Monday, May 31, 2010

Rudy T. Drago, BHS 1954

Rudy Drago, BHS 1954
Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Friday, March 20, 2009
CA United States

RUDY T. DRAGO Feb. 17, 1936 - March 15, 2009

Born in Long Island, New York from Italian immigrant parents, the youngest of four children. Was a resident of Granada Hills for 25 years and enjoyed retirement in Lake Havasu, Arizona. Married to Ann Drago for 54 years. Survived by his wife, Ann; daughter, Denise Seth-Hunter ( Drago ) and husband Peter; sons Richard Drago , and Robert Drago and wife Gina; grandsons, Gregory Seth-Hunter and wife Alicia, Michael Seth-Hunter and wife Danielle, Rudy Drago , and Joseph Drago ; and great grandchildren, Thomas Seth-Hunter and Ryan Seth-Hunter.

Rudy moved to Burbank at the age of 14 from New York. He attended Burbank High School where he met his wife. He wa s a carpet installer for 40 years. Rudy was an avid motorcycle racer in his younger days. He enjoyed boating, waterskiing and his at least yearly trips to "the river". Rudy was a founding member of "The Drifters of Burbank" in the 1950's, and a member of the "Road Kings of Burbank" where he would enter and show his 1932 three window Red Ford Coupe and his 1947 Ford convertible which he would tinker on at every opportunity. He won trophies for some of the shows he entered.

Our hearts are heavy with sorrow as he will be dearly missed by all of his family and many friends but he is no longer in pain or suffering and for that we are truly grateful. Thank you to Dr. Khalil, Dr. Ghanem, Dr. Zia and their staff for there loving care to our little Italian firecracker. We will miss you but will see you again, save a place for us. Services are at Reardon's Mortuary in Simi Valley on Saturday March 21st at 1:00pm Visit www.dailynews.com to express condolences and sign this guest book

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Will Henry Hoist, BHS 1911

Will Henry Hoist, BHS 1911

Los Angeles Times, June 29, 1954

Will Henry Hoist late of 1050 East Walnut Avenue, Burbank, beloved husband of Teresa B. Hoist, father of Mrs. Thelma Olson of Burbank and Mrs. Muriel Newcomb of Shafter, California, brother of John Hoist of Glendale, also survived by three grandchildren.

Services Wednesday, June 30, 1:30 p.m. at Magnolia Park Community Methodist Church, 2828 West Magnolia, Burbank. I.G. Scovern and Son, 828 South Brand Boulevard, Glendale, directors.

Note: The derivation of the term "Ceralbus" is attributed to Will Hoist, Class of 1911. He combined the Latin word "cerulean," meaning blue, with the Latin word "Albus," meaning white and created a new word, "Ceralbus," cleverly denoting the school's colors. The school's mascot has also been attributed to Hoist, who kept a pet bulldog at home.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Travis Weaver, BHS 1993

Travis Weaver, BHS 1993

Los Angeles Times, December 25, 1991
A 16-year-old boy was in critical condition Tuesday after he was shot in the head by another youth, who was held in custody while Burbank police tried to determine if the 4:30 a. m. shooting was an accident.

Travis Weaver was in critical condition after surgery at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Burbank, Lt. Larry Koch said. The other youth, also 16, was in custody at Sylmar Juvenile Hall on suspicion of attempted murder, Koch said. The shooting in the 300 block of West Alameda Avenue was apparently an accident, Koch said. But he said the youth would be held until the investigation is complete.

STUDENT SHOT BY FRIEND DIES - CLASSMATE USED GUN OWNED BY HIS FATHER
Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Friday, January 3, 1992
Author: Tori Richards Daily News Staff Writer

A 16-year-old Burbank High School student died Thursday from wounds suffered last week when a friend shot him with a gun owned by the friend's father, officials said. Travis Weaver did not regain consciousness after the Dec. 23 shooting in the Burbank apartment of a classmate. He died at 1:45 a.m. at Saint Joseph Medical Center, officials said. The 16-year-old suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and released to his parents.

No charges have been filed. "The suspect claims that he forgot the gun was loaded," said Burbank police Sgt. Doyle Holm. "It appears that the kids are friends, that the families are friends. So it's a real tragedy." The suspect told police that he had been playing with his father's .357- caliber Magnum and that the shooting was an accident.

The suspect's name was not released because of his age. The slain youth's uncle said the family has forgiven the boy suspected in the shooting. "It's easy to forgive him because it was an accident," Jim Kennedy said. "He needs to put this behind him and go on with his life." Visitors brought cards made by Sunday-school children at First Presbyterian Church of Burbank, where Weaver was involved in a youth group, Kennedy said. "Everyone has been so giving, it's really helped me get through this," said the boy's mother, Mary Jane Weaver . "He loved children and animals. I'll remember him by his love of life."

On the night of the shooting, the suspect was supposed to be spending the night at a friend's house, officials said. However, the boy, Travis and a third youth stayed in the apartment and broke into a gun cabinet, police said. Holm said the suspect called police immediately after the shooting.
 
BOY, 16, CHARGED WITH INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Saturday, January 11, 1992
Author: Judy Shay Daily News Staff Writer

A 16-year-old Burbank boy who shot and killed a friend on Christmas Eve was charged Friday with involuntary manslaughter. Deputy District Attorney Marlene Sanchez said the youth also was charged with two misdemeanor counts of possession of a firearm and live ammunition without parental consent.

The teen-ager, whose name was not released because of his age, could face up to four years at the California Youth Authority if convicted, prosecutors said.

Travis Weaver , a 16-year-old Burbank High School student, was shot once in the head with a .357-caliber Magnum at 4:54 a.m. Dec. 24 in an apartment at 315 W. Alameda Ave. Weaver , the suspect and a 15-year-old friend were alone at an apartment rented by the suspect's father, police said. Weaver , who did not regain consciousness after the shooting, died Jan. 2 at Saint Joseph Medical Center. "It is my understanding that the boys were unsupervised," said Burbank police Detective Eric Rosoff. "But it is still unclear where they should have been."

Officials said that the youths were playing the board game "Dungeons and Dragons" and then the suspect broke into his father's locked gun cabinet. There were several guns in the house, Rosoff said. "At some point and time, the suspect loaded a gun, went upstairs and accidentally shot his friend," Sanchez said. Officials said the evidence did not warrant a murder filing. "Murder or voluntary manslaughter would require malice and intent to kill," Sanchez said. "It appears that there was no malice intended."

Officials said the suspect called 911 immediately after the incident and cooperated with police. He was taken into custody by Burbank police after the shooting but later released to his parents.
 
BURBANK: BRIEFLY - BOY PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Wednesday, May 6, 1992
A 16-year-old Burbank boy has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting death of his friend on Christmas Eve, officials said Tuesday. Pasadena Juvenile Court Commissioner Karen Nudell is expected to send the youth to the California Youth Authority for an evaluation June 22 before he is sentenced, said Deputy District Attorney Mitch Lampson. The charge carries a penalty of up to four years at the CYA, Lampson said. The teen-ager, whose name was not released because of his age, shot 16- year-old Travis Weaver of Burbank once in the head with a .357-caliber Magnum at 4:54 a.m. Dec. 24 in an apartment at 315 W. Alameda Ave.

Friday, May 28, 2010

Gary Galloway, BHS 1969

Gary Galloway, BHS 1969


Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Wednesday, November 28, 2007
CA United States


GARY L. GALLOWAY Born April 22, 1951 in Glendale California, died November 21, 2007 in his home from lung cancer.


Gary grew up in Burbank, California and attended Burbank High, where he lettered in water polo. He was active in a local church's youth group through his teens. Gary and some of the other youth counselors started a coffee house in the basement of this local church and began to go out in the community to reach out to other youths. They had much success and their attendance was growing. But, when the church elders started to notice that many of the youths attending were actually troubled, they felt it would make the church look bad and closed down the coffee house.

Gary 's calling in life was to help people, all people, with no judgment or thought of self. He carried this into his almost 30 year career in law enforcement. Gary devoted 21 of those years investigating the most sensitive of cases - crimes against children and sexual assault. Although this specialty assignment is associated with a high level of burn out, Gary excelled because he deeply cared abo ut protecting the victims and prosecuting the perpetrators of these crimes. He received many commendations over the course of his career, which is certainly a testament to the high standards he set for himself. But, his true legacy is all that he has done for others. To have known him is to have loved him, to have admired him, to have learned from him. This man will be deeply, deeply missed.

Gary is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Victoria Bolt; his sons, Gregory Galloway , Robert and Darr en Johnson from his first marriage; his parents, Leslie and Colleen Galloway ; his sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Dayton Rinard; his niece and great nephew, Kimberly and Mario Penaloza; and many, many more friends and relatives. Memorial services will be held at Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley on Saturday, December 1, 2007, 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Casa Pacifica, which provides shelter and programs for abused and neglected children.


Visit www.casapacif ica.org or mail your donation to: Casa Pacifica, 1722 South Lewis Rd., Camarillo, CA 93012.



We love you sweetheart!

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Marion Louise Bennett Behncke, BHS 1934

Marion Louise Behncke, BHS 1934

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Sunday, April 19, 2009
CA United States

MARION LOUISE BEHNCKE (BENNETT) 1916 - 2009

Marion Behncke passed away April 3, 2009 in Burbank, California. Born in Spokane, Washington, on December 23, 1916, Marion moved to Burbank in 1917 where she lived the rest of her 92 years. She married her husband, Rohland Behncke in 1937. They had two sons, Robert and Tom. Marion spent much of her time doing volunteer work for St. Finbar Catholic Church.

In 1964 she lost her husband at the young age of 49. Marion continued on, living life to its fullest extent, traveling with friends and spending time at her beloved place at the beach in LaConchita. She was a devoted Los Angeles Dodger fan, excelled at crossword puzzles and loved to read. She enjoyed playing cards and spent many evenings playing with dear friends and family.

Marion was a gentle soul, very much the lady, but she had a quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. Although Marion faced several tragedies throughout her long life, she lived her life with amazing strength, grace and humor and was an inspiration to everyone who met her.

She is preceded in death by her mother and father, Frank and Florence Bennett; her brothers, Bob Bennett and Paul Bennett; her husband, Rohland Behncke ; and her sons, Robert and Tom Behncke . She is survived by her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A special thank you to Tom and Annette Bennett, her loving nephew and niece who watched after their "auntie" with love and care. "Grandma, you are my role model and I hope that I can live my life with the same dignity and grace that you have shown. I love you and will miss you so much!"

A memorial service will be held at the San Fernando Mission Cemetery in Mission Hills on Friday, April 24th at 9:00am in the chapel with a graveside service following. A luncheon in Marion 's honor will be held afterwards the Coral Cafe in Burbank.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Glen Giles, BHS 1978

SUSPECT NABBED IN SLAYING OF BURBANK MAN - INVESTIGATION: MOTIVE FOR KILLING IS NOT YET DETERMINED.


Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Thursday, February 28, 2008
Author: Alex Dobuzinskis Staff Writer

BURBANK -- A day after a Burbank man was stabbed to death in the city's first homicide of the year, police Wednesday said they have a suspect in custody.

Glen Giles , 47, was found dead across the street from his home after making it to the porch of a neighbor's house where he had apparently gone to seek help, police said. Police late Wednesday would not release the name of the suspect, saying it might jeopardize their investigation. At this point, (investigators) just need to make sure that all the loose ends are tied up,'' said Sgt. Travis Irving, spokesman for the Burbank Police Department.

Investigators were still trying to determine the motive for the slaying, Irving said. His body was discovered 10 a.m. Tuesday in the 3000 block of Joaquin Drive, in a quiet hillside area of Burbank. Giles worked in business- to-business publishing, and news of his death spread quickly among colleagues. Many who knew Giles wondered how such a crime could have occurred to the 6-foot-4 former varsity basketball player.

``I just don't understand it,'' said Jim Kuchinsky, 55, president and CEO of Hallmark Data Systems, the company Giles worked for. ``He'd be the kind of guy who would swat someone (who attacked him) away pretty quick. I just don't understand it, and none of us can get over that part of it. How someone could do something like that is beyond me,'' he said.

Giles worked as director of new business development in a Burbank office for Illinois-based Hallmark Data. Christine Oldenbrook of San Pedro, who also works in publishing, knew Giles for 27 years. Oldenbrook said she last saw Giles a week ago when they were returning from a Miami business conference.

In January, Giles organized a youth basketball competition at an Elks Lodge. ``He was so proud of it,'' Oldenbrook said. ``He called me right afterwards and said he really felt like he was doing something he loved and was giving back.'' Giles was single, with two sisters and a mother, and he was close to his family, Oldenbrook said.

Police today expect to release the name of the man they arrested.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Frank Arnold Mullens Jr., BHS 1940


Frank Arnold Mullens Jr., BHS 1940

Paradise Post (CA) - Monday, March 15, 2010
Paradise CA United States

Frank Arnold Mullens, Jr. passed away on March 11, 2010 in Thousand Oaks, CA at the age of 88. Frank was born in Burbank, CA and graduated from Burbank High School . A longtime resident of Encino, CA, Frank and his wife, Violet, retired to Paradise in 1989 where they were members of Craig Memorial Congregational Church and the Paradise Lodge of the BPO Elks. They had recently returned to Southern California and were residing in Thousand Oaks.

Frank was an Eagle Scout and proudly served his country in the Air Force during WWII. In the late 1940's, Frank played semi-professional baseball for the Vancouver Capilanos. He joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1949 and retired as a lieutenant in 1978, at which time he joined the California State Bar and worked as an investigator until 1985. He played baseball for the LAPD until 1968 and competed in the LAPD Olympics. At the age of 46, Frank began running and competed in 10K runs and several marathons. In addition, he participated in three LAPD cross country goodwill relays during the 1970's.

In May 1977, Frank was awarded the Medal of Valor from the LAPD. Never forgetting his love for baseball, Frank coached Encino Little League. He also enjoyed working with his hands and was an avid woodworker throughout his life. He volunteered by building sets for the Encino Community Playhouse and Encino Elementary School.

After retirement, he turned beautiful bowls and created many works of art for family and friends. Frank is survived by his wife of 53 years, Violet; four children; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. A public visitation will be held at Newton-Bracewell Funeral Home at 7655 Skyway on Sunday, March 21, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Donations may be made in Frank's memory to the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Paradise Lodge #2026. You may share your thoughts online at nbcfh.com.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Mildred Ellen Jorgensen Toedter, BHS 1938

MILDRED TOEDTER, BHS 1938

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Tuesday, September 29, 2009
CA United States

MILDRED ELLEN TOEDTER (JORGENSEN) "MILLIE" Mildred passed away peacefully in her home after a courageous battle with bone cancer. Born in Derby, CT., she moved with her parents to California in 1922. Mildred lived in Burbank, CA with her parents, her sister "June" and her brother "Robert."

She graduated from Burbank High School in 1938 and attended Woodbury College. In 1947she married William Toedter and they had a loving 50-year marriage, with four children, Freya Toedter , Gary Toedter (wife Donna), Ellen DeRose, and Allen Toedter (wife Kirsten), and three grandchildren Zeke DeRose III (wife Melonie), Eric Toedter , and Jason Toedter .

Mildred will always be remembered with love not only by her family, but by her many devoted friends and "adopted daughters" who could always count on her for a word of wisdom or a heart-felt hug. She was above all the classiest of ladies. She will be sorely missed.

A memorial celebrating her life will be held October 3, 2009, at 11:00 a.m., at Sherman Oaks Lutheran Church. Donations can be made to the Breast Cancer Society or her favorite charity, the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Sunday, May 23, 2010

Ronald Lynn Oxley, BHS 1958

TRAINER OF FILM ANIMALS DIES AT 46

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Monday, December 30, 1985
Author: DAVID RUTHERFORD, Daily News Staff Writer

Ronald Oxley , who trained the black bear with the title role in "Gentle Ben" and dozens of other four-legged movie and television stars, has died of a heart attack. He was 46.

Oxley died in his sleep Dec. 22 at the Acton ranch where he had trained animals for their screen roles for more than 20 years, said Carol Riggins of Canyon Country, who took care of the lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, bears and wolves while he was away. "Ron's animals were really special," Riggins said. "You don't put animals like these in anyone's hands. He had some of the best-trained bears around and will be missed dearly," she said. Oxley specialized in training wild cats for filming.

His most prized animals, Riggins said, were Neil, the lion seen in the Dreyfus television commercials who died last year; and Bruno, the original Gentle Ben, who died four or five years ago, she added. His animals starred in television and motion pictures alike, including ''Cat People," "Ladyhawke," "Continental Divide," "Escape to Witch Mountain" and "Adventures of the Wilderness Family." In 1983, his lion Neil was the recipient of a Patsy award from the American Humane Society. The award is symbolic of outstanding performances by wild animals in film. The lion also was inducted into the society's Hall of Fame.

At the time of his death, there were about 15 animals at Oxley 's ranch as he worked on a new 20th Century-Fox movie called "Project X," which starred chimpanzees. Riggins said she would continue to care for the animals at the ranch. No arrangements for new homes for them had been made.

Oxley was born July 22, 1939, in Colorado. He was raised in Burbank and attended California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, where he studied behavioral sciences and played on the football team. His career with animals began after a two-year apprenticeship with a film editor, during which time he bottle-fed a Bengal tiger. In the early 1960s, Oxley combined his film-editing talents with his love for animals in the television series "Daktari." Much of his film work with animals required extensive travel, and his last film location work came in Italy as a coordinator for animal performances in the movie "Ladyhawke."

Oxley was single and "his only children were his animals," Riggins said. ''They meant everything to him." He leaves his parents, Lowell and Helen Oxley of Canoga Park, and two sisters, Sherry Bloom of Sun Valley and Jane Shafer of Irvine. Services for Oxley are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. today at Eternal Valley Cemetery in Newhall.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Gary George Pinnell, BHS 1965

Gary George Pinnell, BHS 1965

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Sunday, October 16, 2005
CA United States

GARY GARY GEORGE PINNELL Gary Pinnell passed away on October 8, 2005, at the age of 58. Gary graduated Burbank High School in 1965, and attended Valley College for three years before entering in to the United States Army in 1968. He served as a sergeant in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. He resided as a business owner in Riverside, California 15 years before returning to Burbank in 1988.

Gary is survived by his mother, Gladys Pinnell ; brother, Ken; Jeri Pinnell ; nephew, Jaime; and niece, Jennife r. A Memorial Service is planned for October 22, 2005, 11:00 a.m., at Valley Funeral Home, 2121 Burbank Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary 's name to the MS Society of Southern California, 2240 Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 115, Los Angeles, CA 90064 or (310) 479-4456.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Steven Daniel Seay, BHS 1971

Ventura County Star (CA) - Friday, March 21, 2008
Port Hueneme

Steven Daniel Seay, BHS 1971

Steven Daniel Seay , 56, passed away on March 14, 2008, in Ventura, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer (lymphoma).

Steve was born in Burbank, Calif., on Jan. 10, 1952, he graduated from Burbank High School and lived in the Burbank area while employed in commercial construction for more than 30 years prior to the start of his illness. He lived the past six years in Oxnard and Port Hueneme.

Steve was preceded in death by his sister Susan Seay; father, Albert Seay ; and uncle Ronald Wamhoff.

Steve is survived by a large and loving family, his mother Dolores Seay ; daughter, Stefanie Seay ; two grandsons, Kameran Seay and Micah Seay of Big Bear, Calif.; aunts and uncles, Phyllis and Bud Gerding of Port Hueneme, Joannie and Don Wamhoff of Lake Havasu, Ariz., Carol and Bill Rebber of Big Bear and Barbara Wamhoff of Coronado Island, Calif.; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Prior to Steve's illness, he was a very active man; he loved skiing, surfing and bicycle riding and was very proud of his Ducati Monster motorcycle.

Steve and his family wish to thank Dr. Evan D. Slater and his staff for the loving and kind care they provided during the time of his illness.

There will be a graveside service interment at 10 a.m. Monday, March 24, at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, Ventura.

The James A. Reardon-Payton Mortuary, Oxnard, has handled arrangements.

Please sign the guest book at obits.VenturaCountyStar.com

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Vonnie Olson Nienaber , BHS 1961

VONNIE OLSON NIENABER, BHS 1961 
Press Democrat, The (Santa Rosa, CA) - Wednesday, February 9, 2000 

Her first instrument was the piano, but when Vonnie Ponsford Nienaber first heard a jazz harpist perform at a hotel in San Francisco, it was love at first sound. Thus began a 26-year affair with the instrument, at first carried out during the quiet hours when her children were at school. But it quickly escalated into a duet that lasted the remainder of her life. 

Vonnie Olson Nienaber, a petite woman with a big instrument who became a familiar figure on the Sonoma County music scene playing weddings, parties, hotels and at the Santa Rosa Farmers Market, died Friday at her Santa Rosa home of cancer. She was 56. ``People would say how much she inspired them with her love of music, her smile and her spontaneity -- she loved to just take off on a trip to Europe or to visit friends,'' recalled her husband of eight years, Darryl Nienaber . ``She loved to do spontaneous things. She always realized the money is going to come.'' 

She was born in North Dakota and moved to California as a young girl, first to Fresno and then to Burbank. She could play piano before she could talk, and went on to study music and home economics at California State University at Fullerton. She moved as a young wife and mother to Sonoma County, and established herself playing organ in churches and playing and teaching piano. It was a friend who turned her on to the harp, taking her to hear a harpist in San Francisco. She immediately went out and bought a small Celtic harp. She practiced constantly for months, her husband said, mastering it enough to market herself as a wedding musician. She scraped together every penny she could to make a down payment on a custom-made $12,000 concert grand harp from Italy. She just barely met her financial goal to pay the final bill when it arrived eight months later. 

Over the years she played parties, weddings, hotels like the old El Rancho Tropicana and some special invitational performances in Europe and elsewhere. Her husband said she was driven first by her love of music, and second by her love of ``giving music to people.'' She also conducted some European tours, always orienting them to music, and for years played the Santa Rosa Farmer's Market, collecting tips and later selling CDs of her music. ``It wasn't a money-producing thing,'' her husband said. ``She liked it because of the people there, and the fresh fruit and the real fresh feel to the place.'' 

Three years ago, she was stricken with ovarian cancer. Opting for holistic treatment, she managed to go into remission several times. Her husband said people will remember ``her wonderful smile and her cheeriness.'' ``She always was positive, always optimistic and saw the best in everything. Her mouth was permanently curved into an upward smile. She tried to look angry at the kids sometimes but she couldn't really do it,'' he said. In life she loved to give back by playing at nursing homes and senior centers. Her family would like to carry on her work through Vonnie Productions, a project to keep in production her four CDs and provide them free of charge to patients in hospitals and nursing homes. 

Contributions may be made to the fund c/o Sonoma National Bank in Santa Rosa. Services already have been held. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons Paul Ponsford of Sioux City, N.D.; Russell Ponsford of Santa Rosa; Tory Ponsford of Santa Rosa and Ryan Ponsford of San Diego; four grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; her stepsons Mark Nienaber of Bellingham, Wash., and Darren Nienaber of Portland, Ore.; her sisters Valerie Smith of Moreno Valley and Vrenda Lee Kellems of Ashland, Ore.; and her parents Ralph and Dorothy Olson of Etna.

Charles St. Clair, BHS 1942

Charles David St. Clair, BHS 1942

Milpitas Post (CA) - Thursday, April 29, 2010
Author: Milpitas Post Staff

Former mayor

Charles Davis St. Clair was called home April 12, 2010 following a short illness. He is survived by his sons Jim, Gary, Rick and Mike St. Clair; and step-daughters Robin, Lori and Dawn. His wife Enid passed away a year ago. Mr. St. Clair was born in Cambridge, Ohio on Sept. 4 1922, the son of Scott H. St. Clair and Beatrice Anne Jenkins. His only sister, Elizabeth, died before he was born. His family moved to Burbank, Calif. in 1939. He played football at Burbank High School and graduated in 1942.

During World War II he served in a glider regiment in the 101st and 82nd Airborne from 1943 to 1945. He was a combat veteran of the Normandy campaign, St. Lo, Arnhem and the Battle of the Bulge. He was wounded in Holland and received the Purple Heart Medal. After the war he married Margery St. Clair in 1949. They divorced in 1973. He married Enid St. Clair in 1979.

Upon discharge from the Army, Mr. St. Clair attended the University of California at Santa Barbara and later graduated from El Camino College. He worked at Northrop Aviation in Southern California before taking a job at Lockheed Missiles and Space Division in Sunnyvale and moving to Milpitas in 1958. He worked at Lockheed for 20 years before retiring. Mr. St. Clair joined the Milpitas Planning Commission in 1962 and was elected to the Milpitas City Council in 1966. He served on the council for eight years, and was mayor from 1972 to 1974. He was instrumental in the development of Milpitas in its early days. He worked for and supported the Calaveras Boulevard widening/overpass project; he fought annexation by San Jose; and was a strong advocate of requiring commercial aviation altitude limits over Milpitas. He was also active in organizing and managing the Milpitas Avengers soccer team in 1967 and was involved in the Cub Scouts in the 1960s.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 4 at 4 p.m. at Lima Family Cedar Lawn, 48800 Warm Springs Blvd.

"Dad was no stranger to adversity but her persevered and managed to maintain an enthusiasm for life. While he never claimed perfection, he did take comfort in the redemption for our Lord Jesus Christ. He will be sadly missed."

Margaret G. Eichar Parks, BHS 1935

Margaret G. Eichar Parks, BHS 1935

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Friday, July 27, 2007

MARGARET G . PARKS Margaret was bo rn on October 6, 1917 in Burbank of a pioneering family. Years later, she would be honored by Woodbury University with their Founder's Day Heritage Award for her family's history in this city.

After graduation from Burbank High School, Margaret married Earl Parks , a loving union that would last 62 years. They resided in Burbank where Margaret lived until her death on July 13, 2007. Margaret was an involved member of her community, belonging to the First Congregational Church and more recently Firs t United Methodist Church of Burbank. Margaret was a charter member of Job's Daughters Bethel #97, the Letter Carriers Auxiliary, Friends of the Library and Burbank Historical Society. She was a beloved Sunday school teacher and Girl Scout leader.

Margaret was known for her good cooking and homemade cookies. Along with her husband, they were honored as Outstanding Burbank Couple by the Women's Council of Burbank. Margaret worked as a buyer/clerk for Arnold's Department Store, and 30 years after retirin g , people still tell her they remember her from Arnold's. The family would like to thank Romana "Mercy" Ortega for her years of loving care of Margaret.

Margaret is survived by her daughters, Marsha Bell and Bonnie Becken; two grandchildren and two great grandsons; and her brother, Dale Eichar. A Memorial Service will be held for Margaret on Wednesday, August 8, 2007, 10:00 a.m., at First United Methodist Church, 700 N. Glenoaks Blvd., Burbank. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Charles J .Van De Rostyne, BHS 77

Charles J . Van De Rostyne, BHS 1977

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Wednesday, December 5, 2007
CA United States

CHARLES J. VAN DE ROSTYNE Age 48, of Nevada City, California; passed away November 26, 2007. Charles was born in Glendale, California, on July 11, 1959. He attended the Burbank Schools of Emerson Elementary, John Muir Junior High and Burbank High, where he graduated in 1977.

Charles was an avid sports fan and began playing sports at the age of five in the Pee Wee division. He traveled extensively, assembling displays at convention centers all of the United States.

He leaves his wife of 27 years, Tari; his son, Bryan (25) of Sacramento, California; his mother and father, Cotton and Robert of Burbank, California; and h is brother, Steven of Chatsworth, California. Charles was known for his friendly and outgoing personality and was admired by all who knew him. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Services were held November 29, 2007, in Nevada City, California, where he resided for 21 years. Funerary arrangements were conducted by Hooper Weaver. Charles was a devoted husband, father and son. He will be missed.

Duane Evan Erickson, BHS 1952

Duane Evan Erickson, BHS 1952
San Gabriel Valley Tribune (West Covina, CA) - Sunday, February 4, 2007
CA United States

ERICKSON - Duane Evan Erickson , Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, went home to the lord on January 26, 2007. Duane was born on June 17th, 1933, in Rockwell City, Iowa. After his family settled in California, he graduated from Burbank High School in 1952. He was a tremendous baseball player who signed a minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox, until he was injured and forced to leave the game.

In October of 1953, he met the love of his life, Ann Obrymski. They were married on July 9th, 1955. They resided in the San Gabriel Valley for 30 years. He was a registered parishioner at St. Martha's Catholic Church in La Puente and later at St. Elizabeth Anne Seton in Rowland Heights.

He was employed at Lyon Metal Products, in the City Of Industry and was a player/manager on their semi-pro baseball team. In the early 1960's, he was, also, a player/manager for the San Gabriel Valley Merchants. Later, he spent many years in the plastics packaging business as a General Manager. He and his wife, Ann, moved to Rialto in 1988 and have been registered parishioners of Blessed John XXIII (formerly St. Thomas Moore) for the past 19 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Darwin and Alberta Erickson and younger brother, Ronald Erickson . Duane is survived by his wife Ann Lorraine Erickson . Three children: Richard Paul Erickson of Grand Terrace, Kyle Ann and her husband Donald Bongioro of Rowland Heights and Michael Duane and his wife Elvia Erickson . Seven grand children: Brittany Erickson of Diamond Bar, Heather (nee Bongiorno) Goodman of Eden, Wy., Andrea Bongiorno of Rowland Heights, Michael Bongiorno of La Habra, Adam Erickson (U.S. Army - El Paso TX.), Timothy Erickson ( U.S. Navy - San Diego) and Evan Erickson of Rialto. Eleven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, February 7, 2007, at: Blessed John XXIII Catholic Church - 222 E. Easton St., Rialto - Rosary at 10:00 AM and Mass at 11:00 AM In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that all donations be made to the Odyssey Foundation - 225 W. Hos pitality Lane, Suite 102, San Bernardino, Ca. 92408.

Lon Milton Swenson, BHS 1947

Ventura County Star (CA) - Thursday, March 22, 2001
Bass Lake Calif.

Lon Milton Swenson, BHS 1947

Lon Milton Swenson of Bass Lake went to be with the Lord on March 18 2001. Lon was 72 years young when he succumbed to cancer.

Born in Salt Lake City Utah on July 6 1928 to Sten H. and Signe Swenson he was the youngest of nine children. Lon grew up in Burbank graduated from Burbank High School and attended Glendale College. He served in the Army with the rank of sergeant during the Korean War. He was retired from the Los Angeles Fire Department. Lon lived in North Hollywood from 1953 to 1959 then lived in Simi Valley from 1959 to 1978. Lon was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He was preceded in death by his son Craig Swenson .

He is survived by his wife of 11 years Jo-Lynne; son and daughter-in-law Danny and Kathy Swenson of Camarillo; daughter and son-in-law Sheri and Mark Reeske of Camarillo; son Scott Swenson of Simi Valley; daughter Lonna Swenson Murtaza of Simi Valley; son Stephen Swenson of Utah; stepmother Ingrid Swenson of Utah; sister Lola McCrossen of Victorville; 14 grandchildren; and several nephews and nieces.

Viewing will be at 1 p.m. with funeral services at 2 p.m. Thursday March 22 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 49967 Road 427 Oakhurst CA 93644. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday March 26 for family and close friends at Oakwood Memorial Park 22601 Lassen St. Chatsworth.

In lieu of flowers Lon requested that contributions be made to the Widows Orphans Disabled Firemen's Fund 2900 W. Temple St. Los Angeles CA 90026; phone (800) 244-3439.

Kathryn Schmidt Sanfilippo, BHS 1964

Kathryn Schmidt Sanfilippo, BHS 1964

Kathryn Schmidt Sanfilippo , 59, of Canyon Country passed away at home Saturday, March 11, 2006 after an 11 month heroic battle with Pancreatic Cancer. She was born November 3, 1946 in Los Angeles the daughter of the late Frank Schmidt and Ann Chrapek Schmidt.

Kathryn was a 1964 graduate of Burbank High School. She was on leave from HR Textron in Valencia as an Administrative Secretary at the time of her death.

She is survived by her husband, Joe, whom she married in 1964; a son, Joe of San Jose; a daughter, Christie Neil of San Diego; grandchildren, Jenna and Jack Sanfilippo , Jimmy and Ashley Neil; mother, Ann Schmidt and sister, Cyndi Perkins of Newhall, and brother, Larry Schmidt, of Las Vegas.

Kathryn will be cremated and a mass will be celebrated at St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Canyon Country by Msgr. Edmond M. Renehan at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, March 18, 2006.

Her family wrote, "She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was fond of hosting holiday get-togethers and preparing holiday feasts. She would spend endless hours playing with her grandchildren and remark that they wear her out but would beg for more time with them."

The Signal, Santa Clarita, March 17, 2006

John Magee Scribner, BHS 1927

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Thursday, March 20, 2008
CA United States

JOHN MAGEE SCRIBNER Born February 21, 1909, and a resident of Burbank since he was 4 years old. . Went to be with the Lord March 12, 2008. He was 99. He is survived by his loving wife, Kay; daughter, Gail (Tom) Carr; three grandsons and wives, ten great grandchildren, two sisters and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2008, 11:00 a.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of Burbank, 521 E. Olive Avenue, Burbank. VALLEY FUNERAL HOME Burbank (818) 845-3766

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Jeffrey A. Giddens, BHS 1985

Jeffrey Giddens, BHS 1985

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Thursday, November 15, 2007
CA United States

JEFFREY A. GIDDENS Passed away Thursday, November 8, 2007 in St. Joseph Hospital, Burbank at age 40 years. He was born May 19, 1967 in Burbank where he lived, attended schools and graduated from Burbank High School .


Among his degrees and certificates; auto mechanics from Cerritos College, Computer Aided Design from Pasadena City College, EMT and Electrical. In recent years, Jeff has been General Manager for his family business of Giddens Electric in Burbank. His favorite hobbies were boating and fi shing, motor-home camping with his family and friends, jet cars and dune bugging.

He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Wanda; daughter, Lena (11); son Bailey (7); parents, Al and Jackie Giddens; brother, Bill Giddens; uncles, aunts, cousins, grandparents, his in-law family, and many, many friends. He will be greatly missed.

The viewing will be at Valhalla Memorial Park, 10621 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91606; Friday, November 16, 2007, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The service will be at Trini ty Foursquare Church, 3440 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91505; Saturday, November 17, 2007, 11:00 a.m.


Memorial Fund contributions can be made for the Giddens Family at Burbank Community Federal Credit Union, 3000 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91505. Phone Number: (818) 238-2900.

Terry Volland, BHS 1980

From the Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Saturday, October 13, 2007

TERRY VOLLAND, BHS 1980

Terry died suddenly on Saturday, October 6, 2007. He was born on October 16, 1961 in Crookston, Minnesota, and moved to Burbank with his family in 1966. He was preceded in death by his brother, Scott. Terry is survived by his children, Matthew and Krysta, and their mother Cindy; his father, Loren; his mother, Jan; and brother, Michael.

Terry grew up in Burbank, graduating from Burbank High School in 1980. He and Cindy Clark, also a graduate of Burbank High School, were married on May 16, 1992, and were blessed with two wonderful children. He was active in many sports, with a particular love of surfing, golfing and motorcycle riding. He was employed as a union plumber for many years, and most recently in the construction field. Terry had a knack for being able to build or fix just about anything, and his innovative ideas w ere much appreciated by everyone. Terry enjoyed the camaraderie of many friends and was loved by all. He will be sorely missed.

A Memorial Service will be held at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 133 N. Fifth Street in Burbank, on Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to an account established for the benefit of Matthew and Krysta. The account, which is in their names, is at the Burbank Community Federal Credit Union, 3000 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, 91505.

NOTE: Cause of death Asphyxia/Drowned/Accident according to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner.

Helen Gonzales-Hosea, BHS 1979

From the Burbank Leader, August 3-4, 2002

Helen Gonzales-Hosea, BHS 1979

Helen Gonzales-Hosea, 41, died July 23, 2002, in Los Angeles. She was born in Glendale and lived in Burbank most of her life. She was a graduate of Burbank High School and a loans and funding operations mamager for the Burbank City Employees Federal Credit Union.

Mrs. Gonzales-Hosea is survived by her two sons, Christopher and Charles; and her brother Raymond J. Gonzales. Funeral services were Friday at the Little White Chapel Church, 1711 N. Avon Street. Memorial contributions for her children can be made to Burbank EmployeesFederal Credit Union, 1800 W. Magnolia Blvd.

Note: I was told Helen died in a auto accident.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Gary Henry Rizzo, BHS 1968

From the Los Angeles Daily News, April 7, 2007

Gary Henry Rizzo was born November 29, 1950 and passed away on Saturday March 31, 2007 at a young age of 56. Gary is survived by his wife, Christine Rizzo; two sons, Joe and Tony Rizzo; his mother, Irene Rizzo; one brother, Richard Rizzo; one sister, Karen Manalia.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, April 8, 2007 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at Gates, Kingsley & Gates Praiswater Mortuary, Canoga Park, CA 91303. Funeral services and burial will be held on Monday, April 9, 2007 at 10:00 am at Oakwood Memorial Park's Chapel of the Oaks, Chatsworth, CA 91311. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Karen Manalia for a trust for Gary's sons, Joe and Tony. Address: 2848 Alabama Street, La Crescenta, CA 91214.

Lee Serkin, BHS 1959

From Modesto Bee, Friday, August 9, 1963

Sonora - Lee Serkin, 22, of Sonora was killed this morning in a wood operation of the Pickering Lumber Corporation at Camp Curry near Beaver Creek, eight miles east of Camp Connell in Calaveras County.

He was the son of Mrs. Phyllis Limecooley and the brother of Paul Serkin of Sonora. Details of the mishap were not available. Serkin had been employed with Pickering since July 25th.

From Modesto Bee, Tuesday, August 13, 1963

Sonora - Funeral services for Lee Serkin, 22, of Sonora, who died Friday in a lumber camp accident, will be at 10:30 am tomorrow in the Terzich and Wilson Funeral Home. The Rev. Charles Edwards of Twain Harte will officiate. Burial will be in Mt. Shadow Cemetery.

John F. Nare, BHS 1944

John F. Nare, BHS 1944

John F. Nare died August 24, 2004, in Burbank. He was 78. He was born August 13, 1925in Burbank, and was a lifelong resident.

He served as battalion chief in the Burbank Fire Department, retiring in 1980 after 31 years of service. He also served in the United States Navy during World War II.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly; sons, Thomas, John, Ted and Tim; brother, Phil Nare; ten grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Monday at Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service, 333 E. Magnolia Blvd. Services and interment will be private.

Pat L. Watson Kubelka, BHS 1937

Pat L. Kubelka, 85, died May 9, 2004 in Van Nuys. She was born September 2, 1918, in Ventura, California. She lived in Burbank for 80 years.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Sr.: sons, Robert Jr. and Michael; brother, Howard Watson; sister, Norma Jones; and grandson, Derek Kubelka.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 pm Sunday at the Valley Funeral Home, 2121 W. Burbank Blvd. A Mass of Christian burial will be at noon Monday at Holy Family Catholic Church, Glendale. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale.

Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to any AIDS hospice.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Dana Paul Casagrande, BHS 1999

From Burbank Leader, January 2008

Dana Paul Casagrande passed away in a tragic car accident Friday, January 4, 2008.

Born April 17, 1981, Dana is the beloved son of Mark and Deborah Casagrande and brother to Leif. He was a graduate of Burbank High School, class of 1999, attended Pasadena City College, worked for NBC News as a courier and in 2006 graduated from Maric College as an X-Ray Technician and Medical Assistant. His love of nature and music, athleticism, and natural empathy drew people to him and made him a shining inspiration to all.

Services will be held at 1:00 PM Thursday, January 17th at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 542 North Buens Vista, Burbank.

Patricia Schillinglaw-Seltzer, BHS 1981

Patricia Schillinglaw-Seltzer, BHS 1981

Patricia Schillinglaw-Seltzer was born in Burbank, California on November 30, 1963 and passed away on April 6, 2002 in Los Angeles, California. She was 38. Patricia was born and raised in Burbank and graduated from Burbank High School in 1981. She most enjoyed raising her son and her work in the clothing industry. 

Patricia is survived by her loving husband Melvin Seltzer, wonderful son Patrick Michael, mother Mary E. Schillinglaw, father Andrew Schillinglaw, brothers Andy and Wade, sister Liz and many nephews and nieces. 

Such a great loss for all. She will truly be missed. A tribute was held April 10, 2002 in Pacific Palisades, California.

Harold LeRoy Wessel, BHS 1955

Harold LeRoy Wessel, BHS 1955

Harold LeRoy "Lee" Wessel, 56, died November 10, 1993 in a Glendale hospital. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, he was a longtime Burbank resident and most recently lived in Sun Valley. 

Mr. Wessel was the president of Wessel Air Conditioning and Heating Company. He was also a member of the Burbank Kiwanis Club. 

He is survived by two sons, Douglas of Burbank and Ryan Wessel-Frisbie of San Antonio, Texas: two daughters, Susan Fekety of Burbank and Jill Benz of Santa Clarita: his parents Ray and Wilma Wessel of Camarillo: his fiance, Mary Ann Hanely of La Cresenta: two brothers, Larry of Yorba Linda and Bill of Naperville, Illinois: and six grandchildren. 

Visitation will be from 1-4 pm on Sunday at Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Monday at Church of the Reccessional at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale, California.

Glenn Tipps, BHS 1925

Glenn Tipps, BHS 1925

From the Burbank Review, Monday, August 24, 1942

The passing of a Burbank High School graduate, class of 1925, is being mourned by friends and relatives today. Thirty-five-year-old Glenn Tipps of Monrovia passed away yesterday at the home of his sister, Mrs. Herman Nelson, 532 S. Mariposa Street.

An accomplished pianist, Tipps was well-known to Burbank dancers. He played over local radio stations as well as making extensive appearances with orchestras in the southern states.

Tipps was born in Durham, Oklahoma. He leaves his widow, Mrs. Blanche Tipps of Monrovia, and his mother, Mrs. Lucy Flora of Altadena. Tipps also leaves three sisters, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Edith Wilcoxson of North Hollywood and Mrs. Cleo Barton of Texas. One brother, Otis Tipps, lives at 321 N. Fred

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 pm Wednesday at the W.B. Temple Mortuary in Monrovia.

Lynn Denise Eklof Carey, BHS 1967

Lynn Denise Carey was born on November 2, 1949 in Illinois. She entered into rest on September 27, 2007.

She is survived by her loving parents, Lars Gunnar Eklof and Dolores Eklof, of Oceanside, California, and a host of relatives and friends. Lynn will be truly missed...

A service will be held on Thursday, October 4, 2007 at 1:00 pm at Eternal Hills Memorial Chapel in Oceanside. Ms. Carey's final resting place will be Eternal Hills Memorial Park in Oceanside, California. Arrangements are under the direction of Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary and Crematory in Oceanside, California.

Dennis Keith Sabin, BHS 1970

Dennis K. Sabin, age 54 died unexpectedly in his sleep on January 1, 2007 at his home in Portland. Dennis had been in Portland since 2005 and was the general manager of Portland Memorial Funeral Home and Mausoleum and a member of the Cemetery Association of Oregon. In September 2006 Dennis was elected Vice President of the Cemetery Association of Oregon.

Dennis was born in Glendale, California May 29, 1952. He married his loving wife, Judi in 1974. He was a graduate of the California College of Mortuary Science in Los Angeles.

In addition to his spouse, Judi, Dennis is survived by two sons, Matthew and Michael, his mother Helen Sabin and brother Norman. Dennis was looking forward to becoming a proud grandfather in March 2007.Services were held Saturday, January 6, 2007 at Portland Memorial and was laid to rest January 10, 2007 at Menifee Valley Memorial Park in Sun City, California.

Joshua Daniel Nesbitt, BHS 2006


Former Burbank High football player, 21, is remembered for leadership.

Joshua Daniel Nesbitt, remembered by family and coaches as a warm-hearted man who harnessed his popularity as a high school football standout to shepherd young teammates to church, shot himself to death Wednesday at the Firing-Line indoor shooting range. He was 21.

As a senior at Burbank High School, Nesbitt served as a team captain, earning first-team All-Foothill League and All-Area honors at linebacker. He later participated in the East-West All-Star game at Birmingham High, intercepting a pass and returning it 29 yards for a touchdown.

The Frederick, Maryland, native graduated from Burbank High in 2006 before going on to a successful freshman season at Glendale Community College, starting every game for the 9-2 Vaqueros and racking up 22 solo tackles and 48 assists to earn All-Western State Conference Southern Division second-team honors on defense. His team went on to win the Western State Bowl against Santa Ana College.

“He just had so much passion to play the game,” said Glendale Coach John Rome, who recruited Nesbitt as an assistant. “I just feel blessed we were able to have him in our program. ”But deep bouts of depression came in May. In July, he was diagnosed with Schizoaffective disorder, a mental condition that causes a loss of contact with reality and mood problems, his dad, Craig Nesbitt said. He spent time in a mental hospital, where the family believes he was overmedicated, he added.

“[Josh] was in misery as a result of the medication,” he said. But this week his family began to see signs of “the old Josh.” While out Thursday with his mother, he requested they visit the gun range for target practice, said Noelle Nesbitt, his sister. “The next thing you know, Mom saw him drop to the ground,” she said. He died at the scene, authorities said.

Despite taking requisite safety precautions, the range has had a deadly history. A 64-year-old Burbank man in June shot himself to death at the firing range. And last year, a 25-year-old Glendale man used a rented handgun to kill himself at the same site.

Nesbitt is survived by his father, Craig; mother, Michele; brothers Nathan, Justin, Troy and Craig Jr.; and sister, Noelle. He also had a step-mother, Yvonne Nesbitt; and four step-siblings, Ryan Burger, Casie Burger, Whitney Burger and Erick Burger.

A public viewing is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Sunday, with the service to follow at 5 p.m. at Media City Church, 269 E. Providencia Ave. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations for the service be sent between 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday by calling (323) 769-7372. Or contact Media City Church at (818) 842-2186.


This is from a Florida Newspaper:

Joshua D. Nesbitt -Burbank, CA - Joshua Daniel Nesbitt a former Satellite Beach H.S. football stand out passed away suddenly Wednesday, November 4, 2009 in Burbank CA. Joshua was born March 8, 1988 in Frederick MD. He was also a scholar athlete and all- star football player at Burbank High School and Glendale Community College. He was known as a warm hearted young man who harnessed his popularity as a high school football MVP to shepherd young team mates to church. He is survived by his father, Craig; mother, Michele; stepmother, Yvonne; brothers, Nathan, Justin, Troy, Craig Jr.; his sister, Noelle; four step-siblings Ryan, Casie, Whitney, and Erick Burger; grandparents, Joyce and Bill Blentlinger, eight uncles, seven aunts, 25 cousins, and many loving friends. In addition to a memorial service which took place on Sunday, November 9th there will be a graveside service Tuesday at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, CA. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations for the service be sent to Forrest Lawn Hollywood Hills by calling 323-769- 7372 or Media City Church at 818-842-2186

James Francis Day II, BHS 1941

Lake Almanor basin resident James Francis Day II passed from this life peacefully, with his wife at his side at his residence in Chester, from a recently diagnosed heart condition on Wednesday morning, Feb. 11, 2009. Born 84 years ago in Chicago, Ill. to the late Leo and Marie (LaDue) Day on March 6, 1924, he and his family moved west when he was two to settle in Southern California.

Jim was educated in Southern California where he graduated from Burbank High School as a member of the Class of 1941.Shortly following his graduation he was inducted in to the armed forces where Sgt. James Francis Day II served his country honorably as a member of the Army Air Corps in the Pacific Theater as an aircraft mechanic. He was awarded two bronze stars for his valor.Upon Jim's discharge he returned to school where he graduated from the University of Southern California with a BA in accounting.

While attending college he met a pretty young coed named Mary L. Schwab and as their love for one another blossomed, they were united in matrimony on June 14, 1952, in Sherman Oaks. To this union one son and four daughters were born.

As a CPA for over 23 years, Jim went to work for an accounting firm out of college before entering practice for himself in 1963. He retired due to health concerns in 1985.Jim and his wife purchased a home on the Lake Almanor Peninsula in 1983, later moving to Chester. Prior to residing in the Lake Almanor Basin, Jim and his wife had been longtime San Diego residents.Jim enjoyed working with wood as well as collecting stamps and coins.

In passing Jim leaves his loving wife of over 56 years, Mary of Chester; son, James III of Chester; daughters, Mary Gronholt and husband John of Anacortes, Wash., Debra Day and husband Neil White of San Diego, and Teresa Miucci and husband Luigi of San Diego along with his grandchildren, Jennifer and Sean Gronholt and Kathleen Miucci.A Roman Catholic graveside blessing service, along with Military Honors, was held in the Chester District Cemetery Monday, Feb. 16.

Boyce Drusen, BHS 1939

The Register-Guard, Eugene, OR
May 15, 2002

Boyce Drusen - BHS 1939

A memorial service will be held May 18 for Boyce R. "Bud" Drusen of Eugene, who died May 8, 2002 of age-related causes. He was 82. Drusen was born Jan. 18, 1920, in Racine, Wis., to William and Anna Arbogast Drusen. He lived in Racine until 1937, then moved to Burbank, Calif. During World War II, he served in the Army as a rifleman. Drusen moved to Glendale, Calif., in 1944. He married Diana Musgrove in Pasadena, Calif., on Nov. 15, 1967. The couple moved to Eugene in 1979. Drusen worked as an electrician for 53 years. Before retiring, he worked 12 years as an electrician for the Eugene School District.

His interests included his church, gardening and spending time at the beach. He was a member and priest in the New Apostolic Church. Drusen also belonged to the International Brotherhood of Electorical Workers and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Larry of Dayton, Ohio; two daughters, Linda Komula of Veneta and Linda Alldridge of Eugene; two brothers, Bill of Mesa, Ariz., and Val of Las Vegas; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Saturday's service will be at noon at the New Apostolic Church, 1345 W. 16th Ave. in Eugene. Chapel of Memories Funeral Home in Eugene is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the New Apostolic Church.