Monday, December 22, 2014

Robert W. Swaisgood, BHS 1963

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on Dec. 17, 2014 ------- Robert W. Swaisgood passed away suddenly at the age of 70 on November 16, 2014 in the City of Santa Clarita, CA. Born in Los Angeles, he grew up in Burbank with his parents (Ruth and George) and older siblings, Ron and Joyce. After graduating from Burbank High School he joined the Naval Reserve and was assigned to the United States Naval Battalion or Seabees at Port Hueneme. On Memorial Day 1965 he was asked to play TAPS for Admiral John Ford and Captain John Wayne. He was honorably discharged after serving two tours of duty in Viet Nam He met and married his former wife Cindy at Los Angeles Valley College. During this time he settled in the San Fernando Valley, where his only child, Garrett was born. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of La Verne while working for the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power. He retired from the DWP as the Chief Electrical Service Representative, Power System Engineering. He was a Boy Scout Leader, a Saugus High School Cross Country/Track Booster Parent and drove a NASCAR at the Irwindale Race Track. He was proud to have Native American Osage ancestry. His greatest joy came from spending time with family, friends and especially babysitting his grandchildren. He is survived by his sone Garrett and Garrett's wife Melinda of Castaic, CA. Three grandchildren: Danielle, Connor and Wyatt. A brother Ron of Gig Harbor, WA., step-sister, Maria Smith, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, in-laws and his former wife Cindy. A Military Service with interment was conducted at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, Los Angeles, CA on December 9, 2014.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

David Thomas May, BHS 1954

David Thomas May, BHS 1954
August 18, 1936 - November 20, 2008

David Thomas (Tom) May was born August 18, 1936 in, Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph D. May and Gwin Sidebotham May. He passed away at the age of 72 on November 20, 2008, in Sequim, Washington.

A celbration of Life will be held on July 26, 2009. Tom graduated from Burbank High School in California. He graduated from Glendale Junior College in August, 1956. Tom received a B.A. in Political Science at Long Beach State in California. He was a class of 1983 graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C.

In October 1956, Tom entered flight training at NAS Pensacola, Florida, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps and designated as a Navy Aviator in April 1958. In 1963, after completing an inter-service transfer to the Navy, Tom returned to active duty and was assigned as a flight instructor with HT-8. Since that time, he was assigned to HS-6, deployed aboard the USS Kearsarge for two tours in Southeast Asia, conducting ASW and combat search and rescue operations. In June 1970, he was assigned as the first officer-in-charge of HS-84. In November 1973. he was transferred to the Chief of Naval Reserve staff in New Orleans, where he served first as the Inspector General and later as the Helicopter Flight Programs Officer. He then served as Executive Officer of HS-84 from December 1976 to December 1977, and as the commanding officer of the squadron from December 1977 until June 1979. In August, 1983, he assumed command of the Naval Air Station, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. He was then reassigned to serve as the Deputy Commander of the Naval Reserve Readiness Command, Region 20, in San Francisco, California, where he later retired in 1989. During his time in the military, Capt. D.T. May was awarded eleven medals.

Tom married Patricia A. Bryan on June 16, 1973, in Imperial Beach, California. Tom and his wife, Patricia, retired in Sequim in 1989, where they built their home on Lost Mountain. He worked for the Sequim post office part-time as a rural route carrier. His hobbies were running marathons, flying planes and helicopters, camping, scuba diving, fishing, hiking and traveling, and he was also an avid reader.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Patricia A. May, who resides in Sequim; daughter, Joanie May, and son-in-law, Paul Kneuer, who also reside in Sequim; daughter, Delana Guzenski, of Alden, Pennsylvania; son aqnd daughter-in-law, Jon and Mamie May, of Mill Creek, Washington; son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Kelly May, of La Quinta, California; daughter and son-in-law, Rusti and Wayne Clark, of Port Angeles; sister and brother-in-law, Judy and John Sisk, of Palo Alto, California; 12 grandchilden and two great-grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and his youngest son, Daniel.

We wish to thank Olympic Medical Center, the Olympic Medical Cancer Center, Dr. Thomas Kummet and his wonderful staff, and Assured Hospice for their loving care during his last days. We will miss his humor, storytelling, dry wit and, most of all, the love he had to give to his family and friends.

Saturday, December 13, 2014

David Lance Freemon, BHS 1974

David Lance Freemon, BHS 1974____ Man dies of injuries suffered in 12-foot leap escaping fire____ Forth Worth-Star Telegram, Thursday, November 23, 1996 - Richland Hills, TX - A 39-year-old Richland Hills electronics technician died Tuesday after suffering injuries from jumping 12 feet from a second-story window to escape a fire early Saturday. David L. Freemon died at North Hills Hospital in North Richland Hills from internal injuries, officials said. Freemon jumped from his apartment at 6637 Bridges Ave, after it caught fire about 2:45 a.m. Saturday, fire officials said. "It is really out of the norm," Richland Hills Fire Chief Greg Tucker said. "Our investigators were talking with the man the day after the fire. He was in some pain, but it didn't seem like the injuries were that serious." Tarrant County medical examiners said Freemon died as a result of lung injuries related to multiple broken ribs. Tucker said the window was 12 feet above the ground at the spot where fire fighters found Freemon. Dispatchers for the Fire Department received the first call on the fire about 2:48 a.m., Tucker said. Three engines arrived at the scene at 2:50 a.m. and found Freemon at 2:55 a.m. "Firefighters searched the building, and everything looked OK." Tucker said. "They discovered a victim outside between the buildings." A neighbor heard shattering glass, caused by Freemon's escape, and called 911, according to reports. A North Richland Hills ambulance crew started treating Freemon at 3 a.m., Tucker said. The fire remains under investigation, but Tucker said it may have been caused by a burning cigarette. Firefighters from Richland Hills, North Richland Hills and Haltom City responded to the blaze, which was contained to one apartment.

Monday, December 8, 2014

John William Baxter, BHS 1975

The Bakersfield Californian, Sunday, June 30, 1974, MOTHER, 5 KIDS DIE IN CRASH, Bishop, CA- A Burbank, woman, her five children and a neighbor were killed Saturday in a fiery crash on US 395 when a semi-trailer broke loose from its hitch and slammed into a pick-up truck carrying the seven persons, the Highway Patrol said. Patricia Baxter, 42, a neighbor, Harold L. Culler, 60, also of Burbank, and Mrs. Baxter's five Children were killed instantly in the crash about 13 miles north of here, the CHP said. The seven were reportedly traveling to Carson City, NV, to visit relatives. The five children were identified as John, 16, Tina, 14, Michel, 12, Patricia, 10, and Tanya, 7. The driver of the semi-truck, Francisco G. Flores, 25, of Lake View Terrace, was treated for minor injuries officials said.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BURBANK MOTHER, 5 CHILDREN DIE IN FIERY HIGHWAY CRASH, Burbank Daily Review, June 29, 1974. A Burbank woman and her five children were killed Friday in a fiery traffic accident near Bishop, California. Dead are, Mrs. Patricia L. Baxter, 42, of North Frederic Street, and her children, John, 17, Tina, 15, Michelle, 12, Patricia, 10 and Tanya, 8. Burbank police investigator Jeff Pratt, who was asked by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department to notify the children's father of the accident, said a logging truck apparently went out of control and hit the camper the vacationing family was riding in. The camper burst into flames. All the victims, Pratt said, were apparently burned beyond recognition. But investigators were able to identify them through other information. The father, Bill Baxter, also of Burbank has been divorced from the children's mother. No arrangements have been made yet for services. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Los Angeles Times, July 2, 1974, Patricia Lee Baxter, services for Patricia Lee Baxter and her 5 children, John William, Tina Lee, Michelle Jean, Patricia Kathleen and Tanya Lee. Beloved mother of Richard Baxter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Della Porta, sister of Mrs. Janet Diltz, Mrs. Jackie Mathers and John Della Porta, Jr. Recitation of the Rosary, 7:30 pm Tuesday and Funeral Mass 10:am, Wednesday both at St. Finbar Catholic Church, 2010 West Olive, Burbank, CA.. Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: From the Burbank High 1974 yearbook - John Baxter, had finished his junior year at Burbank High where he lettered in JV football and twice in JV baseball. He was a warm and sincere person whose good nature and unselfishness made him an outstanding complement to our teams and to the school community.

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Genevieve Cowden Sultenfuss, BHS 1928

Longtime Glendale resident Genevieve Sultenfuss, who achieved several firsts for women in realty and community leadership, died on Sunday. She was 104. Her legacy included serving as the first female president of both the Glendale Assn. of Realtors and later the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. "Genevieve was a kind soul, she was a wonderful role model, and a beautiful spirit," said Councilwoman Paula Devine during Tuesday's City Council meeting. "She touched a lot of lives in her 104 years. She will not be forgotten." Sultenfuss was born on Aug. 12, 1910, in Colorado. She moved with her family to Burbank in 1923 and graduated from Burbank High School. She worked as a legal secretary for 10 years before moving onto a career selling homes in Glendale. In 1955, she opened her own realty firm, Glendale Properties Inc., and worked in real estate for 30 years before retiring. She was president of the Realtor association in 1968 and recalled in a 2005 interview with the News-Press what it was like to be in that kind of role while she was surrounded predominantly by men. "I just worked and worked and when people asked me to do something, I didn't know how to say 'no,'" Sultenfuss said. "I took it very slowly at first and didn't want to try and dictate to all these men what to do." She was also named Realtor of the Year by the association in 1972. Rick Barnes, the association's current president, said he first met Sultenfuss in 1976 and referred to her as a "stateswoman" for her decades of community involvement. "For me, she was the standard of excellence as a leader," he said in a phone interview. "She had a code of excellence and she lived it." Sultenfuss also won the Woman of Achievement award in 1977, bestowed by the News-Press. She was named president of the chamber of commerce that year and was a past president of Soroptomist International of Glendale, a volunteer organization for business and professional women, which she joined in 1961 and was a member of for 50 years. Sultenfuss was also the first woman to earn the Glendale Bar Assn.'s Liberty Bell Award. A big party in 2010 honoring Sultenfuss' 100th birthday was held at the local Elk's Lodge with more than 250 close friends and family in attendance. The City Council adjourned in her memory on Tuesday. As a past chair of the city's Commission on the Status of Women, Devine said she once named Sultenfuss as the chair's Jewel in honor of her life's work. During the council meeting, Devine fondly recalled another milestone for women Sultenfuss accomplished — being the first female member of the all-male Verdugo Club. "She felt that there would be some concern if she let people know, so every time she went to a meeting, she would take a male guest so that everyone would think he was the member and she was the guest," Devine said. "That was her sense of humor." Funeral arrangements are still pending and Sultenfuss' family members are encouraging donations be made in her honor to Soroptomist International of Glendale.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Jane Lorene Lively Teague, BHS 1936

JANE LORENE LIVELY TEAGUE, May 27, 1918 - May 2, 2014, MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JANE, Saturday, May 17, 2014, 11:00 A.M., LifePoint Church, 565 N. San Gorgonio Avenue, Banning, California. Early last Friday morning, May 2, 2014, Jane went HOME TO HEAVEN, just 25 days before her 96th birthday. Everyone who ever knew Jane realized what a loving, dedicated, and wonderful Christian lady she always was. A true LADY in every sense. Jane Lively Teague, BHS '36, is survived by her three children, Jack Teague, BHS '59, Jim Teague, BHS '63, and Janet Teague, BHS '68, four grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. Her husband of 58 years, Jasper Teague, passed away in January 1998.

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Virginia Stanchfield Peterson, BHS 1940

Virginia Stanchfield Peterson passed away at home in Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada on May 16, 2014. She treasured her high school years and remembered Burbank High as being a huge influence in her life. She lived her 91 years to the fullest and will be greatly missed by her family and friends! She is survived by her daughters, Dusti and Kate.

Sunday, October 5, 2014

Delvin J. DuMay, BHS 1964

Burbank Daily Review, Wednesday, April 19, 1989, Delvin J. DuMay, 42, died April 14, 1989 in Burbank. Born in Chicago, he lived in Burbank for 31 years. Mr. DuMay is survived by his son, Daniel; daughter, Christine DuMay; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank D. DuMay ; brother, Bob; sister, Sue Schmidt. A memorial service will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday at the First Christian Church in North Hollywood. Burial is private. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association. The Valley Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Lalainya Ann Reid, BHS 1988

Lalainya Ann Reid, 41, of Cleburne passed away Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011, in Cleburne. Graveside service: Noon Friday in Rosehill Cemetery. Survivors: Mother, Joan Sutton. Published in Star-Telegram on January 14, 2011

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Leslie Charles Bruckner, Former BHS Teacher/Coach

Leslie C. Bruckner 1918 - 2014 Leslie Charles Bruckner was born in April 16, 1918 in Monroe, Michigan, youngest son of Austin and Matilda Bruckner, and died in September, 2014 in Pasadena, California. Football and family were the cornerstones of his life. From his small southeastern Michigan hometown of Milan in the 1930s tales of Les' athletic skill reached recruiters from mighty Michigan State University. Bruckner joined the Spartans backfield and made an immediate impact on the football field. He was also a shot putter on the track team. Les was in the starting lineup when Michigan State played Auburn in the first Orange Bowl game in Miami in
1938. A member of the greatest generation, Les Bruckner was a lieutenant in the United States Navy serving in the Pacific during World War II. Postwar, Les made a brief run at the National Football League, playing a part of one season with the Chicago Cardinals in 1945. In 2014 he became the oldest surviving player from the Chicago-St. Louis-Arizona Cardinals NFL franchise. Les married Joan Olds of Ypsilanti, Michigan, daughter of Dr. L.W. Olds, a track coach and later director of athletics at Eastern Michigan University. Les fathered two sons- Doug and Scott-and in 1949 the family moved to Burbank where Les was a successful football coach at Burbank High School. On weekends in the 1950s Les enjoyed taking his older boy to the Coliseum where the new NFL team, the Rams, were the toast of the football world. It was just one of many outings fondly remembered by the sons of a devoted father. When the boys were older they joined their Dad on camping trips to national parks and monuments in the American West and were encouraged-never pushed-when they pursued their own football dreams at Burbank High School. An academic as well as an athlete, with a Masters Degree from the University of Michigan, Les was a respected history teacher at Burbank High School. In 1962 he broadened his background in his chosen field, taking Joan and their son Scott to Europe on a six-month sabbatical trip traveling the North Atlantic on an Italian line steamship. Summers in the 1950s and 60s Les Bruckner, with the able assistance of his wife Joan, launched two successful small businesses in Burbank. He created the Bulldog Club day camps and later the Les Bruckner Swim School. After leaving coaching, and still teaching, Les began a highly successful "third act" in his football life-- an official. Les worked his way up from
high school games to major college sports and in the 1970s was a regular on officiating crews in the Pacific Eight Conference. Les worked as an umpire on the fabled gridirons of Notre Dame Stadium, the Los Angeles Coliseum, and the old Stanford Stadium. In 1972 Les was again in a major bowl game when he was assigned as umpire on the officiating crew for the Rose Bowl game between the University of Washington and Michigan Wolverines. Inspired by his father and his own love of the game, Scott also became involved in football officiating at the high school level. Scott was thrilled to actually take the field with his Dad as a fellow "striped shirt," and remembers the professionalism of his father and the respect Les received from players, coaches and other members of the officiating team. Les was honored with an invitation to tour Asian U.S. military bases to conduct football officials clinics and traveled with his wife Joan to Japan, the Philippines and South Korea. The move of NFL's Raiders from Oakland to Los Angeles in 1982 provided Les with one more opportunity to be involved in pro football. The Raiders hired Les as a member of the "chain gang" and he manned the down boxes at the LA Coliseum until the Raiders returned to Oakland in 1995. In 1993 Les was a member of the down box in the Rose Bowl at Super Bowl XXVII between the Cowboys and Bills. In 2012 the Pac 12 Officials Association inducted Les Bruckner into their Field of Honor in a ceremony in Palo Alto.
Les' amazing longevity and versatility in the football world was truly remarkable, but even more noteworthy was Les Bruckner's dedication to his family. Despite all the honors, Les was proudest of being a family man and celebrated not his own considerable achievements, but the accomplishments of his loving wife and his two sons. Les Bruckner was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Hollywood Hills, California. Les is survived by his wife Joan, his son Doug, his son Scott and daughter-in-law Dona, his grandchildren Andrew, Aleece, Anya and Amanda and great grandchildren, Jack, Jake and Jia. . Published in the Los Angeles Times from Sept. 27 to Sept. 28, 2014

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Michael Verhoff, BHS 1976

Michael Verhoff, BHS 1976

Tok man dies in Alaska Highway rollover July 24, 2014, Alaska Dispatch News 

A 55-year-old Tok man died Tuesday July 22, 2014, in a single-vehicle rollover on the Alaska Highway, Alaska State Troopers said. Michael Verhoff was driving a 2008 Ford F-150 when he crashed at Mile 1357 of the highway, troopers said. The crash occurred about 44 miles from Tok, toward Delta Junction, in the area of the Gerstle River. 

A passing motorist reported the accident just after 1 p.m., troopers spokeswoman Megan Peters said. A trooper and Tok emergency medical personnel responded. Verhoff was declared dead at the scene. There is no clear indication why Verhoff crashed on the straight stretch of highway, Peters said. That could mean he had a medical condition or fell asleep, she said. 

There was no indication that drugs or alcohol were involved but the state medical examiner will perform a standard toxicology test. Verhoff wasn't wearing a seatbelt and was thrown from the truck, Peters said. 

NOTE: According to his cousin Michael was driving to the hospital to visit his wife who had had a stroke.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Michael Brian McNeal, BHS 1976

Michael Brian McNeal, BHS 1976

Burbank Daily Review, Wednesday, May 28, 1975 - Michael Brian McNeal, 17, died Monday May 26, 1975 in a Sun Valley hospital. Born in Burbank, he was a Burbank High School student. 

He is survived by his mother, Jean McNeal; three sisters, Lynn, Colleen and Nancy and one brother; Robert, all of Burbank. 

Services will be held Thursday, May 29, 1975 at 1:30 p.m. at the Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills. Interment will follow.

Sunday, September 14, 2014

Alyn Gordon Campbell, BHS 1926

Burbank Daily Review, Tuesday, January 29, 1985, Gordon A. Campbell, 77, died Friday in a Burbank hospital. He was born in Danville, Illinois, and had lived in Burbank for 60 years. He was an insurance broker in Burbank for 50 years. He was a graduate of Burbank High School in 1926. He was a member of the Burbank Kiwanis for 31 years and secretary for Burbank Kiwanis for 30 years. Gordon was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Burbank. He is survived by his wife Genevieve; daughters, Nancy C. Dana of Chatsworth, Sue Carr of Burbank, Donna Moore of Sedona, Arizona; sister, Lucile Taylor of Wofford Heights; three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Burbank. Burial will be private at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, California.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Janet Lee Chapman Carter, BHS 1973

Payson Round-Up, Payson, AZ, Monday, February 23, 2004 Mike and Janet Carter of Strawberry, AZ died Feb. 20, 2004. Mike was born June 12, 1958 in Glendale, Calif. and graduated from Crescenta Valley High School, where he was a talented athlete playing football and track. Janet was born Sept. 20, 1955 in Burbank, Calif. She graduated from Burbank High School. The Carters were married May 1, 1983 and have lived in Strawberry for about 15 years. An avid outdoorsman, Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing and annual golfing trips. Janet was very supportive of the local Strawberry's Elite. Both enjoyed traveling, including a trip to Hawaii for a nephew's wedding and weekend trips in Laughlin. The couple had many close friends. The Carters owned and operated MBC Drywall for many years in the Rim country. Janet also worked as a bartender at the Sportman's Chalet, the Black Bear Restaurant --here she and Mike were partners with other owners -- and the Sidewinder. They are survived by their son, Matthew Carter, and 1-year-old grandson, Matthew Jr.;ike's father, Wyatt Carter and mother, Delores Matteson; brother, Wyatt Carter and sister-in-law, Jinjer Carter; sisters Denise Weiss, Wendy Carter Ford and Mary Ellen Carter and sister-in-law, Leanna Carter; Janet's mother, Helen Chapman; brother, Tom Chapman and sister-in-law, Carol Chapman; sisters, Cheryl Schroede and Lynda DesEnfants and brother-in-law, Jeff DesEnfants; plus many nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Carter's father, Richard Chapman preceded her in death in 1981 A celebration of life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Pine Community Center on Highway 87. A community reception and potluck will follow at the Black Bear Restaurant in Strawberry. Donations can be made to the Pine-Strawberry Firefighters Association, P.O. Box 441, Pine, AZ 85544 or to the Strawberry Elite, P.O. Box 730, Pine, AZ 85544.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

LaMoine K. Peck, BHS 1971

Tribune, The (San Luis Obispo, CA) - Thursday, January 10, 2002 Deceased Name: LaMoine Peck LaMoine K. Peck, 49, of Paso Robles died Friday, Jan. 4, 2002, at a Templeton hospital. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Second Baptist Church of Paso Robles. Mr. Peck was born Jan. 1, 1953, in Glendale. He enjoyed being outdoors and was an avid fisherman, football fan and member of the San Lucia Gun Club. He attended the Second Baptist Church in Paso Robles and had celebrated 25 years of marriage to his wife, Jackie. Mr. Peck is survived by his wife, Jackie Peck of Paso Robles; daughter Jennifer Christensen and husband Michael of North Hollywood; sister Nyla Cardenas of Paso Robles; nephew Paul Cardenas of San Jose; niece Adena Masterton of Long Beach; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Leora Peck, and a sister, Beverly Masterton Brockway. Memorial donations may be made to the Second Baptist Church of Paso Robles. Arrangements are under the direction of Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home of Paso Robles.

Monday, September 8, 2014

Jacqueline Gail Kistler Powers, BHS 1964

Jacqueline Gail Powers, 67, died peacefully on March 6, 2014 with her family by her side in Simi Valley, CA. Jackie was born November 1, 1946 in Los Angeles, CA. The daughter of Clifford E. Kistler and Anna B. Kistler. She grew up in Burbank, CA and graduated from Burbank High School in 1964. She met her soul mate, John Robert Powers, whom she married in 1968. They had 3 children and raised them in Simi Valley until John's early passing in 1987. She was a very independent, strong and courageous woman. She was a dedicated mother to her children whom she raised alone since John's death. She was a hard working employee of Simi Valley Bank for over 15 years and most recently Boston Private Bank and Trust for the the past 10 years. Customers and co-workers remember her for her kind spirit, ability to listen and her beautiful smile.
Jackie loved and mastered every form of arts and crafts. She was very patient and meticulous with ceramics, doll making, sewing, crocheting, knitting, cross stitch, beading, jewelry making, and painting. But, her pride and joy were her grandchildren. She loved to have fun with them and spoil them. She is survived by her children, (son) Gary Powers, (daughters) Tiffany Talafuse and Heather Lee, (son-in-laws) Steve Talafuse and Jerry Lee, (grandchildren) Emma Talafuse, Steven Talafuse, and Gavin Lee, (sister) Carol Davies, and (nephew) Thomas Swire. She is preceded in death by her father, Clifford E. Kistler (1977), her mother, Anna B. Kistler (2003) and her husband John Robert Powers (1987). Funeral services to be held Monday, March 10, 2014 at Reardon Family Mortuary, Simi Valley. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at https://donate.cancer.org

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Daron Lowell Welch, BHS 1988

Daron Lowell Welch, BHS 1988 

Idaho State Journal (Pocatello, ID) - Sunday, June 3, 2007 

BLACKFOOT - Daron Lowell Welch BLACKFOOT - Daron Lowell Welch, 37, of Blackfoot, passed away Wednesday, May 30, 2007, at his home from a brief illness. Funeral arrangements are pending under the direction of the Hawker Funeral Home.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Pamela Kulisek Coleman, BHS 1976

Pamela Kulisek Coleman, BHS 1976 

Ventura County Star (CA) - Thursday, May 1, 2003 

Deceased Name: Coleman, Pamela Coleman, Pamela, 45, Simi Valley disabled died Saturday April 26, 2003. Arrangements by Rose Family Funeral Home Simi Valley.

No other details at his time.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Alan Carl Wernsing, BHS 1971

Fresno Bee, The (CA) - Thursday, December 27, 2007 Alan Carl Wernsing was born on August 3, 1953, in Glendale, California, to Edward and Elsie Wernsing. Alan passed away on Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25, 2007, with his wife, children, and brother by his side after a long and courageous battle with colon cancer. Throughout this past year as he fought this horrible cancer, he also lived his life to the fullest. He and his wife traveled to Spain, Germany, and Baja, celebrated his daughter's high school graduation and his son's completion of Air Force Basic Training. He continued to coach for the Clovis Girls Softball League, as well as serve on the Clovis Bullets Board of Directors. He also traveled to Oklahoma City, Ft. Collins, San Francisco, and San Marcos to visit his children. Alan love to travel, spend time with his family, drive his new Mustang and partake in many adventurous activities such as scuba diving, backpacking, water skiing, snow skiing and camping. He was a man who enjoyed working with his hands as a general contractor and loved to teach the trades to anyone who wanted to learn. What Cancer Cannot Do It cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot destroy peace. It cannot hurt friendships. It cannot suppress memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot invade the soul. It cannot steal eternal life. It cannot conquer the spirit. Alan leaves behind his wife Linda; daughter, Kristina; son, Keith; daughter-in-law, Sarah; son, Christopher; daughter-in-law, Shannon; son, Scott; daughter, Kelsey; mother, Elsie; brother, Neil; sisters, Sandy and Sharon; and dog Lucy. A Funeral Service will be held at the Boice Funeral Home, Clovis, California, on Saturday, December 29, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Clovis Girls Softball League, c-o Central Valley Community Bank, 1835 Herndon Ave., Clovis, CA 93611. BOICE FUNERAL HOME 308 Pollasky Avenue Clovis, Ca. (559)299-4372

Monday, September 1, 2014

Jeannine Rowena White Johnston, BHS 1972

Jeannine Rowena White Johnston, BHS 1972 December 2, 1953 December 2, 2009 Gazette, The (Colorado Springs, CO) - Thursday, December 10, 2009 Born Dec. 2, 1953 in Los Angeles County, California. Died Dec. 2, 2009 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Cosmetologist, longtime Colorado Springs resident. Survived by her daughter, Erin. Services private. Alternative Cremations. NOTE: According to Jeannine's brother, his sister died on her 56th birthday of the H1N1 Flu Virus.

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Dennis Lee McComas, BHS 1967

Dennis Lee McComas, BHS 1967 

December 5, 1948 - August 28, 2014 

On August 28, 2014 Dennis McComas woke up not feeling well, and before he knew it he had suddenly become ice cold and couldn't breathe right. 911 was called and the paramedics came right away, but on the way to the hospital his heart stopped. 

They ran him into the ER and had 10 people frantically working on him, but he didn't pull through. It was a massive heart attack, and nothing could help him. The family is in shock right now and are trying to keep our mother together. If you would like to help with the funeral expenses, please go to GoFundMe

John Carlin Harmon, BHS 1981

John Carlin Harmon, BHS 1981 Tribune, The (San Luis Obispo, CA) - Saturday, October 29, 2011 Deceased Name -- John Harmon HARMON -- John Harmon, 48, of Creston died Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Creston. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel of the Roses Mortuary and Crematory in Atascadero.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Edwin S. Schaller Jr., BHS 1947?

Edwin S. Schaller Jr. MBA ’66 was born on Jan. 16, 1929 and died Sept. 16, 2012. A former resident of Los Gatos, Ed was born in Chicago, Ill., and raised in Burbank, Calif. He attended Burbank High School, where he excelled in sports and served as senior class president. He received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UCLA and was extremely proud of his membership in the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He later attended Santa Clara University, where he earned his MBA. Shortly before graduating from UCLA, Ed was offered a job at Lockheed (following in his father's footsteps); this would become his home for the next 39 years. In 1954, a newly assigned secretary in his division, Diane Topp, caught his eye. They were married a year later in the Santa Barbara Mission chapel on Valentine's Day "so I wouldn't forget our anniversary!" In 1957, Ed was transferred to Sunnyvale and assigned to work on the Polaris Missile Program. He traveled extensively and never would, or maybe never could, talk about the nature of his work. Diane and Ed raised their 3 boys in Los Gatos and for 10 years Ed coached each as they rose through the ranks of the Quito Little League. Ed was also active in YMCA Indian Guides Gray-Y, in which he coached basketball flag football. He loved the outdoors, especially skiing fishing. The Family skied at Dodge Ridge, thawed out at the Mi-Wuk Motor Lodge, then headed off to Kelly's for dinner and a little pinball. Ed and his boys fished together at Yosemite's Saddlebag Lake and, in turn, they taught their own kids how to fish there. In April 2000, Ed and Diane moved to Rocklin, Calif. Diane was diagnosed with cancer in June of that year and passed away in August. Diane was the perfect housewife, but Ed surprised us all by making a home for himself and surviving 12 years without her support. He was active in the Springfield Senior community, especially at the fitness center, until a circulatory condition hampered his mobility. He kept much to himself, living quietly, enjoying daily crosswords puzzles, watching news on CNN and rooting for his beloved San Francisco Giants, UCLA Bruins, and adopted Sacramento Kings. Ed was lovingly cared for by his entire family during his final days, and he passed away peacefully with his son, Todd, by his side. Not surprisingly, his final words were, "Did the Giants win?" They sure did, Dad! Ed is predeceased by his parents, Edwin Spencer Schaller Sr and Ruth Eppinger Schaller, and is survived by his children- Mark (Amy) Schaller, Adam (Tricia) Schaller, Todd (Cherie) Schaller, and grandchildren- Trace, Alexandria, and Spencer, and Nik Robbins; and a sister, Jan Borchers Adams.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Vicki Bean Topliff, BHS 1961

Vicki Bean Topliff, BHS 1961 1943 ~ 2014 Vicki Bean Topliff passed away in her home in Orem, UT, on August 3, 2014 of causes related to appendix cancer. Vicki was born in Glendale, California, to Alvin Pliny Bean and Dorothy Allen Bean. 

She is survived by her husband of 26 years, Edward Topliff, her brothers, Bart Bean (Marilyn) and Brad Bean (Laurie), and her sister, Lori Henderson (Matt). Vicki has seven children from a previous marriage to Thorvald Zimmerman: Patricia Bear (Eric), Julie Waller (Rod), Michael Zimmerman (Tiffany), Jacqui Jacobs (Kendall), John Zimmerman (Jessica), James Zimmerman (Adrienne), and Nikki Waller. Between them, her children have given her 25 grandchildren and her first great-grandchildren will be born this year. 

Vicki grew up in Burbank, California, where she enjoyed occasional association with movie and TV stars, such as selling Girl Scout Cookies to Debbie Reynolds who lived near her home at the time. She graduated from Burbank High School and attended BYU for three years taking secretarial and business classes. While at BYU she was a member of the Ballroom Dance Team and was a runner-up for Belle of the Y. She married her Ballroom Dance Team partner after winning several competitions with him. 

She spent most of her adult life as a full-time mother raising her seven children, and when they were grown she devoted her time to writing books about her family history. Vicki was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and has a strong family heritage in church history. The first book she wrote was about her grandfather, Willard Washington Bean, and the mission he served with his family living in Joseph Smiths home in Palmyra, New York, for 25 years. She has also written books about other relatives, including her great-grandfather, George Washington Bean, and his three wives and 30 children. In addition, she wrote her fathers and her own life history. Vicki loved writing and talking about her interesting family history, and gave many presentations to church groups about her beloved grandparents and their extraordinary contributions to the church.

Vicki always understood the value of friendship, and her beautiful smile welcomed many into her life. She remained close all of her life to a group of friends from her school days in Burbank, her friends from Huntington Beach where she raised her children, and her friends she made after her move to Utah. They filled her heart and home with laughter and love throughout her life. A funeral will be held on Friday, August 8, 2014 at 10 am, at the Suncrest Ward Chapel, 140 N 400 West in Orem. A visitation will be held Friday from 8:30-9:45am at the ward chapel. Vicki will be buried at the Utah State Veterans Cemetery. The family wishes to gratefully acknowledge all the loving support Vicki received from family and friends both far and near over the past several years. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.SundbergOlpinMortuary.com. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Monday, August 25, 2014

Jack Warren Morris, BHS 1954

Jack Warren Morris, BHS 1954
(February 28, 1935 to May 04, 2014 )

Resident of Ukiah, California Jackie Warren Morris, 79, died May 4th, 2014 after a short illness, surrounded by his children at the home of his daughter in Austin, Texas. Jack was born in Red Mound, OK, on February 28th, 1935.

Like millions of other people fleeing from the Dust Bowl, his parents moved their family to the West Coast and settled in Burbank, CA. Jack grew up running between Orange trees in the beautiful valley and watched as the city grew and expanded before his eyes. Jack showed a talent for cutting hair from an early age, and began cutting his father’s hair at the age of 13. Jack graduated from Burbank High School in 1954. After graduating, Jack became ill with Rheumatic Fever and had to stay in the hospital for a month. When he recovered he went on to Barber Collage.

Many members of his extended family also migrated to the Southern California area. He would travel up and down highway 99, visiting them and drag racing any one he could. He met the love of his life, Colette Roell, and married her in 1958. Jack and Colette had three children while living in Burbank, CA. When the Los Angeles area smog became too oppressive, they moved their family to the Ukiah Valley, as it met all their criteria: a small town that had a Catholic School, a barber shop, was smog free, and surrounded by nature’s beauty. They had their fourth child after arriving in Ukiah.

In time, Jack took over the Barber Shop at Jenson’s Truck Stop. His clients became his friends, and for over 45 years Jack enjoyed seeing people come through his doors. Stories, jokes, and straight talk filled his shop. Many a child was instructed to “sit still” on his first haircut, and many a haircut was given for free. Some of his clients were out of state truckers, waiting until their next trip to Ukiah for a haircut and a visit to “The Flat-Top King”, as Jack was affectionately known. His long career served both the young and the elderly, including house calls to friends who were unable to leave their homes. Many of his clients had children, and later those children had children, who in turn became his clients. Generations of Ukiah residents told him that they “grew up” in his barber shop.

Jack had a big heart, and several life-long friends called him “The most honest man I’ve ever known“. He was very moved that his retirement was noted on the front page of the Ukiah Daily Journal to commemorate the occasion. In his younger years, Jack embraced his inner racer, either drag racing on the “strip” in Los Angeles, on “the 99”, and later on the ¼ mile oval race track in Ukiah. In 1956 he won a drag racing trophy for having the Fastest Stock Car in Los Angeles County, his treasured 1956 Chevrolet 210 Sport Coupe. He always had one foot on the brake and the other on the gas. After recuperating from knee surgery complications that kept him away from driving for several years, he took a driving test to regain his license in December, 2013. The instructor said that he was the best driver she had ridden with in years.

As his family grew, Jack took them on day and camping trips to see all the splendors of Mendocino County, from the Coast to Lake Pillsbury, from the swimming holes of the Russian River below Hopland to an Uncle’s ranch north of Laytonville. He taught his children how to water-ski, with summer days and nights too numerous to count being spent on the waters of Lake Mendocino. The location of his shop at the truck stop gave easy access to large inner tubes, and Jack would load his pickup full of tubes and kids for excursions floating down the Russian river. Jack and Colette were active in the community, and raised their family in the arms of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and School. Jack was a member of both the Elks Lodge and Masonic Lodge, in which he took great pride. Jack enjoyed playing in the Ukiah pool and bowling leagues.

After he retired, Jack and Colette loved playing golf, and traveled in their RV around the Western United States. Their trips included visiting friends and family in TX, OK, OR, WA and Canada. He enjoyed travels with the Elks Wapitis. Jack was planning to return to Ukiah after his granddaughter, Siena, graduated in May. He was looking forward to seeing all his old friends. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Plomer Harold Morris and Ota Mae Miller, his beloved sister, Evelyn M. Nelson, and his cherished wife of 55 years, Colette T. Morris. He is survived by his four children, their spouses and grandchildren: David and Elaine Morris (Amanda and Heather), Dale and Kim Morris (Greg and Sara). Merrie Morris-Mazzetti and Rob Mazzetti (Siena and Cordell), and Charles and Janet Morris (Christopher and Jonathan). He leaves behind many friends and family he dearly loved.

A viewing will be at Eversole Mortuary, May 29th , from 2 to 8 P.M. The funeral will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, May 30th, 11:00 AM. The burial will follow at Russian River Cemetery in Ukiah. A reception and celebration of Jack’s life will be held at The Elks Lodge following burial. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elks Lodge Major Projects Fund, a charity that provides free physical therapy to disabled children.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Daniel John Crawford, BHS 1974

Daniel was a Burbank High School, Class of 1974 graduate. He was a Burbank Police Officer who died from Lou Gehrig's disease on Nov. 25, 1995 in Burbank, California. His fellow officers donated vacation time to Danny's retirement so he could become vested and leave a pension for his widow. The police also had some fund raisers for him including a boxing match held at the BHS gym. He was born on Aug. 24, 1956. He was interred at Pierce Brother's Valhalla Memorial Park in North Hollywood, California.

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Osar Carlos Pokorny, BHS 1965

Oscar Carlos Pokorny was surrounded by family and friends when he went home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, July 26, 2014. Oscar was born in Marfa, Texas, on May 25, 1946. He was the son of Anton Ludwig Pokorny and Fay Pokorny, and younger brother of Tony Pokorny. Oscar's family moved from Texas to Burbank, California in 1951. Oscar graduated Burbank High school in 1965 and worked at Senior Aerospace SSP from 1965 to 1980. He was drafted into the US Army in 1965. Private Pokorny was trained in the construction and repair of roads, railroads, and bridges. He also received instruction in demolitions and mine warfare. He attended LA Trade Tech where he received his welding certification. Oscar married his high school sweetheart, Angela Ann Franchino, on May 9, 1970. They had two children, his favorite daughter, Victoria Lynn Pokorny, and his favorite son, Eric Joseph Pokorny. From 1982 to 1984, he was a development bench mechanic at Litton Data Systems. He then transferred employment to become part of the Skunk Works department at Lockheed Martin in Burbank and also in Palmdale. He was so proud to have made parts and scaffolding for the Space Shuttle. After a large layoff, Oscar did contract work on animated projects such as the dragon at the Excalibur in Las Vegas, the Water World set at Universal Studios, and Wizard of Oz at the MGM Grand. In 1995, Oscar went back to Senior Aerospace SSP and just recently retired on July 11, 2014. For many years Oscar was an active member of Calvary Bible Church in Burbank. He would either be in the kitchen cooking, or clean-up crew — usually both! Oscar loved the outdoors. Fishing, Bar-B-Qing and camping brought him much joy. He was a very creative man who enjoyed drawing, whittling, and making miniatures. Oscar leaves behind a loving family including: Wife, Angela Pokorny Daughter, Vicki Pokorny Son and daughter-in-law: Eric and Jessica Pokorny Father: Anton Pokorny and Lucille Trcka Brother and sister-in-law: Tony and Ginny Pokorny Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law: Peter and Barbara Franchino Nephews and Nieces: Weston and Christine Pokorny, Jason Pokorny, Mark and Julie Gordon Baretto, Devin and Michelle Franchino Great Nephews and Nieces: Kyle Gordon, Mitchell Gordon, Simone Franchino, Tony Pokorny, and Kimberly Pokorny And countless uncles, aunts and cousins. Oscar was a loving son, faithful husband, and hands-on father. He was also a kind-hearted in-law, fun loving cousin, crazy uncle, and true friend. Oscar was sixty-eight years old when he died of a weak heart, but he was the strongest man we knew. Sleep with the angels, Oscar. In Lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to either of the following organizations. http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/ericpokorny 2014 - In loving memory of Oscar C. Pokorny Although Oscar did not live with MS, he was very supportive and proud of Eric's efforts to help fight and find a cure. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to causes that Oscar believed in and a cure for MS is one of those causes. Or http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate Toward the bottom left of the page there is a link: In Honor / Memory Of - One-time

Saturday, August 9, 2014

Dean William Hutton, BHS 1967

Dean William Hutton, BHS 1967

Wednesday, August 6, 2014, Port Townsend, Washington
Nov. 2, 1949 – July 26, 2014 

Dean William Hutton passed away in Port Townsend on June 26, 2014. He was 64. Dean was born on Nov. 2, 1949 in Santa Monica, California. He graduated from Burbank High School and obtained a B.A. in history at San Francisco State University. He then began a career in firefighting, first in the California Department of Forestry, then at the Ukiah Fire Department. He served as firefighter, captain, paramedic, and battalion chief before retiring in 2002. Dean loved working at the fire department and was integral to starting the department’s paramedic program. 

Dean was an avid backpacker and shared his love of California’s Sierra Nevada with many, especially his daughter. The Port Townsend community meant a lot to Dean, who enjoyed having breakfast at the Food Co-op, walking the town paths, and talking with Ernie, Michael, Roger, Viva, Bill, Janie, his neighbors and many others. Most of all, Dean loved helping others, and family members said that he will be dearly missed by themselves and his friends in both California and Washington. 

He is survived by daughter Mattie Hutton and son-in-law Justin Badlam of Washington, D.C., and brother Alan Hutton of Tucson, Arizona.

“Going to the mountains is going home.” – John Muir In lieu of flowers, donations to the International Association of Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation are welcome.
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Dean William Hutton passed away in Port Townsend, Washington, on June 26. He was 64. He is survived by his daughter Mattie Hutton and son-in-law, Justin Badlam, of Washington, D.C., and brother Alan Hutton of Tuscon, Arizona. 

Dean was born November 2, 1949, in Santa Monica, CA. He graduated from Burbank High School and obtained a BA in History at San Francisco State University. He then began a career in firefighting, first in the California Department of Forestry, then at the Ukiah Fire Department. He served as Firefighter, Captain, Paramedic, and Battalion Chief before retiring in 2002. 

Dean loved working at the Fire Department and was integral to starting the department's paramedic program. He was a passionate and talented racquetball player and enjoyed lots of good games at the Redwood Health Club. Dean was an avid backpacker and shared his love of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains with many, especially his daughter. Most of all, Dean loved helping others, and he will be dearly missed by his family and his friends in both California and Washington. "Going to the mountains is going home." John Muir. 

A potluck memorial will be held at the United Methodist Church, 270 N. Pine St., on Saturday September 20, 2014, from 2 to 5 PM. All acquaintances of Dean are warmly welcomed to attend.

Published by Ukiah Daily Journal on Sep. 16, 2014.

Friday, August 8, 2014

Kenneth Arthur Koulias, BHS 1975

Kenneth Arthur Koulias, BHS 1975 Orange County Register, The (Santa Ana, CA) - Monday, December 20, 2004 Kenneth Arthur Koulias, 47, of Orange, a hardware salesman, died Dec. 16, 2004, of cancer. Vigil: 8 a.m. Tuesday, Shannon-Bryan Mortuary, Orange. Services: 10 a.m. Tuesday, St. Norbert Church, Orange. Wife, Judy; son, Nick; daughters, Kacie, Bittany; parents, Arthur, Marie; brothers, Jim, Chris.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Carol Jean Starkey Ivey, BHS 1970

Carol Jean Starkey Ivey, BHS 1970 March 28, 1952 - July 22, 2014 Carole Ivey passed away suddenly yesterday, Tuesday, July 22, at her home in Valencia. Carole began life near the Minnesota/Iowa border on the family farm. After her father's death in 1961 she moved to California with her mother and younger brother in 1963, and settled in Burbank in 1964 on Jamestown Rd. She began 7th grade at John Muir with most of us that Fall, now almost 50 years ago. In 9th grade she and Randy Ivey became a lifelong couple. Carole was a Trojan, graduating from the University of Southern California in 1974, where she began after graduatuon from BHS in 1970. That summer after USC graduation she and Randy were married at Salem Lutheran Church in Glendale on August 10, 1974. Carole's passing comes less than three weeks before their 40th wedding anniversary. Besides Randy, Carole leaves their daughter, Megan, age 30; their son, Travis, age 34, his wife, Tina, and their children - Carole's granddaughter, Makenna, and grandson, Gavin, ages 10 and 7; her brother, Roger Starkey (BHS '72), his wife and their family; her aunt, Karen of Arizona; her brother-in-law, Mike Ivey (BHS '72), his wife and their family; her brother-in-law, Jim Dyer (BHS '69), and his family; and three step-brothers and their families. Carole's mother passed away less than a year ago, on August 8, 2013. Her step-father passed away five years before that, also on August 8, in 2008. Sister-in-law, Debi Ivey Dyer, passed away in 2009. In early March of this year Carole received the confirmation after testing that she had an aortic aneurysm. It was determined that she would undergo two surgeries, sort of a phase 1 and a phase 2, to repair/correct the aneurysm. Last Wednesday, July 16, she had the first surgery at Kaiser-Sunset Hospital in the Hollywood area. That surgery went well, and accomplished what was desired. On Friday the 18th Carole's close friend, Donna Snyder Moore (BHS '71) took Carole home from the hospital. The second surgery was scheduled for September 4. Two days ago, on Monday afternoon, I spoke to Carole on the phone, and we talked for about 45 minutes. She was in good spirits, although sore all over from her surgery. Little did I know that would be the last time I would talk to her. Carole's daughter, Megan, had been staying overnight with her since she got home from the hospital on Friday. Yesterday morning before Megan left for work she saw Carole. Later on when Megan tried to reach Carole by phone several times, without success, she called nearby friends and asked them to check on Carole. The friend went in Carole's home and found her on the sofa, already gone. The fire department arrived and confirmed her passing. It was determined that the aneurysm had ruptured, taking her so suddenly. Of course a total shock to all of Carole's family.
About the beginning of June Randy began feeling poorly. They saw his doctor, blood tests were taken, but no problem was pinned down. He kept getting worse at home. On Father's Day, June 15, he was taken to the ER at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in Valencia. He was admitted into ICU by that evening. Randy is a severe diabetic, and it was soon determined that he had Strep B infection probably caused from a "wound" on his leg that had already gone into Sepsis (blood infection) by the time he entered the hospital. The next morning he was placed on a ventilator. He remained in ICU at Henry Mayo Newhall for a week, and then was moved by an ICU ambulance down to Kaiser Hospital in Panorama City to their ICU. I happened to be there when that took place. Randy remained there for over four more weeks, almost the entire time in the ICU on the ventilator, with a couple of brief times in a "step-down" unit and off the vent. I last saw him a week ago Friday when Janet Di Sarro and I saw him in the ICU again. He has been sedated, and also is not fully coherent yet after being so ill for so long. Two days ago he was finally moved to a rehab facility, but faces a long recovery after being this sick. He is still not fully aware or fully coherent. Randy hasn't been told yet about Carole's death. Those of you who pray, please do so for Randy, for Megan and Travis as they face the loss of their mother who was very close to both of them, and for them as they face having to tell Randy at some point what has happened to Carole.

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Kathleen Louise Truesdale Jones, BHS 1966

Kathleen Louise Truesdale Jones, age 59 died at Henry Mayo Hospital on May 3, 2007 in Valencia, California following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born June 29, 1947 in Glendale, California to the late Emmy Louise Storms and her loving husband Mitchell Truesdale. She graduated from Burbank High School on June 16, 1966. Kathy was united in marriage on August 3, 1968 to the late Bruce Oren Jones. Kathy lived in Saugus, California until 2004 when she sold her home and moved to Newhall, California. In 1977, Kathy joined the Kingdom of Jehovah Witnesses, Newhall Congregation. She enjoyed her fellowship with the Brothers and especially enjoyed a very special relationship with her spiritual Sisters, Terri and Georgie. Kathy was an avid collector of many items and was wonderful with the art of horticulture. Kathy is survived by her two daughter's, Jennifer and Jeannine, her grandchildren, Kayla, Dustin, Ethan. Emily and Sadie. She is also survived by her father, Mitchell Truesdale, her brother, Patrick and sister-in-law Beverly; her sister, Nancy and brother-in-law Dennis, her cousins, Sue, Janet, Robert III, Denise, Marsha, Sherry, Rob, Mike and Eric. Her friends and adopted family, Terri, Georgie, Abigail, Ginger, Kelli and David, Catatina and many, many more. Memorial Services will be on Saturday, May 5, 2007 at 2:00 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, 25128 Newhall Ave, Newhall, California, and Officiating will be Meeka Seriella. Reception at the home of Abigail DeSesa, 29048 Concorse Dr, Val Verde, California.

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Annabelle Dorothy Fisher Settle, BHS 1936

Annabelle Dorothy (Fisher) Settle, 94, of Jacksonville, Ore. passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2014 after a short illness. Annabelle was born in Boyle Heights, Calif., one of two children of Malcolm and Dorothy Fisher. She moved with her parents to Burbank, Calif. as a child and graduated from Burbank High School in 1936. She married Mark Settle in February 1939. They lived in Burbank until 1966 when they moved to the Applegate Valley and later to Jacksonville, Ore. They were parents to four children and 22 foster children. Annabelle was interested in hand crafts and family activities. She was happiest when welcoming and rocking each new grandchild. Survivors include her children, Nancy (Bruce) Sturm, Kathy (Hasso) Hering, and Margie Smoak; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great-grandchildren; plus numerous caring nieces and nephews, and loving caregivers who helped her after her husband's death. She was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years; son, Dan; her parents; and brother, Bud Fisher. At Mrs. Settle's request, there will be no funeral service. Family will gather at a later date for a time of remembrance. The family would like to thank the Jacksonville Oregon Volunteer Fire Department for the assistance provided. Contributions may be made to the department in memory of Annabelle Settle. Arrangements by Litwiller-Simonsen Funeral Home, Ashland, Oregon. www.litwillersimonsen.com

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Shirley Ann Rees Shepler, BHS 1947

Shirley Ann Rees Shepler, BHS 1947 Ventura County Star (CA) - Sunday, April 27, 2014 Shirley Ann Shepler, 84, was lifted into God's comforting arms on April 17, 2014 in her home at Hollywood Beach, CA while lovingly tended by her sister Maxine, niece Karen, and friend Maureen. Shirley led a full and productive life. She was a flamenco dancer, an accountant, a Real Estate Broker with her own company, an accomplished artist, studio owner, captained her own boat, supported many animal and wildlife rescue centers, and made beautiful anything she touched. Oh, Lovely Lady, we will miss your beautiful smile, wild sense of humor, and infectious laugh!
Shirley is survived by her loving sister, Maxine Cannon, her nieces Cathy Elmore (Gary), Karen Morello (Joe), grandnieces, grandnephews and their children, plus many friends! The family extends our heartfelt thanks to Buena Vista Hospice, especially her wonderful nurses, Tina and Danielle. In lieu of flowers please send donations in Shirley's name to: Best Friends Animal Rescue, ?5001 Angel Canyon Rd Kanab, UT 84741 donations@bestfriends.org; Hospice House of Spokane, PO Box 2215 Spokane WA 99210, or Buena Vista Hospice 805-777-1133

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

William "Bill" Henry Stollmeyer, BHS 1946

William "Bill" Henry Stollmeyer, BHS 1946 Sept. 29, 1928 — March 16, 2014 Mountain Democrat (Placerville, CA) - Monday, April 7, 2014 William "Bill" Henry Stollmeyer, 85, passed away at home peacefully of natural causes on March 16, 2014, in Apple Valley, Calif. Bill was born to Henry "Hank" and Doris E. Melvin Stollmeyer on Sept. 29, 1928, in Burbank, Calif. He was the brother to two younger sisters, Betty Jane and Lauretta Lee. As a teenager, he enjoyed taking classes in architecture, riding horses, taking violin lessons and working on his car. When not in school, he worked at a grocery store, which may have inspired his entrepreneurial spirit. In 1946, Bill graduated from Burbank High and joined the U.S. Navy. He served four years during the Korean War. After being stationed in San Diego, he was transferred to Pensacola, Fla. Before transferring, former high school friends Jim and Eleanor introduced him to Betty Alice St. Clair. Soon after, Bill and Betty were married on Nov. 6, 1949, in Pensacola. Two years later they welcomed their first daughter, Christine. For three years, Bill was stationed at Pensacola at the U.S. Naval Air Station, Saufley Field. He was an Aviation Machinist's Mate and in charge of having the planes ready each morning for takeoff. He was assigned to the USS Valley Forge. He was honorably discharged in July 1952. Happily, Bill, Betty and Christine returned to their native state of California and settled in Granada Hills, where their second daughter, Pamela, was born. Here, Bill enjoyed working for his uncle Neil at his lighting fixture business in Van Nuys, Calif. Eventually, the family moved to Pleasant Valley, where Bill and Betty established a grocery store, Bill's Ranch Market, which they ran for eight years working seven days a week. He was also interested in building homes and built seven houses around the Pleasant Valley/Placerville area. When building, he was known to hand select each board for his projects. When friends or family members needed house plans, ideas for remodeling, or help with the building of their home or vacation home, he was always happy to share his ideas, expertise or elbow grease. Bill and Betty resided in the Placerville area until 1970, when they sold the grocery store and moved to Oak Harbor, Wash., where they reconnected with a former Navy buddy/family (Ed and Jeanne), but returned to California the following year. In the mid '90s, they again moved from California to Apache Junction, Ariz. In Arizona, they enjoyed forming numerous new friendships while maintaining the old. Through the years they enjoyed traveling to California and Utah visiting their daughters, four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, trips to Hawaii and a memorable Panama Canal cruise with long time friends Eva and Campbell. Bill was a member of the Apple Valley American Legion and the American Legion in Placerville. His achievements were many but perhaps his biggest disappointment was when Betty, his wife of nearly 50 years, suddenly passed away from an aneurism in 1999. Five years later, Bill remarried Roberta Eaton, a California native, on July 10, 2003, in Laughlin, Nev. Subsequently, the couple returned to California and settled in Apple Valley, where Bill passed away.
Bill is survived by his wife, Roberta; his daughters, Christine (Ed) Stetler and Pamela Denicke; stepchildren, Eugene (Pam) Eaton and Ginny (Dan) Campa; three grandchildren, Heather Stetler, Christa Denicke Lindhardt and Brandon Denicke; three California great-grandchildren, Joe, Josie and Talon; four Utah great-grandchildren, Ethan, Avery, Kimberlee and Krew; sisters, Betty Jane (Jim) St. Clair and Lauretta (Perry) DeWeese; nephews, Brad and Carey St. Clair and Scott DeWeese; niece, Jerilyn DeWeese; a favorite Uncle, Dick (Leora) Melvin; and many beloved cousins. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Alice; his parents; eldest grandchild, Shannon Stetler; great-granddaughter, Hope Stetler; and a brother-in-law, Perry DeWeese, who Bill loved like a brother. Ever proud of being a U.S. Navy veteran and honoring Bill's wishes, a memorial is scheduled on Monday, April 7, at Riverside National Cemetery, at 12:45 p.m. The Apple Valley American Legion will officiate. Arrangements are being handled by High Desert Funeral Chapel. Interment is at Riverside National Cemetery. Bill will be remembered for many reasons, but primarily for possessing a strong work ethic.

Monday, July 21, 2014

Pamela Beans, MM, BHS 1971

Sister Pamela Beans, MM, BHS 1971 March 26, 1953 - July 22, 1981 On July 22, 1981, at 11:00 a.m., on the outskirts of Santiago, Chile, Sister Pamela Beans was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. She was knocked unconscious and died shortly after. Pam was 28 years old and had been in Maryknoll for less than four years. Pamela Beans was born on March 26, 1953 in Los Angeles, California to Irene Katherine (Nosco) and Roger Beans. She had a younger sister, Cathy. Pamela attended grammar school at St. Francis Xavier and continued her education at Burbank High School, graduating in 1971. She received a B.A. from California State University, Northridge in 1975 and continued another year to gain a teaching credential. She then began teaching within L.A. Schools as a language teacher and later that year began teaching at St. Francis Xavier in Burbank, California. She first became interested in Maryknoll through a magazine subscription to "The Field Afar." She communicated with the Maryknoll Sister's for several years before entering on September 2, 1977.
Pamela began her mission work in Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa. While there she contributed to the youth work of the Maryknoll Sisters. She had many skills as a teacher, musician, and artist. However, her own words tell us what was central in her life: "I believe that it is not the job that really matters. I really feel that my only commitment is to God and the person of Jesus and my relationships with the people I've been sent to love. It is my person that I give, rather than my skills, which are secondary." Pamela's next assignment brought her to Chile in January of 1980. Whether it was doing Mission Education work, studying the language in Cochabamba, or visiting the different houses in Chile, she endeared herself to the people. Today, we celebrate Sister Pamela's birth and entry into Life in all its fullness and mystery; and we remember with gratitude how we have been touched and graced through the sharing of her life in Maryknoll and in mission.