment as a battalion surgeon in Germany during the Cold War. They planned this extended trip be...

Karen Ellis Pico
Dec. 14, 1944 - Oct. 13, 2016
Pleasanton, California

A great lady has left this world but her legacy lives on. In her professional life she took on the task of ending child abuse in this world and while the task continues, there are countless children and families that will never know how much she contributed to their breaking the cycle of child abuse. Her life was lived to the fullest. She was solo backpacking in her late 60's and introduced her family and many of her lady friends to the experience. Two major accomplishments were her completion of the 211 mile John Muir Trail, and work to create the Antioch Primrose Sand Dunes Preserve. Her motto was "Don't hold back." Karen was born in Los Angeles to Louis and Leola Pusina and lived most of her adult life in Pleasanton and Antioch. She graduated from Cal State East Bay and with a Masters degree in Psychology from San Francisco State University. She was a Marriage and Family Therapist and worked for 21 years at Parental Stress Service (Family Paths), a child abuse prevention agency, the last 11 as Executive Director. She is survived by her husband former Pleasanton Mayor Tom Pico Jr., children Adam and Mathew Ellis, step-children Tom Pico III and Jennife...

Kathleen Law
Aug. 3, 1935 - Oct. 12, 2016
Clovis, CA

Kathleen Mary O'Hanlon Law lost her battle to Parkinson's Disease on Wednesday, October 12, 2016 in Clovis, CA. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Tom after 47 years of marriage. She is survived by her loving children Tom, Terence, Eugene, Kathy and Alison; daughter-in-law, Michelle; sons-in-law, Chad, Llew and Joe; her wonderful grandchildren whom she loved so much, Alex, Sean, Everett, Ryan, Olivia, Sophia, Katey and Tommy; as well as her older brother, Gene; ; sisters and brothers-in-law and countless nieces and nephews who always made her laugh. The Law house was Kathleen's center and she was a gracious host and incredible chef. She loved having her very large extended family for gatherings and holidays. Kathleen and Tom were proud to be among the founding community of Saint Elizabeth Seton parish and school; she and Tom took parts in community theater, he singing and she dancing a mean Can Can. The Northern Westchester Irish American Social Club was a big part of their life. In 1979 Tom took a new position and the family moved to San Jose, CA. Kathleen worked part-time in the local schools and...

Nathan Joseph Buller
Oct. 12, 2000 - Oct. 9, 2016
Mooresville, North Carolina

Nathan Joseph Buller, 15, of Mooresville, NC passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2016. He was born in Springfield, MO, on October 12, 2000 to Andrew "Andy" Joseph and Amelia "Amy" Smathers Buller. Nathan was a sophom*ore at Lake Norman High School. Nathan was happiest with a fishing pole on the water. He was a masterful fisherman at Lake Norman and at the Coast. Nathan had an adventurous nature and a true zest for life. He was always kind and polite with a sparking smile that would light up a room. Nathan filled the lives of those that knew him with love, light and laughter. He was truly a happy soul. Nathan faced life as a gift but little did he know that he was the gift. He left footprints on this earth that can never be filled. In addition to his parents, Andy and Amy, Nathan is survived by his sisters, Calleigh Lindler Buller and Madeline Stella Buller both of the home; maternal grandparents, Joseph Fleetwood Smathers of Raleigh, NC, Barbara Ann Smathers of Canton, NC; paternal grandparents, Jimmy Vern Buller of Parson, KS, Betty Jane Buller of Mooresville, NC; uncles, Tim Buller (Bethany) of Houston, TX, Chance Buller of Parsons, KS and Josh Smath...

Phil Kenneth Mitchell
June 6, 1924 - Sept. 29, 2016
Red Wing, Minnesota

Former long-time Pleasanton resident Phil Kenneth Mitchell, LtCol, USAF, retired, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 29 in Red Wing, MN. Phil was born in Iola, KS and moved to Springville, CA as a young boy. He grew up there and graduated from Porterville High School in 1943, receiving his diploma and World War II draft notice on the same day. He served as an infantryman and was wounded in action in Germany, earning a Purple Heart. Upon his return home, he attended Stanford University on the G.I. Bill. He graduated in 1950 with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the US Air Force. He married the love of his life, Doris Eleanor James in 1958. Phil served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars while in the Air Force, and retired highly decorated as a lieutenant colonel in 1969. After his military career, he and Doris settled in Pleasanton, CA where they raised their three children. He continued working as an engineer until his retirement in 1986. In 2010 Phil and Doris relocated to Red Wing, MN to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Phil always enjoyed a good meal or dining out and vacatio...

Leone H. Berg
Nov. 30, 1923 - Sept. 20, 2016
Appleton, Wisconsin

Leone Henrietta Berg passed away peacefully on September 20, 2016 after 92 wonderful years. Marilyn, her daughter, and her grandson Eric were with her. She was born in Niagara, Wisconsin on November 30, 1923, to Nellie and James DeGroot. They eventually moved to Kimberly, Wisconsin then Little Chute, Wisconsin where she graduated from St. John's High School. She worked at Fox River Paper Mill until Jerry "Bud" Berg married her on April 19, 1947 after his military service. The couple then moved to Detroit, Michigan where Leone took great joy raising their four kids: Marilyn (Dale) Nordquist, Mark (Dawn) Berg, Arlene Berg (died at age 3) and Ken Berg (Beth died at 48). Leone was a devoted Mom, homemaker and wife with Jerry for sixty-one years when Jerry passed away in 2008. They spent twenty-one years in Detroit, six in Minneapolis and then thirty-three in California. They always made time to come back to Appleton each year to spend time with family. Leone was involved with the church choir and volunteered at different charities including the American Cancer Discovery Shop in California. Leone loved to garden and socialize with many dear friends from all over....

Bette J. Dela Fuente
April 15, 1934 - Sept. 16, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Bette J. Dela Fuente passed away on September 16, 2016 after suffering a sudden heart attack. She touched many lives with her quick, warm smile, positive attitude, loyalty, and genuine fun-loving spirit. Bette was born in Vacaville, CA and graduated from Mountain View High School, where she was a majorette. Bette married Vince Dela Fuente in 1953. They made their home in Sunnyvale, CA, where they had their two children Russell and Loren. Bette worked in San Francisco for the FBI as part of a secretarial pool, as a bank teller at American Savings and Loans in Sunnyvale, and as an aid for special needs children at Los Altos High School. Bette was an excellent golfer and, with her husband Vince, was a member of Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton for 30 years. Bette achieved eight "Holes in One" during this time, the most recent happening this past June. Vince and Bette traveled together around the world to many countries, and if a golf course was there …they played it! Bette is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Vince Dela Fuente, devoted children Russell Dela Fuente of Fremont, CA, Ms. Loren Loduha of Pleasanton, CA, and granddaughter Sara...

Nancy McCormick
July 28, 1938 - Sept. 10, 2016
Lincoln, California

On September 10, Nancy McCormick lost her hard fought battle against leukemia. Nancy was very proud to have been born and raised in San Francisco. After graduating from Mercy High School she attended San Francisco City College where she made life long friends. Making an independent choice for the time (and one that greatly worried her mother) she and her friend Fran moved to Hawaii where she met Jim Wulferdingen. After marrying in San Francisco, Jim and Nancy moved to Pleasanton in the late sixties and raised four children. They were divorced in 1983 whereupon some of Nancy's greatest adventures began! Living in Pleasanton until 2004, she then moved to Lincoln, California. Throughout her years, Nancy was fortunate to work in many places where she developed lasting friendships. She was witty, warm, loved a good party, and tough as nails. She is survived by her sister Peg Weiss (Bud); daughters Julie Wulferdingen (Rob), Jamie Wulferdingen Graves (Mark) and Chris Wulferdingen (Paul); and son Scott Wulferdingen (Catlin). Nancy was a wonderful grandma and survived by her lucky grandchildren Roberto, Rafael, Matthew, Alex, Sebastian, Oliver, Jay, and Natalie. She is also...

Gloria Marie Stahlnecker
June 30, 1927 - Sept. 7, 2016
Pleasanton, CA

Gloria Marie Joseph Stahlnecker, a lifetime Pleasanton resident, passed away at the age of 89 years, on Wednesday, September 7, 2016, following a life well lived. Gloria was born on Second Street in Pleasanton to Joe and Mary Joseph. Gloria's paternal Joseph (Damiao) family is considered one of Pleasanton's Heritage Families, having settled in Pleasanton in the 1870's. Gloria attended school in Pleasanton, graduating from Amador High School in 1945. During WWII, Gloria served as a hostess at USO (United Service Organization) dances held at Pleasanton's Veteran's Memorial Building. Additionally, she and her father hosted many soldiers, sailors and marines from Camp Shoemaker (now known as Camp Parks) for dinner. For many years, Gloria remained pen pals corresponding with those she met. After graduating high school, Gloria worked at Camp Shoemaker and at the Livermore Veteran's Hospital as a secretary. Just a year or so after he sold her a car, Gloria married Herbert Elwood Stahlnecker in May, 1950. The couple settled in Pleasanton, raising four children, Carl, Paul, Brian and Annette. While rearing her children, Gloria was actively involved i...

Bertha Alicia Martin
June 24, 1945 - Aug. 28, 2016
Pleasanton, California

BerthaAliciaMartindiedAug.28,2016 at KaiserHospital in Walnut Creek, CA. She wasborn BerthaAliciaLlamasinTecolotlan, Jalisco, Mexico to Rosario Llamas. Berthaissurvivedbyherhusbandof43 years, Rene Martin herdaughter(Ana) DaisyLoa and soninlawEddieLoa,hersonRene"Tito" Martin and hischildren Austin and Natalee Martin, her sisterMariaS."Sally"Gomezand herniece Adrianna Villamar, all of Pleasanton. Berthawasadevotedwifeandmotherand loyal friend who enjoyed singing and gardening. Her senseofhumorandexcellentcookingwill be missed byall who knew her. Afuneral masswill be heldonSept.17,2016at11:00amat St. Augustine CatholicChurch in Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers,donationsmaybemade to St. AnthonyFoundation at www.stanthonysf.org...

Judie Johnson
July 6, 1939 - Aug. 22, 2016
Vail, Arizona

Judith "Judie" Johnson (nee O'Brien) passed away peacefully in Tucson, Arizona on August 22, 2016 surrounded by her family. Judie was born on July 6, 1939 in Chicago and attended St. Angela Academy in Morris, Illinois. As much as she loved the Midwest, the California sunshine was calling to her and so she moved with her four children to the San Francisco Bay Area. Judie was an independent free spirit who loved the ocean, eating popcorn, listening to Rod McKuen, and participating in all styles of dancing (she had even tried belly dancing!). When she retired from AT&T Communications in 1993, she finally had a chance to tackle all of the sewing projects that she had been putting off and was able to devote a great deal of time to her local St. Vincent de Paul Society. In 2006, Judie relocated to The Villages, Florida where she reconnected with her high school friends, played mahjong, researched her family genealogy, and participated in the Celtic Club. Everyone that knew her would agree that Judie was an unbelievably strong woman who spoke her mind, took care of those in need, and always put family first. Judie was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Naomi (nee Maroney...

Alison Boswell
Sept. 13, 1994 - Aug. 14, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Alison Boswell, daughter of Dave and Elizabeth Boswell and sister to Henry and Aaron Boswell, was born September 13, 1994 in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and lived in Pleasanton California since 1998. Most recently she was a student at Las Positas College where she studied with the dream of being a Disability Advocate. She graduated Amador Valley High School in 2013. Alison was very involved in the community during her short but full life. She was a Girl Scout for 13 years and achieved her Girl Scout Gold Award. She served as a Commissioner on the City of Pleasanton's Human Services Commission, and for many years was on the California Children Services Advisory Council that provides programs for disabled students transitioning to adulthood. She enjoyed playing Power Soccer and in 2015 her team competed at the Power Soccer Nationals in Boston. She loved going to camp in the summer, as well as baking, swimming, and downhill skiing. Her smile, joy of life, humor, courage and tenacity will be remembered in the hearts all who knew her. She will be missed by her parents, brothers, grandparents Sebastian and Sandra Reisch, and Gladys Boswell, aunts and uncles...

Kimberly Rachel Slichter - Gigliotti
May 22, 1971 - Aug. 5, 2016
Sacramento, CA

Kimberly Rachel Slichter- Gigliotti age 45 passed on Friday August 5, 2016 in Sacramento in her sleep. Kim was born May 22, 1971 to Paul Slichter and Sharen Kragen. Kim was the oldest of three children born in San Leandro, California. She attended Amador Valley High school in Pleasanton and then went into the Navy where she served for five years with tours including Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Kim and Paul Gigliotti met in Denver Colorado. A year later they married in 1994. She is now survived by her three children Gabby, Jake, and Sophie Gigliotti. Her parents Paul (Carol) Slichter and Sharon (Bob) Kragen. Her Aunt Joyce (Roy) Ludwig and siblings Eric and Jennifer Slichter. Numerous Uncles, Aunts, Nephews, Nieces, and many more family members....

Carl Allen Holder Jr.
May 7, 1934 - July 30, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Carl Allen Holder Jr., a man of deep faith who loved working with his hands and getting things done, died July 30. He was 82. Carl lived out his Christian faith by serving others in a variety of volunteer roles as well as mentoring young people throughout his life. He did it all with a big smile that blessed all he encountered. He worked with his hands and restored cars for each of his three daughters that he gave them when they turned 16. He also liked building projects such as homes for Habitat for Humanity and projects around his church, Graceway of Pleasanton. Carl was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He attended Capital Hill High School and Oklahoma State University where he was in the Sigma Chi Fraternity and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. He married Jacquelyn Caudle in 1958 and they have three daughters. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jacque, and their three daughters: Karen Ann (Brooke Burton) of Highland Ranch, Colorado (children Kelby, Marley and Thatcher); Carla Kay (Jeff Land) of Diablo, California (children Jennifer and Jessica) and Kelly Sue (David Elkins) of Portland, Oregon (children Emily and Paige). While attending Oklahoma State, Carl ...

Don Covello
Aug. 3, 1940 - July 28, 2016
Cloverdale, California

Don Michael Covello went home to his Lord on July 28, 2016 after a long illness and many hospitalizations. He was being cared for at Healdsburg Hospital when he left us. He was recently a resident of Cloverdale CA after living in Healdsburg for 14 years. Don was born in Stockton CA and raised in San Francisco. He attended Mission High School and then USF where he received his BS degree in history. He was employed for many years by Raychem Corp in Menlo Park. His last employment before retirement was with Skasol Inc in Oakland. He and his wife Barbara moved to Healdsburg in 2002, where they enjoyed all that Sonoma County has to offer. Don was deeply involved with his church, first St Augustine's in Pleasanton and then Resurrection Parish in Santa Rosa. His membership in various organizations included Italian Catholic Federation, Catholic Cursillos in Christianity, Slow Food, Zinfandel Advocates and Producers, Sonoma County Wine Library, Don loved the outdoors. In his healthier days he played golf, hiked, biked, camped, and traveled to many countries, He loved sports especially football. He participated in bench press competitions and spent many hours in the gym. Don is surviv...

Mary Ellen Manzella
July 13, 1948 - July 18, 2016
Austin, Texas

Longtime Pleasanton resident Mary Manzella passed on July 18, 2016 in Austin, TX where she and her husband John Manzella of 49 years retired in 2012. Mary ran an in-home daycare for nearly 40 years in Pleasanton. She loved children and helped raise hundreds of kids in the community, loving them each as her own. Those who know her would tell you, "She never met a stranger, she was full of life, love and patience." Mary and John retired to Austin in 2012 to be close to family and their three grandsons. Mary enjoyed traveling the country with her husband in their fifth wheel, attending lots of youth baseball, basketball and football games, and enjoying retirement. Mary especially loved "date night" at the movies with her husband! Mary was born on July 13, 1948 in Oakland, CA to Claire and David Brandt. She attended Holy Names High School in Oakland and married her husband, John Manzella, a decorated Marine and Vietnam war veteran, on December 2, 1967. John and Mary moved to Pleasanton in the mid-70s and had two children, Christine and Paul. Mary is survived by her husband John Manzella, daughter and son-in-law, Christine and Doug Sechrist of Austin, T...

John Russell Morgan
Nov. 12, 1979 - July 17, 2016
Pleasanton, California

John was born at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek, CA. He attended Walnut Grove Elementary School, Harvest Park Middle School and graduated from Amador Valley High School with the class of 1998. He was a devoted sports fan of Washington Huskies football team, the San Francisco 49' ers, the Seattle Seahawks, the Golden State Warriors and the San Jose Sharks. John had a huge and loving heart. He was devoted to his family and friends and he adored his niece and nephews. John died too young of complications of septic shock. He is survived by his parents Russ and Cheryl, sister Katie Warner, niece Kayla, nephews Riley, Justin, Brody, his "big brother" Louis Warner and aunts, uncles, and cousins. There will be a celebration of life for family and close friends in a couple of weeks. If you wish to donate, please consider a small donation in Memory of John Morgan to: Axis Community Health www.axishealth.org...

Rebecca Horsley
Jan. 17, 1971 - June 23, 2016
Wake Forest, North Carolina

Rebecca Ann (Cence) Horsley, 45, went home to be with the Lord on June 23, 2016. A beloved Daughter, Wife, Mother, Sister, and Aunt, Becky was born in Santa Clara, County, CA on January 17, 1971. She graduated from Pleasanton High School in 1989, and earned a degree in Communications from Sacramento State University. For several years after college, she was employed in the Insurance Industry before relocating to Raleigh, NC. While in Raleigh, she went on to earn her Teaching Certificate at Meredith College and later entered East Carolina University’s Masters Degree Program. She found her true calling as a kindergarten teacher in the Wake County School System. She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church, and was very active in the ‘God Squad.’ Her family was her life and love, just as she was their love. Becky’s joy, humor, thoughtfulness, and love of life will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at Hope Lutheran Church. Pastor Lew Upchurch will officiate. Becky is survived by her husband, of 12 years, Charles Jeffrey Horsley; sons, Nicholas Paul Horsley and Charles Benjamin Horsley; ...

Arthur (Bud) Plato
May 8, 1926 - June 19, 2016
Tracy, California

Arthur "Bud" Plato died peacefully, with his family by his side, on Sunday, June 19, 2016 at the age of 90. Bud was born on May 8, 1926 in San Rafael, California. He was a longtime Pleasanton resident and business owner. After graduating from Amador High school, he enlisted in the Navy. Once his service was complete, he returned to Pleasanton, the city he loved and became very involved in the community. In the early 1950's, he was a member of the Pleasanton volunteer fire department. Other affiliations include the Lyons Club, Planning Commission and VFW. Bud was well known as the owner of the American Cleaners, located in downtown Pleasanton, established in 1943 and prospering until his retirement in 1985. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Peggy Plato of Tracy, and 7 children: Paula Lucio of Tracy, Hap Plato of Tracy, Patty Vent of Salinas, Linda McCloud of Tracy, Lori Brandes of Pleasanton, Lynn Andrus of Arizona and Chip Plato of Manteca, as well as numerous grand children and great grandchildren....

Robert V. Juniper
Oct. 20, 1922 - June 14, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Robert V. Juniper known as "Bob" died June 14, 2016 in Sacramento CA at the age of 93. Bob was born Oct. 20, 1922 in Nelsonville OH. As a youngster he helped in his grandparent's grocery store, the Juniper Grocery, in Nelsonville until it closed during the Great Depression in the 1930's. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, at the age of 19, Bob enlisted in the US Navy. He was sent by the Navy to the University of Kentucky for six months to train to become a flight instrumentation instructor and weather data collector and was stationed in Pensacola FL for the duration of WWII. After the war he moved from Philadelphia PA with his wife Carolyn and toddler daughter Sandra to Pleasanton CA. Bob's two sons, Robert and Steven, were born in Livermore. Bob was in the Naval Reserves for 10 years and was active in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6298, serving as Commander several times. He was a volunteer firefighter for the Pleasanton Fire Department during the 1950's and early 1960's. He was also an Alameda County reserve deputy. And for many years he was a member of a bowling league. Bob was quite good at drawing cartoons, even winning 1st place in the "Ultimate T-shirt Design" co...

Glenn Alen Valenziano
Jan. 9, 1963 - June 3, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Glenn Alen Valenziano passed away unexpectedly June 3, 2016. Glenn loved to fish and be out on the water. He was a man of many trades. He loved spending time working around his mother’s garden, making repairs at his brother’s homes and especially taking care of their family restaurant, Porky’s Pizza Palace. Glenn was happiest when he was helping others. Glenn was preceded in death by his father, Salvatore, was a devoted son to his mother, Shirley, a loving brother to Gary and his wife Jodi, & Gregg and his wife Patsy, and a caring uncle to Nicholas and his wife Kristina, Emily and Anthony. For those wishing to celebrate his life, a service will be held on Monday, June 13th at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 1st St, Pleasanton, CA. Viewing at 12:00, and service at 1:00pm. A reception will follow....

Joseph Nason Berry, Jr.
Dec. 9, 1962 - June 3, 2016
Hohhot, Mongolia, China

Joseph Nason Berry, Jr. was born in Oakland, CA on December 9, 1962. He grew up in Pleasanton, CA and was a graduate of Foothill High School in 1981. He attended Marion Military Institute in Marion, AL. Upon graduation he was commissioned an officer in the US Army Reserves. He died after a brief illness in Beijing, China on June 3, 2016. He was teaching English in Hohhot, Mongolia, China at the time of his death. He loved the people and especially the children that he taught. He is survived by his mother, Sharon Berry Olague, step father, Felix Olague, sister, Melissa Berry Tucker, and brother-in-law Todd Tucker, nephews Brendan and Daniel Tucker and nice Morgan Tucker and step brothers Michael and Gene Olague. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Nason Berry, Sr. in 1985. A celebration of Joe’s life is scheduled for 12 pm on July 9, 2016, at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First St., Pleasanton, CA 94566...

Arthur Truman Morley
Sept. 17, 1946 - May 26, 2016
Kaysville, Utah

Arthur Truman Morley, Jr. 1946-2016 Arthur Truman Morley, Jr., 69, passed away on May 26, 2016. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and servant of the Lord. Arthur leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Jeanie (Fitzgerald) Morley; his six children: Marc Morley (Ann), Jeremy Morley (Kristina), Tyler Morley (Michelle), Amy Bybee (Bryce), MaryAnn Hyte (David), and Kim Morley; and his 15 grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters: Nancy Sharp, Judith Judd, and Susan Rasmussen, He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Truman Morley, Sr.; his mother, Helen Sexton Morley; and his sister, Carole Ash. He was born in Ely, Nevada, on September 17, 1946. Most of his childhood was spent in Bountiful, Utah, where he excelled in sports as a youth. He served a full-time LDS mission in the Northern States Mission. Upon return from his mission, he met Jeanie Fitzgerald on the steps of the Cultural Arts Building at Weber State University. The two were married and sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on June 9, 1969. After serving as a reservist in the United States Army, Art took a job in Seattle, Washington, with the Life Savers Company, which was later acquired by Nabisc...

Bonita "Bonnie" Streitz
Dec. 7, 1930 - May 25, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Bonita “Bonnie” Streitz, a long time resident of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2016. She was born in Seattle, WA on December 7, 1930. She lived for a short time in Los Angeles, moved to Livermore as a teenager where she met and married Don Streitz in 1948. In 1952 they settled in Pleasanton which became Bonnie’s lifelong home. Bonnie worked at General Electric Vallecitos for 38 years where she made many lifelong, treasured friends. As a mother, she was steadfast, generous and an ever present source of love and support. She loved knitting, the San Francisco Giants, and spending time with her family and beloved cats. In the last 50 years, she rarely missed her weekly appointment at the Beauty Nook on Main Street, one of her few self-indulgences. She is survived by her son, Steven of Sun City CA, daughters, Kay of Oakland and Dana (Ford) of Danville, her granddaughter, Phaedra Wilson and grandchildren Alexander and Isabella of Mounds, MN, brother-in-law, Robert Streitz of Elk Grove and cousin, John Wesseling, of Idaho....

John David Evanson
Aug. 18, 1928 - May 24, 2016
Pleasanton, California

John David Evanson, 87, of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2016. John was born in Northwood, North Dakota on August 18, 1928 to Parnell and Beulah Evanson. He attended Northwood High School and entered service into the Marine Corps as Private 1st class in 1946. After his dedicated service in the Marine Corps, John attended Everett Junior College in Washington and was shortly thereafter drafted into the Army for service in the Korean War. A leader and dedicated soldier, John received the Bronze Star for meritorious service as a Private First Class and quickly moved up in rank to Master Sergeant. After the war, John attended the University of Washington where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and became a die-hard Husky fan. In 1956, he married his life time love, Anna Hein, and remained dedicated to her all his life â€" a beautiful marriage of 60 years. John’s career included employment with Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical, and Wells Fargo. John’s life was exemplified by dedication, commitment and service. Proud to be an American and Veteran, John was a member of American Legion, Post 92 of Northwood, North ...

Joyce Jeanine Oxsen
July 3, 1933 - May 21, 2016
Livermore, California

One Year Ago, Joyce J. Oxsen, 82, a 65 year resident of Pleasanton/Livermore area, passed away May 21, 2016. She was born on July 3, 1933 in Topeka, Kansas. Joyce graduated from Hayward High in 1951. It was this same year she met Ret. Pleasanton Reserve Police Officer and Good Samaritan, Ernest R. Oxsen and began her long and rewarding life in Pleasanton. She was a beloved and long time volunteer and employee for the Pleasanton Senior Center, newspaper, and VFW Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing golf, travelling and anything community service related. She is survived by her son in law and daughter, Tim and Cynthia Schane of Manteca, Ca; 4 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. Joyce Loved Pleasanton and devoted her life to its service. She will always be greatly appreciated and missed....

Thomas McCoy Johnson
Aug. 3, 1938 - May 17, 2016
Pleasanton, California

ThomasÂMcCoyÂJohnson ResidentÂofÂPleasanton (AugustÂ3,Â1938Ââ€"ÂMayÂ17,Â2016) Long­timeÂPleasantonÂresidentÂThomasÂMcCoyÂJohnson,Â77,ÂpassedÂawayÂ(Cancer) peacefullyÂwithÂhisÂfamilyÂbyÂhisÂsideÂinÂhisÂPleasantonÂhomeÂonÂMayÂ17,Â2016.ÂÂTomÂis survivedÂbyÂhisÂwifeÂofÂnearlyÂ58Âyears,ÂSueÂJohnson;ÂhisÂ3Âchildren,ÂKevinÂÂ(Leslie) JohnsonÂfromÂPleasanton,ÂKeithÂJohnsonÂfromÂLakeÂTahoe,ÂandÂCherieÂ(Greg)ÂBlades fromÂTracy.ÂÂHeÂisÂalsoÂsurvivedÂbyÂhisÂfiveÂgrandchildren:ÂBritniÂ(Mark)ÂMiller,ÂJordan (Lexi)ÂJohnson,ÂKylieÂ(Brett)ÂJohnsonÂ(soonÂtoÂbeÂBower),ÂKendallÂBlades,ÂandÂBrock Blades.ÂÂHeÂisÂalsoÂsurvivedÂbyÂtwoÂgreat­grandchilden,ÂPeytonÂMillerÂandÂAubreyÂMiller. RaisedÂinÂMillbraeÂCalifornia,ÂTomÂisÂtheÂsonÂofÂJohnÂMcCoyÂandÂVirginiaÂJohnson.ÂÂHis onlyÂsibling,ÂCarolÂ(Bra...

Marilu Furey
Jan. 9, 1932 - May 7, 2016
Peasanton, California

Marilu Furey passed away on May 7th at her home in Vacaville, California succumbing to pneumonia. She was well liked in her community and will be greatly missed. She was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. She and her husband, the late Richard Furey, moved to California in 1961, settling in Pleasanton in 1965. They raised 3 children; Mike, Lee, and Katherine and became prominent figures in the community. Marilu became a phlebotomist and worked at Valley Care Medical Center in Pleasanton until she retired in 1996. She later moved to Vacaville to be closer to her oldest son, Mike. A true care giver at heart, before she became a nurse Marilu volunteered her time to care for the elderly. Even in her later years at Windsor House Convalescent Home she spent her days keeping busy helping fellow patients in every way she could. She touched every life that she came in contact with with her kindness, wit, and colorful opinions . She will be greatly missed and live in the memories of her family and friends....

Neal Linton Person
July 29, 1932 - May 2, 2016
Ellensburg, Washington

Neal Linton Person, 83, entered into Heaven on May 2, 2016 while tending his garden. Neal was born July 29, 1932 in Hector, Minnesota to Linton and Esther (Schwarzkopf) Person. Neal graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Neal married Ardyce J. Dobberstein in 1952 and while living in Minneapolis they had son, Kevin and daughter, Neala. Upon graduating Neal accepted a job with Kaiser Aluminum in 1957 and moved the family to Spokane, Washington. In 1960 Neal was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis which confined him to a wheelchair the rest of his life. Neal and Ardyce separated and divorced in 1965. In 1969 Neal was transferred to the new Kaiser Aluminum Research Center in Pleasanton, CA. Neal met Audrey Marie, at a divorce recovery meeting in Livermore, CA. On June 1st 1977, after all their children were in college, Neal and Audrey married, and settled in a home in Pleasanton, CA, and began enjoying their “Empty Nester Years”. They were active members of the Presbyterian Church, and enjoyed their travels to San Diego, Lake Tahoe and Spokane, WA. Neal took a wood carving class at the local recreation cent...

William "Gene" Eccher
June 5, 1928 - April 11, 2016
Long time resident of Pleasanton, California

William “Gene” Eccher a long time resident of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2016. He was born in Burke, Idaho and grew up in the Denver and gold country areas of Colorado. He and his family moved to Pleasanton in 1969. He is survived by his daughter, Mary K. Eccher, her husband Walter Molz of El Dorado Hills Ca., and his granddaughter Jill A. Bond, her husband Alex, and his great grandson Miles L. Bond. He was preceded in death by his wife Florence and son James in 2009. Family and friends are invited to celebrate a mass at the chapel of St. Elizabeth Seton’s Catholic Church in Pleasanton, on Thursday May 26, 2016 at 10 am, and will be followed by a lunch reception at the same location....

John Clarke Slade
July 29, 1929 - April 4, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Our beloved husband, father, uncle, and grandfather passed away peacefully after attending his favorite art class at Stoneridge Creek retirement community. Born in Wausau WI, he attended the University of Wisconsin where he met, and later married, Marilyn Sullivan. After his return from the Korean war he earned a degree in Criminology from Michigan State University. His professional career included Security Management for Sears and the Hecht Company, and later in Commercial Insurance for Employers Insurance of Wausau. After living in nine states and fifteen residences, John retired in Pleasanton. He enjoyed fishing, painting, woodcarving, skiing, and traveling extensively in the U.S. and abroad. John is survived by his loving wife Marilyn and children Scott Slade of Sunnyvale, Holly Moen of Davis, Nancy Kraemer of Pleasanton, Douglas Slade of Stafford, VA, and Carolyn McCarthy of Rumson, NJ. Also surviving are thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Friends and family are invited to the funeral service on Wednesday, April 13th at 10:00am, with viewing beginning at 9:00 am at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First St., Pleasanton. Private family burial is...

Freda Wall
July 10, 1918 - Feb. 27, 2016
Pleasanton, California/USA

Freda Rose Wall (Brandenburger), a woman whose love, grace, kindness and patience extended through five generations, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Feb. 27. She took her last breath in peace at home surrounded by loved ones and holding the hand of her beloved husband of 78 years. Freda was born on July 10, 1918, in Gibson, Montana, to German and Austrian immigrants Amelia and Frederick Brandenburger. She was the first of six children: Anne, Margaret, Freddie, Helen, and Sonny. When she was six, her family left Montana and moved to Southern California. Freda attended Huntington Park High School, which incurred extensive damages during the Long Beach earthquake of 1933. Newspaper reports from the time state that had students been inside during the quake, they would not have survived. As a teenager, one of Freda’s favorite pastimes was playing tennis with her sister Anne. When she was 17, she met the love of her life, a young car mechanic named Glen Wall. They met at a gathering of mutual friends. Their love blossomed quickly, just like the gardenias Glen used to bring her when he picked her up for dates. They were married on August 27, 1937, in Santa Ana, C...

Al Avilla
Dec. 27, 1950 - Feb. 26, 2016
San Leandro, California

Please join us in celebrating his life May 13th at 2 p.m. at The Shop (Avilla's Taxidermy), 1754 Timothy Dr, San Leandro. We will meet to share stories, memories, food and laughter over the camp fire till the moon comes up as Al would have wished....

Darleen Marie Upmeier
Aug. 26, 1946 - Feb. 16, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Darleen Marie Upmeier (nee Moore/Ryan), a fervent Irishwoman and American, was born a mirror twin to Coleen Pass on August 26, 1946 in Los Angeles. After a passionate productive life, she died of an extremely aggressive cancer on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at home under hospice care, surrounded by her family and friends. After graduation from Long Beach State she married John Upmeier in 1969 and with the help of great friends, carried on bravely during his years flying in the Vietnam War and Cold War service including three years in England. Darleen was always proud that both her daughters were born in California; Jennifer at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento and Deborah at Washington Hospital in Fremont. Upon separating from the Air Force she moved to Pleasanton, where she made a home for many and presided there as "Mom" for over 40 years. Darleen spent enormous energy working for St. Augustine Church as a teacher and coordinator for over 25 years, and later wrote and implemented Adult and Family Faith programs in various Catholic Parishes in San Jose and San Francisco. Darleen introduced the Corazon program to St. Augustine in 1990. This program is still ongoi...

David Leon Edney
May 7, 1960 - Feb. 13, 2016
Livermore/Arnold, CA

David Leon Edney Resident of Livermore/Arnold, CA May 7, 1960 â€" February 13, 2016 Dave was born in Needham, MA. He graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1978. David served in the U.S. Coast Guard and the Reserves. Dave is survived by his wife, Nancy Schoendienst Edney, his parents, M. Carol and John W. Edney, his two children, Nathan and Audrey Edney, his granddaughter Miss Marley Maddison Edney, sisters, Diane Mack (John), Dave’s twin and Joanna Martinez (Joseph), brothers, Keith (Heather), Jack (Laura) , Bud (Lisa). Dave embodied selfless service, concern, and actual care for the environment. He cared about all the things most people don't want to discuss. He thought through his ways and invested in people; and it showed. He taught perseverance with passion and concern. He exemplified a humble leader who was able to have a great part in many lives. Dave will be remembered for his tremendous work ethic, his positive attitude and his willingness to do anything to help a friend. Dave was an extreme endurance athlete who completely embodied the great outdoor lifestyle. Dave was a member of the Arnold RIM Trail Association Steering Committee and activ...

Marilyn Rose Heinzel
Oct. 22, 1937 - Feb. 4, 2016
Livermore, California

Our mother, Marilyn, died on Thursday morning in Tracy, California. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Marilyn was a Registered Nurse for over 35 years and loved working in surgery, the recovery room and same day surgery. In the 1990’s she began a second career working for Costco. She was married for 20 years to her sweetheart, Richard (Dick) Heinzel, who predeceased her in 1979. Marilyn has three children, Elaine Eiden and her husband Rick of Tracy, Susan Cahill and her husband Tom of Santa Clarita, Ca. and Tim Heinzel and his wife Barbara also of Santa Clarita, Ca. Marilyn also has four grandchildren, Thomas and Caitlin Cahill and Ashley and Jennifer Heinzel. She is also survived by her sister Joan McCusker of Benicia, and her niece Carrie (Keith) Smith, her great-niece Peyton, and her nephew Michael Gravelle and was predeceased by her brother Jim McCusker and her parents James and Mary McCusker. She will always be missed by those who love her....

Merle Haas Telford
Oct. 7, 1929 - Feb. 2, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Merle Haas Telford passed away from Alzheimer’s disease on Feb. 2, 2016, in Concord, California. Merle was born on October 7, 1929, to Pearl and Merna Telford in Pierre, South Dakota. He was one of eight siblings including Marie, Phyllis, Iris, Arlene, Kenneth, Gene and Thomas. Merle worked in heavy construction and in real estate for many years in Pleasanton. He was a community activist and served in the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce and became a lifetime member of the Lions Club. Merle is survived by his wife, Melda, two children, Linda (Jerry) Walton of Discovery Bay, Jim (Sally) Telford of Rapid City, South Dakota, one stepson, Lane (Debbie)of Santa Clarita, eight grandchildren, Amy Telford, Adam Telford, Aaron Telford, Justin (Danielle) Walton of Livermore, Scott (Tessa) Walton of Elk Grove, Steven (Debbie) Leavitt, Daniel Leavitt, and Rebecca Leavitt of Santa Clarita, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family. Merle loved his family, relatives, and friends dearly. He will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather and a friend to everyone he met....

Barbara Ashton
Oct. 18, 1927 - Jan. 28, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Barbara T. Ashton, who baked thousands and thousands of cookies for others, went home to Jesus on January, 28, 2016. She was 88. As a homemaker and mother, Barbara readily served her family and others. One of her favorite ways was to bake her special oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. She made cookies for the church’s prison ministry, its evangelical outreach, its youth group and groups her children were in as they grew. She learned to make beignets while living in Louisiana. She made them for fundraisers, getting up very early to make the dough so they would be fresh later in the morning. She also made chicken soup from scratch and always had some in the freezer to give to a person who was sick or needed a meal. Her volunteerism extended to the schools, the library book program, youth programs, the Hope Hospice gift shop and the Kaiser facilities in Pleasanton where she logged more than 5,000 hours as volunteer. When her daughter sent her a hand-knitted prayer shawl as Barbara recovered from knee surgery, she in turn started a prayer shawl ministry at Centerpointe. She routinely knitted a shawl each week and the ministry has given more than 500 shawls over the y...

Meribeth Detweiler
Aug. 9, 1955 - Jan. 23, 2016
Pleasanton, California

After a six year battle with colon cancer, Meribeth Detweiler was called to the Lord at the age of 60 while surrounded by her immediate family. Meribeth is survived by her husband Karl and their children, Joel(Sarah), Todd and Jayna, her nieces Kathy Houret, Jayne Bower and Mindy Prow. and her “adoptive sister” Janet Kittler. She was born in Terre Haute, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her parents Paul and Evelyn Ellingsworth and her sister Jacque Bower. She graduated from West Vigo High School in Terre Haute and San Jose State University. She was brave to the end as she fought for her life, enduring numerous surgeries and chemo treatments with unbelievable strength and positive emotions. She loved to dance, loved to entertain, loved her children, her husband, her friends and especially her community. She served on the Pleasanton Human Services Commission and was a volunteer Barton Tutor at Valley View for many years. She also actively supported many local politicians and causes....

John Robert Watson
Feb. 28, 1925 - Jan. 17, 2016
Pleasanton, California

John (Jack) Watson, 90, a resident of Pleasanton for the past several years, died peacefully on January 17, 2016, with family by his side. He was born February 28, 1925 along with his twin sister, Dorothy Higgs, (deceased) in Bellevue, PA. His family moved many times and ended up in Southern California where he met his wife, MaryAnn Horn(deceased). They began their family there with two girls. A new job with IBM brought Jack to Upstate New York for programmer training and then to Montgomery, AL, then back to New York all within six and a half years and he also added two more daughters to his family. After that time, he was transferred to San Jose, California and continued his career with IBM, Memorex Corp.,and then finally a small company in Northern California called ICOT. He retired at age 60. With his wife, MaryAnn, by his side they traveled everywhere in the US in a small travel trailer and eventually made their winter home in Apache Junction, AZ for the "snowbird" season and their favorite spot during the summer months was Hope, ID on Lake Pend Oreille. He was probably one of the few to have had a sailboat on the lake. They even travelled to Demark twice to meet their great-...

Tarey (Terry) Joann Thornburg
May 2, 1949 - Jan. 14, 2016
Aurora, Colorado

Tarey Joann Thornburg, a resident of Aurora, CO for the past 30+ years passed away January 14, 2016 at the Denver Hospice Impatient Care Center. Her dear friend, Denise (Dee) Strothmann, also of Aurora, was by her side. Surgery in the previous month did not slow the aggressive cancer with which she was diagnosed in December. Tarey went to Colorado to work for the Channel 2 television station as a station programmer, and then worked as a dispatcher for a trucking firm. There were many hours spent on the phone with Tarey “catching up” with friends in California: Meridyth Noble, Susan Nerton and her mom, Florence and brother, Roger, and many others. This remembrance is for those of us who knew Tarey in Colorado but are curious about her time in California, 1956-1968. I have it on good authority that Tarey arrived in Pleasanton in 1956 and attended Alisal Elementary School from second to fourth grades. Meridyth (Merilou) Noble remembers that first bus ride to Alisal Elementary School; this wide-eyed, little brunette introduced herself asking Merilou if she wanted to sit with her on the bus. I’ll bet Doug Amis and Jack Friedman remember those days at Alisal Elemen...

Sherrill Marie Hamilton
April 17, 1945 - Jan. 10, 2016
Pleasanton, California

Sherrill Hamilton was born April 17, 1945 in Idaho to parents Glenn and Dona (Fenton) Walker. She grew up in Bellflower, California before her family moved to Dublin during her high school years. She graduated from Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton in 1963 and later graduated from Hayward Beauty College. Sherrill met her loving husband, Herbert Hamilton and were married in 1966. They would have celebrated 50 years of marriage in September. Sherrill was a devoted wife and mother. They had three children together and she stayed home with them when they were young. She was known as an excellent cook who loved to barbeque and no one left her table hungry. She loved gardening, sewing and cherished the Christmas holiday. She treasured her grandchildren and loved spending time with them. She had a generous heart and touched many lives with her presence. She was a beautician who served a number of private clients for many years. She was also a school crossing guard in Pleasanton for 20 years and became known as the “Smartie Lady” for the Smartie candies she routinely gave students. She was a member of two groups of the Red Hat Society and played Mahjong wee...

David Charles Muck
April 20, 1939 - Jan. 10, 2016
Pleasanton, California

David Charles Muck, who based his life on being a disciple of Jesus, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 10, 2016 after battling a form of dementia. He was 76. His wife of 52 years, Carol, described Dave’s life and personality as the epitome of 1st Corinthians 13, with his patience and kindness and the way he served her and their children. He served Centerpointe as an elder and was seen publically as the long-time commodore of the church’s humorous marching group, The Balloon Platoon. The “precision” marching group fit Dave’s sense of humor and his big laugh. He described his Balloon Platoon role as being “a clown for Christ.” Both he and Carol loved to sing and sang for decades with the Centerpointe choir. He also was an important ringer in the bell choir from its beginnings in the 1990’s. Dave was born and grew up in Beloit, Kansas. He learned to play golf with his dad and brothers and played throughout his life. He played collegiate golf, basketball (center) and tennis while earning his bachelor’s degree at the College of Emporia. He went on to earn a master’s degree in math at Kansas State Te...

Eric C Larson
July 15, 1953 - Jan. 2, 2016
Pleasanton,, California

Eric Christian Larson of Pleasanton, CA, passed away on January 2, 2016, at the age of 62 after a long battle with cancer. He is predeceased by his parents Hugo and Kari Arentzen Larson and stepson J.R. Larson. He is survived by Anne (Sam) Larson, his wife of 35 years; daughter Sharon Esthena Larson Starnes, son-in-law Nick Starnes, and step grandson Cooper of Chico, CA; and daughter Whitney Larson, of Las Vegas, NV. Eric is also survived by his sister Ann Larson of Essex Junction, VT; sister Linn Barlow, brother-in-law Renn Barlow, niece Esthena and nephew Graham of Middlebury, VT; and brother Jens Larson, sister-in-law Maggie Larson and nephew Kyle of Phoenix, AZ. Eric is also remembered fondly by numerous cousins across the country. Eric was born in New York and grew up in Ramsey and Ridgewood, NJ. He graduated from Ridgewood High School and studied at Hartwick College before getting a degree in economics from the University of Massachusetts. Eric loved music. He performed in several rock bands while in high school and then in the late 70s he helped create and manage WoodDancer, a musical duo comprised of two close high school friends that toured the country for several ye...

Cyrus Edwin Finley
March 25, 1935 - Dec. 28, 2015
Arnold, California

Cyrus Finley passed away suddenly on Dec 28, 2015, surrounded by family. He was a long-time Pleasanton resident until his retirement in 2005, when he moved to Arnold, CA. He was active in the Air Force for 15 years, finishing as a Captain in Air Defense Command. He went on to work as an Air Traffic Controller for 11 years and retired from Safeway as a Computer Administrator. He was active in volunteering in his daughters' activities, serving as President of the Drum and Baton Corps and also the Foothill High School Band Boosters. When he retired, he continued his volunteering with the Friends of the Library in Arnold, and was also an active member of the Lion's Club. Cy was a devout Catholic, a member of the Catholic Community of Pleasanton and the Our Lady of the Sierra in Arnold. He was an avid Notre Dame football fan, never missing a game. Cy is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary; two daughters, Dawn Abbey and Cindy Dourov; 2 sons-in-law, Terry Abbey and Alex Dourov; six grandchildren and their spouses, Zachary and Heather Abbey, Tiffany Abbey, Caitlin & Will Dyer, Andrew Abbey, Christopher Dourov and Matthew Abbey. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Barbara, s...

Michael Vanden Branden
Oct. 17, 1944 - Dec. 16, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Mike passed away peacefully at home on December 26, 2015. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his children, Tracy (Rob) Sebastian, Michael and Eric; grandchildren, Tyler, Dylan, Kai and Kalia Sebastian, Madeline, Elle, Dominic and Iris Vanden Branden, and Paul Vanden Branden. Mike was the eldest of the 6 children of Bud and Mary. His siblings are Dave (Gayle), Lynn, Gale (Doug) Sheasley, Paul (Rhonda) and Jim (Tracy). Mike enjoyed our Hawaii visits, his retirement "naps" and his summer gardening. He will be missed by his family and friends....

Jane Langford Heisch
Feb. 26, 1929 - Nov. 30, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Jane Langford Heisch passed away on November 30, 2015 after a four year battle with Alzheimer’s. Jane was born in Santa Clara, California and went to Santa Clara High School where she met and married Bob Langford. She enjoyed reading, cross-stitch embroidery, gardening and writing. Jane is preceded in death by her two husbands Bob Langford and Harold Heisch. She is survived by her children Linda Canfield (Terry), Debra LeClair (Bob) and Randy Langford and her grandchildren Christine, Michelle, Robby, Kelly, Beau, Grant, Kaitlyn, and Zachary and great grandchildren Derek, Brittany, Carly, Jackson, Shelby, Caleb, Abby, Connor, Oliver and one great-great grandson Evan. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life at 2:00pm on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 3574 Vineyard Avenue, Pleasanton. A reception will be held immediately following the service at the home of Debra LeClair at 2235 Delucchi Drive, Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzeimer’s Association at www.alz.org....

Timothy John Burns
Jan. 29, 1961 - Nov. 25, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Timothy John Burns of Pleasanton, California, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015 of complications with pneumonia. Tim was born on Jan. 29, 1961 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and also lived in Hawaii and Alaska throughout his adult life. Tim was most known for his comedic personality, along with his outstanding golf game. He applied his golf skills working as an Assistant Pro for many years and he very much enjoyed giving lessons. Tim was also a musician playing the guitar and singing, but he was most known for his lyrical abilities. Tim is survived by his mother, Patricia Burns of Pleasanton, California; along with siblings William Burns and Kelly Capilla of Pleasanton, Mary Burns of San Francisco, and Erin Burns Parker of Brighton, England. Tim was also an uncle to three nieces and two nephews. Tim will be remembered at St. Augustine's Church in PLeasanton, California, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 with a reception following afterwards in the Parishioner's Hall. Tim was an animal lover, so if you would like to remember him in a special way, please make a donation in his name to Tri-Valley Animal Rescue or The Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek....

Kathleen "Kay" O'Leary Josephine
March 19, 1932 - Nov. 9, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Kathleen "Kay" O'Leary passed away at her home in Pleasanton on Monday. Kay was born in San Francisco and graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy. Kay worked for Pac Bell for 25 plus years and retired in 1987. Kay is survived by her daughters Kathleen O'Leary and Peggy (Jim) Frasier and son-in-law Jim Brunicardi. She also leaves behind adored nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Patrick O'Leary, her loving children, daughter Theresa Brunicardi, and her son Patrick O'Leary. She will alway be in our hearts. Please contact Graham-Hitch Mortuary for service times....

Nancy Olive Henninger
April 1, 1937 - Nov. 5, 2015
Pleasanton, California

It was with heavy heart that we whispered goodbye to our Nancy Olive on Thursday, November 5, 2015. A fourth generation Californian, Nancy was born to Madelyne and Lossie Leo Hays on April Fools Day 1937. The youngest of three sisters, she was raised in Santa Rosa and Oakland, California, graduating from Oakland High in 1955. Marrying Fred Henninger in 1956, they moved to Pleasanton in 1968 where they raised their four energetic kids and where they both resided until their respective passing's. Nancy began her working career at Saint Rose Hospital in Hayward and eventually retired from Valley Memorial Hospital in Pleasanton, making lifelong friends along the way. Best known for her keen and shrewd card playing skills, Nancy had a great sense of humor and was extremely creative with a gifted eye for decorating. Her warm home was always beautifully decorated for every holiday, with Halloween and Thanksgiving being her favorite. The loving matriarch of her family, Nancy's kind heart and generosity touched her family and friends in so many ways, including the numerous children she shared her home with as she shepherded them through difficult times. A true friend, Nancy will...

Margaret Mary Perri
Feb. 22, 1924 - Oct. 22, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Margaret Perri passed away in Walnut Creek, CA, at the age of 91. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on Feb. 22, 1924, later migrating to California. She received her AA Degree from DeAnza College in 1973 and became a Student Teacher, Administrator for Alpine Travel in Saratoga and worked as a Conciege at Nordstrom in San Jose. She is survived by her Brother, Harvey Passanisi (Beverly Passanisi) of San Mateo; Son, Daniel Perri of Brattleboro, VT; Daughter-in-Law Candace Perri of Pleasanton; Grandsons, Scott Perri (Jennie Perri) of Castro Valley, CA; Matthew Perri (Danielle Stolman) of San Jose, CA; and Granddaughter, RaeAnne Caires (Mike Caires) of Charlottesville, VA. Preceded in death by her son, Raymond Perri; her late Husband, Rinaldo Perri; Sister, Anne Pombo; and Brother, Sam Pombo. She will be dearly missed by extended family and friends....

Patricia Loretta Millard
July 7, 1936 - Oct. 17, 2015
Modesto, California

Patricia (Paddie) Millard passed away peacefully in Modesto, CA on Oct. 17, 2015 after a long illness. Paddie was born in San Francisco on July 7, 1936. She is survived by her many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jack B. Millard. Paddie and Jack raised their large family in Pleasanton, California. ...

Hazel Cortez
Nov. 15, 1926 - Sept. 27, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Hazel Irene Josephs was born on November 15, 1926, near Brandon, Minnesota to parents Helen and Joe Josephs. She grew up on a farm and learned how to milk cows, tend chickens, and plant strawberries from an early age. Mom loved growing up in the country. She had a deep love of nature and especially enjoyed the changing seasons. Mom, and her twelve siblings, attended a one room school house. As a child she enjoyed writing stories and poems. She was an avid reader throughout her life. She enjoyed gardening, garage sales, and antiques. She had a flair for decorating and her homes were always warm, inviting, and cozy. She was a fabulous cook who loved having family and friends gathered at her table. It was love at first sight when she met her husband, Rudy Cortez. They enjoyed close to 40 years together. Rudy passed away in 1986 at the age of 60. Mom had a deep faith and lived her life with compassion and love. She was truly a gentle soul. Hazel and Rudy raised their children in South San Francisco. Following Rudy's passing, Hazel lived in Folsom. She moved to Pleasanton in 2004 to be near her daughter, Rachel. While in Pleasanton, she lived at Ridgeview...

Barbara Mertes
Aug. 23, 1930 - Sept. 4, 2015
Livermore, California

The life of Barbara Fracisco Mertes, the driving force to establish Las Positas College in Livermore, will be celebrated in the building named in her honor, The Barbara Fracisco Mertes Center for the Performing Arts, on the Las Positas campus. The building was named in her honor when it was dedicated in October 2010. She was born and grew up in Livermore, attending St. Michael School and graduating from Livermore High School. She moved on to the University of California, Berkeley where she earned Bachelors of Arts and doctorate degree. She earned a master?s degree from San Francisco State University. She joined the Chabot College Faculty in 1963 to teach English and Rhetoric. Barbara advanced to serve as the Dean of Arts and Sciences in 1970 and then became the founding Dean of what became Las Positas College in 1975. She served there for 11 years until moving to the district office as Vice Chancellor for Institutional Planning and Facilities development. In that role, she wrote the master plans for both Las Positas and Chabot as well as writing competitive grant requests that resulted in more than $100 million outside of the regular budget allocations for the two ...

Muriel Marion Spoerlein
March 14, 1935 - Aug. 30, 2015
Vacaville, California

Muriel Marion (DeMoussett) Spoerlein, age 80, of Vacaville died quietly on Sunday, Aug. 30, 2015, around the time she would normally attend mass at Brookdale Vacaville Leisure Town (formerly Merrill Gardens) where she called home. She had suffered a major stroke a few days earlier which led to her death. Muriel was the first born child born March 14, 1935, in San Ramon, California to Edward John DeMoussett and Marguerite "Marion" Clark-Martinez. Her siblings were Vercia LaVern, Edward LeRoy and later joined by a second marriage to the Kelley girls; Jane, Kathleen, Ruth, Roberta and Camille. She attended a two room school house in San Ramon and later graduated from San Ramon High School. She was a devoted Catholic and cemented in her faith. She was baptized in her grandparents' church at St. Patrick's in Oakland in 1935 and celebrated her first communion at St. Isidore on May 27, 1945. She was confirmed "Mary" at her Confirmation also at St. Isidore on Nov. 26, 1949. She met the love of her life while working as a soda jerk at the Dutch Oven in Danville, California. After making sure she had his coffee ready before he walked in the door, Muriel won the heart of Ross S...

Mary Elizabeth Dana
Dec. 21, 1931 - Aug. 27, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Mary Kramar Dana passed away on Aug. 27 at her home on Mohr Avenue, Pleasanton, at age 83, following a long illness. Mary married Gene Dana in 1950, and was the proud mother of four children, Glen of Roswell, NM; Donna of Newman, CA; Sandy of Ft. Collins, CO; and Daryl of Pleasanton, all of whom married happily and gave Mary a total of 10 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren who were a great joy to her. Mary was active in youth affairs as a young mother and enjoyed many years hosting Dana's Country Pumpkins at their Mohr Avenue ranch. She is survived by all her children and all her grands and great grands - as she referred to them - and her husband of 64 years, Gene and their beloved Ruby cavalier dog, Chile....

Alice Ann Cantelow
Feb. 22, 1924 - Aug. 22, 2015
former Livermore resident, California

A Celebration of Alice Ann Cantelow, one of God's very faithful servants and the founder of Shepherd's Gate, has begun in Heaven! After a very long illness, she passed away in Port Townsend, Washington, surrounded by family. She was 91. Alice Ann was dearly loved and respected by so many. She touched everyone she met with her enthusiasm for life, fun nature, passion for the natural world, and devoted service to God. An athletic standout at the private girls school she attended (Anna Head), Alice Ann went on to earn bachelor's degrees at UC Berkeley and Cal Poly. For two years of World War II she served as a radiowoman and chauffeur. After raising 3 girls, with active involvement in their Girl Scout troops and schools, she went on to teach, be a park ranger (Grand Canyon) and naturalist (Sunol Regional Park). Her greatest achievement, though, was Shepherd's Gate, a shelter for battered and homeless women and children which she founded in Livermore at age 60 and ran for nearly 10 years. Lives of more than 11,000 residents have been changed as a result. Alice Ann retired from Shepherd's Gate in 1996, but was not idle long. She began a ministry with Pat Ely, tirelessly ...

Chris Harold Hokanson, Ph.D.
Nov. 23, 1972 - Aug. 15, 2015
Marion, Alabama

Chris Harold Hokanson, Ph.D., a resident of Marion, Alabama and former Pleasanton resident, passed away Aug. 15 in Boston, Massachusetts, at age 42 from amyloidosis stemming from multiple myeloma (blood plasma cancer). Born in Castro Valley, California, Chris grew up in Pleasanton, graduating as Co-Valedictorian of Amador Valley High School in 1991. He graduated with honors in English from Stanford University and also studied at Magdalen College at Oxford University. Chris earned M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in English Literature at Indiana University, as well as a Masters in Education from the Harvard University School of Education. Following postdoctoral fellowships at Stanford University, the University of Illinois-Chicago, and the University of Alabama, Chris spent the past five years as Assistant Professor and Chairman of the English Department at Judson College in Marion. He also served as Division Head for the Humanities, overseeing multiple departments. A much-beloved professor and colleague, Chris received both college-wide teaching awards, one from the faculty and administration in 2014 and one from the graduating students of the class of 2015. Chris was a member an...

Renata Giulia Buteau
April 26, 1927 - Aug. 8, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Renata Giulia Buteau, 88, a 20-year resident of Pleasanton, passed away on Aug. 8, 2015 in her home of natural causes. She was born April 26, 1927 in Providence, Rhode Island and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband in the early 60's. She raised a family of five in Fremont, California, and was an expert homemaker. She loved the sun and the beach and enjoyed movies and game shows and dancing. She also loved to travel and China, Egypt, and Jerusalem along with Hawaii were some of her favorites. But mostly, she enjoyed the company and love of her family. Renata is survived by her five children: Cheryl Shaw of Bend, Oregon; Teri Landuyt of Arnold, California; Jim Buteau of Palo Alto, California; Tim Buteau of Pleasanton, California; and Walt Buteau of Barrington, Rhode Island, along with eighteen grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Her husband, Walter George Buteau Jr., passed away in 1993....

Randall Jay Collins
June 1, 1956 - July 26, 2015
Pleasanton, CA

Randy Collins, 59, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2015, in Pleasanton, California after an eight-month battle with lung cancer. Born in Seattle, Washington to Ronald George Collins and Lola Edith Irene St. Cyr Collins, Randy grew up in San Bruno. He moved to San Jose to start his engineering career, and later moved to Pleasanton to raise his family. Randy began his career in high tech while attending San Jose State University. He was an engineer at GE Nuclear and GE Semiconductor, IT Manager at Siemens, IT Director at Synopsys, and Vice President of Customer Satisfaction at Network Appliance, from which he retired in 1999. A man of many interests, Randy was known for his intelligence and light-hearted sense of humor. He enjoyed cooking, shooting, playing guitar, driving motorcycles, and making others laugh. In 2007, he turned his passion for firearms into a business when he opened J&R Sports Supply in Livermore. Through his positive attitude, friendly customer service, and desire to teach others about firearms safety, Randy made many friends in the community and built a loyal following of customers at his business. In addition to being a certified NRA instructor, Randy wa...

Dixie McClure Kamp
Jan. 15, 1924 - July 24, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Dixie Kamp, 91-year-old long time Pleasanton resident, passed away peacefully on July 24 surrounded by three generations of her family. She was married to Everett Andy Kamp (deceased) and had three daughters, Karen MacDonough (Tom), Betsy Miller, and Donna McMillion (George); six grandchildren, Sarah Borjon, Kelly McMillion Hankins, Suzanne MacDonough-Foure, Scott MacDonough, Charles Miller, and Gary Miller; and five great grandchildren. Dixie and Everett met in Corpus Christi, TX during World War II while Everett was in naval officer flight training. After the War, they followed their family heritage and farmed and ranched in the Pleasanton Dublin areas. Everett's grandfather was Henry P. Mohr, one of the founding fathers of Pleasanton. Their Kamps Pumpkin Patch off of Mohr Avenue was a popular place for thousands of school children and families to pick pumpkins. Dixie, also known as Nana to her grandchildren, enjoyed reading, listening to music, traveling the world, and playing bridge with the Pleasanton and Dublin Senior Centers' partners. She was fortunate to have spent many years traveling and enjoying her grandchildren and attending their activities. At Dixie's ...

William "Bill" Harold Chrysty
Aug. 20, 1966 - July 21, 2015
Pleasanton, California

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22 at St. Augustine's Church, 3999 Bernal Ave., Pleasanton, CA 94566. Bill is survived by his two adoring daughters, Hannah Rose Chrysty and Mia Laurel Chrysty of Pleasanton, CA, his mother Barbara Chrysty, sister Carol Gary and her family of AZ. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Hannah and Mia Chrysty College fund, care of Sheri Hunter, address 7369 E. Fledgling Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85255....

John L Janowski
April 17, 1946 - June 12, 2015
Pleasanton, California

John passed away on Friday, June 12 after a hard fought, 3 year battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side. John was born in Oakland CA and graduated in 1964 from Skyline High School in Oakland. He attended Cabrillo College before enlisting in the Marines and fighting in the Vietnam War from 1966-1968 where he was the recipient of 3 Purple Hearts. He joined the Oakland Fire Department in 1970 and retired after 31 years of service. He is survived by his wife Chris of 45 years, his daughter Nicole and her partner Marcus, his son Steve and his wife Dawn, his grandchildren Stoney and Alexa, Austin, J.T, Sam, Hayden and Shane, and his great granddaughter Shayleigh. He was also blessed with many very close friends who will miss him dearly. Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of his Life on Sunday, July 19, 2015 at 1 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Hall, 301 Main St., Pleasanton, CA 94566. Donations may be made to: VA Palo Alto Health Care System for General Fund # 2202 or American Cancer Society....

Roland Gerald Garrido
April 8, 1949 - June 11, 2015
Danville, California

Roland Gerald Garrido of Danville, California, was unexpectedly called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, June 11 due to cardiac arrest. He will be remembered for his generous giving spirit, quick and keen humor, and wondrous joy of life. Roland was born on April 8, 1949, in Barrigada, Guam, to Jesus and Mathilda Garrido (both deceased). When he was three years old, the family moved stateside and settled in Hayward, California. Roland graduated from San Lorenzo High School in 1967 and then enlisted in the United States Air Force. During his military service, he aided in the cleanup and relief after hurricane Camille while stationed in Biloxi, MS in 1969. He received technical training while billeted in South Korea, which served him well in his career in technical sales, and later, recruiting. Roland was always ready for an adventure and enjoyed road trips, hiking and the outdoors, building and fixing things around the house, tinkering with cars, reading, and especially spending time with family and friends. He was known for his kind and giving nature and serving and helping others whenever the opportunity arose. Roland is survived by his devot...

Alan Hugunin
April 22, 1945 - June 10, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Alan Godfrey Hugunin, 70, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at his home in Pleasanton, CA. He was born on April 22, 1945, in Janesville, WI, to Roy John and Eva Godfrey Hugunin. Alan grew up on the family farm in Janesville, WI. He graduated Janesville Senior High School where he was the captain of the football team and won many horse pulling competitions. Alan attended the University of Wisconsin and received a BS, an MS, and a PhD in Agricultural and Food Science. While attending the University, he would meet and marry his wife, Jo Anne Merwin in Madison, WI in 1967. Alan served in the Army at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. In 1975, Alan and Jo Anne moved to Pleasanton, CA. He attended the University of California, Berkeley and received an MBA. Alan worked for several companies throughout his career in various executive roles; specializing in food technology and technical services. Alan eventually started his successful consulting business, Hugunin & Associates; serving clients throughout the world, especially in Asia and Latin America. He would finish his career working for Cargill, Inc. Alan enjoyed travel, sports, reading, anima...

Bernice Art
Jan. 28, 1922 - June 5, 2015
Livermore, California

Bernice Art passed away peacefully from complications of surgery on June 5, 2015. She was a most remarkable woman. Wherever she went, she made friends. She knew everyone and everyone liked her. She was born in Chicago in January, 1922 and lived through many bitterly cold winters and the Great Depression. She was college educated, a rarity in her time, and she worked many years as an administrative assistant for executives of insurance companies. She married Sam Art in San Antonio, Texas just before he was shipped out to Europe for WWII where he was an officer and bombadier. She was a great lover of music - opera, classical, theater, and enjoyed attending performances while in Chicago and later on here in the Livermore area. She came to Livermore about a year after the death of her beloved husband in 1992. She was an active member of the Livermore Lioness Club, the Livermore Senior Center and Congregation Beth Emek. She was also a world traveler and had been to Europe, Australia, Thailand, the Panama Canal and other places too numerous to mention. She is preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Celia Leland, her brothers Benn and Ray Leland, sister-in-law Zelda Leland ...

Ralph Luther Williams
July 11, 1933 - June 1, 2015
Santa Clara, Santa Clara County, California

Our loving father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, Ralph Luther Williams Jr., age 81, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2015, in Santa Clara, California. He was born on July 11, 1933, in Grants, New Mexico, to Ralph Luther Williams Sr. and Avah Jane McGehee. Always a storyteller, Ralph loved to share that he was born on an Indian Reservation in a chicken coop and grew up with bright red hair in a non-traditional family ? especially for the times. His father was a bricklayer and his mother a stay-at-home mom. He also had a much older half-brother and half-sister. Ralph would later tell his own children how poor his "Okie" family was and that his thick accent almost impeded his attainment of his Master's Degree. In 1952, Ralph graduated from Chaffey Union High School in Ontario, California, where he was active in the Drama Club and was a Master Counselor of the DeMolay organization. Following high school, he joined the Army Reserve and served as a Staff Sergeant in the Korean War. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1956. Ralph was the first person in his family to go to college. In 1959, Ralph received his Bachelor of Science degree from Oregon State College...

Scott Di Santo
Nov. 13, 1962 - May 22, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Scott Louis Di Santo of Pleasanton, California, passed away after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He was born in San Mateo, California, and attended school at St. Matthew's Catholic, Serra High, and the University of Nevada, Reno. He was employed at Lexus of Concord. Scott was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Patricia Di Santo and brother Michael Di Santo. He is survived by brother Martin Di Santo(Cyndi), sisters Lauren Ginocchio( Gary ), and Julie Zanoni(Chris), 13 nieces and nephews and a grandnephew. Among Scott's many interests, he had a particular passion for photography, cars, fishing, skiing, biking and boating. He was a gifted golfer, which he started playing at age 10 and continued playing for his high school and college teams. He treasured his vacations in Tahoe with family and friends. Scott will be remembered for his charming, compassionate and humorous quick wit. He had a smile that lit up the room!...

Carol Jean Ottens
March 19, 1934 - May 12, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Carol Jean Ottens passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2015 with her husband, Harm, by her side. She had such an impact on so many people with her kind heart and willingness to help. Carol was born in Salt Lake City, UT, and eventually moved to the Bay Area, finally settling down in Pleasanton where she met her husband Harm working as a Switchboard Operator at Castlewood Country Club. Harm and Carol married in 1970 and enjoyed 45 wonderful years together. They later opened up Carol's Guest Home, where they took care of many elderly clients for over 25 years, retiring from the business in 2015. Carol loved taking trips to Reno with her husband, always staying at the El Dorado. She loved knitting, doing needlepoint and making porcelain dolls. Carol was always helping others in need, this was shown through her volunteer work at Shepherd's Gate and by the number of lives she impacted. She loved entertaining and any excuse to bring out her gold flatware, especially during Christmas when she would have the family over for Prime Rib and the Dutch dish Mouse. Carol is survived by her best friend and loving husband, Harm; children Charles Perkins, Michael Ottens, Pamela and husband ...

Patricia Virginia Duncan
Jan. 22, 1940 - May 12, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Patricia (Pat) Virginia Duncan passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2015 at her home in Pleasanton after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born Jan. 22, 1940 in Paia, Maui, Hawaii to Margaret (nee Moniz) and Edward Boteilho DeCoite. She was the eldest of four children with three brothers, Edward (Eddie), Dennis and Reginald (Reggie) De Coite. Pat's grandparents were all born in Portugal. Her father moved the family to the Bay Area on May 19, 1956 when Pat was 16 years old. Pat hated to leave Hawaii. She graduated from Arroyo High School in San Lorenzo on June 12, 1958 and then worked for the Pacific Bell Telephone Company in Hayward for 13 years. The family later moved to Dublin, CA. Patricia was a beloved wife to James (Jim) W. Duncan for almost 49 years, married June 4, 1966 in Hayward, CA. She was a loving mother to David E. Duncan of Chandler, AZ, and Christopher A. Duncan (Raquel, nee Phillips) of Ripon, CA, and a proud and caring grandmother of granddaughters, Makenna and Kember, and grandson, Jace. Jim and Pat made their home in Hayward, San Leandro, and for the last 42 years in Pleasanton where they raised their sons. Pat and Jim were a...

Helen June Yelkes
May 25, 1926 - May 7, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Helen June Yelkes, a resident of Pleasanton and former 43-year resident of Hayward, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2015 with her family at her side. Helen was 88 years old, passing 2 weeks short of her 89th birthday. Helen's husband of 50 years, Fred Yelkes, predeceased her in 2000. Helen is survived by three daughters, Michelle Yelkes-Paul (Mike Paul) of Pleasanton; Maureen Hayes (Ken) of Twain Harte and Mitzi Shaffar (Dan) of Pleasanton as well as five grandchildren: Matthew, Joshua, Shannon, Dane and Mallory. Helen is also survived by her younger sister, Dorothea Strandberg (Ed) of Keizer, Oregon. Helen was born in Portland, Oregon to Joe and Mamie Dewey on May 25, 1926. Helen attended Lindfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. Helen and her best friend, Norma Jean, attended a dance one evening in Portland where Helen met and later married Fred Yelkes, and Norma Jean met and later married Walt Sullivan. Helen and Fred moved to the Hayward Hills in 1956 when Fred transferred to Oakland for a job opportunity. Helen was an active wife, mother and homemaker who dedicated herself to her husband and daughters. Helen loved flowers and was an avid gardener who designed...

Harold August Zosel III
Feb. 5, 1958 - May 1, 2015
Pleasanton, CA

Harold "Butch" August Zosel III, 57, of Pleasanton, California, died in Alamo at the Bruns Hospice House on May 1, 2015 of cancer. Harold was born on February 5, 1958 at Eden Hospital in Castro Valley, California to Harold August II and Edith Marie Zosel. He would later become the older brother of Kristine Marie Zosel. He was raised in Pleasanton, attending Pleasanton Elementary School and Amador High School, graduating in 1976. He enjoyed baseball and golf, playing golf on Amador's golf team throughout high school. Like his father before him, his love for the game of golf continued at Castlewood Country Club where his unmatched skills earned him the title Golf Champion of Boys in 1977. After high school, Harold studied to become a plumber, joining the Plumbers Union 444 (now 342), working for Can-Am in Pleasanton and then Roeber's Plumbing Co. in Casto Valley, ending his career as foreman at KDS Plumbing. Harold's backbreaking labor became a prideful source of legacy as he would often share stories of the projects he'd completed, the buildings on which he'd left his mark, and the infrastructure he installed that many of us take for granted. His work was his humble way to ...

Betty Maxine McCarty
July 30, 1928 - May 1, 2015
San Ramon, California

Betty Maxine McCarty was born July 30, 1928 in Pratt, Kansas, the daughter of George and Lissa Carlson. She left this mortal world on Friday, May 1, 2015 at her home in San Ramon, and her blessed soul now soars in the heavens above. Betty is survived by her husband Donald L. McCarty of San Ramon, CA. She was preceded in death by her son David Lawrence McCarty, and is survived by her children Bonnie C. Springer (David V. Springer) of Charleston, South Carolina; Donna K. Ard (Michael G. Ard) of McKinney, Texas; Warren E. McCarty (Ingeborg B. McCarty) of Pleasanton, CA; grandchildren Christopher B. Ard, Jeffrey A. Ard, Cherisa M. Ard, Karin L. McCarty and Annika M. McCarty. She was one of eight children and is survived by her brother Glenn Carlson and sisters Dorothy Ulrich and Rowena Netzley...

Alma Guadalupe Spring
Oct. 4, 1968 - April 29, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Pleasanton resident Alma Guadalupe Lauwerys Spring was only 46 years old when was taken suddenly from the lives of her loving family and friends on April 29, 2015. She leaves behind her loving husband of 24 years, Landon; her son Shane, daughter Miranda, mother Gloria Cedillo, father Peter Lauwerys, brother Emilio Lauwerys and a vast community of loving friends and students. Her brother, Pierre Lauwerys, preceded her in death. Alma graduated from McClatchy High School in Sacramento in 1986 and graduated from UC Davis in 1990. It is difficult to describe what the lives of her family and friends will be like without her enormous spirit and beautiful voice reaching out to us. Alma seemed to be infused with boundless energy, capable of being a wife, mother, friend, counselor, activist all at once; her love for all she knew was also boundless. Her kindness and friendliness to every person she met was an inspiration, but when she needed to be fierce, she was doggedly so. She worked as a Student Services Coordinator at Mount Diablo High School in Concord and was preparing to take the licensure test to become a licensed clinical social worker. Her life's work was to ensure students...

Ann Elizabeth Kyle
July 3, 1944 - April 26, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Succumbing to the effects of a valiant 25 month long battle with ALS, Ann Elizabeth Kyle passed away quietly at home with her husband Michael at her side on Sunday, April 26, 2015. During the entire ordeal she never lost her ability to smile and enjoy the presence of both family and her many friends who visited. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by Michael, her two sisters, Kay Doan and Linda Haderer (Paul Haderer); sister-in-law Susan Schwerin, and nephew Kyle Schwerin and niece Kelly Schwerin; nieces Carrie Doan Higgins, and Amy Doan Mason (Michael Mason), and grand-nieces Erin Higgins and Miranda Mason; and nephew Nicholas Haderer (Chelsea Haderer), and grand-nephews Nathaniel and Liam Haderer. Ann was born to Robert and Alice Wilson in Washington, D.C. She was the second of three daughters. She spent her early years on the east coast. When she was junior high age she moved with the Wilson family to Stuttgart, Germany. Ann's father was a Director with the American Red Cross assigned to the European headquarters. Ann's father was then transferred to the San Francisco Red Cross office, and the family returned to the US locating in Burlingame...

Don Paul Brennen
Oct. 6, 1954 - April 25, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Don was born in Albuquerque, the first New Mexican in his family. He joined the Navy after graduating high school in Farmington, and then completed college at NMSU in Las Cruces, moving to Sunnyvale, California in 1979, working for Western Electric as a programmer. It was there that he met his wife, Andrea, and on New Year's Day, 1982 he and Andrea eloped to Lake Tahoe. In 1984, Andrea and Don moved to Pleasanton and in 1988, their daughter Amy was born. It was during the early 80's that Don fell in love with windsurfing, going to the ocean, bay, and delta. He similarly was taken with cycling through his years in California ? first with mountain biking and then in 2005 he found a passion for road cycling after he and Andrea decided to pursue that as a shared activity. Don joined a few cycling teams ? Info Vista, and then Tri Valley Velo, racing with both teams and enjoying the training rides and camaraderie of riding with other cycling enthusiasts. Besides racing, Don enjoyed many organized rides locally, and traveling to places he and Andrea could ride multiple days, including Switzerland, Oregon, and Maui. A few years ago, Don cofounded a group of cycling friends calli...

Hathily P Johnson
1924 - April 17, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Born in Southern California in 1924, Hathily was raised in the Pasadena area and went to the University of Arizona in Tucson until World War II when her mother wanted her close to home. Hathily met her future husband through a friendship with his sister. After her family moved back to Solano County, Hathily and Walter ("Brady") married and settled briefly on a ranch at Mokelumne Hill. They then moved to Orinda and began many adventures including sailing twice to and living in the South Pacific with their small children. Hathily moved with the children in 1957 to her father-in-law's Pleasanton ranch where they lived until 1979 when she moved to a house "in town." Hathily was a devoted mother and dear friend. She loved being a Cub Scout den mother, cheering on her children in various sports and activities, dancing around the house, family car trips and traveling. She played tennis with her friends at Castlewood for many years and was a founding member of the Golden Acorn Chapter of the Children?s Home Society. She was always smiling and cheerful. Hathily was diagnosed in 1997 with Alzheimer's and began the "long goodbye." She was pre-deceased by her parents, Marcus C. and...

John Joseph Hofstadt
May 19, 1945 - April 15, 2015
Brentwood, California

John Joseph Hofstadt was born on May 19, 1945 in San Francisco, California to John Henry Hofstadt and Marjorie Vivian (Thorn) Hofstadt. John graduated from Petaluma High School in 1964. John enlisted in the United States Navy in 1965, was discharged in 1969, and served in the Navy Reserve until 1971. Following his service, John was a member of American Legion Post 237 in Pleasanton and Post 202 in Brentwood. John married Donna Lee Anderson in 1968. John and Donna made their first home in Daily City and moved to Pleasanton in 1985. Donna preceded John in death in 2004. John was employed by various companies in appliance repairs. John retired in 2005 and started JJ Handyman Service. John married Eileen Frances Morley in 2006 and they moved to Brentwood to make their home. John passed away on the morning of April 15, 2015. John is survived by his wife, Eileen; his three sisters-in-law, Kathleen, Maureen and Laureen Morley; and his former mother-in-law, Betty Anderson. A remembrance service honoring John Joseph Hofstadt will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 3 at the Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to...

Hugh G. Hempill
Dec. 7, 1930 - April 12, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Hugh was a devoted and loving husband and father who enjoyed life with his family and friends. His lifelong love of music began when he sang in his high school chorus and continued when he learned to play the guitar and banjo. He enjoyed going to musicals, folk music festivals, light opera and opera. Hugh was born to Helen and Alvin Hempill in New Castle, PA, but grew up in Chicago, IL. Frequent trips across the U.S. with his maternal grandparents instilled in him a love of travel. Later on, he continued to travel on work assignments both in the U.S. and North Africa. After high school, Hugh attended the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, majoring in Chemical Engineering. While in college, he met Barbara Kurth at a First Presbyterian Church youth group. They were married at the church on January 31, 1953. Following Hugh?s graduation, he worked for The Sherwin-Williams Company. He went on from there to Chemetron Corp., Union Tank Car Co., and Liquid Carbonic. During that time his sons, John and Tom, and his daughter, Jeanne, were born. When the family moved to Homewood, IL, Hugh became actively involved as secretary of the Homewood Little League and also coached. ...

Iris June Martin
May 31, 1927 - April 6, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Iris June Martin, born May 31, 1927 in Dagenham, England to Louisa Maud Peters and James Archibald Frederick Hamilton, passed away peacefully April 6, 2015 at her home in Pleasanton. She was 87 years old. She was married to Edward W. Martin Jr. for 37 years and together, they had 5 children; James Martin (Cecilia) of Twain Harte, Robert Martin of Modesto, Crystal Chavez (Paul) of Sacramento, Leanne Martin of Pleasanton and Carolyn McManus (Mark) of Pleasanton. Dearly loved by her grandchildren; Natalie Selph, Jared, Matthew and Robert Martin, Gillian Smith, Kyle, Stephanie & Kristin McManus as well as 6 great grandchildren; Justin, Travis, Sterling and Rachel Selph, and Jude and Oliver Smith. Preceded in death by her husband Edward Martin in 1983, her brother James, sister Doris and sister Margaret of England and her sister Beryl of Australia. Iris was a war bride and was integral in arranging the first US airline to be privately chartered with all passengers being war brides and their 28 children. She worked as a Senior Health Attendant at Sherwood House Residential Care Home in Livermore for 10 years. Iris was a member the Roses of Britain Chapter of the Daughters of the...

Anju Bhatia
Sept. 3, 1957 - April 5, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Anju died after a 13-month battle with cancer Easter Sunday at the age of 57. She is survived by her husband, Tarun of Pleasanton, three children Sanam (Thakur) in Hong Kong, Mika, Nikhil; her parents Bhim and Sarla Makhija of New Delhi, India; her brother Vineet Makhija in Sydney, Australia and her brother Rajiv Makhija in Hong Kong. Her brother, Sanjay Makhija, has passed away....

Anju Bhatia
Sept. 3, 1957 - April 5, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Anju Bhatia, a beloved wife and mother who lived by her faith daily, went home to her Heavenly Father on Easter Sunday morning after a 13-month battle with cancer. She was 57. During her memorial service on April 9 at Valley Community Church, her friends and family commented on her strong Christian faith and her beautiful ability to touch each person that she met. Her brother, Rajiv Makhija, said, "I never remember her complaining. Her faith saw her through." The Rev. Bob Ferro said, "Anju prayed for God's will to be done." Her life was one of service to family and friends. One of her good friends, Judy Woo, called her "angel." Another sister in Christ said, "She wanted the glory of Christ to be reflected in her life." Indeed, many at the memorial service remarked upon the beauty and wonder of Anju getting baptized with her three children on Good Friday and being called home to heaven on Easter Sunday. Anju was born in Calcutta, India and moved to Hong Kong with her family during her school years. After completion of her GCE 'A' Level exams, she proceeded to the UK where she pursued her Honours Degree in Social Administration at the University of Sussex. ...

Catherine W. James
June 19, 1933 - April 5, 2015
Livermore, California

Cathy passed away peacefully at home, early Easter Sunday surrounded by her family. She was 81 years old. Cathy was born in Pittsburg, CA, to Walter Richard and Ruth Smith Whidden. As the daughter of a Boy Scouts of America Executive, Cathy?s early years were spent in Reno, NV, Portland, OR, and Sacramento, CA. Cathy graduated from C.K. McClatchy High School in Sacramento. After graduation, she attended UC Berkeley as a Speech major. While at Berkeley, Cathy was an active member in her sorority, Chi Omega. After graduating from college in 1954, Cathy took her first teaching job at Viking Elementary school in Fresno, CA. It is here that Cathy's true love of education and children came together. It is also in Fresno that Cathy met the love of her life, Bill, on a blind date at the PalmOlive restaurant. As a young couple, Cathy and Bill spent a short time in Fresno while Cathy honed her teaching skills until their ultimate move to Santa Paula, CA, to start a family. Cathy gave birth to a daughter, Lori in 1961 and shortly thereafter she had son Michael in 1962. This was Cathy?s true joy in life; raising her two children. She spent countless hours nurturing her children in all...

Vincent Lawrence Delaney
Nov. 4, 1929 - March 28, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Vincent Delaney, a 50 year resident of Pleasanton, died on March 28, 2015. He was born in San Jose, CA. He was an Army Veteran of the Korean War. He moved to Pleasanton with his family in 1965. He retired from Operating Engineers Local Union # 3 at the age of 62. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Donna Delaney, and children; Lori Adkins, John Delaney & Jeri Delaney, his grandchildren; Daniel Adkins, Russel Delaney, Max Delaney, Brooke Delaney & Taras Lysyk....

Rudy Johnson
June 19, 1933 - March 25, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Rudy Johnson of Pleasanton passed away peacefully on March 25, 2015. Rudy had great strength of character, a deep understanding of the frailty of the human condition, and the ability to understood people?s struggles. With his calm, steady and compassionate gaze, he could always listen without judgment and provide wise counsel. He also had an appreciation for subtle humor, music, poetry and literature, as well as world travel. Rudy?s patience and grace served him well in his careers as a teacher, preacher, and administrator, and he was often called to soothe troubled waters. After growing up on a farm in Colorado, graduating from the University of Colorado and serving in the Army in Europe, he attended Stanford, followed by seminary. He began his career in the ministry by organizing a Lutheran congregation outside of Sacramento. Shortly thereafter he was called to start a new Lutheran church at Stanford; while there he also received his PhD in Education. After working in educational administration, he became an Episcopalian and started by leading an Episcopal congregation in Hayward that had lost its building as part of a lawsuit and needed to build a new church. His last ...

Betty Jane Puertas
Aug. 25, 1918 - Jan. 31, 2015
Pleasanton, California

Betty Jane Puertas will be missed by family and friends. She lived a full life and enjoyed her family very much. Betty was the glue to the foundation of her family. She is survived by her son, Jerald of Pleasanton, CA, and 6 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandson....

Paula Huettig
Jan. 19, 1945 - Jan. 26, 2015
Ocean Township, New Jersey

Paula Huettig, 70, of Ocean Township, NJ died peacefully at home on Monday, Jan. 26, 2015, with her husband David, stepson Tom, and his wife Sue at her side. Born in Georgia, Paula spent most of her life in Little Falls and Wayne, NJ. She worked for PF Laboratories, Inc. of Totowa, NJ and, in 2004, retired from her position in Human Resources after 27 years with the company. Following her retirement, she and her husband moved to Pleasanton, California, returning to New Jersey late last year. A lifelong member of the Episcopal Church, Paula was also a member of the Order of the Daughters of the King. Most recently both she and her husband were very active members of St. Clare?s Episcopal Church in Pleasanton, where Paula served as Directress of the Altar Guild for many years. She was also involved with the Valley Humane Society, where she volunteered in both the Pet Therapy and Paws to Read programs. She was predeceased by her first husband, Peter Imperiale, in 1985; and by her parents, Albert and Mary Wenderoth. She is survived by her husband, David Huettig; her aunt, Marie Stanish; and cousins, Carol Jung, Jeannie Milmoe, Dot Mazurkiewicz, Margaret Reisinger, Roberta...

Alan James Curdy
April 17, 1949 - Jan. 24, 2015
Gold Hill, Oregon

Alan Curdy 65 of Gold Hill Or. passed away January 24, 2015 at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, Medford Or. Alan was born April 17, 1949 to Frank and Maxine Curdy. He grew up in Pleasanton, Ca where he graduated from Amador High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and serviced in Vietnam. Alan moved to Rogue Valley in 1984 and worked in the metal fabrication trade. He married Sally McCoy in 1992. His love of hunting began at an early age. He also loved his motorcycles and the feeling of freedom he had while riding. He is survived by his wife Sally; three children, Jamie Glass, Jeremy Curdy and Colt Curdy; and twelve grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Frank Curdy, sister Joyce Messa and six nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Leanne Cakus. Services were held January 30, 2015 at the Eagle Point National Cemetery, Eagle Point, Oregon...

Ward Skinner
July 13, 1930 - Dec. 26, 2014
Hayward, California

Dr. Ward Bosworth Skinner died peacefully on December 26, 2014 in Castro Valley, California at the age of 84. Ward is survived by his daughter, Luree Jones of Pleasanton and 4 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and son, Ward David Skinner. Ward was very active in the community. Ward opened his dental practice in Hayward in the early 1960's, where he joined the Hayward Chamber of Commerce and Lions Club, making many long time friends. He served as Lions Club President and the President of the Southern Alameda County Dental Association. He was an active member of the Castlewood Country Club and served on the Board of Directors for many years as well as the Castlewood Property Owners Association Board. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Jan. 31, 2014 from 2-5 p.m. at Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton, CA. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ward's life. Additional information is available at: http://www.bergepappassmith.com/mobile/obituary/Ward-Bosworth-Skinner/Hayward-CA/1465607...

Nancy Ellen Shelton
June 21, 1931 - Nov. 16, 2014
Pleasanton, California

A memorial service celebrating the life of long-time Pleasanton resident Nancy Ellen Dyer Shelton will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015 at Centerpointe Presbyterian Church, 3410 Cornerstone Court, Pleasanton. Mrs. Shelton died November 16, 2014 at the age of 83. She and her husband, Donald, have lived in Pleasanton since 1967. Nancy was born June 27, 1931 in Salinas to Flo and Maurice Dyer. She graduated from Salinas High School in 1949 and then UC Santa Barbara with a degree in Art in 1953. After moving to San Francisco, she worked at the Emporium as an assistant buyer and also for Pacific Telephone & Telegraph Co. as a service representative. She met Donald Shelton in 1958 and they married in 1959. They lived in Oakland for a year, then San Lorenzo where they began raising their girls, Donna, Cathy, and Sarah. In 1967 the family moved to Pleasanton where Nancy was primarily a homemaker, while holding occasional part-time jobs in retail and with the American Red Cross. She volunteered at ValleyCare Hospital as member of the auxiliary for many years. The family enjoyed water skiing, their cabin in Arnold and cross country skiing. Nancy also loved to swim, hike...

John Boerman
Oct. 24, 1985 - Nov. 11, 2014
Folsom, California

John Garrett Boerman, 29, of Folsom, CA died Nov. 11, 2014 at his home after a more than four year battle with cancer. He is survived by his parents, Carla and Brian Boerman of Folsom; his brother, Jake Boerman of Lincoln, CA; his grandmother, Elizabeth Boerman of Citrus Heights, CA and several other extended family members. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Emo Boerman of Alameda, CA and Mary Alice and Bill Hill of Little Rock, AR. John grew up in Pleasanton, CA, where he graduated from Amador Valley High School in 2004. He attended Whitworth College in Spokane, WA before moving to Ventura, CA and later San Jose, CA. He was very involved with Young Life, a Christian organization which has an outreach to high school and middle school students. Volunteering with Young Life since high school, John served for many summers at his favorite camp, Woodleaf, in northern California. John was an avid rock climber and loved to play guitar, ukulele, and various percussion instruments. His signature trademark was his incredible sense of humor and love of practical jokes, even until the end. His friends loved and appreciated his "snarky" attitude, and his extremely huge an...

Gary Lee Thompson
July 2, 1952 - Nov. 8, 2014
Wild Rose, Wisconsin

Gary Lee Thompson, 62, of Wild Rose, WI, formerly of Pleasanton died Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014. He was born July 2, 1952, in Moline, Illinois. He moved to Pleasanton in 1969 and enrolled in Amador Valley High School, graduating in 1971. Gary was dedicated to helping others, and served as a caregiver to many residents in the Pleasanton area. After high school, Gary volunteered many hours at the local VA hospital, and with the Marines during their annual Toys for Tots drives. Gary became a bit of a fixture in the community, and was always ready to have a cup of coffee with you. He is survived by his brothers Kenneth and Stan, a sister Connie, and many nephews, nieces, and friends....

Dora Mae Victorine Nairn
Nov. 4, 1929 - Oct. 26, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Dora Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Dean Nairn. She is survived by 4 children, Cindie, Randy, Caine and Warren; 9 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. Dora Mae touched the lives of so many and was a fixture in her community for decades, providing daycare for over 30 years. Services will be held at Graham-Hitch Mortuary at 10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 3, immediately followed by interment at Pioneer Cemetery....

Jerry L. Lemm
Dec. 6, 1933 - Oct. 17, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Jerry L. Lemm, a long-time commercial real estate broker in Pleasanton, died on Oct. 17, 2014, at the age of 80. Jerry was known for his wide smile and his upbeat attitude. "Jerry was always very positive and tried to compliment people. The glass was always half full," said fellow commercial real estate broker Brad Hirst. He started his professional career as a pharmacist and then transitioned to commercial real estate in 1972 with Valley Realty. There weren't many commercial real estate centers, but the entire Tri-Valley was in a residential building boom. He worked daily in commercial real estate with his own firm, J.L. Lemm & Associates, until shortly before his death. John Ferreri, who was managing the Valley Realty offices when Jerry joined the company, shared a second-floor office building with Jerry for many years. "Every morning we would look forward to seeing Jerry's smiling face. He'd come up the staircase and then stick his head into our office to say Hi," said Ferreri. "He was a terrific guy." Mark Pleis, a commercial real estate broker, said, "He was friend, first and foremost and that friendship grew over 28 years. I trusted him with my life. He wore ...

Don Del Vecchio
Oct. 29, 1935 - Sept. 28, 2014
Pleasanton, California

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Don Del Vecchio passed away after a brief but valiant fight with cancer at the age of 78. Don died at his home surrounded by his family. Don was born in Passaic, New Jersey where he lived with his parents, Domnick and Mary, and his younger sister Loretta. He attended college at the University of Oklahoma and received a bachelor?s degree in geology. In Oklahoma, he met his wife, Alice, who has been by his side for the last 56 years. After graduating college, Don got married then entered the Marine Corp in July 1958. In the Marine?s, Don served as an Officer. In 1966, Don settled in Pleasanton where he and Alice raised their two daughters, Linda and Donna. His family has grown to include Linda?s husband Gary (Cooper) and Donna?s husband Jeffrey (Henninger). In addition he is the proud grandfather of four grandchildren, Karrah, Andrew, Shane and Nicole. Don has had many interests over the years, these included golfing, sailing, playing the guitar and piano, cheering on the Yankees and the Oklahoma Sooner football team. Most recently his interests included collecting bronze statues, and world traveling. He had a p...

Mary Ann Manning
June 10, 1953 - Sept. 8, 2014
Dublin, California

Mary Ann Manning, 61, of Dublin, CA, passed away on Monday, Sept. 8, 2014 after battling breast cancer. She was born on June 10, 1953 in Evergreen Park, IL to Raymond and Margaret Lesin, followed by siblings Michael and Peggy. Her husband, Stephen, survives Mary Ann. Together they have four children: Kristie, Karie (and husband, Tom Chamberlain), Ryan (and wife, Katelyn), and Kyle as well as one grandson, Jeremy. Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend was a loving force who shared her kindness and spirit with those around her. Her devotion to her family filled her life with laughter and sorrow but no sorrow was greater than the passing of her son, Kyle. Diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer shortly after Kyle?s passing, who would believe the family could withstand any more pain. Mary Ann?s strength, determination, and stubbornness helped her to succeed in her one last goal; to dance at her son?s wedding just 3 days before her passing (http://youtu.be/4HJ3b44WAL4). Love and support then and now will keep the family strong but it is the memory of Mary Ann that will push them forward and continue to make new memories. We will never forget your love and prom...

William J. Bruton
July 27, 1947 - Aug. 27, 2014
Grass Valley, California

Bill Bruton died at Hospice of the Foothills in Grass Valley on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014, following a long battle with cancer. He was 67. Bill grew up in Sunol and Pleasanton, graduating from Amador High School in 1965. He served in the U.S. Army and spent three years stationed in Germany. In 2000 he fulfilled a long-time dream when he and his wife Linda moved to a small ranch in Grass Valley, which they shared with their daughter and granddaughter. Bill loved the rural life and could only be coaxed back to Pleasanton occasionally to visit his family. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Barbara Bruton. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda; daughters Kim Hunter (husband, Jason); and Jennifer Goodwin; grandchildren, Hayden and Jake Jackson, Anthony, Christian, and Jonathan Hunter, and Kinsey Goodwin; brother, John Bruton (wife, Elena); sisters, Diane Larsen (husband, Gary); and Bonnie Bruton. He was a very special uncle to his many nieces and nephews, who called him Uncle Silly Billy. At his request no services will be held....

Karleta Belle Atkinson
Aug. 18, 1934 - Aug. 20, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Born in Shawnee, Oklahoma on Aug. 18, 1934, 52 year Pleasanton resident Karleta Atkinson succumbed to the ravages of ovarian cancer 2 days after her 80th birthday. She was home under Hospice care surrounded by her family at the time of her passing. Karleta grew up in Berkeley, and graduated from Berkeley High School in 1952. She studied to became a dental assistant, but her passion was dancing. She met the man of her dreams, a handsome Cal Berkeley engineering student and football player, Robert Atkinson. They were married April 24, 1955, in Berkeley. After a few years of living in Berkeley, New York, and Southern California, Bob and Karleta established their residence in 1962 in Pleasanton. Karleta led a very active social life and enjoyed an eclectic variety of activities: Cal football games, opera, ballet, gardening, visiting museums, spending time at the family cabin in Strawberry during the summer, Yoga, Zumba Gold, line dancing, walking, painting, sewing and quilting, being with her many friends and family, traveling, gourmet cooking, and hosting and attending wine and dinner parties. She was left-handed and loved a challenge. Her favorite color was red. Throughout...

Gary Dean Logan
Dec. 9, 1938 - Aug. 20, 2014
Fremont, California

Gary Dean Logan passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 20 after a short yet valiant battle with liver cancer; he was 75 years old. He touched so many lives with his gentle spirit and lively sense of humor. Gary's remarkable life included extraordinary achievements in spite of his humble beginnings. His resilience and goodwill were clearly demonstrated through his effortless charitable endeavors and love for children. Gary was born in San Francisco, CA, raised in Santa Barbara, CA and later moved to Independence, MO. He was introduced to The Andrew Drumm Farm for under-privileged children at the age of 13. Soon after, it was determined that Drumm Farm would become Gary's new home. During his residency, Gary attended East High School, graduating in 1956. After serving in the Navy for four years, Gary returned to California where he enjoyed a 54 year career in the electronics industry. He worked for companies such as Mel Labs, Zeta Labs, Shugart Associates and FlexStar. As a result of an acquisition of FlexStar?s disk drive repair facility, he started his own company. As Founder/CEO of BigByte Corporation for 25 years, Gary leaves behind a legacy of great influence and tangible accompli...

Roy Edward Niedt
Nov. 2, 1922 - Aug. 15, 2014
Milton-Freewater, Oregon

Roy Edward Niedt of Milton-Freewater, Oregon passed away on Aug. 15, 2014, at Regency at the Park in College Place at the age of 91 years. Roy was born in Dublin, California, to John and Amelia Niedt on Nov. 7, 1922. Roy grew up in Dublin attending Murray School and graduated from Amador High School in Pleasanton. Roy served in the 1504th Army Air Force base unit for five years during World War II. He was an airplane mechanic and was stationed in India, Burma and the east Indies. Roy married Virginia (Susie) Renick on August 26, 1946. The couple lived in Dublin and then Pleasanton. Roy owned and operated an auto parts store in Castro Valley, California until his retirement. Roy enjoyed golf, fishing and woodworking. He was a good and generous friend to everyone he met. Virginia passed away in 1994. In 1996, Roy moved to Milton-Freewater to reside with his sister, Bertha Berry. In 2009 Roy's health caused him to move to Quail Run Retirement Home and then to Pioneer House in Walla Walla. In July of 2013, he moved to the Regency at the Park in College Place. Roy was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church in Milton-Freewater, where he was baptized, proclaiming his faith i...

Gary Oren Brooks
May 31, 1943 - Aug. 5, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Gary Oren Brooks passed away suddenly on Aug. 5, 2014, while on vacation in the San Juan Islands - one of his favorite places on Earth - on the boat he loved with his family at his side. Gary was born in Long Beach on May 31, 1943, and spent his early years with his parents Helen and Jack Brooks in Torrance, CA. He graduated from Brown Military Academy and then went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Business from Whittier College. While at Whittier, he was very active in the Orthogonian Society and the varsity football team. He met his future wife, and lifelong love, Jane, while there and with her constant support and devotion he went on to establish himself and make his mark in the home building industry. Gary began his career at Robert H. Grant Co. in Anaheim where he quickly moved up the ranks, becoming President of the Northern California Division and eventually President of the Corporation. This necessitated a move to the Bay Area for his family, which now included their daughter, Sharon, and their son, Mike. Upon the dissolution of the Grant Corporation, Gary set out to start his own company and began building homes in Northern California. Northbrook Homes became v...

Linda Reidenbach Salvador
June 17, 1959 - Aug. 2, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Linda Reidenbach Salvador, 55, of Dublin, CA, passed away suddenly while vacationing in the Philippines on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014. She was born June 17, 1959. Linda graduated from Maryknoll High School in 1976, University of the Philippines in 1980, and got her Teaching Credential from Cal State East Bay. She was married to Noel Salvador on Aug. 28, 1982. Linda is survived by her children Nicolle, Nina, Neil and granddaughter Evelyn, son-in-law Kurt Heisserer, parents Victoria and Ronald Reidenbach and siblings in the Philippines, Ramon, Michael, Patrick and Kathryn. Linda was a dedicated public school teacher at Mission Valley Elementary School in Fremont, where she taught Third Grade for over 15 years. She was a dedicated educator; she loved and cared for her students. Her wonderful spirit and joy will be celebrated with a Vigil Service at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2014, at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Drive in Pleasanton, CA. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 4 at St. Elizabeth Seton Church....

John Henry Dion
Dec. 27, 1928 - July 24, 2014
Pleasanton, California

John Henry Dion, born Dec. 27, 1928, in Beverly, MA, passed July 24, 2014. He resided at 443 Division St. #7 Pleasanton, CA. He is survived by 3 daughters, Valerie Sinkavich of San Francisco, California; Juliette Karjala of Beatrice, Nebraska; Georgette Pond of Amarillo, Texas; and 2 sons, John R. Dion of Raleigh, North Carolina; William H. Dion of Salt Lake City, Utah; seven grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was an avid golfer, loved pinochle, cribbage and card games of all sorts. In retirement he was the crossing guard at the intersection of W. Las Positas and Dorman for Donlon School in Pleasanton for 8 yrs. Sadly missed by family and friends....

Olga Busslinger
Aug. 13, 1914 - July 20, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Olga Busslinger left her earthly life on July 20, 2014, after nearly 100 years charming everyone she met. She was born in Mellingen, Switzerland on August 13, 1914, the youngest of 10 children. Olga came to the United States after World War II, having spent the war years in England. She worked as a domestic for many wealthy families throughout the United States in Chicago, New York, Florida and California. Her favorite part of her adopted country was Santa Barbara, where she spent many years before retiring and moving to Tracy, California to care for her older sister. In recent years Olga lived at Eden Villa in Pleasanton, where she endeared herself to all who resided and worked there. Although Olga never married, she leaves behind many nieces and nephews in Switzerland and France, along with many friends in Tracy and Pleasanton who adopted her, thus becoming her family. Anyone who knew her will always remember her bright eyes, constant, enormous smile, and ever present positive outlook. Her deep faith and convictions were the main constant in her life, along with her compassion for everyone. She never missed an opportunity to appreciate a flower, a new tree bud, or a bird in...

Donald Muentz
Jan. 4, 1927 - July 1, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Donald Muentz passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer's on July 1, 2014. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on Jan. 4, 1927. His parents were German immigrants and lived in a German community. After graduating from high school, he was drafted in the army and served a year and was honorably discharged in January 1946. He was a World War 11 veteran. After the army he worked in the steel mills and was a sailor on the iron ore boats in the Great Lakes. He got his college degree from Fenn College which allowed him to take every other quarter off to work. His parents moved to California and he followed them and got his teaching credential in Southern California. His first teaching job was in Fairfield, CA. He was hired by Livermore High School in 1959 to teach English and to coach wrestling. He was known for his muscle development. Don lifted weights in his garage and worked out regularly. Socially, he was quiet and reserved. His style was brusque and abrupt. His friends were other members of the English department. In 1966, he met Marjorie Heath, another teacher at Livermore High School, and they got married and had two sons, Aaron and Mark. Marriage and family changed his st...

Jean Elsberry Bountis
Nov. 15, 1923 - June 27, 2014
Pleasanton, California

At the age of 90, Jean Elsberry Bountis passed into the hands of God on Friday, June 27, 2014. She passed away in the presence of family at her home in Pleasanton where she had resided since 1966. Jean was born on November 15, 1923 to Forest and Bessie Elsberry on a country farm in Paris, IL. Jean always had a love for music and started playing piano at an early age and faithfully played at Clay?s Prairie Church. After graduating from high school in Paris she continued her education at Stephens College in Columbus, Missouri. Two years later she transferred to Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Continuing her passion for music, she learned to play concert Harp and graduated with a BS in Speech and Eluquotion in 1945. During her university years she participated in the war endeavors by chairing the Victory Garden effort in her local community and by selling War Stamps at Northwestern. Her university experience gave her the desire to spread her wings and travel the world; a passion that would always be a part of her. She completed her Flight Attendant training in Washington DC and flew with Capitol Airlines, TWA and Transocean Airlines from 1946-1949. Jean w...

James Leroy Willows, Jr.
Oct. 21, 1931 - June 21, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Jim Willows, a loving husband, father and man of service to his community, passed away quietly at his home in Pleasanton on Saturday, June 21, 2014, while surrounded by family and friends. He was a very loving and passionate person who worked hard to be a role model for those who looked up to him. Born in Vallejo in 1931, the only son of James Willows, Sr. and Marguerite Patterson Willows, he grew up in the Bay Area and studied Physics at UC Berkeley, where he was a champion on the competitive chess team. He began his career as a nuclear physicist at the Lawrence Livermore Lab. In 1960, he lost most of his vision due to a degenerative eye disease and continued the rest of his career as a computer scientist at the Lab before retiring in 1993. Jim was a deacon in the Presbyterian Church for many years and after losing his vision, turning his passion for helping others toward the blind community, serving as Vice President and then President of the National Federation of the Blind of California. During his years of service, he accomplished many things, including co-authoring SB105, a state bill to improve services for the visually impaired in California, and he received...

Marlene Sandberg
Dec. 10, 1935 - June 9, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Marlene Sandberg, 78, a 48-year resident of Pleasanton, died on June 9, 2014. Marlene was born on December 10, 1935, in San Diego, CA. She spent most of her youth living in Oakland, CA. She graduated from SF State with a BA in Education, and Stanford with a Masters in Education and Counseling. She was a beloved teacher to many children throughout her life, first and foremost to her children Anne and Kurt, and then to her students. Even when she wasn?t a full time teacher, she loved sharing her passions with youth, volunteering as a docent at the East Bay Regional Parks, and with the Pleasanton Book-legger Library program. Her love of nature began when she worked in Yosemite Valley during college summers, and she never missed a year visiting Yosemite from then on. She cultivated an appreciation of God?s creation in her family by planning many trips to beautiful places including an annual trip to Mammoth Lakes each summer. She loved hiking, cooking, reading, traveling, and being with family. Her positive attitude, generous nature, and kind heart touched many throughout her life. Her strong Christian faith and fellowship sustained her through her battle with Cancer the p...

Stephen John Marchi
April 27, 1955 - June 7, 2014
Pleasanton, CA

Steve was born in Manchester, CT, and graduated from Bedford High School in Bedford, MA, and earned a BS in Computer Science from Cal State Hayward. He joined Lawrence Livermore Laboratory in 1977, where he worked until his retirement in 2013. He then had the free time to go to the gym and ride his bike every day. With retirement, Steve also started his second career as a volunteer at local food banks. Steve is survived by his wife of 28 years, Jodi, and two wonderful sons John, 26, of San Francisco and Alex, 22, of Pleasanton; his parents Tom and Jane of Brentwood; two sisters Elizabeth (Rick) of Livermore, and Janice (Troy) of Livermore; and 12 nephews and nieces. His brother David preceded him in death. Steve enjoyed running with the Fleet Feet gang in Pleasanton, and their post-run coffee or pizza gatherings with all his fellow runners, many of whom became fast friends. He also worked with the volunteers at the Western States 100 race, where he spent one night a year standing in the American River helping runners across and tried to convince all his friends and neighbors to do the same. To his credit, many took him up on that offer. Steve had recently volunteered at the A...

Sarah Marie Liamos
May 9, 1992 - June 1, 2014
Pleasanton, California

"To strengthen the muscles of your heart, the best exercise is lifting someone else?s spirit whenever you can." ------Dodinsky, Author Sarah Marie Liamos was easy to spot in a crowd with a beaming smile and often dressed in pink or animal prints that depicted her tenacious nature and joie de vivre. Sarah was a Pied Piper for small children and the babysitter of choice for many during her early teens. She volunteered many summers as a Junior Counselor and Counselor at Camp Taylor, a cardiac camp hosted in Livermore and Hawaii, where she served as counselor, mentor, role model, and friend to many young cardiac patients. Sarah was born with a congenital heart defect that left her with one-half of a heart. It was more than enough when coupled with a beautiful spirit that focused on the betterment of others. Sarah and her family chose to downplay her physical limitations and instead focus on her many talents and achievements. Sarah continued to work for others during her college years, serving as a weekly volunteer at a Salvation Army after-school program for children of the working poor in Manchester, New Hampshire. During her school breaks, Sarah spent time on college-spo...

Martha Carroll Draper
May 24, 1950 - May 29, 2014
pleasanton, California

Martha Draper, longtime resident of Pleasanton, passed peacefully away on May 29th at Kaiser Hospital in Walnut Creek with her family at her side. Martha was originally from Tennessee but moved to Pleasanton in 1979 to be with her family. She worked in retail for many years ending up at Emporium-Capwell in Pleasanton. For the past 22 years she lived at Ridgeview Commons where she will be greatly missed by all who knew her for her caring ways and intelligence, not to mention her skill as a poker player. She leaves behind her children, Katie Riggins (Chris), Jim Draper (Rori), Blake Draper (Judy), and Garland Draper (Skip Means), as well as her much loved grandchildren Grant, Claire, Daphne, Skyler, Jillian, and James and 5 great grandchildren. She was such a presence in all our lives, as well as many others and will be greatly missed. At Martha's request there will be no service. All who know her remember her passion for birds and bugs, creatures and critters, so any one wanting honor her memory can choose from an organization like the Nature Conservancy....

Michael William Rogers
Dec. 12, 1959 - May 23, 2014
Pleasanton, California

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael William Rogers, 54, on May 23, 2014. After a long illness, Mike passed peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Throughout his life and the difficulties of illness, Mike impressed everyone with his generous and loving spirit. Born December 12, 1959 in Los Angeles, Mike grew up in Honolulu Hawaii, participating in Boy Scouts, basketball and tennis, and was fascinated with the Apollo space missions. BLUE and GOLD ran through Mike's veins, beginning with Punahou School, from which he graduated in 1977. He then attended the University of California at Berkeley, graduating first in his class with a Chemical Engineering degree. After a brief career with Chevron, he was hired by Sitka, which was acquired by Sun Microsystems. He left Sun in 2004 and pursued opportunities with several start ups over the past ten years. Mike was a dedicated Cal Berkeley fan, GO BEARS!, attended basketball and football games and was active in alumni events. He was a lover of life and spending time with friends. The fiestas he threw at the Lair and his parties at home were epic and legendary. His many pastimes included wine tastin...

Will David Brennen
April 26, 1926 - May 22, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Will David Brennen was born in Alvin, Texas, on April 16, 1926. He grew up in Texas and married Dolly Fay Sorge (Dorothy) in April, 1944 at the young age of 18. He served aboard the USS Nassau during WWII and was still serving the country abroad when his first child, Jane, was born in December, 1944. David subsequently earned a degree in Education from the University of Houston and a Masters degree in Education from the University of New Mexico. Over the the next 19 years, David and Dorothy brought 5 more children to this world: David (Rusty), Michael, Debbie, Don and last but not least, Diana (Dedi). Shortly after Dedi's birth, his daughter Jane and her loving husband Don Helminiak brought his first grandchild, Chris Helminiak, into this world. David had many passions in life including archery, photography, flying RC planes, cycling, hiking, and riding his motorcycle, but his greatest joy and source of pride was his children. David retired in 1991 and moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he remained busy helping others, playing with his RC planes, riding his bike, and enjoying the job of active grandparent. David's wife of 66 years, Dorothy, passed away in ...

Betty Marie Johnston
Feb. 14, 1920 - April 30, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Betty Marie (Foyston) Johnston passed away peacefully on April 30, 2014, at 94. She was born in Seattle, WA, attended Port Orchard Grade School, graduated South Kitsap High School, and lived her early years helping her father raise her younger brother and sister while helping him run his turkey farm. Betty had four children. While raising them, she helped start the preschool program at Woodland Elementary School in Puyallup, WA. She belonged to the Retail Clerks Union and began her retail career at Tuffley's Market in Des Moines, WA; later working at Hi Ho Grocery Store and Elvin's Department Store in Puyallup. She lived in Arizona before moving to Pleasanton, CA. While in Arizona, she was active in Sun City Grandmother's Club. When Betty moved to Pleasanton, she participated in many activities while living at Ridgeview Commons. She took bus tours to various venues and enjoyed being involved in "Blankets for Kids." The past six and a half years she lived at Parkview Assisted Living. There she enjoyed walks to the Senior Sensory Gardens to see the sweet peas. Betty had dear friends during her long, active life. She leaves many of them behind along with her sister, Barbara (...

Verlan Keith Gabrielson
Jan. 2, 1933 - April 23, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Verlan, ("Gabe" or "Vern") was born in Lindsborg, Kansas, the son of the late Wesley and Evelyn (Nelson) Gabrielson. He grew up in Lindsborg and went to Bethany College to earn a Bachelors of Science degree in Mathematics. After serving in the U.S. Army, he then earned a Master of Science degree at Kansas State University. In 1959, Verlan and his bride moved to Pleasanton, CA, and joined the scientific team at Sandia Labs where he worked as a scientific programmer for more than 30 years. He was a member of several bridge clubs and enjoyed participating in bridge tournaments. He enjoyed playing golf, tennis and volunteering his carpentry skills with Habitat for Humanity. He was a member of the Centerpointe Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years where was an Elder and a Deacon. Verlan is survived by his loving wife, Janet; devoted children Mark Gabrielson (Maria) of Franktown, CO; Anne Gabrielson (Marilynne Roscoe) of Newport, OR; and Paul Gabrielson (Laura) of Arroyo Grande, CA. He had three grandchildren: David, Rachelle, and Eric Gabrielson. He is also survived by his brother, Kenneth Gabrielson of Wichita, KS, and sister, Carolyn Kimbrel (John), many nieces, nephews...

Mary Cox
Sept. 9, 1936 - April 18, 2014
Gardnerville, Nevada

Loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Mary Cox, former longtime resident of Pleasanton, left this earth peacefully on April 18, 2014, with her family by her side. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Corrine Shepherd, and her brother Ted Shepherd of Oroville, CA. Mary will be greatly missed by her loving husband Marvin Cox of Gardnerville, NV, her sister Alberta Shepherd of Vallejo, CA, her children Bruce Cox (Cheryl) of Pleasanton, CA, Michael Cox of Washington and Brenda Cox Brouwers (Chris) of Truckee, CA, as well as her grandchildren, Christopher Brouwers of Brooklyn, New York, Cody Brouwers of Reno, NV, Brittney Brouwers of Fullerton, CA and Shawna Rae Brouwers of Reno, NV, as well as many loving, nieces, nephews, other family and friends. A memorial service will be held at Waltons Funeral Home at 1521 Church Street, Gardnerville, NV. The family will be greeting friends and relatives at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2014. A reception will immediately follow at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made in Mary?s name to The Special Olympics at www.specialolympics.org....

Carol Ann Browning
Dec. 27, 1945 - April 11, 2014
Pleasanton, CA

Carol Ann Browning of Pleasanton, CA, died on April 11, 2014. Carol was born in Bethlehem, Pa. on December 27, 1945 to the late Orval and Florence Bauder. Carol graduated from Penn State University with a BA in Liberal Studies in 1967. She taught High School English in Bucks County, PA before relocating to California with her sister Betty. She married Orville Harry Browning in 1972; they moved to Pleasanton in 1976 and have been residents since. Carol is survived by her husband, her brother?s Dave and Dean Bauder, her children Rusty Browning and Mike Browning, and her granddaughter Ashley Browning....

Robert Lewis Nethery
Sept. 20, 1929 - April 8, 2014
Murphys, California

Robert L. Nethery, "Bob" to friends and family and "Bobbie" to his grandchildren, died in his home in Murphys on April 8, 2014, after a two year battle with esophageal cancer. He was 84. Bob was born the sixth of eight children to Harry and Bernice Nethery on September 20, 1929, in Shullsburg, WI. He spent his teen years growing up in Rockford, IL, graduating from the local high school in 1947. A member of the Illinois National Guard, in 1952 Bob was activated during the Korean War and spent time at Camp Cook in Lompoc, CA before being deployed to France. His time in California inspired him to make his home in the Bay Area after his honorable discharge from the United States Army in 1953. He was employed by Safeway Stores for 27 years, ending his tenure as the store manager in Pleasanton in 1979. He was then self-employed selling solid waste management and recycling equipment before retiring to Murphys with his wife Jackie in 1994. Always active in the community, Bob was a devoted Rotarian, a charter member of the Moraga club, past President of the downtown Pleasanton club, most recently a member of the Arnold club, and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of Free...

Wayne Allan Singleton
Feb. 10, 1959 - March 31, 2014
Pleasanton, California

A longtime resident of Pleasanton, Wayne passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Family and friends are invited to attend his memorial service to be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at Valley Christian Center, 7500 Inspiration Drive, Dublin. Lunch will be served after the service. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association....

Joan Garofalo
Dec. 31, 1941 - March 29, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Joan Garofalo entered into eternal life on Saturday, March 29, 2014. Joan died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family after a long battle with cancer. She was 72. The daughter of John and Jane Agnew, Joan was born December 31, 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee. Joan spent the majority of her life growing up in Northern California, and graduated from San Lorenzo High School in 1959. Joan met her husband Bert in 1958. They were married in 1963 and made their home in Castro Valley where they welcomed three daughters. In 1977, Joan and Bert moved their family to Pleasanton. Joan loved growing roses, genealogy, and traveling with Bert in their RV. Above all, she loved spending time with her family. Joan is survived by her husband of 50 years, Bert; her brother Joel; her daughters, Tiffany, April, and Linda; her grandchildren, Auston, Kira, Sam, Olivia, and Tory; and her great granddaughter Gemma. Joan was generous and loving and touched the lives of many people in her 72 years. The family is comforted by their wonderful memories of time spent with their "Grammy" celebrating the deep love she shared and model...

Scott Douglas Vaughn
Nov. 14, 1959 - March 27, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Scott Douglas Vaughn passed away on March 27, 2014, after a long illness. He was born in Richmond, CA on November 14, 1959. As a boy he loved baseball and played in the boys? Little League team and went on to play baseball for Amador High School as a right fielder. Scott graduated from Amador High school in 1977. After high school Scott worked for Alpha Beta supermarkets as a warehouseman. He met and lived with his partner, Cynthia Roberts, who lovingly took care of Scott during his illness. They were together for fifteen years. Scott loved watching his favorite baseball team, the San Francisco Giants, as well as the San Francisco 49ers on television. Scott was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Vaughn. He is survived by his father, Bob Vaughn; brother Steve Vaughn (Diane) of El Dorado Hills, CA; sister Susan Guglielmo (Mike) of Pleasanton, CA; nephews Nick Vaughn, Michael Guglielmo, Matthew Guglielmo and niece, Alexandra Vaughn. Burial will be in the family plot in the Pleasanton Pioneer cemetery at a later date....

Karen Hope Ornellas
Feb. 4, 1941 - March 20, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Karen Hope Ornellas, a 48 year resident of Pleasanton, passed away March 20, 2014 following a long battle with Cancer. Karen was born in Modesto, California, on Feb. 4, 1941. She graduated from Hayward High School and worked for Mervyns' Department store in Dublin for 20 years. She also worked in the PNLL snack bar and was very active in her grandchildren's lives. Karen is survived by her husband of 48 years, Paul R. Ornellas, daughter Kelly Sleek (Todd) of Pleasanton, and son's Mike Ornellas (Teri) of Jackson and Dan Wesley (Val) of Canada; beloved grandchildren Nicole Singleton, Travis and Tanner Sleek, Michelle, Paisley and Cassidy Ornellas, and Hannah, Chanyn, and Halle Wesley, and her precious Garrett Scherer. A memorial service will be held at noon on Thursday, April 3, 2014, at Lone Tree Cemetery in Hayward, 24591 Fairview Ave. A celebration of life reception will follow for family and friends at the Sleek residence....

Bernice Kathyrn Poli
Feb. 26, 1928 - March 16, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Bernice Kathyrn (Gallagher) Poli of Pleasanton passed on March 16, 2014. She was born on Feb. 26, 1928, in Emeryville, CA, to Francis Joseph Gallagher and Jennie Lee Ragsdale. Bernice lived in Pleasanton for 50 years and was active in the Women?s Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars there. Bernice served many years as the organization?s treasurer and on the committee overseeing the modernization of the VFW Memorial Hall in historic downtown Pleasanton. She was also an active part of the Pleasanton VFW Veteran?s Day Parade. Bernice worked for Alameda County for twenty years as an accounting clerk in the Livermore and Hayward Offices, beginning her public service in District Attorney?s Office in Oakland. She was an active member of Retired Employees of Alameda County and Alameda County Retirement Employees Association. She was a member of the WOW (We Outrageous Women RedHatters). Bernice was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church where she volunteered in the Rectory office. Bernice volunteered in the education department of Kaiser Pleasanton and was named an outstanding volunteer. In her early adult years she was a journalist at the Oakland Post Inquirer; was...

Richard Del Tredici
Dec. 22, 1940 - Feb. 12, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Richard Del Tredici, 73, died at home with his family by his side Feb. 12, 2014, after a courageous and graceful battle with cancer. Born to Walter and Helen Del Tredici, he grew up in San Anselmo, CA, lived in Pleasanton for 50 years, and was a local high school teacher/principal for 38 years. Richard loved knowledge, travel, and all things Italian. With his gentle strength, kindness, smile, and helping hand, he was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. Family was most important to Richard: Judy, his wife of 50 years, children Lisa (John), Michelle (Rocco), and Aaron (John), brothers David of New York, Robert of Montreal, Peter of Boston, sister Ann of El Sobrante, and three treasured grandchildren, Lizzie, Marcus, and Calvin. He was also blessed to be surrounded by loving and supportive friends and extended family....

Kathryn Claire Ruckteschler
May 2, 1947 - Feb. 9, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Kathryn Claire Ruckteschler, a fourth generation San Franciscan, passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, at the age of 66 after suffering a long illness. Kathy was raised in Burlingame, CA and graduated from Burlingame High School and College of San Mateo. After college, Kathy joined TIA Airlines, along with her twin sister Terry, as an airline stewardess. She enjoyed many years of travel before settling down with her longtime soul mate and love of her life Lance Ruckteschler. Lance and Kathy recently celebrated their 40th anniversary. Kathy spent many years working with Lance in the family business, R. Lance and Sons. Kathy is the sister of Terry Lembi and Lee Mercer (Bob). Kathy is the mother of Jeff Ruckteschler (Lisa), Jason Ruckteschler (Ali), Lori Gibson (Dan), Staci Navarreta (Ron) and the Grandmother of Nina Ruckteschler, Jonathan McKee, R.J. Ruckteschler, Adrianna Ruckteschler, Hailey and Brody Gibson and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald Haff and Marie E. Haff, and Brothers-in Law Donald Lembi and Ken Mercer. Kathy lived a full life, enjoying her family and friends and was a generous, kind and loving woman...

Lela Thut Terrill
Feb. 20, 1923 - Feb. 9, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Lela Thut Gonsalves Terrill was born in Modesto, CA, to Bertie Jane Tomer of Hanford, CA, and Wilhelm Thut of Seengen, Switzerland. She was preceded in death by husbands John Gonsalves and Cliff Terrill, and son John "Bud" Gonsalves, Jr. Lela and John Gonsalves Sr. had five other children, Larry (Bev), Jane (Steve), David (Barb), Susan, and Dennis (Kathe). She was a loving grandmother of 19 and adoring great grandmother of 26. Lela was a phenomenal cook and was famous for her Christmas fruitcakes. She loved to bake. She was also a wonderful quilt maker and loved to cross-stitch. Her loving and nurturing spirit and her love of talking will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family would like to thank everyone for their love and support, especially during Lela's final days at Parkview. She had incredible care from the Parkview caregivers and Hospice. Family and friends are invited to a memorial service and celebration of Lela's life at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Parkview Senior Assisted Living at 100 Valley Ave. with a reception immediately following in the Parkview Activities Room. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lela's memory may be made to Hope Ho...

Thomas Louis Morrell
Sept. 18, 1934 - Jan. 29, 2014
Union City, California

Thomas Louis Morrell of Pleasanton passed away Jan. 29, 2014 following a long battle with Cancer. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Sept. 18, 1934. He graduated from Hayward High School and San Jose State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Katherine A. Morrell, daughters Catherine Seymour, Marilyn Morrell-Kristal, Andrea Morrell; beloved grandchildren Blair McLeod, Jessica Strunk, Drew Kristal, Bryce Kristal, Trey Kristal; and great-grandchildren Magnolia McLeod, Henry McLeod, Gwendolyn Strunk and his brother William Morrell. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, at the Masonic Home in Union City, 34400 Mission Blvd. A celebration of life reception will follow for family and guests. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer?s Association of Northern California, 1060 La Avenida St., Mountain View, CA 94024, or by calling, (650) 962-8111. Tom was a care giver for his wife Kathy and believed in the educational programs of the association....

Kimberley Ann Brooks
Sept. 11, 1962 - Jan. 21, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Kimberly Ann Kayser Brooks of Pleasanton passed away peacefully on Jan. 21, 2014. She was born in San Jose on Sept. 11, 1962 to Ken and Barbara Kayser. She graduated from Santa Teresa High School where she was a standout athlete, playing on the varsity volleyball and softball teams. She attended San Jose State University where she graduated with a degree in marketing and was a member of the outstanding Spartan volleyball teams of the early 1980?s. Her teammates became life-long friends. Kim excelled in the business world as well, recently retiring as Group Vice President of Marketing at Safeway where she worked for 25 years. She cherished the many close friendships she made during her career. Kim was very active in charitable organizations and outreach and support for cancer patients. She was a fiercely loyal to her family and friends. Kim was married for 17 years to her loving husband, Rich Brooks and had two children, Ariana and Colton whom she adored. In addition to her husband and children, Kim is survived by her parents, Ken and Barbara Kayser, her brother, Steven Kayser (Lynn), sisters Karen Kottaridis (Chris) and Kathleen Rose (Pat), brother-in-law, Stephen B...

Philip Erich Scholz
Oct. 5, 1978 - Jan. 20, 2014
Pleasanton, CA

Philip Erich Scholz of Pleasanton, CA, died tragically on Monday, Jan. 20, 2014 in a train accident in Santa Clara, CA. He was 35 years old. Philip was born in Seattle, WA, and graduated from Shorewood High School in Shoreline, WA. He earned a degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University in 2001. Upon graduation Philip began his career at NVIDIA, a Silicon Valley computer graphics company, where he was a senior marketing manager. Philip married Emily Mounce on April 28, 2006. Philip is survived by his wife, Emily Scholz, of Pleasanton, CA; parents Roberta and Fritz Scholz of Edmonds, WA; and brother Christian Scholz of Fremont, CA. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 10 at the Veterans Memorial Building, 301 Main St., Pleasanton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Philip Scholz Memorial Foundation, www.phils-foundation.com....

Kenneth Roy Mercer
Sept. 2, 1942 - Jan. 14, 2014
Pleasanton, California

Former Pleasanton Mayor, Kenneth Roy Mercer, 71, of Pleasanton, died peacefully surrounded by his children early Tuesday morning. He was born to the late Vera and David Mercer in Vancouver, Canada and moved to San Bruno, CA as a very young boy. He attended Cappuchino High School and graduated from San Francisco State University('64). Ken began his career with Pacific Bell which brought him to Livermore as Manger where he was involved with many organizations and served as President of the Livermore Chamber of Commerce. He left Pleasanton to serve as Administrative Assistant to Assemblyman Carlos Bee in Sacramento for several years before returning to Pleasanton where he was elected to the Pleasanton City Council in 1976 and served as Councilman and Mayor until 1992. After retiring from Pacific Bell and politics Ken was a Vice President for Chicago Title and North American Title Company. He retired as a Vice President of Marketing for ValleyCare Health System in Pleasanton. He played Lob Ball for many years and he was always involved in local fundraising and enjoyed his many friends helping to barbeque with them at all kinds of charities and events in Pleasanton. Ken enjoy...

Alice Evelyn Reynolds
June 27, 1919 - Jan. 4, 2014
Scotia, NY

Dateline: Scotia, NY Alice Evelyn Reynolds, 94, of the Baptist Health Nursing and Retirement Center died peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 4, at her residence. Alice was born on June 27, 1919 in Lowell, MA and was the daughter of the late Leah and George Robinson. Alice was the beloved wife of the late Max Z. Reynolds who died in San Ramon, CA on April 26, 1991. She had lived in the Capital District of New York since 2002 and was previously of San Ramon, CA and Pittsburgh, PA. Alice was an avid bridge player and gardener. She had an eye for interior design and brought grace and beauty to her surroundings. She loved being a mother and was devoted to her five daughters, Alicia Graham (Wayne) of Pittsburgh PA, Sandy Reynolds of Calistoga, CA, Corrinne Reynolds of China Guangdong Province, Shenzhen, Shelley Zellmer (Greg) of Grass Lake, MI, and Connie Reynolds (Bill Gordon) Burnt Hills, NY; her Grand Children, Jeffrey Graham of Norfolk, VA, Wayne Graham Jr. of Aliquippa, PA, Katherine Zellmer of Columbus, OH, Kendra Dolson (Gabriel) of Jackson, MI, Jessica Seifert (Ryan) of New York, NY, Jennifer Wells (Gary Sr.) of Hudson Falls, NY, Sandra Bratlie (Darren) of Fort Collins, CO, Mo...

Msgt. Kenneth E. Bennetts
March 19, 1922 - Dec. 29, 2013
Stanton, Michigan

Kenneth Earl "Bud" Bennetts, age 91, went to be with his Lord on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013, surrounded by his family at his home. The son of James R. and Sigrid (Ohmen) Bennetts, he was born on March 19, 1922 in Iron Mountain, MI, and attended Lansing Eastern High School and Michigan State University. Ken initially began his military career by joining the Michigan National Guard, enlisting in the U.S. Navy when World War II began, serving as a medical corpsman in the Asiatic-Pacific theater, and helping to liberate the Philippine Islands. In 1956, he left the U.S. Navy to join the U.S. Air Force where he was a recruiter and hospital administrator until his retirement as a Master Sergeant in 1969. He was also a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. In 1943, he married "the girl next door," Miss Maxine Trefry. In retirement, Ken and Maxine made their lives in northern California where they spent many years in continued service to our fellow service men and women by serving in many offices within the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars including his time as District Commander. Ken enjoyed his wood shop where he spent many hours making cradles and wooden toys for his...

Dennis Lile
Sept. 19, 1939 - Dec. 21, 2013
Pleasanton, California

On Dec. 21, Pleasanton, California lost a very dear resident, Dennis Lile. Born in South Bend, Indiana in 1939, Dennis grew up in Greenville, Kentucky and attended Greenville schools. As was customary in that locale, after high school he started working in the coal strip mining industry in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Dennis was a miner for 25 years, until the coal mines in that region closed. In 1988, he moved to California with his wife Donna. In 1991, he established Pacific Real Estate Services in Pleasanton. Dennis served the real estate and mortgage industry in California for over 20 years until he retired. Although he enjoyed the Real Estate business, his real love was cooking. Friends and neighbors knew him best as the one who entertained with scrumptious meals. Often he would show up at their doorstep with biscuits, stews, cakes and whatever culinary delight he wanted to cook that day, just to make someone's day a little brighter. He was an active member of Prince Of Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, and later Trinity Lutheran in Pleasanton. Dennis is survived by his wife Donna, Brett Lile and family, John Lile of Kentucky, Brett Illers and family of Pleasanton...

Warren MacLeod Annis
Oct. 21, 1920 - Dec. 21, 2013
Livermore, California

Warren MacLeod Annis passed away on Dec. 21, 2013, from natural causes. At the time of his death Warren had been living in Livermore for 2 ½ years after residing in the same house in Pleasanton since 1950. Warren was born on Oct. 21, 1920, in Duluth, Minnesota, the last of six children of Roderick Dhu Annis and Ethel Foss Annis. He attended Duluth, MN schools, graduating from Central High School and Duluth State Teacher?s College (now the University of Minnesota at Duluth) with a degree in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. After graduating college in December of 1943 Warren attended the Naval Reserve Midshipman?s Officer?s Training School (aka "90 day Wonder") at Columbia University in New York, New York, graduating as an Ensign on June 29, 1944. On July 3, 1944, he married Fannie Lambert, his college sweetheart, on his way to his assignment to the Amphibious Base at Coronado, California. Warren was then deployed to the USS Menard, APA 201, and sailed in the South Pacific arena during World War II, participating in the landing at Okinawa on April 1, 1945. His ship also transported the first occupational troops into Nagasaki, Japan, after the dropping of the atomic bomb. A...

Kyle Vincent Field
Oct. 17, 1990 - Dec. 20, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Kyle Field was a born at Valley Care hospital in Livermore on Oct. 17, 1990. He was raised in Pleasanton and attended Vintage Hills Elementary, Pleasanton Middle School and Amador Valley High School where he graduated in 2009. Kyle loved sports and was a lettered Varsity Football player at Amador. After graduating from high school Kyle served for a year in the Air Force. Kyle was outgoing and gregarious, had a great sense of humor, and was a loving, supportive and loyal friend to many. He had great empathy and was a good listener. He had a real fondness for cars and driving. His outdoor passion was downhill mountain biking, especially in Lake Tahoe. Kyle was a natural writer and communicator. He had a special ability to connect with people with his great smile and endearing personality. He most recently enjoyed success selling automobiles in Dublin. He expressed a desire to someday work with young people with anxiety disorders in a youth camp setting. Kyle died on Dec. 20, 2013 at Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley from complications following a catastrophic epileptic seizure. Kyle is survived by his mother and father, Deborah and Gregory, his brother and sister-in-la...

Gary Herbert Twisselmann
Aug. 9, 1938 - Nov. 29, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Gary Herbert Twisselmann was born Aug. 9, 1938 in Atascadero, CA to Bugs and Elinor Twisselmann. He graduated from Paso Robles High School in 1956. He played on the 1955 All C.I.F Football Team, as well as the Shrine Football Classic in 1956. He played two years of football at Bakersfield Junior College and was named to the Junior College All America Team. Gary transferred to Cal Poly and received his Engineering Degree in 1962. He worked for Ford Motor Company in Southern CA until 1980 when he transferred to the Ford assembly plant in Milpitas. In 1983 Ford closed, and he worked at NUMMI in Fremont until his retirement in 2002 as Vice President of Engineering, Production Control and Quality Control Departments. Gary married Sally Stephan in 1958 and they have five children: Kimberly cumme*r (Rick), Joan Thomas (Chris), Kathy Brown (Jack), Tom Twisselmann (Julie) and Tim Twisselmann (Sue). He has twelve wonderful grandchildren. Grandson Jacob Gary Twisselmann is waiting for him in Heaven. He is also survived by his younger brother Roy, sister in law Carolyn and two nephews. Gary represented the best of what a father, husband, grandfather and role model had to offer. He was ...

Scott Cumberland
May 21, 1962 - Nov. 26, 2013
Montgomery, Texas

Dr. Scott L. Cumberland passed away Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2013 in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the age of 51 from epilepsy, a condition he had battled courageously for 34 years. Dr. Cumberland fought epilepsy, and in the last two years, cancer, with the same resilience, determination and indomitable courage he had for fighting any problem. Scott?s untimely passing occurred while visiting his son, Airman Kevin MacArthur, who is currently serving at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. Scott Lee Cumberland was born, May 21, 1962 in San Antonio, Texas. He was a loving and compassionate son of Willard and Dorothy Cumberland. He graduated from Winston Churchill High School in 1980 and earned Bachelor in Science degrees in Psychology and Chemistry while at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). In 2001, after earning a Chemistry doctorate, with emphasis on nanotechnology, from the University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB), Scott joined The Clorox Company in California, where he worked as a scientist, in various capacities, for close to 10 years. Living in California allowed Scott the opportunity to embrace his passions for outdoor rock climbing and motorcycle ...

Doris Petrine Gilpin
Oct. 27, 1912 - Nov. 26, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Doris Gilpin peacefully passed away on Nov. 26 having lived a full 101 years. She is survived by her children John Gilpin and Mike Gilpin; daughters-in-law Gail Gilpin, Yvonne Gilpin, and former daughter-in-law Betsy Gilpin; grandchildren Laura (Gilpin) Olson, Joe Gilpin, and Katy (Gilpin) Powers; and great grandchildren Luke, Charlotte, and Clark Olson, and Henry Gilpin. Doris was preceded in death by her husband Chester (Chet) Gilpin and son Jim Gilpin. Born Doris Petrine Johnson, she was raised in the small town of Mineota, Minnesota, and was of 100 percent Icelandic heritage. She was the 6th born in a farming family of 7 children, all of whom graduated from college. She married Chet in 1936 and, with a spirit of adventure, they relocated to California in 1940 so he could earn his Ph.D. They remained in California as Chet served in WWII as a naval officer and then raised their family. They were happily married for 60 years and traveled the world together. She was particularly pleased to visit relatives in Iceland whom she had not previously met. Doris was a devoted wife and mother who cared for her family and was very ...

Jannes Takens
March 1, 1919 - Nov. 24, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Jannes Takens, born in Helpman, The Netherlands, in 1919, passed away at the age of 94 in his Pleasanton home on Sunday, Nov. 24. Jannes and his wife Janna, married just 2 weeks short of 65 years, immigrated to Pleasanton in 1950, finding their first job at the Meadowlark Dairy. They became proud citizens of the USA in 1955. They were helped by and thankful to so many generous and trusting people in their new country and community, making business deals on as little as a handshake, to eventually become owners of the Dairy. Jannes was an avid sports fan and sportsman. In his youth he won speed skating medals and played center midfielder for Bequick Soccer NL. Upon arrival in the U.S., he became an avid baseball fan and a popular coach of Little League baseball and soccer teams in Pleasanton. He loved bowling, sponsoring many teams, and continued to bowl well into his retirement years with his SIR friends. He helped put on many 4-H BBQ's at the fairgrounds, was an avid fair-goer with box seats at the fairgrounds, and also helped pay for new grandstands. A little-known fact is that he was a good horseman, a real cowboy. He and Janna were thankful in retirement to have been...

Adolph T Sisneroz
Jan. 28, 1932 - Nov. 22, 2013
Discovery Bay, California

Adolph T. Sisneroz passed away peacefully at home in Discovery Bay on Friday, Nov. 22 surrounded by his loving family. He was 81 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents Adolfo and Ascencion Sisneroz. He was born on Jan. 28, 1932 in La Salle, Colorado. He graduated from Washington Union High School in Fremont and joined the U.S. Marines at age 17. During his service he married the love of his life, Rosie Hernandez, and they were married 61 years. After the service, Adolph became a cabinet maker, eventually starting his own business, Adolph's Cabinets, in 1965 in Pleasanton, California. Adolph and his family lived in Pleasanton until he moved to Discover Bay in 1989. Adolph is survived by his loving wife Rosie. They have four sons, Danny (Pam), Wayne (Angela), Sam (Kelly) and Mark (Yvette). He has 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. Adolph was a humble man who affected the lives of many people. He was always on the side of the under-represented and was always willing to lend a helping hand....

Rudolph D'Angelo
Sept. 6, 1941 - Nov. 21, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Rudy D?Angelo, 72, passed away on Nov. 21, 2013 at Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, California. Rudy was born on Sept. 6, 1941 in Pennsylvania to Jerry and Marie D?Angelo. He grew up in California, Pennsylvania in a home upstairs from his grandparents and at ten years old he moved with his Mom and Dad to Perryopolis, Pennsylvania. His early years were filled with big family dinners on Sundays, swimming in the Monongahela River and trapping in the woods. He graduated from South Union High School in Uniontown, Pennsylvania in 1962. After high school Rudy enlisted in the Marine Corps and just a week after graduation he left for basic training at Parris Island. During his time in the Marines, Rudy qualified as an expert marksmen and also trained as an under water demolition expert. Throughout his life, Rudy remained proud of his military service and always lived by the Marine Corps motto "Semper Fi." In 1966 Rudy married Joyce Komlo. After a honeymoon in Miami, Florida they started their lives together in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As their family began to grow Rudy started a career in auto marketing and finance that would last 40 years. Job opportunities would take them acr...

Matthew Yount
Jan. 15, 1993 - Nov. 20, 2013
Formerly of Pleasanton, California

A beloved son, brother and friend. Matthew passed away tragically in an accident in Spain while studying abroad. Matthew is the son of Greg Yount and Sandy Yount, the brother of Adam Yount, and was loved like a brother and a son by his many friends. Matthew was a junior at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and a Scholar Athlete on their Division I golf team. He was a 2011 graduate of Foothill High School in Pleasanton, where he was a member of the golf team. Matthew attended K-8 at St. Raymond School in Dublin. Matthew loved his sports, golf, baseball (both playing and watching his Oakland A?s), football, snowboarding and skiing, mountain biking, basketball and surfing. These were all things that Matthew loved to do with both his family and friends. His love for life was evident to everyone through his bright smile, his warm and engaging personality and the joy he brought to all he touched. A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30 at St. Raymond Church, 11555 Shannon Ave., Dublin. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Matthew Yount Scholarship Foundation c/o Lions Club, PO Box...

Gregory N. Scott
April 21, 1965 - Nov. 19, 2013
Clifton, Colorado

Gregory Scott, 48, was a 10 year resident of Clifton, Colorado. He died suddenly on Nov. 19 in Clifton. He was raised in Pleasanton and attended Amador Valley High School, graduating in 1983. He was a 4 year member of the varsity baseball team. He also played football and basketball. He attended Ohlone Community College for two years. He enjoyed fishing, baseball and reading. He is survived by his daughter Courtney, mother Diane, brothers Patrick (Shelbi) and Jeff, and nephew Riley. He was preceded in death by his father Jack and Uncle Harold. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Century House on Santa Rita Road. Donations should be sent to St. Judes....

Kathern Ann Bell
Aug. 26, 1937 - Nov. 19, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Kathern passed away peacefully at her Pleasanton home Nov. 19, after a long battle with Parkinson's. Kathern Archer was born in Dalton Arkansas, and grew up in Pontiac, Michigan where she met Jimmy Joe Bell. After giving birth to her twin daughters in July 1958, she left Michigan for the SF Bay Area, raising her family in Fremont after the death of Jimmy in 1998. Kathy met and is survived by her loving partner Robert Lovell. Together they were active in the Oakland A?s boosters, Pleasanton Senior Center, Parkinson Network of Mt. Diablo. Kathy will be forever missed by her surviving family: sisters Jessie Wilcox and Donna Taylor; children Tammy Bell-Sanchez, Sandi Bell, Michael and Susanne Schaaf, Mark and Chris Lovell and Paul Lovell; grandchildren Cylena Deak, Dino Moschetti Jr. and Ryan Rice; and great grandchildren Austin Brown, London Deak, Mason Rice, Amanda and Dylan Schaaf. A celebration of life will be held at her Pleasanton home at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7. For further info, contact Robert Lovell at 461-5332. To share memories go to [emailprotected] In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Parkinson Network of Mt. Diablo www.p...

Genevieve "Gen" Zavanelli
Nov. 12, 1925 - Nov. 16, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Genevieve "Gen" Zavanelli, devoted wife, loving mother, and dedicated nurse passed away peacefully at home in Pleasanton on Nov. 16. Gen is survived by her beloved husband, Dr. William "Bill" Zavanelli and children Barbara (Stuart) Zavanelli-Morgan, Mary (Dan Costa) Zavanelli, Tony (Pati) Zavanelli, Terry (Kevin) Koenig, daughter-in-law Karen Zavanelli and cherished grandchildren Nicole and Kevin (K.J.) Koenig and Steven Zavanelli. Her sons, Joseph and Andy Zavanelli, preceded Gen in death. Born Genevieve Ida Tigges, she was from Wadena, Minnesota. She served as a nurse for the United States Air Force during the Korean War. She met and married Bill while working at the USAF base in Montana. They moved West settling in California. Her family gathered recently to celebrate her 88th birthday and Bill and Gen?s 61st wedding anniversary. Gen will be greatly missed. Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral mass at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23 at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, 4001 Stoneridge Drive, Pleasanton. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Gen?s favorite charitable organization, Hope Hospice....

Vijay K Pun
Aug. 8, 1046 - Nov. 16, 2013
Dublin, California

Our beloved mother Vijay passed away peacefully in Pleasantan surrounded by family. She united with our father Sohan S Pun in heaven. Our Mother was born in Amritsar, India and lived in New Delhi previously. She is survived by two sons, Mukesh (Mickey) and Rajesh Pun; and two daughters, Hemlata Pun and Meenu Saraf. She has six grandchildren; Varun and Dr. Siddarth Sehgal, Pallavi, Tulika and Sherwin Saraf, and Siya Pun. Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23 at Chapel of Chimes in Hayward,CA followed by Bhog at Gurdwara Sahib in Fremont. Our mother will be missed dearly and may her soul rest in peace....

Randall Lee Eicher
Jan. 26, 1940 - Nov. 15, 2013
Pleasanton, CA

Randall Lee Eicher passed away on Friday, Nov. 15 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He has touched the lives of many with his determination, strength of character, gentle spirit and positive outlook on life. Randall was born in Connellsville, PA. He graduated from East Huntingdon High School and later attended Antelope Valley Community College in Lancaster, CA. After serving in the Air Force for 4 years, Randall enjoyed a 35 year career with the Federal Aviation Administration, working at the Los Angeles and then the Oakland Air Route Traffic Control Centers. He retired in 1998. He enjoyed playing golf, watching football, jewelry making, playing with his many slot machines, spending time with his grandchildren, and traveling the globe with his wife of 55 years. Randall is survived by his loving wife, Lois; devoted children Christine Raymond (John) of Livermore, Rebecca Hansen of Pleasanton, Richard Eicher (Isabel) of Ripon, and Craig Eicher (Kimberly) of Pleasanton; and grandchildren Jessica, Paul, and Brian Hansen; Joseph, Jillian, Elizabeth and John Eicher. His generous and loving nature will be missed by all who knew him. Friends and family are invited t...

Hubert Kenneth McNees, Jr.
June 20, 1944 - Nov. 13, 2013
Pleasanton, CA

Ken was born in Phoenix, AZ to Hubert Kenneth Sr. and Betty McNees. He was raised in Exeter, CA where he learned the value of hard work and ingenuity as the only son on a citrus and walnut farm. Ken graduated from Exeter High School and was drafted into the U.S. Army while studying at Fresno State. After a two-year tour in Germany, he completed his degree and began a 35-year career in the automotive industry, working for Firestone Tires, Hughes Aircraft, Peterbilt, and NUMMI. He could fix anything. His talents ranged from car and boat restoration to fine furniture making, always with unparalleled attention to detail. His family cherishes the pieces he created. At Fresno State he met his future wife, Jody, in the fall of 1968. They were married in May of 1973 in Lafayette and resided in Long Beach, CA. In 1977 they moved to Pleasanton, CA where they started a family. Ken was widowed in 2010 when Jody lost a valiant battle with brain cancer. Those who knew Ken saw that throughout Jody?s illness and their 42 years together, Ken lived for Jody and their family. Ken is survived by his two daughters: Lauren McNees of Winters, CA, and Andrea McNees of San Francisco, CA, both UC Da...

Geoffrey Mapplebeck
Aug. 29, 1988 - Nov. 10, 2013
Danville, California

Geoffrey Mapplebeck, 25, died in a car accident on November 10. A resident of Danville, he was a smart, kind, enthusiastic young man with a bright future. Born August 29, 1988, Geoffrey attended John Baldwin Elementary School, Charlotte Wood Middle School, and San Ramon Valley High School where he graduated in 2007. He had played Little League Baseball from the time he was 6 years old through AAA Baseball. He had also received his Brown Belt in Karate. When he was 12 years old he became completely enamored with everything computers: programming, websites, gaming? and after graduating high school he attended Ex?pression College for Digital Arts where he graduated with his BA in Game Art and Design in 2011. Program Director Ty Carriere remembers Geoffrey as "a fun student who was definitely excited about the work that he did. He was happy to be here," he said. Since graduating, Geoffrey created and was the head of a Danville-based website design firm and search engine team, according to associate Rich Wood of eWebsiteServices. Geoffrey is survived by his loving parents Roy and Terry (Corona) Mapplebeck, his sister Briana Mapplebeck, his 5 year old daughter Elayna Collins...

Marjorie Joyce Andreatta
Feb. 7, 1923 - Nov. 3, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Marjorie Joyce Andreatta passed away peacefully on Nov. 3 in Pleasanton. She joins her husband Geno of 69 years who passed on Sept. 12. Marge was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia on Feb. 7, 1923, the oldest child of James and Christine Hurley. In 1942, she met Geno M. Andreatta, a handsome American soldier stationed in Australia. A serendipitous train ride to the beach set the stage for their meeting, which flourished into their courtship and marriage on March 7, 1944. One of 15,000 Australian warbrides, Marjorie left behind family, friends and way of life to embark on the joys and hardships of a new life in America with her husband. Marjorie worked as a candy girl at the Roosevelt Theatre in San Francisco before becoming an operator at Pacific Bell in 1954. Over 30 years of service, she progressed to and retired as a Trunk Engineer. In her retirement years, she maintained her relationships with Pacific Bell Telephone Company Pioneers and The 432 Club. When Marge and Geno relocated to Pleasanton in the mid-80s, she kept busy crafting, spoiling her grandchildren, and devoting her time and notable talents to organizations that helped others, including Daughters of t...

Edythe L. Shewfelt
July 31, 1914 - Oct. 24, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Edythe L. Shewfelt (?Nana?) was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada on July 31, 1914. Her family relocated to Vancouver, British Columbia where she married Edgar Ronald ?Ron? Shewfelt on Oct. 26, 1938. They began their married life as immigrants to the United States, moving to Berkeley, California where Ron worked as a pharmacist. They were extremely proud to become American citizens and they were grateful for the opportunity to pursue the American dream. Together they opened their own pharmacy and Edythe helped run the store, including working the soda fountain. Later in life they often recounted that all the money they had in the world was in the till the day they opened. Edythe and Ron raised their two children, Muriel and Larry, in Oakland. They lived there until Ron went to work for the Northern California Pharmaceutical Association, taking them to Sacramento in 1972. Ron?s work with the NCPA gave them the opportunity to travel the world. Ron and Edythe were married for 53 years before he passed away in 1991. Edythe continued to reside in Sacramento until 2006 when she moved to Pleasanton to be nearer to her extended family. Edythe was also preceded in death by her son ...

Raul Cortez
1933 - Oct. 11, 2013
Atascadero, California

Raul Cortez passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on October 11, 2013 after a battle with cancer. He was born in June,1933 in Los Angeles to Manuel and Adelfa Cortez as the oldest of four brothers. He was raised in Pleasanton and graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1952. Raul joined the Navy and served his country for four years, then attended San Jose State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. After graduation, Raul made his living in the car industry where he became a much respected sales associate, reputable manager, and owner of various automobile dealerships. Raul married his best friend and partner in life, Mariann, and they have been together for the past 50 years. They have one daughter together, Michelle, with Raul having five children from a previous marriage, one of whom passed after his birth. Raul and Mariann moved to Atascadero in 1980 with their daughter after purchasing the local Ford Dealership and renaming it Atascadero Ford with a business partner. Raul was an avid lover of the lake and boating and could be found at Lake Nacimiento with his family when he wasn?t working. He enjoyed water...

Eugene Austin Willis
Feb. 4, 1926 - Oct. 7, 2013
Pleasanton, Chico, California

Eugene Austin Willis passed away peacefully on Oct. 7. He was born to Lloyd and Margaret Willis in Ravenna, Ohio on Feb. 4, 1926. He was greatly loved by his family and friends. His smile and compassion for everyone that he knew will never be forgotten! Gene came to Pleasanton when he was 17 years old. He enlisted in the Navy and served his entire duty at Camp Shoemaker in Pleasanton, now known as Camp Parks. He met his loving wife, Dolores (Dee) Willis, while getting gas and hamburgers at Dee's father's gas station and restaurant. They fell in love almost immediately and married about six months later, Valentine's Day 1946. They were married for 67 years. Gene opened Valley Tire in 1958. It was located on the corner of Stanley Blvd. and Santa Rita Road. He owned and operated his business until 1988 when he moved to Chico, California. His daughter, Catherine Willis, preceded him in death. She was born with spina bifida, and passed away when she was five weeks old. His grandson, Tom Self, also preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Dolores Willis, and his 3 sons Tomm (Cheryl), Mike, and Denny Willis. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Joey Willis...

Elizabeth Anna Kopp
Dec. 20, 1925 - Sept. 30, 2013
San Jose, California

Elizabeth (Betty) was a long-time resident of Pleasanton until recently moving to San Jose. She is survived by daughter Deborah (Morris), son Dennis (Patty), grandchildren Aaron (Heather), Daniel (Jasmine), Suzanne (Alfredo), Jonathan, Christopher, Rosie and Katherine (Franklin) as well as great grandchildren Roman, Isabella, Lilah, Loralai and Luci. Predeceased by Edwin Daniel (husband), David Daniel (son) and Milo Kopp (husband). Betty will be remembered as being a strong, loving, kind woman who was always ready to help family and friends. She was a long-time volunteer with Hope Hospice and The Valley Care Hospital Auxiliary and a member of the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church....

Susanne Vivion Cook
April 24, 1938 - Sept. 23, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Susanne Vivion Cook, 75, passed away peacefully at her home on Sept. 23 with her two daughters by her side. Susanne was born April 24, 1938 in San Bernadino, CA to Lee Emmet Vivion and Mary Eliza Vivion. In her younger years, Susanne?s family moved frequently due to her father?s changing occupations. Susanne attributed her flexible character to the experiences she gained while on the road with her parents. Her older sister, Shirley, was 12 years her senior and married young, so Susanne grew up mostly an only child. In 1959, Susanne married Maurice Cook, Jr. and they made their first home in Garden Grove, CA where they had their two daughters, Cheryl and Carol. In 1970, Maurice took a job in Northern California, and Susanne?s family relocated to a small 1.5-acre ranchette in Pleasanton. It was here that Susanne would live for the rest of her life. She had many fond memories "on the farm" while raising her family. She learned to grow much of the food she prepared - from fruits and vegetables to pork chops and chicken. Until just recently, neighbors would still see Susanne out front feeding her pet goose. Susanne was very devoted to raising her girls, and later spoiling he...

Geno Mario Andreatta
May 16, 1918 - Sept. 12, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Geno Mario Andreatta passed away peacefully on Sept. 12, 2013 in his home in Pleasanton. He had recently celebrated his 95th birthday with close friends and family. Geno was born on May 16, 1918 in Dunsmuir, California to Italian immigrants Maria and Giuseppe Andreatta. He was the youngest and last surviving of 9 children. During WWII, he served with the 41st Infantry Division, US Army, Pacific Campaign. While stationed in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, he spotted a beautiful local woman on the train to the beach. Geno always playfully insisted that it was a wink from Marjorie that sparked their romance. They married on March 7, 1944. Geno had a long career as a die-setter working for Schlage Lock Co. in San Francisco and was active in the Machinists Union. After retiring, he continued to work as a security guard well into his eighties. He was an avid woodworker, and kept his family supplied with gadgets, whirlygigs, and frames for grandchildren's awards and Marjorie's craftwork. As a longtime resident of Pleasanton, he was the iconic Man in his Chair of Northway Road: no passerby went without a cheerful greeting of "Howdy Doody!" and he always had treats for the f...

Nancy Ellen Richardson
June 2, 1958 - Sept. 2, 2013
Pleasanton, California

On Monday September 2 at 12:47 a.m., Nancy left us to be with God. She passed away at home with her husband Rick Von Pein and sister Susie Richardson at her side. Her sons, Tyler and Mitchell, her family and many friends were with her throughout the last weeks she was with us. She fought a long, incredibly brave battle with lung cancer. Throughout her fight she remained positive and in good spirits. Her last words were "It's all good." She touched so many lives with her bright and fearless spirit, and could make anyone feel like her best friend. Between her smile and the light in her eyes, she made the people in her life feel special. She was always concerned about others and worked to make people?s lives better. She especially treasured being Tyler?s and Mitch?s Mom and we loved how proud she was of them. She is survived by her husband, Richard Von Pein; sons, Tyler and Mitchell Von Pein; father, Brock Richardson; mother, Alice Richardson; brother, Steve Richardson; and sister, Susie Richardson...

Karen "BUBBE" Inkelis
April 9, 1948 - Aug. 31, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Karen "BUBBE" Inkelis succumbed to Cancer on August 31, 2013 after a long battle. Born and raised in NY, Bubbe moved to Pleasanton in 1986 along with her husband, John Kondel, and her two sons, David Silversmith (FHS '89) and Jeff Silversmith (FHS '93). David (Karen Hemling) have three children; Aidan, Alice and AmeliaLee. Jeff (Marla Silversmith) also have three children; Ava, Peyton and Rylan. Bubbe loved spending time in her garden when not with her 6 grand kids. She volunteered at Valley View in their classes and was known through the school as Bubbe. She loved taking the grand kids to ballets, plays, concerts and the Alameda County Fair. Bubbe was a long time volunteer at Kaiser Walnut Creek, Pleasanton Police Department, the senior center and numerous other places. She was an active blood donor and believed in helping others in life. Bubbe's successful career in lighting includes winning the bid for the lights on the new Bay Bridge. Bubbe also taught math at many local community colleges in the area....

Elenora (Ella) Bienek Monette
Oct. 8, 1921 - Aug. 25, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Elenora Bienek Monette, affectionately call "Ella," resided in Pleasanton for the past 44 years and passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 25, 2013. Born October 8, 1921, in Polonia, Texas, she was one of nine children born to Robert Bienek and Ottilie Schultze Bienek, also of Texas. The family lived in the rural Black Hill Community in Texas, where Ella, sometimes called "Ellie," grew up on her parents' large working farm with her five brothers and three sisters. Her father was multilingual and musically gifted playing several musical instruments, as were all of her brothers. On holiday with her sister, she met Reynolds "Ray" Monette in Galveston, Texas. Ray won Ella's heart and they were married June 21, 1941, in Houston. They settled in California. Ray and Ella were together for life's events. They had one daughter and a grandson. When war came, Ray dutifully enlisted in the Merchant Marines in 1941. Ella kept the home fires burning until he came home and their daughter was born. They made their life together in the Bay Area, mostly in San Leandro, until moving to Pleasanton in 1969. Ella cherished every visit "home" to Texas, but her life was in the Bay Area and Pleasanton, a...

Tony J. Costello
April 29, 1956 - Aug. 25, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Tony J. Costello, who in more than 30 years of coaching, teaching and mentoring inspired hundreds of collegiate and high-school basketball players to better lives, died Aug. 25, 2013, after a valiant year-long battle with cancer. He was 57. Tony, the men's head basketball coach at Las Positas College, and Kinesiology and physical education instructor there, was surrounded by loving family members at the time of his passing, a fitting tribute to a person who valued loyalty, commitment and family in both his life and his work. The oldest of eight children born to Joan and Tony Costello Sr. of Pleasanton, Tony carried those values through his life and made them the cornerstones of an overwhelmingly successful career. In more than three decades as a coach, Tony influenced hundreds of young athletes to deliver superior effort, strive for greatness, and reach higher levels of performance. As a community college coach, both at Chabot College and Las Positas, he shepherded scores of players on to four-year institutions, many of them attaining the athletic scholarships that had eluded them as they left high school. Along the way, Tony was honored multiple times as Coach of the Ye...

Lee Brockway Young
April 10, 1950 - Aug. 25, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Surrounded by his family, Lee Young, 63, passed away on Sunday, August 25. Born April 10, 1950 in Mexico, MO to Harold Lee Young and Ethlyn June Young Donahue. With his family, Lee moved to California as a young boy where he grew up in Orinda,CA. He graduated from Miramonte High School in 1968. Lee and his wife, Marsha, moved to Pleasanton in 1980 to develop his sand & gravel trucking business. In the winter he loved skiing on The Wall at Kirkwood and in the summers he was water skiing the course at New Melones Lake. He loved his Oakland Raiders, win or lose. He knew the year, make and model of every car ever made and owned many classic cars through out his lifetime. Lee had a larger than life presence and taught us all how to live life to the fullest. He is survived by his wife, Marsha, of 36 years, his daughter, Elizabeth Studebaker (Bryan), his mother, June Donahue of Moraga, CA, brother, Larry of El Dorado Hills, (Mary Kaye and nieces Alexa, Katina and Sophia). He will be deeply missed by so many who loved him....

Katherine Elizabeth Dutra
March 1, 1917 - Aug. 24, 2013
Pleasanton, California

89 year resident of Hayward before moving to Pleasanton Kay passed away peacefully and is now reunited with her husband Edward, son Lynn and grandson Eddie in heaven. Kay loved to entertain and cook for her family and friends whenever the opportunity arrived. Known for her dip, lasagna, and wine cake, no one ever left her home without some food to go, as she always prepared enough food to feed an army. Kay was a very giving person and was regularly cooking up food and baking cakes for her neighbors and friends. Cared for by her loving niece Bev Morris and granddaughter Carol Dutra in her twilight years, Kay loved talking about cooking and new recipes to try. Kay is survived by her granddaughters Carol Dutra, Danielle Levy, and Angela Dutra. Also, Kay leaves behind 7 great grandchildren. Services will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery on Mission Boulevard in Hayward, Calif. on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers a contribution may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America or the SPCA. Kay was a very special person who touched so many people and will be dearly missed by her family and friends....

Patrica Ann Williams
Feb. 11, 1929 - Aug. 22, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Our loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Patricia Ann Learner Crocker Williams passed away on August 22, 2013, holding her daughter Cathy?s hand, in Fremont, Alameda County, California, after a valiant fight with cancer. She was born on February 11, 1929 in Oakland, Alameda County, California to Jack Elton Learner and Doris Lucille Calhoun Learner. Pat was a resident for the past 25 years of Pleasanton, California. She graduated from Oakland High School in 1946, later attending UC Berkeley, San Jose State College and Stanford University, where she received a Master?s Degree. She married Richard Lyle Crocker in 1947 with whom she had 3 children and 1 adopted son. She later married Ralph Luther Williams on August 19, 1988. Life began anew with Ralph as they shared interests and traveled the world together. Ralph made her feel young again. Pat?s passions in life included her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. As a reading specialist, teacher and administrator, Pat was a professional educator in the Castro Valley School District for over 30 years. She was active in many organizations, including Red Hatters, California Reading Association,...

Will Joel Friedman
April 28, 1950 - July 26, 2013
Livermore, California

Pleasanton Psychologist Will Joel Friedman passes away (1950-2013) William Joel Friedman was born April 28, 1950 in Los Angeles to Selma Bella Himovitz and Martin David Friedman. He grew up in West Los Angeles until the family moved to Sherman Oaks in 1965. He graduated from Ulysses S. Grant High School in Van Nuys. Will studied briefly at Los Angeles Valley College and graduated from the University of California at Irvine with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 1971. He completed a teaching credential at California State University, Northridge in 1973, and after teaching for a few years, earned a Master of Science Degree in Psychology at California State University, Los Angeles in 1979. Will was awarded a Doctorate of Philosophy in Psychology from Claremont Graduate University in 1986. While in school and throughout his professional life, he attended countless seminars, refining his art and broadening his scope in a wide range of specialties, always seeking passionately for the most effective ways to help people deal with life?s difficulties and transform unworkable behaviors. While living in Claremont, Will met his wife, harpist Dominique Piana, in the fall of 1984....

Irene R. Loos
Aug. 21, 1924 - July 26, 2013
Pleasanton, CA

Irene R. Loos passed away in the early morning hours of July 26, 2013 in her apartment at Parkview Senior Living at the age of 88. A memorial service celebrating the lives of both Irene and her late husband Harry, who passed in June, will be held at The Parkview Senior Living, 100 Valley Ave., near the Pleasanton Senior Center at 2:00 PM on Sept. 1. Irene was born in Milwaukee WI. and grew up in Scottsbluff, NE, where she graduated from high school and married Harry Loos. They were married for more than 70 years. She was a full-time mother during the childhood of her sons, Larry and James, in Scottsbluff. Irene was active in the PTA as a member and officer and participated in many other school activities. She was a den mother for the Cub Scouts and also taught Sunday school at the Emmanuel Congregational Church. She enjoyed sewing and shopping and always dressed elegantly. She was a competitive bridge player for most of her adult life. After raising her sons, she worked as a residential real estate salesperson. Irene and Harry moved to Oakland, CA from Nebraska in 1971 to be nearer to their sons and grandchildren. After relocating to Pleasanton, they both became active in t...

John Sesto
July 10, 1928 - July 19, 2013
Pleasanton, California

This odd custom we have, trying to sum up the worth of a man?s life in two hundred, two thousand or two words, struggling against clichés like devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, dedicated son and brother, although those ring true. Now we find ourselves, moments after the passing of this man, our dad, our mother's husband, searching for the right words to encapsulate his legacy. This is our tribute to a man who stood strong and firm (oh so stubbornly firm), who continually conquered illness (until this final cancer took him), who stayed true to his Catholic faith, who took no shortcuts and told no lies. John lived to 85. Being a child of the depression, he left high school in 1945 as a junior to join the Navy, where he served over 20 years as a dental technician and medic, often attached to Marine Corps units. He took up lightweight boxing. He traveled extensively and made history in 1949 as part of the crew of the U.S.S. Burton Island icebreaker, the first known vessel to reach Nome, Alaska midwinter. John loved to learn. He left the service twice to study dentistry at Creighton University, but, the Korean War intervened and he was called back to active duty in 1950 ...

Ethel Marjorie (Marge) Hayes Methvin
March 17, 1925 - July 14, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Ethel Marjorie (Marge) Hayes Methvin, resident of Pleasanton, CA and Newport, RI went to her eternal home on July 14, 2013. She was born in Newport, Rhode Island on March 17, 1925 to Frederick Charles Hayes and Florence May McKenzie. She is predeceased by sister, Florence M. Luckhurst, and five brothers, Harold F., Walter H., Norman A., Gilbert E. and Gordon M. Hayes. Mrs. Methvin graduated Rogers High School and became a dental assistant in Newport for many years. She was a member of the United Baptist Church, John Clarke Memorial, where she met her future husband Benjamin L. Methvin at the church?s young singles group. They married in 1949. Family was important, and she embraced her role as a mother by nurturing and pouring life into her children. She sought to instill solid, foundational truths into the lives of her children. She was unambiguous and confident, setting clear boundaries in her parenting. She did her best by giving a large part of herself to her children, encouraging them to grow and develop into responsible human beings. Her colorful New England language, accent, resiliency, wit and humor are warmly remembered. She was a social person and active in a loca...

Christine L. Gothan
June 26, 1964 - July 14, 2013
Pleasanton, California

One year has passed since we lost you. God looked around His Garden And He found an empty place. He looked down upon earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest. God's garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain. He also knew in heaven you would never hurt again. He saw the road was getting rough and the hills hard to climb, so He closed your weary eyelids and whispered, "Peace be thine." It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn't go alone For part of us went with you, The day God called you home. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, We'd walk all the way to heaven And see you once again. We love you very much and You will be forever in our hearts. Mom and Dad; brothers Ron, Brian and Michael; husband Fred; sons Aaron (Mica), Brandon (Amber), and Camron; granddaughter Antoinette and grandson Jack....

Diane Rae
Sept. 6, 1937 - July 12, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Diane was a longtime resident of Pleasanton and passed away at age 75. She was born in Berkeley, California, to Ernie and Minnie Dahl. Diane married her husband John shortly after high school and they were married for 45 years before John passed away in 2000. Together they raised three daughters, Linda of San Diego, Karen of Livermore and Janet of San Francisco. Diane retired from LLNL after 20 years of service and volunteered for the ValleyCare Auxiliary for the last 12 years. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren Brandon and Courtney. Diane will be greatly missed by her family, friends and coworkers. A private memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Valley Care Charitable Foundation in memory of Diane Rae, 1111 East Stanley Blvd, Livermore...

Tony Mathews
June 8, 1938 - July 7, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Tony Mathews passed away peacefully in his Pleasanton home on Sunday, July 7, 2013. His wonderful presence will be missed immeasurably by his family and many friends. Tony was born and raised in Bakersfield. His favorite activity as a youth was playing flute and piccolo in the elementary, junior high and high school bands. He participated in music competitions in the marching band, the jazz band, and the symphonic music ensemble. In 1959, he moved to San Francisco where he lived for 16 years during which time he received his B.A. and M.A. from the University of San Francisco. Tony worked for Bank of America for 30 years. As Vice President, he managed departments in the Headquarters Administration and World Banking Divisions. In 1979, he began consulting to private businesses, specializing in productivity management and organization change. Later, he taught at UC Berkeley Extension. He was active in local causes. In San Rafael, where he and his wife Susan lived for 15 years, he served as a member of St. Paul?s Episcopal Church Vestry and as Senior Warden of the church. Moving to Pleasanton in 1997, Tony joined Pleasanton North Rotary and traveled with club members...

Robert James Trimingham
May 26, 1937 - June 30, 2013
Livermore, California

Robert (Bob) Trimingham passed away June 30th at his home in Livermore, CA. He is survived by his sister Claire (Tom) Fields, nephew Christopher (Sheila) Martin, niece Nicole (Maytheni Allen) Ines, four great nephews and two great nieces, and also his companion of many years, Deloris Colonna. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Lorna Trimingham, of Pleasanton. Bob was born in Pleasanton in 1937. He attended Amador High School and went to Stanford University where he received a degree in Geology. He then received a degree in Physical Science/Education from UC Berkley in 1963, and attended the University of Rochester in NY for a Master?s Degree in Education. Bob had a teaching career in Geology, Physics, and Math at Livermore High School which lasted for 30 years before retiring in 1995. Bob remained a loyal Stanford sports fan his entire life. His other primary interest was minerals and collecting mineral species, from micros to large showy specimens. He was a courageous mineral field tripper who avidly traveled America for collections, mineral shows and museums. He was a member of the Livermore Valley Lithophiles Gem and Mineral Society for 45 years. He help...

Darlene Elaine Thomas
Aug. 10, 1933 - June 29, 2013
Apple Valley, California

Darlene Elaine (Buck, Thomas) Castleman, resident of Apple Valley, California, passed away at her home at Merrill Gardens Retirement Community on June 29 at the age of 79 from complications related to Parkinson?s disease. Darlene Elaine Buck was born to Mary Caroline Marlow (Green) and Chester Buck on August 10th 1933 in San Jose, California. She grew up in Newark, California and graduated from Washington Union High School in Fremont, California in 1951. Darlene was a talented tap dancer and a bright student, receiving a college scholarship from the California Scholarship Federation. As a child, she loved to play along the shore of the San Francisco Bay and during the summer be on the beach at Catalina Island. As a teenager, she enjoyed dancing at the Newark Pavillion and socializing at the Cloverdale Creamery. After high school, Darlene married Robert George Thomas and they had three children, Cindy Lynette Thomas of Newport Beach, California, Sheila Annette Thomas of Eugene Oregon, and Robert Curtiss Thomas of Dillon, Montana. She chose the town of Pleasanton, California to raise her family and helped to build homes on Happy Valley Road and Oak Lane. She worked at the Plea...

William Roland Corrin
Nov. 20, 1920 - June 23, 2013
Pleasanton, California

William Roland Corrin passed away peacefully in his Pleasanton home on June 23, 2013; his family was with him. He was married for 59 years to Barbara, who passed away April 2012. He is survived by his sons Bill Corrin of Long Beach and Gary Corrin of Toronto and daughters Janet (Gary) Sears of Pleasanton and Lyn (Terry) Aaker of Long Beach, four grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He was born and raised in Long Beach, CA, and enjoyed swimming and sailing as a youth. After attending Long Beach Jr. College, he served in WWII as an Army Air Corps B-24 bomber co-pilot in Europe, assigned to the ?Carpetbaggers?, a group that flew clandestine night missions. He worked for Granny Goose Foods for 35 years, working his way up to Director of Purchasing of all raw products. During that time the family lived in Niles, Salinas, and finally moved to Pleasanton in 1969. He was a charter member of the Salinas Valley Highlanders bagpipe band. He and Barbara enjoyed trips to Europe, Australia and the East Coast; many were with the Balloon Platoon. The Corrins were long-time members of Centerpointe Presbyterian Church, where they made lifelong friendships. Please join us for a Celebration of L...

Edward James McMahon
Feb. 10, 1943 - June 20, 2013
Pleasanton, CA, California

Ed, resident of Ft Worth Texas, passed away on the 20th of June 2013, at the age of 70, peacefully with his family at his side in Waldorf Maryland. Ed was born on the 10th of February 1943, in Dubuque Iowa and raised in Pleasanton California. Ed graduated from Amador Valley HS in 1961, served his country honorably in the US Army. He retired from General Motors in 1999 after 37 years of employment. He was a proud member of the UAW Local 816, the National Rifle Association and enjoyed two decades of coaching baseball, playing softball, cooking, spending time with family, fishing and shooting at the gun range. Ed is survived by his sisters Patsy Lund, Barbara Mills, Bette Olivares, his two sons Master Chief Shawn McMahon, Jason (and wife Kim) McMahon and his six grandchildren Blake, Kailey, Mackenzie, Aydan, Grady and Maylee McMahon. At Mr. McMahon?s request there is no service being held, please send your condolences to 2202 Pinefield Road, Waldorf, MD 20601....

Harry Loos
Sept. 29, 1923 - June 10, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Harry Loos passed away in the early morning hours of June 10, 2013 at the age of 89. Harry is survived by his wife of 70 years, Irene R. Loos of Pleasanton, his sons Larry A. Loos of Hayward and James L. Loos of Pleasanton, grandsons James C. Loos, Anthony F. Loos and Jeremy A. Loos, great grandchildren Ryan J. Loos, Emma M. Loos, Owen J. Loos and Wyatt A. Loos. Harry, the son of Heinrich G. Loos and Ana M. Wacker, was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers and four sisters. Harry was born in Scottsbluff Nebraska where he graduated from high school and met and married Irene Schenaman. He started a small construction company, building homes, cement irrigation ditches, and other buildings and structures. He was a member of the Nebraska National Guard, was a founding member and coach of 23 Club, a little league baseball program, and was active in the Scottsbluff Nebraska Junior Chamber of Commerce. Harry loved to fish, hunt, garden and raise farm animals. In his later years, he remained very active and loved playing Bocce Ball. Harry and Irene moved to California in the 70?s where Harry became an insurance adjustor until injuries and health forced him to retire. Throughout...

Joanne Boucher Griffith
Feb. 26, 1943 - June 4, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Joanne Boucher Griffith, also known by 'Jo-mamma,' 'Grandma Jo,' or Mom, was an amazing person who passed away at the age of 70 this week from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis while at Kaiser Hospital in Roseville. She was born in Philadelphia on February 26, 1943 and grew up in Pennsylvania. She married Dave Griffith in 1965 and in 1969 they moved to California to raise their family. In addition to being a caring and nurturing wife and mother, Joanne was a passionate educator and nurse and an outspoken human rights advocate with a strong sense of humor. Joanne had a lifelong love of learning. She constantly read and considered the world and current issues around her. She supported causes that gave opportunities for women and children and took in teens who were having trouble in life. Joanne and Dave sponsored Diana Makkonen to come to the United States from Ethiopia as a young girl to pursue high school and college educations. Joanne was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Loomis as well as Pleasanton Presbyterian Church. She was a fantastic cook and enjoyed hosting friends and family for good food and lively conversation. She was always inclusive of others both at h...

Anne "Nan" Cohan (née Anne Marie Walsh)
Jan. 10, 1922 - June 1, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Nan Cohan passed peacefully on Saturday June 1st knowing she was cherished by her large family and countless friends. The devoted mother of two daughters and five sons, grandmother of twelve and great-grandmother of three, Nan was preceded in death by her husband Gene Cohan. She was a beloved mother-in-law, sister, aunt, niece, cousin and friend. Nan, born Anne Marie Walsh, was raised in New York City. Both her parents were Irish immigrants - mother Sarah Ryan from County Kilkenny and father Michael Walsh from County Sligo. Nan and Gene married in Astoria, New York in 1947 then spent twenty years living around the world before settling in Pleasanton. Their children?s birth certificates show part of Nan and Gene?s global trek starting in New York then touching down in Territory of Hawaii, Japan, California and Kwajalein, Marshall Islands. Admired for her spirit and soul, Nan was a valued co-worker, an extraordinary cook and a wonderful hostess. Each of her many homes became the place to be and she made everyone feel welcome and appreciated. Arriving in the summer of 1967, Nan embraced Pleasanton as home. After many years working for the City, she will be remembered as ...

Margaret "Peggy" Jean Karn
Jan. 22, 1929 - May 21, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Margaret J. ?Peggy? Karn died May 21, 2013 in ValleyCare Hospital after a courageous 10-year battle with multiple system atrophy, a rare and debilitating disease. She was 84. She was born Jan. 22, 1929 in Oakland to Mary Celeste and Americus P. Britto. She grew up in Oakland and graduated from Fremont High School. When she was a sophom*ore at Fremont High, she met Richard Karn, who became the love of her life. They attended Dick?s Senior Ball together before he graduated and joined the Navy. They were married before Dick?s senior year at the University of California, Berkeley and she worked to put him through his final year. She raised their daughter, Pam, and their son, Bob, while they lived in Castro Valley and later Hayward. Dick established his own civil engineering firm in 1966. While living in Hayward, they were members of Hayward Dance Club and enjoyed quarterly dances to big band music. She was an active volunteer with the Almond Branch of the Children?s Hospital Auxiliary and enjoyed modeling in their fundraising fashion shows. They moved to Pleasanton 26 years ago. She was a member of Centerpointe Presbyterian Church (formerly Pleasanton Presbyterian) and served ...

Daniel Raymond Martin
Aug. 26, 1985 - May 9, 2013
Folsom, CA, California

Daniel Martin; handsome, intelligent and witty, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of May 9, 2013 at his home in Folsom, CA. Dan was born August 26, 1985 in Southern CA. Daniel grew up in Pleasanton, CA and attended Walnut Grove, Harvest Park, Amador Valley High School and Diablo Valley College. He also enjoyed his time in boy scout troop 998. Daniel had a passion for movie making, writing, acting and comic. He loved playing online video games and communicating on Facebook with his large following of friends. Daniels life was cut short, his family is heartbroken. Daniel will be greatly missed by his friends and family. Daniel is survived by his father Harold Martin, mother Melinda Keim, Step father Glenn Keim, step mother Debra Martin, brothers Matt and Mike, step bother Dustin Stedt, step sisters Leela Sherbon and Sonia Stedt, grandmother Nadine Martin and numerous other family and friends. Daniel we love you and miss you beyond words. Dan you will forever be in our hearts....

Anthony Dominic Scotto
Jan. 13, 1927 - May 1, 2013
Livermore, California

Anthony was born at home, in Brooklyn, NY to immigrant Italian parents. He graduated from Saint Francis College where he received a degree in history, one of his passions. After discharge from the Army he joined his father and 4 brothers at the family wine shop, thus beginning his 30-year career in the wine industry. He pursued all aspects from retail, to wholesale, to importer but his true love was winemaking. But his true passion was the love for his family. Anthony is survived by his five children; sons Anthony, Dominic, and Gregory; and daughters, Felicia Barbalinardo and Monica Chappell along with 23 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother; Fr. Dominic Scotto, Chaplin at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio. The family would like to also say a special thank you to Dr. Apte for showing honor, and empathy, Anita Sharples of Heritage Estates as well as his devoted caregivers Agnes and Katie. All who knew him will miss his faith-filled and generous spirit. Friends and family are invited to a vigil and visitation on Thursday, May 9, 2013 from 6-8 p.m. at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton and a funeral service at St. Charles...

Ashley Kay Cligny
Feb. 16, 1991 - April 28, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Ashley Cligny took her last breath peacefully early Sunday morning with her mother and father by her side. Ashley was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in October of 2011 while attending the University of California at Davis after transferring from Washington State University at the end of her sophom*ore year. Ashley was described as an ?old soul? and enthusiastically lived the typical life of a college student ? attending class, playing soccer, making and nurturing friendships and always wanting to spend time with family. In many ways, Ashley will be remembered most for her courageous battle with the disease that would take her life but not conquer her spirit, as she taught us to be positive not negative, loving not bitter and to marvel at the power of her spirit to overcome her circ*mstances. Ashley leaves behind her mother and father, Tani and John Cligny; Sisters, Jonalin McCollum and Janelle Cligny, brother-in-law Matt McCollum: niece Alice McCollum; father James Loughmiller, brother Chase Loughmiller as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. A celebration of Ashley?s life and Mass is planned for Friday May 3rd at 11:00 AM at Saint Augustine?s Catholic Chur...

James Peter Campana
Sept. 3, 1926 - April 26, 2013
Sonora formerly Pleasanton, California

James Campana, 86, of Sonora, CA died peacefully on Friday, April 26. He was born to the late Arthur and Katherine Campana, September 3, 1926, San Francisco, CA. Jim attended Balboa High School and was written up in the SF Chronicle as "the Tommy Dorsey of Balboa High." He received a BA and MA in Music in 1956 from San Francisco State University. He was married 59 years to his late wife Rosemary, and they lived in Pleasanton, CA 37 years before retiring to Sonora, CA in 1996. Jim was hired in 1959 as the Band Director at Amador, and taught until he retired in 1979. Mr. C. was passionate about making a difference in his students? lives. In 1975 he founded the Amador Valley Jazz Festival and after his retirement, it was renamed the Campana Jazz Festival, which he attended faithfully every year. Jim was an active member of St. Patrick?s Church of Sonora, and SIRS. He traveled with his wife, family, and friends throughout his retirement. He enjoyed playing golf and dining at Caesar?s Restaurant of San Francisco with family and friends. Jim is survived by four children: Lisa Garon, of Pleasanton, Terri Campana, of Palenville, NY, Tina Wilbur, of Sonora, Paul Campana, of Fremont...

Marilyn R. Wright
Oct. 16, 1944 - April 26, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Marilyn Rita Egelhofer-Wright went to be with our Father in Heaven on 4/26/13. She was born Oct. 16, 1944 in Palo Alto, CA to Raymond & Rita Egelhofer. She is already missed greatly by her children Matthew (Liz) Wright and Beth (Joel) Wright-McCarty. Nephew, Raymond (Megan) Egelhofer-Tracy. Her grand-children, Michael, Casey-Elizabeth and Shane, were all adored, along with her great-niece, Lorelei. Our mom will also be missed by numerous other family members and friends. Although our mom battled cancer multiple times, and of varying types over the years, she died of natural causes at home because her body was just ?plain tired?. She lived in Pleasanton, CA for most of her adult life and loved the community of friends she had there. Mom was a feisty fighter of cancer and although she was weak in the body from past treatments she continued to work full-time for AT&T as a Financial Analyst until her death. We are also proud to say she was an accomplished CPA and private tax accountant. Our mom enjoyed travel and has been all over the world on cruises and various trips mostly with her grand-daughter as her faithful travel companion. Mom was intrigued by different cul...

Jack Dove
May 25, 1923 - April 24, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Pleasanton has lost one of its most involved citizens with the death of Jack Dove on Wednesday, April 24. Jack was born in Saint Clair, Pennsylvania (near Philadelphia) to parents Chester Arthur Dove and Anne (Reese) Dove. His education was interrupted by military service. While getting pneumonia would be very bad news for most people, Jack considered himself lucky. It was as a young soldier recovering from his illness that he met Second Lieutenant Polly Klymer Moyer, who was in the Army Nurse Corps at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. She and Jack were wed on May 4, 1946 ? a marriage that lasted 65 years, until Polly?s death August 1, 2011. Jack had been in charge of the station hospital laboratory (1943-46). After Jack?s discharge from the service, he and Polly moved to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where Jack completed his degree in chemical engineering at Lehigh University. One month after his graduation, their daughter Suzanne was born. The Dove family had many ?nests,? moving often due to Jack?s career as a corporate executive in paint and chemicals ? first in Stamford, Connecticut, where son Jay was born. Jack was called back to military duty as an Army first lieut...

Ruth Stewart
Oct. 12, 1912 - April 21, 2013
Livermore, California

Ruth Matthies Stewart passed away peacefully on April 21, 2013. She was 100 years old. Ruth was born in Rochester, NY, where she lived until she & her husband retired in 1981. They relocated to Stockton, CA, and later to Sun City West, AZ. They moved to Pleasanton in 2000. Ruth was predeceased by her beloved husband Cliff in 2001, and brothers Bill, Dick, & Art Matthies. She is survived by daughter & son-in-law Wendy & Steve Ping of Pleasanton, and grandchildren Shawna Ping (Kailua, HI) & Eric Ping (Denver, CO)....

Hans James Hansen
March 14, 1957 - April 17, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Hans James Hansen, 56, of Pleasanton, passed away on April 17 surrounded by his family. Hans was born to Howard and Virginia Hansen in Pleasanton, where he lived his entire life except for his years away at college. He met his wife Jill at Amador and they were married for 35 years. In his thirties, he became a Christian, which became the cornerstone of his life. His belief was the source of his incredible strength and optimism through his years of illness. Hans was a brilliant engineer, earning many patents, and truly enjoyed going to work every day. He will be remembered for his fantastic sense of humor and ability to make friends wherever he went. He is survived by his daughter Katrina (Seth) High of Boulder, CO, his son Aaron (Barbara) Hansen of Coronado, his daughter Sarah Hansen of San Francisco, and his daughter AnnMarie (Nicholas) Smith of Woodland Hills. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, at Cornerstone Fellowship in Livermore. Donations in Hans? name may be made to Hume Lake Ministries (www.humelake.org) or to Gospel for Asia (www.gfa.org)....

Marian "Kay" Richter
July 5, 1941 - April 1, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Marian "Kay" Richter died on April 1, 2013 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Bismarck, N.D. on July 5, 1941 to Elsie and Emil Goetz of Hazen, N.D. She graduated as Salutatorian from Hazen H.S. in 1959 and continued her education at North Dakota State in Fargo with a degree in English. She met the love of her life, Jerry, in high school. They were married in Hazen on August 24, 1962. Her daugther, Susan, was born in 1966 at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. and her son, Jeff, was born in 1968 in Albuquerque. After five years in New Mexico, the family moved to Pleasanton, CA in 1970 on a job transfer for Jerry. Kay was involved in 4-H as a leader when her kids were young. Church was an important part of her life. She taught Sunday School, mentored middle school kids and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Kay found joy in volunteering for Senior Support, Hope Hospice and Operation Christmas Child. She worked part time at Macy?s for 13 years. Kay experienced kidney failure in 1998 and was on dialysis for 5 years before receiving a kidney transplant in Nov. 2003 from a living donor. She received her cancer diagnosis on March 4, 2013....

Gordon Gilbert Englebretson
April 9, 1920 - March 29, 2013
Livermore, California

Gordon Gilbert Englebretson, known by his loved ones as "Big G," was born in Greenwood, Wisconsin on April 9th, 1920. He passed away March 29th, 2013, just shy of his 93rd birthday. At the time of his passing, Gordon was a resident of Livermore, California. He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 65 years, Edna, and their two sons, Don and Steve. In addition, Gordon leaves behind eight granddaughters and fifteen great-grandchildren. He will forever be remembered for his loving heart, his cheerful spirit and his infectious smile. We love you Big G!...

Cecile Wun-Sze Lee
May 13, 1966 - March 28, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Pleasanton resident and physician Dr. Cecile Wun-Sze Lee passed away at home surrounded by her family on March 28, 2013 at the age of 46 after a courageous five-year battle with an aggressive form of breast cancer. She was born in Hong Kong on May 13, 1966, and moved with her parents to the United States at the age of one. A 1984 graduate of Cherry Hill East High School in New Jersey, she earned a bachelor?s of science degree with a major in bio-resource science at the University of California, Berkeley where she and Hank met and later married in 1992. She attended Tulane University Medical School with Hank in New Orleans, earning both her medical degree and a master?s degree in public health in 1993, becoming the first physician in her family. She completed her residency in dermatology at Tulane Medical Center in 1997. Cecile and Hank moved to Pleasanton and opened their practice, Pacific Dermatology. She was also on staff at ValleyCare Medical Center. Dr. Lee cared for her patients as if they were family members. In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening, cooking, reading, exercising, Tai Chi, knitting, Chinese painting, playing the piano and spending time with her family and...

James E. Adams III
July 13, 1941 - March 23, 2013
Pleasanton, California

James E. Adams III, resident of Pleasanton for 37 years, passed away March 23, 2013 at the age of 71 from cancer. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Marlys, two sons, three grandsons and a sister. He was born in California, attended school in Ventura and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Jim's career was in Management of Trucking Freight Terminals for 45 years in the bay area and Central Valley and a member of the California Trucking Association. Jim coached youth football for the Concord Pioneers in the early 70's, Dublin Knights from the mid 70's to the mid 90's, and Dublin High School Freshmen/Sophom*ore team in the early 90's. Jim, often called Papa by friends and others, had a love for Hot Rods and became a member of the P-Town Push Rods. He attended many of the car shows around the bay area showing his pick-up trucks and was often seen at the Good Guys Shows at the Pleasanton Fairgrounds. Other interests were RV trips, watching rodeos, country dancing, gardening and traveling. Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Service on Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 10 a.m. at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First Street, P...

Helen Georgatos
April 25, 1932 - March 20, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Helen Georgatos was born in Greece on April 25, 1932. Her parents, Marianna and Demostenes Pagulatos had five children. Married in 1952 to Jerry Georgatos, Helen had her first son Dean, in August, 1953, six days after a devastating earthquake on Cephallonia. After having her second son Dennis, the family immigrated to the United States and took up residence in Pleasanton in 1956, where Helen?s husband worked at the Standard Cheese Company. Helen worked at several laundries while her sons went to school. Helen and her husband remained in Pleasanton the rest of their lives; first renting a home on Rose Avenue and then buying a home in Pleasanton Heights. Jerry sustained a debilitating back injury while working at the Cheese Factory. No longer able to do the heavy lifting required in making cheese, they purchased the Bottle Shop, a liquor store in nearby Fremont. She was also a fantastic cook, preparing tantalizing Greek cuisine and serving it along with her quick wit. Jerry and Helen worked together almost every day at the store, building a devoted stream of customers and supporting each other through 26 years of their ownership. After selling the store, Helen and Jerry took ...

Alfred G. Krebs
April 11, 1936 - March 4, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Alfred G. Krebs Sunrise: April, 11 1936 Sunset: March, 4 2013 Alfred (Fred) was born in Germany, escaped to Shanghai in 1939 and he lived there until 1948, when his family settled in Berkeley CA. After graduating high school, he joined the Marines where he rose quickly to Sergeant; thereafter, he worked at several trucking companies working his way up to Director of Commerce and Traffic. He was licensed to represent his company before the Interstate Commerce Commission. During the 70s and 80s, he was a professorial lecturer at Golden Gate University teaching motor carrier law. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Diane, the love of his life; his two sons Ken, Tom and their spouses, Leslie and Jerrilynn, and his grandchildren Justin, Katelyn, Joshua, Nick and Tim. Alfred and Diane have lived in Pleasanton since 1968. He enjoyed walking, reading, playing the slots, stock trading and playing bridge at the senior center and spending time with his friends. He also loved tennis in his earlier years. He was a generous and adoring father and grandfather. Family always came first. He was admired and loved by many people and his beautiful smile and handsome face woul...

Larry J Sozzi
May 2, 1947 - March 1, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Larry Sozzi, 65, passed away March 1, 2013. He now has joined his mother Violet. Larry is a retired SF Firefighter of 20 years. He had a love for baseball & golf. He is survived by his wife Debbie, children Rick & Roxanne, daughter in-law Michelle, his father of 94 years Louis Sozzi, his brother Gary & wife Kathy, his sister Diane Pini & husband Dan, his brother in-law Rob King & his wife Cindy & nieces & nephews. Larry will truly be missed. The family gives thanks to Hope Hospice, Dublin, CA. Private service...

Jean Marie Pimentel Silva
Feb. 13, 1930 - Feb. 23, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Jean Marie Pimentel Silva, 83 years old, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2013. Jean was the respected Matriarch and Star of her family. She was a great wife, an incredible and amazing mother to her four children and the absolute best grandmother to seven and great-grandmother to four. Her family was her world. Jean loved being a mother and grandmother and was actively involved in all of their lives. One of her greatest joys was treating her family to breakfasts and dinners, surprising her children and grandchildren with special family trips to Hawaii, crocheting sweaters and blankets for all and making the best cookies ever. Jean never admitted to spoiling her family, but rather said ?her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were just very well loved?. Jean was known for her hard work, incredible generosity and thoughtfulness. She had a very entertaining sense of humor and had a real zest for life. Jean loved to read, bake, play bingo, bowl, play cards, chat with friends and volunteer at the Ridge View Commons Senior facility?just to name a few. Jean was blessed with many wonderful friends and dear family members. She was loved by all, and she will be ...

F. David Storch
Dec. 5, 1936 - Feb. 23, 2013
Pleasanton, California

F. David Storch, known as David, died peacefully in his Pleasanton home on Feb. 23, 2013, after a long battle with cancer. David was born to the late Herman Storch and Hermie Lenz on Dec. 5, 1936, in Madera, CA. He grew up in the Central Valley and later moved to the San Jose area with his mother and late stepfather William C. Terrell. He graduated from Campbell High School and earned a BA in Mathematics from San Jose State University. David worked as a computer scientist at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for 37 years, starting as an operator on the UNIVAC I, one of the first computers. He was the Group Leader of the Large-Scale Systems Group at what became the National Magnetic Fusion Energy Computer Center, responsible for the operating systems on the largest supercomputers available at the time. He retired in 1996. Flying was one of David?s favorite hobbies; he had a pilot?s license and several remote controlled gliders. In his retirement, he enjoyed Sudoku and weekly breakfasts with friends from the Livermore Lab. He also enjoyed camping and going to RV rallies, as well as helping his ex-wife Nancy Storch with various projects. David had a warm, friendly...

Allen Ellis Fairchild
Aug. 26, 1922 - Feb. 21, 2013
Livermore, California

Allen grew up in Collins, MS and joined the Navy during WWII. He had many hair-raising stories of military service as a young man and enjoyed entertaining friends and family with these stories. He spent most of his life in the Bay Area with his family, which included his wife Doris, who predeceased him, and his children, John Fairchild, Mary (Mal) Cameron, and Anne Miller. He traveled the country for many years with his second wife, Beulah. He also leaves well-loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He left for his current eternal home with a white shirt on and a smile on his face. Services will be held at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton on 3/3/13 at 2:30 p.m....

Richard Hovis
May 31, 1930 - Jan. 9, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Richard M. Hovis died at home on Wednesday, January 9, 2013. Rick was born on May 31, 1930 in Boyers, PA. He was married and started his family in Chicago, before moving to California in 1966. Rick began his aviation career in the US Navy as a radarman and was an air traffic controller with the FAA for 32 years. A Pleasanton resident since 1967, he was a member of the local Catholic community, was active in marriage encounter, and helped begin Hope Hospice in 1980. He leaves behind Mary, his wife of 57 years; children Rick, Steve (Chris), Sherry; grandsons David, Luke (Jesse and Lane). We love you Pop and will miss you....

Perry Russell Coe
April 25, 1962 - Jan. 5, 2013
South Lake Tahoe, California

Perry Russell Coe, a former Pleasanton resident, passed away in South Lake Tahoe at the age of 50, a victim of fibromyalgia. Perry was born in San Mateo and grew up in Pleasanton. He graduated from Amador Valley High School. He spent his career in the aviation industry. While employed at National Airmotive, Rolls Royce and United Airlines, he performed aircraft maintenance as well as reciprocating and jet engine maintenance while holding applicable Federal Aviation Administration ratings. As a licensed pilot, he enjoyed flying small airplanes. Perry?s hobbies included motorcycling, kayaking, trading precious metals and traveling the world. His favorite travel destination was Barcelona, Spain. He created original art pieces using iron, silver and plastics. Over the years, he had a number of girl friends, but preferred staying single. He loved living at Lake Tahoe or near the ocean. His friends and family will miss his sense of humor, generosity and thoughtfulness. He is survived by his father, Kenneth Coe, his mother, Ruth Pauline Coe, his sister Laura Drake; uncles Scott Coe (Dorina) and Eugene Sprague; nieces Leanne Drake and Michelle Drake, nephew Allen Drake; ...

Michael Wesley Dean
Aug. 5, 1946 - Jan. 2, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Michael Wesley Dean passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 2, 1213, at the age of 66 with family members at his side. Michael is the 6th of 7 sons of Stanley and Irma Dean who preceded him in death. Michael is survived by his daughter Melissa and brothers Stan, Jim, Ron, Bobby, Jerry, Tom and wife Susie, and a long list of nieces and nephews and their children. Michael?s music career spanned over 50 years as an entertainer, song writer and recording artist. He will not be forgotten, as his music will play on forever. Fortunately Michael was able to attend the Dean ?Dozen of Cousins? family reunion on Dec. 15th in Las Vegas which over 100 family members and friends attended. Michael did his final performance which everyone loved....

Anne Donnellan
Oct. 10, 1920 - Jan. 1, 2013
Pleasanton, CA

Anne Donnellan passed away peacefully on New Year?s Day. Anne was born on a farm outside of Cleveland, Ohio. During World War II, she worked at Alcoa. After the War, she, her husband Bob, and their three children moved to Southern California, where she lived for 30 years. Upon Bob?s retirement from Lockheed, Anne and Bob moved to Paradise, Calif. Bob predeceased her in 1993. In 2006 Anne moved to Pleasanton to live with her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Jim Zarrillo. Anne had a wonderful circle of friends and was very active. She most enjoyed playing poker at the Pleasanton Senior Center every week. Anne is predeceased by her husband, Bob and son, Danny. She is survived by her son Dennis, who lives overseas; her daughter Donna Zarrillo of Pleasanton; her grandchildren Matt Tibbetts of Apopka, Fla., Julia Edge of Portland, Ore., Dana Donnellan of Paradise, Calif., and Angela Donnellan. In addition, she is survived by her three great-grandchildren, Angela, Hannah and Sydney. Anne will be very missed by all who knew her. Services and burial will be in Paradise. A memorial service will be planned at a later date in Pleasanton. ...

Fannie Annis
May 11, 1920 - Jan. 1, 2013
Pleasanton, California

Fannie Lambert Annis passed away on January 1, 2013, after suffering a stroke on December 31, 2012. We knew she would make it to New Year?s Day! At the time of her death, Fannie had been living in Livermore for 1 ½ years after residing in the same house in Pleasanton since 1950. Fannie was born Fannie Arnold Lambert in Superior, WI, on May 11, 1920. Shortly thereafter the family moved to Duluth, MN, where Fannie attended elementary schools, East Junior High School and Central High School. Fannie then graduated from Duluth State Teacher?s College (now the University of Minnesota at Duluth ? UMD) in 1942 with a bachelor?s degree in education. Fannie spent two years teaching in upper Michigan, one year teaching in San Francisco, CA (during World War II), one year teaching in Niles, CA and then 19 years teaching at Alisal Elementary School in the Pleasanton School District. Fannie always taught third grade, ostensibly because ?the math was too difficult in fourth grade.? She loved being a teacher and was always able to look at the humorous side of events in the classroom. Fannie retired in 1977 to be able to travel the world. In March of 1939, Fannie Lambert met Warren Annis?the...

Don L. Chalmers
Jan. 27, 1937 - Dec. 31, 2012
Oakland, California

Donald Leroy Chalmers was born Jan. 27, 1937 at Children's Hospital in Richmond, CA. Don was a lifelong resident and native of Oakland, CA. He attended Manzanita, Brett Harte, and graduated from Oakland High in 1955. Upon graduating from high school, Don enlisted in the United States Air Force where he was eventually assigned to "The Strategic Air Command Headquarters Band." Don always said these were the best 4 years of his life. After leaving the Air Force Don worked for H.C. Capwells for a number of years until he retired in 2001. It was then that Don, through his best friend Jack Smith, rediscovered his love of music. After 30 years he picked up his beloved clarinet and joined the "Pleasanton Community Band." Later he became a member of the "Walnut Creek Concert Band", the "San Ramon Symphonic Band", as well as several other smaller groups. Don was a member of "The United States Air Force Musicians Alumni Assoc." and "The Worldwide International Military Music Society." His signature piece of music was "Memories of You" by Benny Goodman. Don is survived by his adopted family: Pat Smith; Vern and Jackie Brooks; Debbie, Mike, Brett, Cole, Carrie, Carter, and Cooper Bennett; a...

Nicholas Raymond Gigliotti
Dec. 9, 1928 - Dec. 30, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Nicholas Raymond Gigliotti, 84 resident of Pleasanton for 40 years died Dec. 30, 2012. Born Dec. 9, 1928 in Pittsburgh, Pa. to Giuseppe and Catherina Gigliotti, he was the youngest of six children and was preceded in death by all his siblings and parents. Nick graduated from Connelly Vocational HS in Pittsburgh, Pa. He furthered his education at the Triangle School of Drafting. His career began at LK Comstock, both in Pittsburgh and the Bay Area before retiring in 1991 after 31 years. Nick served in Army National Guard during the Korean War. Nick was transferred to California in 1973 which was the ?best move he ever made for his family?. There was no more ?snow to shovel? and he could golf year round! He devoted his life to his wife, children and family with an ultimate love. Nick was a member of the "dawn patrol" at Castlewood Country Club for nearly 35 years. Nick is survived by his loving wife Diane of 57 years, his devoted children Teresa (Mark) McCloskey of Farmington, N.M., Nick (Cindy) Gigliotti of Pleasanton, Ernie (Karen) Gigliotti of Houston, Texas, Paul (Kim) Gigliotti of Pleasanton. Ten grandchildren: Nicole Tyson of Grand Prairie, Texas, Lorra Williams (Jordan) of...

Howard Clemens Hansen
March 20, 1922 - Dec. 27, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Howard Clemens Hansen, 90, died December 27, 2012 at his home in Pleasanton. His wife of 69 years, Virginia, was at his side when he died. He will be fondly remembered by his children, Nancy (Peter) Mills of Tracy, Tuny (Art) Dunkley of Pleasanton, and Hans (Jill) Hansen, also of Pleasanton. Howard is survived by his sister Ann Marie Mix of Palo Alto, as well as eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. The Hansens were early settlers in Pleasanton. Howard?s father immigrated from Denmark in 1912 and in 1919 invested in two dairies in Pleasanton. Howard would ultimately run one of those dairies (The Hansen & Giger Dairy), located on Hopyard Road. In 1966 when the business was no longer viable, the land, the cattle and the equipment were all sold. Howard spent his retirement years maintaining his beautiful garden and tinkering with his collection of Model T cars. He and Virginia traveled extensively, most notably to Denmark where they kept up ties with the extended Hansen family. He was a fine mechanic and could fix anything. In later years when he was weakened by the effects of Parkinson?s Disease, he still managed to run the house from his recliner. Howard spent his...

Jim Blades
Dec. 23, 1919 - Dec. 25, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Jim Blades, 93, died Dec. 25, 2012, at his Pleasanton home with his wife of 68 years, Margaret, and his family at his side. He will be fondly remembered by his children, John, Annis, Liz and Rick; grandchildren Lisa, Brian, Tony, Olivia, Skye, and great-granddaughter, Daisy Elizabeth. Jim was born in Chicago on Dec. 23, 1919. His parents moved to Brooklyn in 1931 where Jim attended Brooklyn Tech in preparation for MIT. It was in Brooklyn that Jim joined the Police Athletic League, and was the oldest known living member of PAL. Jim joined the Navy during WWII, and after his discharge married Margaret Annette Moore in Montreal on Dec. 19, 1944. Both Jim and Margaret?s families were from the Caribbean. Jim met Margaret on the island of Barbados where her family lived when he was 8 and she was 5. Jim and Margaret initially settled in Brooklyn where son John was born in 1946. They moved to Orinda in 1947, where Jim found employment at the UC Berkeley Radiation Laboratory. By 1954, the family had grown to include Annis, Liz and Rick, so the family moved to a larger home in Danville. The family moved again in 1971 to Pleasanton, this time to find a special home that could also a...

Norma Carolyn Briere
Sept. 20, 1930 - Dec. 24, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Norma Carolyn (Campbell) Briere, 82, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2012 after a long battle with Alzheimer?s disease. Norma was born in Wauregan, Conn., on September 20, 1930. She moved with her husband and three children to Long Beach, Calif. in February 1962. She worked for many years in the insurance industry and ended her career working in containerized shipping. She moved to Pleasanton in 1989 and resided here until her death. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and was a ValleyCare Auxillary volunteer for many years. She enjoyed Dixieland Jazz and spent many weekends attending jazz festivals with her husband and friends. Norma was preceded in death in by her husband, Cletus Paul (Pete) Briere. She is survived by her daughter Kathryn (Roy) Schamanski of Tacoma, Wash., son Michael (Jamie) Briere of Lakewood, Calif. and daughter Sheri (Mike) Baldwin of Pleasanton; grandchildren, Melissa Schamanski, Emily (Ryan) Trivett, Nathan Briere, Cole Briere, Kevin Baldwin, Nick Baldwin and great-granddaughter Claire Ann Trivett....

Mary Wiitala
July 19, 1930 - Dec. 23, 2012
Pleasanton, CA

Mary Edwina Wilcox Theodore Wiitala died Dec. 23, 2012 at Eden Medical Center, Castro Valley, Calif. She was born in Maysville, Okla. to Joseph Martin Wilcox and Henry Idel Frizzell Wilcox, both of Oklahoma. Mary is survived by her sister Laveta fa*gundes, 81, recently of Tracy, Calif. and brother Grady "Jimmy" Wilcox, 80, of Pleasanton; her daughter, Nancy Theodore Heredia of Temple City, Calif.; her son, Richard Theodore of Apple Valley, Calif., 3 granddaughters, 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Joe and Idel Wilcox, husbands, Ed Theodore and Robert Wiitala and son Bobby Wiitala. She came to California in 1941 with her family, arriving in Pleasanton in early 1943. Her father owned, trained and raced Thoroughbred horses at Northern California, county fairs and in Phoenix, Ariz. She lived in Pleasanton for 69 years. Visitation will be held at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, Pleasanton, CA on Friday, Jan. 4 from 2-5 p.m. Services will be held at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, Saturday Jan. 5 at 9:30 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery on Sunol Blvd....

Adrienne Claire Riley
July 22, 1954 - Dec. 17, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Adrienne was born in Willows, California, to Howard and Wilma (Wells) Detling. She passed away on December 17, 2012, at Eden Medical Center, Castro Valley, with her husband, Mike, and their children Kevin, Megan, and Amy at her side. After graduating from Enterprise High School in Redding, California, in 1972, Adrienne attended the University of California at Berkeley, where she met and married Michael Lloyd Riley on September 7, 1974. Adrienne earned a BS degree in Nursing and a BA degree in Human Development from California State University, Hayward. Adrienne began her career as a Registered Nurse in 1981 with Kaiser Hospital Oakland; and since 1995 has been associated with the Maternal Child Department at Valley Care Medical Center in Pleasanton. Adrienne enjoyed reading, sewing, traveling, shopping, San Jose Sharks hockey, Cal football, and playing Bunko. Adrienne's passion in life was her family; especially her love for her three children, and her granddaughter, Madison. Adrienne is survived by her loving husband, Mike; devoted children- son Kevin, his wife Stacey Powell Riley, and their daughter Madison of Brentwood; daughter Megan and husband Patrick Bowen of...

William (Bill) N. Lorentz
Dec. 6, 1928 - Dec. 15, 2012
Boulder City, Nevada

William "Bill" N. Lorentz, of Boulder City, a kind and gentle man, active in his community and church, passed away Dec. 15, 2012. He was born Dec. 26, 1928 and raised on a ranch near Augusta, Montana. Bill went on to a diverse life and career. Bill earned money for college as a concrete worker on Hungry Horse Dam as well as in the Air Force ROTC program. Bill received a Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering from Montana State in Bozeman, Montana and went on to work in nuclear engineering designing power plants and nuclear submarines. His professional career also included operating a landfill and recycle program for the City of Santa Cruz as well as a Popcorn Store on the wharf in Santa Cruz. Bill had many hobbies ranging from scuba diving, canoeing, bird watching to wood carving and loved traveling in his RV with Lee. Bill was an active partner in a Christmas Tree Farm in northern California which lead to an amazing variety of family adventures and lifelong friendships. Bill is survived by his wife, Natha Lee; siblings, Henry and Lew; and blended family of 4 children with his first wife Mary Ann and three daughters with his second wife Natha Lee. There are no words t...

Carroll Dale Steele
Feb. 9, 1937 - Dec. 7, 2012
Acampo, California

Carroll Dale Steele was born in Alden, Minnesota, the son of Melvin and Irma (Schmidt) Steele. He grew up in Alden on a farm and graduated from Alden High School. He enlisted in the US Army when he was 18 and served in an active and reserve role from 1955-1961. He lived in Albert Lea, MN and Minneapolis, MN until he was 36 when he moved to California with his family. He got degrees at Foothill College in Los Altos, CA and San Jose State University, San Jose, CA (MBA). Among some of the places he worked are: Streater in Albert Lea, MN; Control Data in Minneapolis, MN, Mosinee Paper Mills in Wausau, WI; Measurex in Cupertino, CA; BTI in Sunnyvale, CA. On Sept. 7, 1991, Carroll was united in marriage to Jo Hesterly at Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose. They lived in San Jose until 2000, when they retired and bought a small ranch in Acampo. It is here where Carroll started collecting vintage John Deere tractors and built a barn to house all of them. Carroll loved playing softball, as he was on as many as 3 teams at any one time. His greatest passion was being surrounded by his family. Carroll died Dec. 7, 2012 at Kaiser Foundation Rehabilitation Center in Val...

Richard Behiel
June 6, 1932 - Dec. 5, 2012
Dublin, California

Richard Behiel passed away peacefully December 5, 2012 surrounded by family at ValleyCare in Pleasanton, CA. He was 80. Richard suffered complications due to breaking several ribs after a fall in October while doing yard work at home in Dublin. Richard, the 2nd of 8 children, was born June 6, 1932 in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada. He left the family farm in 1959 and moved to Oakland with his sister Lorraine and her husband Lee Dansereau. Richard and Lee, and several others of the Behiel family, would eventually retire as union carpenters. He was especially proud of his work on the Oakland Coliseum, BART Tube, SJSU Business Tower, and building his first house in the Oakland hills. Richard married Yvonne Lapointe in 1961 and moved to Pleasanton in 1970 to raise their four children. Richard moved to Dublin in 1982 during a divorce. Richard enjoyed Canada-USA family reunions, annual Father?s Day picnics, and spending time with family and the great neighbors of Hillsdale Drive throughout the 1970?s. He spent his retirement working in his home workshop, helping others, having coffee with friends after a workout at the gym, and watching as many of his grandchildren?s sporting...

Jacqueline Woodruff
Nov. 29, 1940 - Nov. 30, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Jacqueline Fougeray Woodruff passed away the day following her 72nd birthday on November 30, 2012 following a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was in her Pleasanton home, surrounded by loved ones. Born November 29, 1940 in Philadelphia, Pa., Jackie grew up wanting to see the world. As a ?service brat? she lived in many parts of the U.S. and North Africa before joining the Air Force as a young woman. She was granted admission to attend medical school at the University of Hawaii when her path took another turn, toward high tech engineering where she excelled at layout engineering at companies such as Texas Instruments and Mostek. Following her service in the Air Force, Jackie remained passionate about serving her community wherever she resided. She was active in CASA (assisting foster kids) in Dallas, Texas, the Washington Park Zoo in Portland, Ore., the Volunteers in Policing in Thousand Oaks, CASA in Alameda county and the Pleasanton Volunteers in Police Service program. Those who knew her will remember her as a beautiful, courageous, artistic and unbelievably well read individual. A staunch supporter of the fine arts, Jackie was also an amateur archeologist, ac...

Stephanie Ann Miller
Jan. 26, 1947 - Nov. 27, 2012
Brentwood, California

Stephanie Ann Miller loved to travel. She climbed Machu Picchu, walked the Great Wall of China and visited European countries from England to Russia. The one-year resident of Brentwood died suddenly Nov. 27, 2012, at the age of 65 when a case of the flu worsened into pneumonia. She and her husband, Robert Van Miller Sr., celebrated their one-year anniversary on Nov. 5. Prior to Brentwood, Miller lived for 10 years in Danville and before that lived in Pleasanton for many years. A native of Oakland, Stephanie was born at Kaiser Hospital in Oakland on Jan. 26, 1947. She grew up in San Lorenzo and was a cheerleader before graduating from San Lorenzo High School. During her years in San Lorenzo, she spent summers with her maternal grandmother on her farm in South Dakota. She went to work for the Oakland Police Department and served in a variety of roles before retiring after 20 years. She then moved onto to a marketing position with the Port of Oakland at the Oakland Airport. After 15 years, she retired from the port. Throughout her careers, she traveled widely. Italy and England were particular favorites. She met Robert through an official matchmaker about 2 ½ years ago. Bob w...

Robert Daniel Stoik
July 30, 1959 - Nov. 26, 2012
Pleasanton, CA

Robert Daniel Stoik, 53, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family following an 11 year battle with cancer. Bob was born and raised in Bloomer, Wis. and graduated from Bloomer High School. He earned a secondary education degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His careers with Milton Bradley/Hasbro and Nintendo promoted his kid at heart attitude. He coached his daughters? various sports teams and loved bicycling and running. Bob is survived by his loving wife Catherine; devoted children Courtney, (Cal State Univ.-Chico) and Hannah, (Amador Valley High School). Bob is also survived by his mother, Audrey Stoik (Wis.); mother and father-in-law, Rose and Lee Cowan (Ill.); four sisters, four brothers and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are father, Frank Stoik and nephew, Cale Stoik. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 3:30 pm at Valley Community Church on 4455 Del Valle Parkway, Pleasanton, Calif. In lieu of flowers memorials can be sent to the American Cancer Society or Hope Hospice....

Sharry Bautista
Dec. 25, 1942 - Nov. 10, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Sharry Bautista passed away on Nov. 10, 2012. She was born on Dec. 25, 1942 in Valentine, Nebraska to Joy and Orville Greene. Her sister Donna was born 3 years later. Sharry married her former husband in 1961 and had 2 daughters, Kelly and Stacy. She was very active in her community for many years: serving 14 years on the Castro Valley Board of Fire Commissioners, volunteering at Laurel Grove Hospital, serving as Auxiliary president for 2 years and serving 1 year on the Alameda County Grand Jury. In 1987 she met and married the love of her life, Joe Bautista. They moved to Pleasanton in 2000 into a home that Joe built. They loved to travel, especially cruising. They had been on 25 cruises, visited more than 80 countries, 6 continents, and had planned to go Antarctica in February. They belonged to Castlewood Country Club where she played golf. She also had a great passion for gardening and spent many hours nurturing the plants in her yard. One of her favorite times of the year was football season where she would attend Raiders home games and watch the Nebraska Cornhuskers play college football. Sharry loved her family and her step family. She is survived by her loving husband, J...

Brenda Jane Murphy
Oct. 13, 1964 - Oct. 22, 2012
Livermore, California

Brenda Jane Murphy passed away on October 22, 2012 at the young age of 48. Her final days were spent surrounded by her caring parents, loving children and extended family. Brenda was born October 13, 1964 in Livermore, California and was the only child of Adrian Senneff and Tony Gonzales. She grew up in Pleasanton graduating from Amador High School in 1983. Brenda proudly served her Country in the United States Army for several years before beginning her family. Brenda worked as an Administrative Assistant for over 10 years and loved being a stay at home mother when her boys were young. She enjoyed listening to music, reading a good book, watching scary movies with her Mom, shopping with her Aunt Cindy and visiting with family and friends. Brenda had a special bond with animals, especially with dogs and loved dog sitting for her Auntie Norma & Uncle Danny as well as her Dad and step-mom. Brenda is survived by her parents Adrian & Jerry Senneff and Tony & Pam Gonzales; her sons Adam Woodbury, Brycen Murphy and Cory Murphy; her daughter-in-law Katrina Woodbury and granddaughter, Addison Woodbury. She also leaves behind her brothers Antony Gonzales and Ed Gonzales; her niece...

Robert Walter Decker
May 26, 1950 - Oct. 21, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Bob Decker passed away unexpectedly at home in Pleasanton, Calif. of heart failure on October 21, 2012. Born in Pittsburg, Penn., Bob?s family moved to the Bay Area in 1959 and he was a resident of Pleasanton for the last 35 years. He worked in the grocery business for 40 years, the last 25 at Sara Lee. Bob is survived by his wife Janice, son Stephen of Livermore, son Kristopher (Jennifer) of Castro Valley, sister Arlene (Gene) of Reno, Nev., brother-in-law Mark Anderson of Alexandria, Va. and granddaughter Hailey Decker. He is preceded in death by his parents Florian and Herman Decker, mother-in-law Marilyn Anderson, and father-in-law Harry Anderson. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, but his latest passion was duck hunting with his long time friend Alex. A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, November 26th, 5 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton. Donations can be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice....

Maurice C. Cook, Jr.
Jan. 12, 1939 - Oct. 11, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Maurice C. Cook Jr., 73, died surrounded by his family on October 11, 2012 in Walnut Creek, CA. Maurice was born January 12, 1939 in Long Beach, CA to Maurice C. Cook, Sr. and Theola Mae Cook. In his younger years, he was an active member of DeMolay and later became a Second Degree Mason. He married Susanne Vivion in 1959. During the winter months he enjoyed taking his family hunting and fishing and in the summers they waterskied and raced speedboats. When he retired from his QA engineer profession, he became a local favorite with school-aged children as one of Pleasanton?s school crossing guards. His 5 foot tall Harbor Seal mascot, ?Harbie?, could be seen by pedestrians and passing cars each day. Local newspapers even put his photo in the paper, highlighting him as a local colorful character. In his later years, he stuck closer to home and became content raising farm animals on his acre of property in rural Pleasanton. He often supplied fresh eggs for breakfast events at their neighborhood church, Faith Chapel. Maurice is survived by his wife of 54 years, Susanne V. Cook; daughters and their husbands, Cheryl and Stuart Craig, Carol and John Styles; five grandchildren, Ji...

Marcia Haug
Feb. 18, 1929 - Oct. 7, 2012
Indianola, Washington

Marcia was born February 18, 1929 in Seattle, Washington to Norman E. and Ruth Hunter Churchill. She died peacefully on October 7, 2012 in her Indianola, WA home. Marcia lived a life of purpose and integrity; printed words barely scratch the surface of legacy of compassion and love she leaves to her friends and family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Marcia was a loving wife and mother, a true friend and doting grandmother whose optimistic character shined through in all she said and did. To Marcia?s family, she found happiness in sharing meals together, embarking on weekend trips of adventure with her grandchildren, and random moments of silliness and good laughs. To her friends, both far and near, Marcia was a genuine companion with a listening ear to all. Marcia grew up in Sunnydale and Seattle, WA, attending Highline High School and graduating from Seattle?s Lincoln High School as a member of the class of 1947. The following fall, she entered the University of Washington (U.W.) where she pledged as a member of the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. Marcia lived in her sorority house during her enrollment at the U.W. and enjoyed many moments of laughter, fun, and eti...

Carol Linda Ghilardi
Dec. 24, 1948 - Oct. 3, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Born on Christmas Eve, in Burlingame, CA, Carol was a surprise gift to her parents, John and Elizabeth Aguiar, as they had two older children. Though her life was cut short by Alzheimer?s and cancer, she managed to be that gift to her family, friends, and community. Most of her life was lived here in the Bay Area, though she spent her high school years in Costa Mesa, CA, where she graduated valedictorian. Returning to the Bay Area, she got her BA at the University of San Francisco and her MS in Marriage and Family Counseling at Cal-State Hayward. While attending graduate school, she began working for the City of Pleasanton as the secretary for Pleasanton Fire. She loved that job and kept it for 20 years, while at the same time caring for people as a licensed psychotherapist, in practice with her husband, Jim. They met while she was an intern at what is now called Axis Community Health Care. In 1987 they married and opened their office, Arroyo Counseling Services. Holding down two jobs, Carol still found time to volunteer; pioneering St. Augustine?s Aid?s Ministry, and doing prison ministry at the Federal Correction Institute and Santa Rita Jail. She also helped organize ?The ...

Arleen Ann Neu
Dec. 25, 1936 - Sept. 23, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Arleen Neu was called gently home to Heaven on Sept. 23, 2012 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Templeton, Iowa, she was a 25 year resident of Pleasanton. She is survived by her loving husband LaVern Neu, five children, 16 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and their families. Services were held....

Eugene Wilfred Gadd
Dec. 15, 1931 - Sept. 22, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Eugene Wilfred Gadd, age 80, went to be with the Lord on September 22, 2012. Eugene was born to Wilfred and Ellen Gadd on December 15, 1931 at Trinity Lutheran Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Gene is survived by his adoring wife Mitzie, his seven children: Mike Gadd (Anne), Cathy Perotti (John), Patty Santin, Rebecca Walker (Jon), Jeff Gadd (Jennifer), Kevin Gadd (E'Lese), Brett Gadd (Ashlee), and his ten grandchildren: Rachael, Emily, Eric, Cameron, Brian, Kelsey, Austin, Jason, Jessica, and Everett. He was the oldest of three boys; he leaves brother Bob behind (Overland Park, KS), and was preceded in death by brother Dick. Gene was also cared for by in-laws Bob and Anne Turner. An accomplished Eagle Scout, Gene served in the Navy during the Korean War from 1951-1955 as a plane director on the USS Philippine Sea (CVA-47). While on the ship, Gene tried out for basketball and baseball, and was selected for both teams. He was also very proud to be chosen for the 1954 San Diego Naval Air Station ?Skyraiders? basketball team. After his honorable discharge, he continued playing basketball and baseball for the University of Missouri Kansas City, where he graduated with a business de...

Peter Wong
Sept. 13, 1948 - Sept. 18, 2012
Pleasanton, CA

Peter Wong, 64, of Pleasanton, California, passed away peacefully September 18, 2012, at Stanford University Medical Center. He was surrounded by family and friends. He was born September 13, 1948, in Taishan, China. He immigrated to New York City when he was 18 years old, moving to California in 1980. He has been living in Pleasanton since 1988. He worked as a communication technician for over 40 years with AT & T. He retired in 2009. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Linh Wong of Chalfont, PA; daughter, Christine Wong of San Jose, CA; grandchildren, Emma and Grant Wong of Chalfont, PA. A memorial service, burial and celebration of his life was held September 25, 2012, at Alta Mesa Memorial Park in Palo Alto. He will always be in our hearts and minds forever. He was the kindest and most compassionate soul. A beloved father and best friend, he was the greatest person we know. Dad, till we are able to hold you again, enjoy the fishing up there, we hear it's great! We love him so much!...

Robert Allen Wright
Feb. 5, 1943 - Sept. 15, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Robert Allen Wright, loving husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 15. A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, September 22 at The Pleasanton Senior Center at 4:00 pm on 5353 Sunol Blvd. He was born in Temple City, California on February 5, 1943 to Barbara and William Wright. His family moved to Lafayette in 1950 where he graduated from Pleasant Hill High School. He went on to attend Chico State where he met some of his life long friends. He proudly served in the National Guard from for 6 years. Through the guidance of his father in law, Stephen Roark, he learned the trade of Electrician. He had a passion for his work and excelled at everything he did. He retired from the Electrician?s 595 in 2002 and went on to teach in the Apprenticeship program. He married the love of his life, Marilyn, in 1966 and they moved to Pleasanton in 1971 where they established roots within the community that he loved and together raised their children Laura, Stephen and Michael. While in Pleasanton Bob was involved with the City Planning Commission and the Rotary Club. Bob and Marilyn recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. H...

Patricia "Tricia" M. Martin
March 7, 1995 - Sept. 14, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Patricia M. Martin (Tricia), 17, moved on to paradise on Sept. 14, 2012. Born in Walnut Creek, CA, she is survived by Kathleen Martin (mother) and preceded in death by Brian Martin (father). Tricia's short life was filled with trips to the beach and Disneyland, and cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska and Hawaii. She loved listening to music, creating art, watching scary movies and hanging with friends. Tricia also loved animals including her three cats Sparklie, Herbie and Zephyr and her dog Kimmy (big black kitty). A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012, at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First Street, Pleasanton, CA. Donations may be made in her memory to SuicidePreventionLifeLine.org or Tri-Valley Animal Rescue (TVAR)....

Doris Eleanor Mitchell
June 29, 1929 - Sept. 9, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Doris Eleanor Mitchell, 83, passed away peacefully Sunday Sept. 9 surrounded by family. She was born June 29, 1929, in Oakland, Calif. She grew up in Oakland and graduated from Oakland High School. After graduation with a degree in Social Work from San Francisco State University, she was employed as a social worker for Alameda County. She met her future husband Phil K. Mitchell through a friend and co-worker, Doreen Mitchell, who is married to Phil's brother. Doris and Phil were married on April 19, 1958. While her husband served in the United States Air Force, the couple moved to various duty locations, including Ohio, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. The couple settled down in Pleasanton, where they raised their three children, after her husband?s military retirement. They moved to Red Wing, Minn. in 2010 to be closer to their son Don and his family. Doris enjoyed traveling with her husband and family. Her favorite destinations included Mendocino, Lake Tahoe, and especially Carmel, where she and Phil honeymooned. Doris and Phil were charter members of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Doris treasured her family and will always be remembered for her generous spirit and her ...

Robert "Van" Vannatter
March 8, 1921 - Aug. 27, 2012
Scotts Valley, California

Robert Lee Vannatter, Jr., died peacefully in his sleep at home in Scotts Valley, CA on Monday, August 27, 2012. He was 91. Born in Gauley Bridge, West Virginia on March 8, 1921, Vannatter met his wife, Avis May Whitlock (1935-1975) in San Diego, CA, and they married in 1953. They had three children, who survive him: Michael Vannatter, Susan Vannatter-Prang, and Daniel Vannatter. An engineer by profession, Robert worked in the aerospace field in Burbank and Sunnyvale, CA for more than 35 years. During WWII, Robert saw service in the 82nd Airborne, 507th Paratrooper Division of the US Army. The country of France recently awarded him a Chevalier (Knight) medal of the Legion of Honor for his heroic efforts during the earliest hours of the Normandy invasion on June 6th, 1944. He will be missed....

Lily Ann Joberg
Jan. 17, 1923 - Aug. 23, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Lily Ann Dowall Joberg died on August 23, 2012 at the home of her daughter, June Kowallis of Providence, Utah. She was 89 years old. She was born in Pine Bluffs, Wyoming, the only child of William and Pauline Reynolds Dowdall. She spent her childhood in Morrison, Illinois and much of her adulthood in the Bay Area of California. She met Elgin A Joberg and was married on February 14, 1945 in San Francisco. They were blessed with three children, June Joberg Kowallis (Rodney) of Providence, Utah, Jeanne Joberg Brown (Doyle) of Moses Lake, Washington and David Joberg of Walnut Creek, California. She lived in Pleasanton, California for 49 years, where she raised her children and attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elgin, a granddaughter, Ann Marie Kowallis and a grandson, Kelsey G Brown. She leaves behind her 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren....

Linda L. Ansell
Jan. 20, 1941 - Aug. 22, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Linda Louise Ansell passed peacefully on August 22, 2012 at her home in Pleasanton, California. Linda (née Massey) was born on January 20, 1941 in Cannelton, West Virginia. She was the 6th of 13 children and the 3rd of four girls. Her father, James Morris Massey, known as Maurice, was orphaned at a young age and worked in the coal mines of Kanawha County, West Virginia from the age of 11. Linda loved living in the countryside and said as a child she never considered herself poor. They had fresh vegetables from a huge garden the family kept and collected wild berries with her sisters. They canned everything and never went hungry. After graduating from Parkersburg High School, Linda worked for the government processing punch cards before she decided to move to California when she was 21 to live with her oldest brother, Jim, his wife Joan, and their young children. She was looking for a new life and found it in Santa Maria, CA. She loved working with numbers and soon found a job working as a teller at the Bank of America in Santa Maria. There she met Kathleen Silva who was soon to be Kathy Jones and her best friend. The two of them were still known for giggling and long t...

Judy Avellar
March 1, 1945 - Aug. 19, 2012
Dublin, California

Judith Lynn Avellar passed away peacefully, with her children present on Sunday after a valiant battle with cancer. She will be sorely missed by many. Judy was born in New York and relocated to Mountain View, CA in the late 1950's. She moved to Pleasanton in 1977, then settled in Dublin for the last 15 years. Judy has been a business professional for the majority of her life, managing several different organizations throughout her career. Her passions in life were traveling, decorating, cooking and spending time with her family and friends. Judy is survived by her brother Steven Urban of Corona, CA; daughter Tammy Slabaugh and husband Eric; son Craig Hagenbaugh and wife Rachel; granddaughter Taylor Slabaugh, all of Tracy CA. Friends and Family are invited to attend a "Celebration of Life" at Beeb's at Las Positas Golf Course in Livermore, CA on Saturday, August 25th at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations be made to Hope Hospice, 6377 Clark Ave., Dublin, CA 94568....

Arline Mills
June 8, 1922 - Aug. 17, 2012
Tracy (former Pleasanton resident), California

TRACY?Arline Mills, a long-time Pleasanton resident, died here at her daughter?s home on August 17, 2012. She was 90. Mrs. Mills moved to Pleasanton in 1952 with her husband, Frederick ?Ed? Mills, and they lived in the same home on East Angela Street for more than 55 years until Ed died in July 2008. The only child of Charles and Alice Clifford, she was born June 8, 1922 in Dunmore, PA. She graduated from Dunmore High. She was the valedictorian of both her 8th grade class and her high school class of 1942. She was active in Girl Scouts and achieved the organization?s highest honor, the Golden Eaglet Award. After moving to California, she was a leader and a trainer for 30 years with the Girl Scouts. While raising her children, she volunteered with the Amador Valley High School Parent-Teacher Association and was named an honorary life member in 1967. She was active with the PTA throughout her girls? education. She also was honored by Rainbow for her service and led a variety of charitable activities in Pleasanton. After graduating from high school, she attended and graduated from the Palmer School of Business in Scranton. She worked as a secretary in Scranton and, ...

Ronald Duane Haug
Nov. 17, 1926 - Aug. 14, 2012
Indianola, Washington

Ron was born November 17, 1926 in Cando, North Dakota to Christoffer August Haug and Susanna Olson. He passed away August 14, 2012 at a memory care community in Silverdale, WA. The Haug family moved to the Pacific Northwest during the great depression, and Ron graduated from Seattle?s Lincoln High School class of 1943. He played basketball on the varsity team and spent many happy hours playing softball at Lower Woodland Park. In the fall of 1943, Ron entered the University of Washington (U.W.) and played varsity basketball his freshmen year. After completing one year at the U.W., Ron entered the Coast Guard and served as a radioman on troop transport ships between San Francisco, CA and the Asian War Zones from 1944 through 1946. Upon honorable discharge from the service, Ron returned to the U. W. to earn his BS in Zoology. He entered Dental School at the University and in 1953 earned his DDS. He practiced general dentistry for five years and then returned to the U.W. to earn his Orthodontic Degree in 1960. During his studies at the U.W. Dental School, Ron met Marcia Churchill and they were married June 14, 1952 at the Florence Henry Memorial Chapel in Seattle. They ...

Sharon Van Heusen
Jan. 21, 1965 - Aug. 4, 2012
Former resident of Pleasanton, California

Beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend passed away on Saturday, August 4, 2012 in Clovis, CA after a brave fight against melanoma. She is survived by her husband Bill, son William, father Bob Apple and wife Mary, mother Joy Williams and husband Bill, brother Jimmy Apple, Aunt Denice and Uncle Sam D'Andrea and family, Uncle Larry and Aunt Ruth Apple and family, Aunt Barbie Wilson, Aunt Diane Apple, as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to list. She was preceded in death by infant son James Kirk Van Heusen in April 1993. Shari was a devoted mother and wife, a generous, loving spirit who brought light to the lives of so many. She took the lead in an assortment of civic and school activities from supporting our troops in the Middle East to bringing about the eScrip program at Alisal Elementary School. Shari also home schooled her son William up through high school. She enjoyed people, talking, reading, writing, arts & crafts and helping to bring about positive changes to our lives. She was excited about life, motivational and inspirational to those that knew her. Her love, support and care will be long remembered. Shari is very much missed by so many!...

Patricia J. Cortez
Feb. 25, 1928 - July 29, 2012
Fairborn, Ohio

Patricia Baker Cortez CORTEZ, Patricia J. age 84 of Fairborn, Ohio, passed away Sunday, July 29, 2012. Pat was born to the late Galen and Gladys Baker on February 25, 1928 in Casstown, Ohio. She married Robert Cortez on April 1, 1967 in Fairborn, Ohio. Pat worked as a Civil Servant at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio retiring after 26 years of service. She was a strong supporter of the arts and military affairs activities in the Dayton region and lifelong member of the Officers? Wives Club at Wright Patterson Air Force Base as well as Eglin AFB, Florida, and Hickam AFB, Hawaii. Pat is survived by her husband, Robert Cortez; son, John W. McCance; granddaughters, Lauren and Katie McCance. She was preceded in death by her older brother William G. Baker formerly of Springfield, Ohio; survived in death by her younger sister Judith (William) Pantle of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania; and sister-in-law, Wanda Baker of Tampa, Florida. A private funeral is scheduled for August 3, 2012. The family has requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made in her name to any of the following organizations: Miami Valley Military Affairs Association Foundation, c/o Greene Giving, 25 Greene Street Xen...

Matthew Michael Lyon
April 16, 1970 - July 27, 2012
Walnut Creek, California

Matthew Michael Lyon died unexpectedly Friday evening, July 27, 2012 while hiking to meet Boy Scouts from Troop 820 as they completed a 30-mile backpacking trip on the Pacific Crest Trail. Matt was born in Salt Lake City on April 16, 1970. He was raised in Pleasanton, California and graduated from Amador Valley High School. He served a two year mission in Guatemala for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Following his mission he attended UC Davis where he earned degrees in Economics and International Relations. He married Eleanor L. Valencia on September 15, 1995 in the Oakland LDS Temple. He worked for Accenture for 16 years. He is survived by his wife Eleanor, children Connor, Jordan, Maxwell, and Sierra, parents Michael and Susan Lyon of Pleasanton, brothers Nicholas (Chelsea), Daniel (Holly), and Christian of San Francisco, niece Madison and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Matt lived a life of selfless service to others and filled many church roles, including his most recent as the Bishop of the Walnut Creek II Ward. Matt enjoyed exploring the California coast, backpacking, gardening, home improvement projects, and spending time with his family ...

Harold Garden
Oct. 30, 1912 - July 22, 2012
Riverbank, California

Harold W. Garden died July 22, 2012 at the age of 99. He was born to Joseph and Sarah Garden in Stoney Creek, Connecticut. He graduated from San Francisco State. He was a longtime teacher at Pleasanton Grammar School, beginning his career there in the early 1940's. Garden taught 7th grade and it was his favorite grade to teach. He was a teacher and principal for 33 years. He retired as principal from the Oakland School District. Garden also was a probation officer for 8 years. Garden loved to teach and help children and adults learn to read. He believed people should read at all times. He had a great sense of humor, and loved life. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sally and Save Van Houten (Riverbank), grandson Joseph Crume (Germany), granddaughter Mickie Crume and great-granddaughter John Crume (Moscow, Russia). Deegan Funeral Chapel in Escalon handled private services for the immediate family, including burial at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Escalon, CA....

John William Vincent
June 1, 1928 - July 18, 2012
Pleasanton, California

On July 18, 2012,John Wm. Vincent went to join Jesus in Heaven. He was 84. John was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada June 1, 1928. He grew up in Transcona, Manitoba, Canada. He graduated from the United College in Winnipeg in 1950 with a degree in Psychology/Sociology. Shortly after graduating, John moved to California, worked on the Southern Pacific Railway and then was drafted into the U.S. Army at the beginning of the Korean War. After basic training, he was sent to Germany as a psychiatric/social worker. Upon discharge in 1953, he became an elementary school teacher. John spent his entire teaching career in the Menlo Park School District, teaching many grade levels with specialties in math, history and biology. He also served as one of the three District Principals. Early in his career, he left the district and spent a year teaching in a native school in Cordova, Alaska during the pre-statehood year of 1959. Academically, John completed a B.A. at the United College, an M.A. in Educational Administration at San Jose State and a second M.A. from Santa Clara University in Family Counseling. He was an accomplished pipe organist, having studied under Herb...

Maureen Mulholland O'Hare
Aug. 30, 1952 - July 8, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Maureen Mulholland O'Hare, a 27 year resident of Pleasanton, passed away suddenly of natural causes on July 8th, 2012. Maureen was an empathetic soul who felt for those who were marginalized, poor or suffered from the ravages of war. Her warm smile, great heart and sense of fun were especially evident in her playfulness with children. Maureen was born in Brooklyn, New York on August 30th, 1952. She lived in Brooklyn, Florida, Lompoc and San Jose as the family relocated while her father worked on the missile programs. Maureen graduated from Leland High School in San Jose in 1970. She worked twenty years for Pacific Bell as a Staff Engineer. Maureen retired after the birth of her second child to concentrate on raising her children. She volunteered at Hillendale and Alisal schools where she particularly enjoyed teaching about Art History. She was a member of the inaugural St. Augustine parish neighborhood faith formation groups and loved dancing and museums. Maureen enjoyed traveling and frequently visited Ireland, the birthplace of her parents. Maureen is survived by her children Shannon and Brendan, her husband William, her mother Johannah Mulholland and her brother Rory Mulh...

Kathleen Ann Palmer
Feb. 4, 1951 - June 17, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Kathy Palmer, a 30 year resident of Pleasanton, died suddently on June 17, 2012. She was born in Portland, OR on February 4, 1951. Kathy is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Jim, daughters Kristy (Elvis) Aviles and Karey (Scott) McAlpine, sisters Patti Harvey and Terry McArdle, and grandchildren Jascylette, Elvis Jr. and Elijah, and nieces Tiffany, Jen, Julie, and Michelle, and nephew Matt. Kathy was an avid sports fan, loving both the SF Giants and 49ers. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her friends and family. A private celebration of life will be held on Friday....

Andrew A. Salem, Jr
July 8, 1930 - June 9, 2012
Arnold, California

Andy (81) passed away on June 9, 2012 at his home in Arnold, CA. A mass will be held on July 14th at 10:00am at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Pleasanton, CA. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Anne; children: Steve (and Sandy) Salem, Vince (and Moya) Salem, Lisa (and Charlie) Giolzetti; grandchildren: Jeff, Michelle, Kyle, Brianni, and Brandon; great-grandchildren: Mckenzie, Ariana, and Mia; sisters Jeanette Aldi, Clara Williams. Preceded in death by sister Annette Horkan. Andy was born July 8, 1930 in New Haven, Connecticut to parents that had immigrated to the United States from Italy. When he was 2 years old, the family moved to Southern California (Hollywood) where he was raised. In 1952, he married and moved to the San Fernando Valley (Sun Valley) where he lived for many years. In 1975, he moved to Pleasanton, CA. He retired in 1992 and continued to live in Pleasanton until 2004 when he moved to Arnold, CA....

Alexander Woodruff
Dec. 6, 1987 - June 7, 2012
San Francisco, California

Alexander Woodruff. Alex died of a heart attack on June 7th in San Francisco at the age of 24. Alex moved to Pleasanton from Thousand Oaks in 2000 with his family, and was a 2006 graduate of Village High School. He was born in 1987. Alex is survived by his parents, his sister Claudine, brother Scot, nieces and nephews, Kate, Wil, Charlie, Chloe, Harrison and Bennett. Donations in his memory will be welcome at mccsf.org....

Dorlene F. Alves
Oct. 17, 1933 - May 31, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Dorlene F. (Garcia) Alves passed away on Thursday, May 31, 2012 after a long battle with dementia. Dorlene, or "Doe" as she affectionately called by family and friends, was born and raised in Pleasanton. She graduated from Amador High in 1951 and married Edmond (Ed) Alves, the love of her life, on June 20, 1954. Dorlene was a homemaker most of her life. Raising, loving and supporting her children throughout their lives were her joys and her vocation. Do what makes you happy she would say. Dorlene was preceded in death be her son, Jeffrey Alves in 2009, her sister, JoAnne Holden in 2008, parents, William and Mrytle (Frager) in 1984. She leaves behind her husband, Edmond, of 58 years of marriage, her daughters, Janell (Richard) Anderson of Mountain View, CA, Jennifer (Steve) Dowden of Keller, TX their four children, Katie, Jackie, Maddie & Samuel, daughter in-law, Blanca Castillo-Alves, her two children, Isabel & Anthony of Simi Valley, CA, her brother Donald (Lillian) Garcia, their three sons, Steve, Mike, and Ronnie, her nephew Warren (Kathy) Holden, their children Chase and Kayleen. A private family grave site service will be held on July 14 at St. Augustine's cemetery i...

Ethel L. McDonald
Jan. 25, 1922 - May 25, 2012
Pleasanton, CA

Ethel McDonald passed away on May 25, 2012, at Valley Memorial Hospital, in Livermore, CA, of natural causes. She was 90 years old. Ethel was born in Calamus, IA, to Mike and Clara Thiel. On July 4, 1943, she married Kenneth H. (Mac) McDonald in Cape Girardeau, MO. In 1948 they left Iowa and moved to Washington State for the next 49 years. In 1997 they relocated to Pleasanton, CA. Ethel worked as a dental assistant for many years, as well as serving as office manager for their family automobile dealership. She was involved in many service organizations and was a former president and life-member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was also a member of St. Augustine?s Catholic Church. In addition to love of her family, Ethel?s greatest enjoyment came from arts & crafts, specializing in decorative egg art, and writing cards and letters. Ethel was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years and one sister. She is survived by her son, Ken McDonald (Barbara); two grandsons, Ken McDonald (Shari) and Jeff McDonald (Keri); and 5 great-grandchildren: Allison, Kelsey, Davis, Sean, & Cameron; a sister (Lois London) and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held at Schu...

Orland Silva
March 31, 1941 - May 11, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Orland Michael Silva, long-time resident of Pleasanton, passed away on May 11, 2012 at the age of 71. He was in his home with his wife and children at his side. Orland was born in Albany and raised in Rodeo, California. Upon graduating from John Swett High School, he went to work for PG&E and retired 33 years later. He then went on to work for the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory for 10 years. His love was for Bible Study Fellowship, where he could study and teach about his Lord, Jesus Christ. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 50 years, Paula; his children and their spouses: Pam & Josh Shinnick, Kathy & Andy Eelsing, Tim & Dawn Silva, Jennifer & Danny Sweeney and Mary & Angelo Scavone; as well as 15 grandchildren: Tyler, Jacob, Abby, Jason, Ryan, Brennan, Amy, Hannah, Faith, Tessie, Tommy, Travis, Mady, Mitchell and Leah. He enjoyed his family, the Forty Niners, Granada High Football and playing his saxophone. Many will remember him as ?Papa?. His warm smile and loving spirit will be missed....

Sage Lenhart Pattie
June 5, 1956 - May 11, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Sometimes sorrow comes unexpectedly. In the midst of a valiant fight against cancer, Pleasanton psychotherapist Sage Lenhart Pattie passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 11, 2012 as a result of complications from the treatment in her battle with colon cancer. Sage loved life to its fullest and embraced life with gusto even amidst the most difficult of times. Her joy, ready laugh, and deep empathy will be missed by all who crossed her path. She was a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in Pleasanton. She was widely known and appreciated for applying her practical therapy techniques along with discerning listening skills to help change lives. People often expressed appreciation for the gentle humor she brought to her work. She had planned to bring to her practice the unique skills developed in recent studies with Cathryn Clerc at Hippocrene Springs ? integrating horses as partners in the therapeutic process. Sage was born in Palo Alto and was a graduate of Palo Alto High School. During this time she was active in both Girl Scouts and Sea Scouts. Sage received her B.S. degree in Nutrition from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. After moving to Souther...

Michael DeLia
July 30, 1924 - April 19, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Decorated World War II veteran Michael DeLia died April 19, 2012 at the age of 88. He was born July 30, 1924 in Watertown, New York and worked professionally as a hospital administrator. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Barbara DeLia, of Pleasanton, six of his seven children from a previous marriage, grandchildren and many friends....

Diane Louise Churka
Feb. 23, 1944 - April 17, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Diane Churka, 68, enhanced downtown Pleasanton with her flowers, trees, and plants for the last 23 years at the SP Depot on Neal Street, and the Coffee Roast Express building at 780 Main Street. Born at home in Riverside Calif on Feb. 23, 1944 and died at home in Pleasanton, Calif. on April 17, 2012. Graduated from Highland School of Nursing in Oakland, designed and built the Coffee Roast Express business in three locations in downtown Pleasanton. She loved classical music, gardening, alpine skiing, the theater, designing and building interiors for home and business, and traveling on back roads throughout the USA. She is survived by her husband Edward Churka, daughter Alicia Lutz, son Mark Churka, two grandchildren, and one great granddaughter....

Chris Beratlis
Dec. 22, 1934 - April 11, 2012
Pleasanton, California

The son of Greek immigrants, Chris Beratlis was born December 22, 1934 in Livermore, CA and lived in Pleasanton his entire life. He had four sisters and three brothers. Three of his sisters survive him. He was married to his wife Glenda in 1965 and they had two sons, Christopher and David. David predeceased his parents in 1990. Chris worked in his family?s cheese factory at the end of Santa Rita Road as a young man. He served in the Army during the Korean War and was justifiably proud of his service. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He particularly enjoyed his son Christopher and his wife Erika and his grandchildren Jayme and Jared, his morning coffee shop ?guys? at Vic?s who came to be known, kiddingly, as ?the world problem solvers?, his Friday lunch ?Grub Club?, his abalone fishing trips, the Lake Shasta houseboat trips with his friends from the Sierra foothills. Chris was actively involved in civic affairs and at various times served on the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Pleasanton City Council, the Alameda County Fair Board of Directors, and with the Pleasanton?s Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Association in efforts to preserve, protect and enhance Plea...

Emilie Seebach
Jan. 27, 1935 - April 2, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Emilie Milton Seebach Born Jan. 27, 1935 Died April 2, 2012 Resident of Pleasanton Emilie Milton Seebach died Monday, April 2, 2012, at home and peacefully, in the company of family. She was a great woman who lived and loved fully. Born in Houston, Texas, to Earl and Gladys Milton, Emilie graduated from Lamar High School in 1953 in Houston, Texas, and attended the University of Texas in Austin, Texas. She married Robert Green in 1953 and reared her three children - Ron, Lori, and Lisa in Dallas, Texas. She was a charter member of Ridgeview Presbyterian Church in Farmers Branch, Texas, as well as church secretary and a member of the choir. She helped launch the HEMI initiative in the Dallas County Community College District as an Asst. to the Administrator and later served as Executive Asst. to the President of Corey Hebert, Inc. Emilie moved to California in 1988 with her marriage to Howard Seebach and was very active in the life of First Presbyterian Church of Livermore serving on the Session and on many committees. She was especially known for her creative leadership and organization in the church?s social activities. Along with Howard, in January, 1991, ...

Barbara Corrin
Aug. 16, 1925 - April 1, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Barbara Bone Corrin August 16, 1925 to April 1, 2012 Barbara Bone Corrin, age 86, of Pleasanton, passed away peacefully in her sleep April 1, 2012, with her family at her bedside. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Bill Corrin, sons Bill (Jr.) Corrin of Long Beach and Gary Corrin of Toronto and daughters Janet (Gary) Sears of Pleasanton and Lyn (Terry) Aaker of Long Beach. She is also survived by two sisters, four grandchildren, and nine nephews and nieces. The Corrin family moved from Salinas to Pleasanton in 1969. The center of their new life was the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church and its social activities. Barbara taught for fourteen years at Alisal School and was always thrilled when former students and parents recognized her. While in her 60s she took tap dancing and piano lessons, loved playing tennis and bridge, and was well known for her award-winning pies and jams. After her 1986 retirement, Barbara volunteered at Alisal and Mohr Schools, where Janet was teaching. She also enjoyed her Community Bible Study group, practicing Jin Shin Jyutsu Japanese healing arts, volunteering at ValleyCare Hospital, and performing at piano workshops. Her dear friendships...

Dolores Jean Caffey
Feb. 18, 1933 - March 18, 2012
Clearlake, California

Dolores Jean Caffey passed away on March 18, 2012 in St. Helena, California. She was a remarkable woman that lived a very full life. Born in Great Bend, Kansas to William and Ula Juergensen, she has lived in Clearlake for the last 22 years She was formally a resident of Pleasanton, CA where she lived for 12 years, and had also spent time in Claremore, OK, with her husband when her children were grown. Dolores had various careers throughout her lifetime. She was very proud of the fact that she worked for Philco Ford making electronic modules, thereby helping to launch the Apollo. In Pleasanton, she worked at Valley View School as the Cafeteria Manager. While in Oklahoma, she learned to be a taxidermist and to tan hides. She also raised many different farm animals. After moving to Clearlake, she started working for the Methodist Church in Clearlake managing their Thrift Store and vollentered there for the last 10 years. In her spare time, she loved her garden and to do needlepoint. She is survived by her family; husband of 60 years, Ronald Caffey; children, Robert Caffey (Stella) of Vallejo and Lenard Caffey (Sandy) of Pleasanton; grandchildren, Cariann, Katrina, Jesse (Eri...

Ellen Irene Keele
Sept. 16, 1915 - March 16, 2012
Pleasanton, California

ELLEN IRENE KEELE: Born September 16, 1915, passed on March 16, 2012. Loving mother to four daughters; Geri (Keele) Vecchiarelli, Mariann (Keele) Roberts, Rita (Keele) Dort, Veronica (Keele) Plummer, 11 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Survived by her brothers, Thomas Smith, James Smith and her sister, Agnes Purvis. Preceded in death by her brother, Laurence Smith and her sister, Ann Salmon. Ellen passed peacefully in the loving arms of her daughter, after a short illness at age 96. Ellen was born in New York, moved to Oakland and settled in San Leandro to raise her children. After successfully rearing her daughters, the entire family moved to Pleasanton over 25 years ago, to continue to raise the siblings together in a large family setting. The matriarch to a large clan, she and her daughters lived within 2 miles of each other and she will be missed by all. A memorial service will be held at Graham Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First St. Pleasanton, on Saturday, March 31st at 11:30 AM. A short reception will follow....

Francesca (Fran) Marie Springer
Sept. 23, 1957 - March 7, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Fran passed peacefully on March 7, 2012 surrounded by family. Francesca was born Sept 23, 1957 in San Francisco to Barbara DeSantis and the late John E DeSantis. Mother to Jennifer Heafey and Michelle (Mike) DeLucia, grandmother to Michael and Marcus DeLucia, sister of Gina Hisel, Marianne Albretsen, Gianna DeSantis and John J DeSantis. Survived by Brian Heafey and Polo Morales and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and many loving & devoted friends. A woman of creativity and great strength, Fran was successful in launching multiple companies. She attended Notre Dame High School in Belmont. Fran?s heart was always in helping others and she never missed an opportunity to volunteer with the American Cancer Society and Relay For Life. Fran was always eager and ready to hop in the car and GO. She especially loved going to San Francisco and Lake Tahoe.Fran LOVED to dance and did so often and with great joy. The most special aspect of Fran was that she lived her life with joy and enthusiasm, and those of us whose lives she touched were truly blessed....

Lee Roy McGalliard
Sept. 8, 1930 - March 3, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Lee Roy McGalliard Pleasanton (formerly of Cupertino) Lee Roy McGalliard, 81, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2012 with his daughter by his side. Lee was born in Miami, FL and raised in Pelham (Cotton), GA. As a young boy he worked in the fields picking cotton, as a grocery bag boy, in a diner and at the Coats & Clarke thread mill. He played semi-pro baseball and retained his love of the game throughout his life. In 1950 he joined the Navy serving on the USS Boxer during the Korean War and was stationed at Moffett Field. Near the end of his enlistment he met Nita at a dance in Stockton and they married 6 weeks later. Upon Lee?s honorable discharge they moved to Pelham, GA for a brief time before returning to CA where they lived in the Bay Area throughout their lives. Lee retired as Battalion Chief after 30 years with the Moffett Field Fire Department. A part-time job in 1963 at the Saratoga Horticultural Foundation grew into a passion for Lee. The knowledge he gained inspired him to start Lee?s Landscape & Maintenance which he ran for over 40 years before relocating to Pleasanton in 2006. It was his nature to teach anyone with an interest how to prune and care for...

William Andrew Evans
Oct. 25, 1936 - Feb. 25, 2012
Pleasanton, California

William Andrew Evans William [Bill] Evans of Pleasanton, CA, [formerly of Saratoga, CA] passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 25, 2012. Bill was born on October 25, 1936 to William and Josephine Evans in Chicago, IL. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Jo (Penny) Nichols Evans; children; Son, Bill Evans (wife Linda, daughters Mary and Kristina); Son, Michael Evans (wife Debbie, son Michael, daughter Rebecca); Daughter, Carol Kelly (husband Roland, sons Trevor, Garrett & Ryan); Daughter, Nancy Becker (husband Ron, son Grant, daughter Jordan). Brother-in-law, Fred Nichols, wife Pat & son David. He was brother to Patricia Thompson and Joyce Evans. Bill was a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Air Force. He served in the Strategic Air Command Unit and later served in Vietnam. He logged over 2000 hours of flight time in the co*ckpit of B47?s and C141?s. He loved seeing the world from the air. He received the Meritorious Service Metal for outstanding service. Bill earned his Bachelor?s degree from San Jose State University and his Master?s Degree from the University of San Francisco. His career after the military included Engineerin...

Angelita Chacon Martinez
April 4, 1915 - Feb. 11, 2012
Alameda, California

Angelita Chacon Martinez passed away on February 11, 2012 with her family by her side. Angelita was born 4/4/1915 in Tucson, Arizona where she met the love of her life Pedro Martinez. They moved to California and settled in Alameda and they were married for 66 wonderful years. Angelita is survived by her Daughter, Diana Jean and her Son In-Law Robert Schwerin, her three Grandchildren Tony, Richy and Danielle and her Great- Grandchildren Nicole Danner and Preston Peel and many nieces and nephews. Angelita is preceded in death by her husband Pete Martinez, her sisters Eva Hynson & Cassie Rueda and her mother whom she always spoke about. Angie enjoyed bowling in a senior league once she had retired and traveled with her husband and daughter to many different places around the world. Angie recently resided at the Parkview, Memory Care in Pleasanton where she participated in many activities the last three years....

Irma Harmeson
May 1, 1915 - Jan. 15, 2012
Pleasanton, California

Irma Harmeson, 96, of Pleasanton, died peacefully on January 15, 2012 in Livermore, CA. Irma was born in 1915 in Sidney, Illinois. In 1938 she received a Business Degree from the University of Illinois. She married Robert H. Harmeson in 1940. Irma enjoyed being a homemaker, raising her children and spending time with her grand and great-grandchildren. In Illinois, she worked at Western Union, Collegiate Cap and Gown, and sold Fashion Two-Twenty cosmetics. Music was important to her as she played both the piano and organ. She and her husband loved to dance. Throughout her life she was active in community women's organizations, her church, multiple military organizations, and Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity. Irma and Robert retired to Mesa, AZ where they enjoyed many years of travelling and pursuing their hobby - genealogy. After her husband's death, she moved to California and continued her visits to family and friends. Irma was preceded in death by her parents; brother; her husband; infant daughter; and son, Leigh. She is survived by her children: Raynor; Terry; Linda, and Leigh?s wife, Janet. She also leaves behind her five grandchildren; and seven great-grand...

Monica L. Van Wegen
April 20, 1979 - Dec. 25, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Monica L. Van Wegen, an Amador Valley High School track star who motivated countless others, died on Christmas morning after a five-year battle with brain cancer. She was 32. Monica was able to live an inspirational and fully functioning life until her final weeks. Her life was always filled with tremendous energy and enthusiasm to enjoy every day to its fullest. The enthusiasm was very contagious and fun to be around. Her energy found an outlet in running. She started by winning the 400-yard rabbit run at Valley View School and the 400-yard race at the Hershey Nor Cal Meet in San Jose, both while in the fourth grade. She ran competitively with great success for 11 years. She ran for fun and fitness for her entire life. Through running, she discovered her life?s work and passion as a fitness trainer and physical therapist. The running, school and work took Monica to Eugene, Ore., San Diego, Chico, Los Angeles, Tiburon and Sun Valley, Idaho. Monica recorded many accomplishments at Amador Valley, including: 1997 NCS 800 meter champion; 1996 Amador HS 4x400m relay team that was 8th fastest in the nation, 3:45.94; 1996 Amador HS NCS Championship Cross Country team; EBAL 20...

Elizabeth Jean Tremblay
May 20, 1919 - Dec. 14, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Elizabeth Jean Tremblay, an expert and enthusiastic bridge player, died Dec. 14, 2011 in a San Jose senior care home. She was 92. Betty traveled widely to pursue her passion for bridge, playing tournaments as well as casual matches with friends. After living in Southern California for many years, she moved to Pleasanton about 30 years ago so they could be close to their grandchildren. She lived in Pleasanton for 25 years before moving to senior housing in Livermore and then San Jose so she could be closer to her daughter. Mrs. Tremblay was born May 20, 1919 in Madison, Wis. and spent her high school years in Glen Ellyn, Ill. where she graduated from Glenbard High School. She then enrolled in Beloit College in Michigan and graduated four years later. She moved to Chicago and worked as a proof reader for legal documents. While riding the train into Chicago, she met her husband-to-be Eduardo Tremblay. They had been married 55 years when Eduardo passed away in 1999. They had three children, Michael, Julie and Joel. Growing up, Julie recalled, ?Michael and I always knew that mom and dad were there for me. No matter what I did, I knew I was always loved and supported by the...

Paul Joseph Nappo
May 7, 1950 - Dec. 13, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Paul was born and raised in Oakland, CA and was a longtime resident of Pleasanton, Ca. He passed away peacefully December 13, 2011 surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Angelo Nappo and in-laws Rudolph and Evalyn Peters. Paul was a devoted, loving husband, father and Nonno to wife Debra, daughter Stephanie (Josh), son Nicholas and granddaughter Hayden. Loving son to Frances Nappo, brother Thomas (Faye), Marilyn and Marlene (Ted) brother in law to David (Laurie), Denise and Ron (Christina). Favorite and adored uncle to many nieces and nephews as well as communal father to countless others. He also leaves behind many loyal, devoted lifelong friends. Paul was a proud member of Fratellanza Men's Italian Club and a devoted machinist at Koffler Electrical. His greatest joy's were outdoor activities, music, playing with the kids, time with family and friends and being with the love of his life, Debra!...

Jean Lois Bell
June 16, 1929 - Dec. 2, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Jean L. Bell, 36-year resident of Pleasanton, California, passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday, Dec-2., here in town, surrounded and comforted by all of her closest family. She was preceded in death by her husband William Kenneth Bell in 1993, and is survived by their only child Douglas K. Bell, of Pleasanton, her daughter-in-law Deirdre A. Bell, and her three grandchildren whom she adored: Kandice D. Bell (Livermore), Victoria C. (Bell) Monical (Pleasanton), and Devin D. Bell (Pleasanton). Jean was born and raised in Lebanon, Indiana. She received her bachelor?s degree in music education from Northwestern University, Illinois, and spent 40 years teaching grade school and middle school band. After retiring in Pleasanton, she attended Lynnewood United Methodist church, enjoyed playing the recorder with friends, was a student of the Art Made Easy class at the Pleasanton Senior Center for many years, enjoyed travelling, and loved watching TV sports. She was immensely kind and friendly to all, kept her humor right to the end, loved the Lord, and was the best mother a man could ever have....

Jared Alan Johansen
Oct. 14, 1984 - Nov. 30, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Jared Alan Johansen, beloved son of Alan and Christy Johansen unexpectedly passed away in his sleep early Wednesday morning November 30, 2011 at his home in Pleasanton, California. He was 27 years old. Jared grew up in Pleasanton and loved his many friends and teachers at Walnut Grove Elementary, Harvest Park Middle School, and Amador Valley High School. Jared was well known for his fun sense of humor and wit and his love of learning. He was a great brother, husband, father, son, a gifted athlete, dedicated scholar and respected friend. Jared was an avid fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Giants and the Warriors. He spoke Spanish fluently and served a two year voluntary mission for his church in Washington D.C. Jared attended college at both BYU and the University of Utah, earning a degree in Economics in 2009. He was married in the Portland Oregon LDS temple in 2008 to his adoring wife Tiffany Bleak. During the past 2 years, Jared loved his work and associates at the law firm of Gunderson Dettmer in Redwood City. He and Tiffany were happily looking forward to law school next year. Jared is survived by his wife, his 17 month old daughter Reese and another baby daughter Ja...

Robert "Bob" Werner
Aug. 5, 1929 - Nov. 30, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Robert "Bob" Werner, longtime resident of Pleasanton, peacefully passed away Nov. 30, 2011. He was born in Oakland on Aug. 5, 1929. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in electrical engineering and became an army lieutenant when he graduated. He went on to work at the Lawrence Livermore Lab for 30 years, during which time he made trips to the Bikini atoll and the Nevada test site. He was a ham radio operator, had his pilot?s license, and liked to snorkel and ski. For the past 13 years his face lit up whenever he was with his eleven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Janet Huffman Werner. He is survived by his three daughters, Holly (Sergio ) Arce , Krista (Chad) Friesen , and Anjanette(Greg) Lundell , his grandchildren, Linda, Lisa, Joshua, Lucinda and Lydia Arce; Caleb, Katie, Daniel and Isaac Friesen; James and Calvin Lundell. He will be missed by his brother, Bill (Nancy) Werner, and by his sister, Nelda Olson. Friends and family are invited to attend services. Burial is planned for Dec. 9 at 2pmat the Felton Cemetery. A memorial service will be held on Dec. 10 at 10 am at Cedar Grove Church in Livermore....

Jack David Lauderback
Sept. 22, 1926 - Nov. 26, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Jack David Lauderback Sept. 22,1926 - Nov. 26, 2011 Resident of Pleasanton, CA. Born in Portland, Oregon. Grew up in the Gresham area. Graduated from Estacada High School. Attended the University of Oregon at Eugene. Served in the Army and was stationed in the Philippines and Japan. Graduated from the University of Miami in Coral Gables Worked for Pacific Finance in Portland Ore. Married Leslie Rae Lauderback on May 28, 1954 Transferred to California in 1956 while working for Pacific Finance. Later worked for American Saving and Bell Savings. Survived by Leslie, his wife of 57 years. Three children James Robert Lauderback, David William Lauderback, Lynn Metcalf. Grandchildren Jacqualynn Metcalf, Tara Metcalf, Lily Metcalf, and son-in-law Royal Metcalf. Brother Robert Lauderback and sister Judy Lauderback Barrett. Predeceased in death by parents Kenneth and Lillian Lauderback and brothers James and Richard Lauderback. Private services will be held at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton, CA on Sat. Dec. 3 from 2-4pm. The family would like to thank the Veterans Community Living Center in Martinez CA for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made t...

Walter Lewis Dunkley
Feb. 15, 1918 - Nov. 11, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Walter Lewis Dunkley, 93, died November 11, 2011 in Pleasanton, CA surrounded by his family. Walt was born February 15, 1918 in Olds, Alberta, Canada. He will be fondly remembered by his family, Dave and Cheryl Dunkley of Weatherford, TX, Art and Tuny Dunkley of Pleasanton, CA and Ken Dunkley and Catey Low of Montecito, CA, as well as six Dunkley grandchildren: Shana, Blaine, Michael, Dan, Paige and Claire. His loving wife of 64 years, Virginia M. Dunkley, ?Ginie,? predeceased him in 2008. Walt and Ginie raised their family in Davis, CA, and spent many retirement years together at Eskaton Village in Carmichael, CA. During their married life they enjoyed wonderful times with their three sons and six grandchildren as well as worldwide travel.. For the past three years, Walt lived in Pleasanton, CA. His family will cherish the memories of his positive and cheerful outlook, bright smile and sharp intellect. He was a source of pleasant optimism and good humor for all who knew him. No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hope Hospice in Dublin, CA....

Richard Edward Hessel
March 15, 1951 - Nov. 5, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Richard Edward Hessel, Ph.D. March 1951 - November 2011. After a two year battle with cancer, longtime Pleasanton resident Dick Hessel gently passed away at his Pleasanton home at the age of 60. Dick was born in Cincinnati, Ohio to Otto and Ruth Hessel. After earning his Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati, Dick shared his love of engineering as a professor at the The University of Cincinnati and Clarkson University, before moving into the private sector. Dick's career in the computer industry led him and his family to the Silicon Valley, where they settled in Pleasanton. The beloved husband of Connie Hessel for over 30 years, Dick is survived by his wife and two daughters, Andrea Kline Simon, 28, wife of Paulo Kline Simon; Kendra Hessel, 19; brothers Jim and Steve Hessel of Cincinnati; and his four cats. A true connoisseur of jazz music, the blues, and a lover of cats, Dick was also a weekly tennis player who will always be fondly remembered for his impressive beard and warm sense of humor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Hope Hospice, so that the less fortunate may share in the same degree of love and care that Dick receiv...

Anthony Leroy Rose
Sept. 9, 1944 - Oct. 31, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Anthony Leroy Rose beloved husband, father, grandfather, and loyal friend too many, was called home by the heavenly father on Monday, October 31st, 2011. Tony was born on September 9, 1944 to the parents of Antone Rose and Rose B. Rose, of San Jose, CA. He has one brother Donald E. Rose, now deceased. On April 27, 2011 he married his soul mate, Sharon Jean Rose. He is survived by his two sons, Michael and Daniel, and three daughters, Jeanna, Justina, and Janella, and eleven grand children. In 1963 he graduated from Oberfelt High School and then spent the six years as a reserve in the Army National Guard 159th infantry. However, hot roding was his true passion. Tony was one of the original seven founders of the ?P Town Push Rods Club? in Pleasanton, CA. He admired and collected hot rods for many years of his life. Overall, his most prized accomplishment was being a proud grandfather of eleven and soon to be twelve wonderful grandchildren that would make his eyes light up....

Stephen Berger
March 3, 1936 - Oct. 24, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Stephen Isaac Berger March 3, 1936 ? October 24, 2011 Resident of Pleasanton California Steve Berger died at home on Monday, October 24, at age 75. He was born in New York City to parents Abraham and Hilda Berger, their only son. Steve won a scholarship to Julliard School of Music for cello and attended boarding school in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where he was a soccer player. Steve served in the United States Air Force, stationed in Japan. After his military discharge, he completed his schooling at University of Hawaii. It was there he discovered his passion for flying, earning his pilot?s license. During this time, he supported his new hobby by working as manager in the original Chuck Steak House along with the owner and his wife. During his career, Steve worked for six airlines, most notably Flying Tigers and World Airways for 20 years, where he was Vice-President of Sales and Marketing. It was during his time at Flying Tigers that Steve met the charming flight attendant who would become his wife, Joyce Mohr. The high point of Steve?s World Airways career was when he spent 8 months in Viet Nam, airlifting out U.S. troops. Steve later went on to work for Royal Cruise lin...

Lisa Renee Schneider-McKenna
April 2, 1970 - Oct. 19, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Lisa Renee Schneider-McKenna, Age 41, of Pleasanton passed away with family by her side after a short battle with cancer. A Bay Area native Lisa grew up in El Sobrante CA and attended De Anza High School in Richmond, CA graduating in 1988. Lisa had many careers in the medical field including front office, bookkeeping,insurance and paralegal. Lisa enjoyed drawing, ceramics, cooking and taking yearly trips to Disneyland with her sons. Lisa was a beautiful mother who devoted her life to her children to make sure they always came first in her life. Lisa is predeceased by her twin sister Cheri and is survived by her two sons, Brandon and Dylan, her mother Lottie, father Kenneth, and her brothers Kenny and Michael....

Steven Frank Pahler
Feb. 6, 1970 - Oct. 19, 2011
Livermore, California

Steven Frank Pahler, who taught thousands of Tri-Valley young people and adults to drive through his Precision Driving School, died Oct. 19, 2011 at the age of 41. Steve owned Precision Driving School for 11 years. His family recalled how effectively he worked with students who were scared about learning to drive. He also taught a number of non-English-speaking adults. ?He was so patient when he was teaching,? said his brother, Ryan. ?Although, he did tell us about the times he had to grab the steering wheel on the freeway and take over.? Steve loved to cook, whether it was his specialty, prime rib, or on the barbecue. He always prepared the turkey for Thanksgiving. An avid Oakland Raider fan, his apartment is loaded with Raider memorabilia, including a football autographed by Coach John Madden as well as helmet signed by all of the members of the 2002 Super Bowl squad. In his spare time, he loved to ride his Harley as well as camp and hike. His favorite vacation destination was Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Born Feb. 6, 1970 in Fullerton, CA, Steve moved to Pleasanton in 1984. He was a varsity swimmer and graduated from Foothill High School. He earned the rank of Eagle Sco...

Evalyn Taylor Peters
March 6, 1931 - Oct. 15, 2011
Oakland, California

Evalyn Peters, a longtime Oakland resident passed away peacefully on October 15, 2011 in Pleasanton, CA. Her husband Rudolph Peters preceded her in death in May 2011. Evalyn is survived by her loving children, David Silva (Laurie), Denise Hallock, Debra Nappo (Paul), and Ron Peters (Christina). She leaves her adored grandchildren, Nicole (David), Stacy (Steve), Lindsay (Gentil), Stephanie (Josh), Nicholas, Jordan and Gavin, and great grandchildren Michael, Cameron, Cole, Anthony, Chayse, Adriana, Hayden, Claire and Evan. She was a loving sister to Doris Bowman, Judy Ellis, Karl Taylor and Linda Cooper. Dear sister in law to Ron and Joy Peters. Favorite Aunt to many nieces and nephews and surrogate mom to many. She also leaves her loyal and lifelong friends, Tom (deceased) and Mary Mowbray, Bill and Ann Taylor and Jay Naas. Evalyn was a member of the Oakland Garden Club and volunteer with the Oakland Food Basket. She enjoyed spending time in her garden and painting, but her greatest joy in life was time spent with her family and friends....

Dorothy Bernice Jolette
Feb. 6, 1916 - Oct. 13, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Dorothy Bernice Jolette passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 13. She had been ill for the past three weeks but had enjoyed 95 years of a very good life. Born in Menominee, Michigan, she spent almost all of her first 75 years in Niagara, Wisconsin. Her husband Ray, preceded her in death in 1979, two brothers, Sonny and Lester Tappy, sister Joyce Kellerman, also preceded her in death. In 1991 she moved to Pleasanton, California where she began a new life, living near her son Barry and daughter in law Carole. In addition to Barry and Carole, she is survived by grandson Tim Jolette, his wife Debi and great-grandchildren Caitlin and Danielle, who live in Eldorado Hills, California. Her second grandson, David Jolette, wife Stacy and two other great-grandchildren, Nicole and Ryan, live in Denver, Colorado....

Michele Fast
May 21, 1964 - Oct. 12, 2011
Seal Beach, California

Michele Daschbach Fast, 47, passed away in Seal Beach, California on October 12, 2011. Michele leaves, Patrick, her loving husband of 24 years; and their three children, Patrick, 20, a senior at CAL; Laura, 18, a UCLA freshman; and Lisa, 16, a junior in high school. The youngest of six children, Michele is survived by her parents, Howard and Leonore Daschbach; sisters and brothers, LeeLee Cusenza of Pleasanton, Lisa Fuerst, Laura Pitchford, and Mark Daschbach, of the Pennisula, and Rooney Daschbach of Sunset Beach. Michele also leaves behind her father-in-law, Stephen Fast, seven brothers- and sisters-in law, 15 nieces and nephews, three of Pleasanton, and two great nieces. Her Labrador Otis, has also lost his most loyal companion. Michele was born at Stanford Hospital and attended St. Raymond Elementary School and Sacred Heart High School in her local community. She graduated from UC Santa Barbara where she met her husband Patrick. Michele and Patrick settled in Seal Beach where they lived and raised their family for the past 16 years. Michele was a very dedicated sports fan. She stepped up to the plate supporting the teams of her children, nieces, and nephews. Michele w...

Robert (Bob) Charles Cannon
June 20, 1959 - Oct. 9, 2011
Oklahoma City, OK

Robert (Bob) Charles Cannon Former Resident of Pleasanton Bob Cannon, 52, of Oklahoma passed away unexpectedly Oct. 9, 2011. He was born in Buffalo, New York to Patsy and Charles Cannon on June 20th, 1959. He lived in Tonawanda, New York; Denver, Colorado; Placentia, California; Dayton, Ohio; Pleasanton and area cities, California and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was a member of the first graduating class of Foothill High School (1977). He excelled in tennis and golf and played on his high school team all 4 years. He traveled competitively for tennis. Bob joined the Army after high school and was stationed in Germany where he met his wife Maggie and married in 1982. He worked 20 years for Farmer?s Insurance (Dublin, CA and Oklahoma City). Moving up through the ranks, his last position was as a Software Development Lead. Bob always enjoyed a variety of sports and began running over the last five years. He participated in many marathons, ranking extremely high in many of his races. Even though he moved to Oklahoma 12 years ago, his devotion to the San Francisco 49ers never changed. He loved a variety of music and celebrated anniversaries with his wife at jazz fes...

Joyce Elaine Meyer
June 25, 1937 - Oct. 3, 2011
Pleasanton, California

Joyce Elaine Meyer, a resident of Pleasanton for 44 years passed away on October 3, 2011. She was 74. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 at 1:30 p.m. at Centerpointe Presbyterian Church, 3410 Cornerstone Court, Pleasanton. Joyce was born June 25, 1937 on the way to the hospital from the family farm outside Assiniboia, Saskatchewan. She graduated from Assiniboia High School in 1955. She finished high school while living with friends and then enrolled in nursing school. She graduated in 1958 after putting herself through Regina College and the hands-on training at Moose Jaw Union Hospital. She was recognized at graduation with honors. Joyce moved to California from Canada in 1962, living on the Peninsula and then Pasadena where she met and married Rod Meyer. When Joyce was 39 she gave birth to her son, Ken. They moved to Pleasanton in 1977 and Joyce joined the maternity room team at Valley Memorial Hospital in Livermore. After Joyce and Rod divorced, she raised Ken as a single mother, supporting them working as a Charge Nurse. ValleyCare Medical Center opened in Pleasanton in 1991, just three blocks from hom...

Laurie Siatt Dunn
April 29, 1966 - Sept. 18, 2011
Elk Grove, California

Laurie Siatt Dunn passed away peacefully after an illness in the loving presence of her twin sister, Leslie, and husband, Craig. In addition to Leslie Siatt Lewis and Craig Dunn, Laurie is survived by her beloved son Gresham Dunn, her mother Linda Wagner, father Jim Siatt, nephew Shane Lewis, niece Lauren Lewis, and countless other relatives and dear friends. Laurie had bravely battled kidney disease from a childhood illness her entire life. Laurie attended both Alisal and Valley View Elementary schools, Pleasanton Middle School, and graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1985. Laurie attended Ohlone College in Fremont, CA where she received her early childhood education and she taught preschool for many years. Laurie was a gentle soul and a shining presence in so many lives and words cannot express how much she will be missed....

Harbans Singh
Oct. 15, 1934 - Dec. 20, 2009
Ludhiana, India

In the loving memory of our beloved father Not a day goes by when we don?t remember you. Thank you for the light of knowledge you have given us. It has not only enlightened our lives but the lives of the ones you have touched by sharing your knowledge with whoever you met on the journey of your life. We all miss you and wish you could be with us to share the joys and happiness of our lives and your grandchildren. We all love you, remember you at every step of our life and salute you for making us what we are today....

Rick Taylor
Jan. 30, 1952 - Jan. 9, 2007
Pleasanton, California

Hi Baby! I thought I would express my feelings in some lines from a Don Williams song - Some Broken Hearts never mend, some memories never end, some tears will never dry, my love for you will never die. I miss you so much. Until we meet again, You will live in my heart, Love your wife Mary....

Rick Taylor
Jan. 30, 1952 - Jan. 9, 2007
Pleasanton, California

My Sweetheart, I miss you so much. I love you so much. Until we meet again, you will live in my heart forever. Your wife, Mary....

Stephen A. Helgeson
May 29, 1950 - June 12, 2020 Fremont, California

On June 12, 2020, Steve Helgeson, Mr. Moonstone, lost his two-year battle with cancer. It was two weeks after his 70th birthday. Steve was born in Richland, Washington, to Lew and Carolyn Helgeson; Lew a nuclear physicist and Carolyn an artist and musician. They moved to Pleasanton, California ...