MAY 1, 1954 – FEBRUARY 19, 2022
Neal Edwin Nakagiri, age 67, of Lake Balboa, California passed away on Saturday, February 19, 2022. Neal was born May 1, 1954.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/sherman-oaks-cremation for the Nakagiri family.
The Valley Times, Van Nuys, California, November 20, 1962
2 MEN TAKE OWN LIVES
Two Encino men killed themselves Monday in separate incidents, police said. One apparently was driven by financial problems and the other by mental problems.
LeRoy Allen Lingensjo, a 39-year-old electrical design engineer of 17349 Tiara Street, shot himself in the head with a rifle in his garage shortly after 9:30 p.m. His wife Rosemary, told police her husband had been under treatment for a mental disorder.
The second man, Art M. Gilbert, 49, unemployed, of 4224 Havenhurst Dr., took an overdose of sleeping pills Monday afternoon, according to police.
Obituary
Valley Times, Wednesday, November 21, 1962
Leroy A. Lingensjo, age 39, of Encino, passed away November 19, 1962. Survived by wife Rose Mary; two daughters, Carolyn and Lori; two sisters, Mrs. Doris Grottstrom and Mrs. Florence Chandler. Graveside services will be Friday, 10 a.m., San Fernando Mission Cemetery. J.T. Oswald Reseda Mortuary.
Fredrick Ephraim Bjorklund, BHS 1967
Fredrick Ephraim Bjorklund, age 73, passed away on April 21, 2022, in St. George. Fred was born in Salt Lake City on Dec. 2, 1948, to Bryant Elwyn and Gladys Brooker Bjorklund. He was married to Kathleen Nara on March 21, 1970.
Fred was raised in Southern California. He earned his degree in Anthropology from Cal State Northridge, which led to his love for all things about nature. In 1976, Fred and Kathy moved to Salt Lake City, where they raised their family until 1996, and then they settled in St. George.
Fred always worked hard to support his family. He had a long career at Sara Lee Baking Company. Fred had a special love for astronomy, and he loved studying the universe. Fred loved being outdoors and exploring with his family and grandkids. He loved having thought-provoking conversations and encouraging his loved ones to consider different perspectives.
Fred is survived by Kathy, his wife of 52 years, brother David (Lori), sister Leslie (Tony); four children Stephanie (Mike), David (Michelle), Amanda (Aaron) and Kaylene (Curt), and 18 grandchildren; Michael (Brylee), Tristen, Noah, Kaitlyn, Jaxon, Ashton, Mason, Ayden, Blake, Andrew, Hunter, Tyler, Lincoln, Luke, Krew, Taylor, Farrah and Remington.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Patrick.
Fred was a passionate warrior for humanity. He believed that all of God's children are created equal, and that all people deserve the right to live well and to provide for their families.
Fred also loved to be athletic. Running was important to him, and he ran the St. George Marathon at 34 years old.
Some of our favorite memories of him include watching him take care of the snakes he caught while out in nature (his wife didn't love that as much), going to get malts and donuts, listening to him sing "Unchained Melody" and "What a Wonderful World," and watching "Rustler's Rhapsody," the "Three Stooge" and "The Simpsons" with him.
The family would like to thank the wonderful employees at Seasons Health and Rehab and Dixie Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation. Alzheimer's Disease slowly stole Fred from us starting 13 years ago. He fought valiantly against it and did not go gently into his last good night.
A private service and interment will be held at Tonaquint Cremation Garden in St. George.
June 7, 1949 – June 17, 1993
Published in Thousand Oaks Star, Thousand Oaks, California
Tuesday, June 22, 1993
David James Whitney, age 44, of Thousand Oaks, beloved husband of Nancy Whitney and son of Amelia and James Hogan has died (June 17, 1993). He is also survived by mother-in-law, Tiny Wesenberg; sister-in-law, Mariann Fontaine; brother-in-law, Andy Fontaine and nieces, Andrea and Renee Fontaine.
Sergeant, 101st Division, Airborne, Veteran of Vietnam War, he received National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal and Expert Rifle Medal.
Mr. Whitney, born in Meriden, Connecticut, had resided in Thousand Oaks for the past 15 years. Mr. Whitney was a service technician in communications for Pacific Telephone for 21 years.
Services will be held Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church, 10828 Moorpark Street, North Hollywood. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills, Forest Lawn Mortuary.
July 3, 1942 - December 1, 2023 Victoria (Vicky) Claussen of Burbank passed away on December 1, 2023. She died peacefully, with her family by her side, after a courageous fight with cancer. She was 81.
Vicky was born in Portland Oregon, moved to Burbank at the age of 13. Vicky attended Burbank schools, graduating from Burbank High School in 1960. She attended Glendale Community College receiving her degree in Office Technology, later earning her teaching credential. Vicky worked at KCBS, Channel 2 where she met her husband of 57 years, Gary. They were married in 1966 and welcomed daughter Kymm in 1967, followed by their son Damon in 1970. Vicky served as PTA President, received Burbank's distinguished Honorary Service Award, and a member of the Women's Guild for Burbank Community Hospital. She also was honored with a special Bicentennial Award for the development and construction of a gigantic map of America, painted on the playground at former Horace Mann Elementary School.
Vicky has been a licensed REALTOR® since 1990. During that time, devoting endless hours to support groups; BTAC (Burbank Temporary Aid Center), Burbank Educational Foundation, Burbank Beautification Committee, Anti-graffiti Committee, Disaster Preparedness Committee and was a member of the Burbank Association of Realtors.
Vicky was actively involved in the Presbyterian Church, and loved singing in the choir. She was eternally positive, had a beautiful outlook on life, could be depended on to lend a helping hand, and always thought of others. In addition to spending time with family, she enjoyed keeping in touch with friends by sending humorous, and motivational emails. She loved animals, especially watching the live cam of Bald Eagles Jackie and Shadow in Big Bear Valley.
There will be a Celebration of Life at a future date. If you would like to be notified, contact: celebratevicky@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, donations be made in Vicky's honor to: Friends of Big Bear Valley, or the American Cancer Society.
She will be missed by those fortunate enough to know her.
Published by Los Angeles Times on Dec. 5, 2023.
Wayne David Werth, BHS 1962
Wayne D. Werth, 56, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2000, at his home in Bozeman after a battle with cancer. He was born on March 27, 1943 in Burbank, California, where he was raised.
Wayne served as part of the Seabees division in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He later studied meteorology at St. Louis University. He then turned his passion for airplanes into a career when he became employed by Delta Airlines as a pilot in 1972. He completed this successful career as a captain on the international routes between New York City and Europe. He served in this position dutifully and enthusiastically for more than 27 years.
Wayne's many hobbies included fly-fishing, hunting, horseback riding, sailing, scuba diving, motorcycling, snowmobiling and traveling the world with his family. He was a man that made absolutely certain to live every day to its fullest.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 25 years, Linda (Malchow); two children, Matthew, 28 and Shauna, 20; his parents, William and Evangeline Werth; and one sister, Marsha.
Visitation will be held from 5-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2000, with a prayer service scheduled at 7:30 p.m. at the Dokken-Nelson Funeral Home in Bozeman. A final visitation will held from 1-2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 12 at Holy Rosary Parish. A funeral mass will follow at 2 p.m.
Bozeman Chronicle, Bozeman, Montana, Saturday, October 7, 2023
In Loving Memory of Diane Van Winkle Mccall
March 8, 2014 ·
Alberta Diane Van Winkle, daughter of Ardona Keith Van Winkle and Beatrice Ruth Binkerd, was born on January 9, 1953 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Diane, as she had been called all her life, was the oldest of her siblings. She was a devoted daughter and second mother to her brothers and sisters. Her youth was spent in Burbank, California where she graduated from Burbank Senior High School in 1971. Diane was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a young adult, she served as a missionary in Billings, Montana. Over the years, Diane held many callings in the Church. She worked in the Primary, Relief Society, Young Women's, and Activities Committee. Many people were blessed by her dedicated service.
In 1979, Diane married the love of her life, Don Robert McCall, in the Los Angeles, California Temple. Their union was sealed for time and all eternity. Don and Diane were truly a special couple. They made it a goal to never quarrel and their children can attest to the fact that they never once exchanged harsh words. Their relationship is an example of true love and dedication. Together they raised two children, Heather Orellana and Jonathan McCall. Never was a mother more devoted to her children than Diane. Her love for her family was unconditional and shown daily by her tireless, unselfish service. Her joy as a mother was made full as she became a Grandma to five beautiful grandchildren.
Throughout her life, Diane held a few different jobs, including the Department of Motor Vehicles. But the job she enjoyed the most was being a Teacher's Aide at Hort Elementary School in Bakersfield, CA. She worked in Third grade and also in Kindergarten. She loved helping the children, and the children loved her back. Diane was always a loyal friend. Her bright smile, easy laughter, and sweet disposition won her the friendship of many. If anyone needed help, Diane was the person they called.
In 2000, Diane suffered a stroke which would leave her paralyzed on one side of her body and unable to speak. Despite the long years of disability, Diane kept her beautiful smile, cheerful attitude, and sense of humor. Her endurance and patience in the face of such extreme hardship is a testament to the strength of her spirit. She showed us how to live with faith, hope, and love. Diane will be sorely missed by her family and friends.
Diane was predeceased by her parents, Doanie and Bea Van Winkle, her sister, Debbie, and her husband, Don McCall. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Heather McCall Orellana and Jose A. Orellana, and her son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan McCall and Christina Cabrera McCall; by her siblings Ardona Van Winkle, Robyn Levy, Randy van Winkle, and Lorrie Rockney; and by her beloved grandchildren: Paul, Benjamin, and Kate Orellana and Sophia and Payton McCall.
October 31, 1951 – January 30, 1997
Los Angeles Times, Saturday, February 1, 1997
Sandra Lee Herzog Frankel, 45, Burbank, Administrative Judicial Secretary for Los Angeles Superior Court.
Kiefer and Eyerick Mortuary, Glendale, handling the arrangements. No other details at this time. May she rest in peace!
(L.A.) Levik Khodaverdy, 37, Died in a Parking Lot
Deaths, Local fentanyl, meth 0
Case Number: 2022-12391
Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 37-year-old Caucasian male that occurred in a parking lot. The coroner’s office has identified the man as Levik Khodaverdy.
Levik Khodaverdy of California
Manner of Death: Accident
Cause of Death: Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Toxicity
On June 8, 2021, Khodaverdy was arrested by LAPD for 11350(A) – Possession of Narcotic Controlled Substance and for 243(A) – Battery On Person. He had a criminal rap sheet extending back to September 2015, from Glendale to Burbank to Malibu to Riverside, mostly for theft, vandalism and drug possession. When Burbank PD arrested Khodaverdy for possession of heroin/cocaine in October 2021, they described him as a Burbank electrician. He stood 5’11” and weighed 165 pounds.
Khodarverdy received paper certification on December 14, 2020, showing that he tested negative for SARS-COV-2 via Sofia Antigen nasal swab.
Certified negative for COVID
RIP LEVIK KHODAVERDY (January 18, 1985 – November 29, 2022)
The surname Khodaverdi is associated with Iran and surrounding countries.
Published in the San Francisco Examiner, San Francisco, California, Thursday, January 29, 1987
Thorson, Roger D. - January 26, 1987; beloved husband of Judith; adored father of Erika; dear son of Lloyd and the late Jeanette Thorson.
Friends may call after 10 a.m. and are invited to attend Funeral
Services at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Chapels of VALENTE, MARINI, PERATA AND COMPANY, 4840 Mission Street. Inurnment private Holy Cross Cemetery, 333-0161 Visit his Find A Grave Memorial here.
Published in the Times Standard, Eureka, California
Her five children and daughter-in-law surrounded Betty when she passed in Henderson, Nevada, on November 3, 2006. She was born to Albert James and Elizabeth Gascoigne in Burbank, California, on October 9, 1928.
Betty joined the workforce at the age of nine, working in a canning factory. She graduated from Burbank High School with straight A’s at the age of 16. At age of 19, she competed in the Miss Burbank Pageant, coming in second only to the infamous Debbie Reynolds. Betty, also known as Renie, was a member of the Native Daughters of the Golden West for the past 43 years, with Oneonta Parlor #71 of Ferndale.
Betty was preceded in death by her father and mother, and her husband, Lloyd “Nip” Martin. She is survived by her brother, Jim Gascoigne, Burbank, CA; SON, Michael Martin, Salmon Creek, CA; daughters, Karen Dillon. Smith River, CA, Jeanne Sousa, Fortuna, CA, Kathi Meskill, Carlotta, CA, and Donna Hillman, Henderson, NV; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Mom brought us together one more time to hear the laughter of our voices. Thanks mom.
March 14, 1950 - August 27, 2023
Bob is survived by his daughter Lynsey Pew, his best friend Sandy Pew. Preceded in death by his son Jeffrey Pew.
Bob was a graduate of Burbank High School, class of 1968. After college he worked as a film editor for the major television studios before retiring to Idaho.
Father, husband, and best friend. Gone, but never forgotten!
Ennis, Montana
January 14, 1944 - November 7, 2022
Kathleen (Kathy) Worley, age 78 of Ennis, Montana passed away peacefully on November 7th, 2022. Kathy was born on January 14th, 1944, to Gladys Gentry Geisler and Lloyd Geisler. She was born and raised in Burbank, CA & graduated from Burbank High School in 1961. She met Dwight Worley and they were married in 1963 in Las Vegas, NV.
Of this union, were born 2 children; Erin Lynn Worley in 1964 and Michael John Worley in 1969, both born in Burbank, CA. The Worleys moved around different places throughout the years for Dwight’s work, but finally settled in Ennis, MT in 1980. Upon first arriving in Ennis, they purchased a restaurant on Main St. called Bettie’s Cafe. They owned & operated the restaurant for 10 years.
Kathy had a longtime love of antiques. She enjoyed refinishing furniture and treasure hunting with her sister, Pam Smith and her daughter Erin. She had a long, successful career in the field and sold antiques in various booths and stores in Ennis and Bozeman.
Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Dwight, who passed in 1994.
She is survived by her daughter Erin Worley of Ennis, MT and son Mike Worley of Ennis, MT, her step-daughter Deborah Worley of Sun Valley, CA and step-son Edward Worley of Juniper Hills, CA, her sisters Pat Greger of Zionville, IN and Pam Smith of Dallas, OR, her grandchildren Jennifer McClure of Portland, OR, Jacob Henry of Bozeman, MT, Mickayla Yochim of Butte, MT and Sydney Yochim of Butte, MT and her great-grandchild Ryder LeDeau of Butte, MT.
There will be no memorial services held. Please donate to the Senior Center in Ennis, MT in lieu of flowers. (ennisseniorcenter.org/donations/)
Published in the Signal, Santa Clarita, California, Friday, December 6, 2002
Sandra Lee Perry – Manager for AT & T, 55, died on December 2, 2002 in Burbank after a brief illness. A resident of Stevenson Ranch, Perry was born on March 16, 1947, in Los Angeles.
She is survived by her husband John W. Perry; daughter Laurel Ness of Stevenson Ranch; son, Christopher Perry of Stevenson Ranch; her mother, Gladys Hamblin of Mission Viejo; her sister, Suzanne Martin Miranda of Laguna Niguel; and her sister, Claudia Peltier of Laguna Niguel.
Services will be held at Eternal Valley Mortuary Chapel on Sunday at 2 p.m.
Los Angeles Times, Tuesday, April 19, 1994
Massie Pete Quinte, age 70; passed away on April 14, 1994. A native Californian, born in Burbank, he was a United States Navy veteran.
Survived by his wife, Gloria, children, David and Diane, grandchildren, Kenneth and Denise.
Funeral Services to be held 11 am, Wednesday, April 20, at Church of the Hills, in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills. Visit his Find A Grave Memorial.
Dr. Wesley Neal Manor, 67, who had a practice in Anacortes at one time, died suddenly early Saturday morning, June 9, in Oak Harbor. He was a resident of Oak Harbor.
Dr. Manor was born Aug. 16, 1933, to Mildred and Wesley Manor in Lancaster, Calif. As a child, he had a love for music and was an accomplished pianist.
Dr. Manor served four years in U.S. Army intelligence in the early 1950s. Deciding on a career in medicine instead of music, Dr. Manor graduated from the California College of Medicine, now the University of California at Irvine, in 1964.
In 1965, he moved with his family to Coupeville and opened one of the first family practices on Whidbey Island. This was a happy period in Dr. Manor's life because making house calls still was a common occurrence and payment for his services often took the form of produce or other barter.
During this time, Dr. Manor also was instrumental in Whidbey General Hospital's inception and development. In 1971, he returned to school at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, Ore., and completed his ear, nose and throat specialty residency.
In 1975, Dr. Manor and his younger brother "Dr. Norm" opened two ear, nose and throat clinics, one in Mount Vernon and the other in Anacortes. The brothers practiced together until 1980, when "Dr. Neal" returned to Coupeville to practice -- a town that he loved.
Dr. Manor also served as director of the Island County Health Department for several years, while running his busy practice. In addition, he traveled to Ketchikan, Alaska, several times a year to provide needed ENT medical services to patients in that remote area.
Dr. Manor is survived by his beloved wife, Rhonda, in Oak Harbor; three children from his first marriage to Jeannette Beatty of Anacortes -- daughter Janell and her husband Colin Key of Scotland, son Darrin and his wife Karey Manor of Bainbridge Island and daughter Tonja and her husband Jason Dunton of Anacortes; two stepsons from his marriage to Rhonda -- Joshua and his wife Rachael Lancaster of Oak Harbor and Lee Lancaster of North Carolina. He also is survived by his brother, Norman Manor, M.D., of Miles City, Mont. and by eight grandchildren, Lauren and Ellen Key, Sarah and Jordan Manor, Alex, Megan and Taylor Dunton and Jacob Lancaster.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to The Neal Manor Fund, c/o Whidbey Island Hospital Foundation, POB 400, Coupeville, Wash., 98239.
Memorial services for Dr. Manor are 1 p.m. Friday, June 15, 2001, at Burley Funeral Chapel in Oak Harbor
Arrangements were under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.
Published in the Sacramento Bee, Sacramento, California, Friday, February 27, 2004
Melvin Short, Jan 24, 1921 – Feb 23, 2004, Beloved husband of 62 years to Mary. Preceded in death by son Ronald Short. Survived by daughter Melary Short; grandson Kenneth Short; granddaughter Deeann Fackrell; and families.
Born in Burbank, California, he moved to Placerville in 1956 at which time he became employed by AeroJet. He retired from AeroJet in 1984.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association. A memorial will be held at the Federated Church in Placerville on March 1 at 1:00 PM to honor Melvin.
Debbie Lynn Annin, 55, of Greer, went to meet Jesus Saturday April 7, 2012.
Debbie is survived by her husband Scott; sons, Joshua (MaryKate), Peter, and David; brother Ed; and granddaughter Leslie.
Debbie was a proud Christian daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She attended Southside Fellowship Church in Greenville. She was born in Burbank, California to Ed and Barb Danks.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 14 at 11 AM at Southside Fellowship, 3161 S Highway 14, Greenville, SC 29615. Doors will be open at 10:00 AM for visitation. Donations in Debbie’s memory will be given to the general fund at Southside Fellowship.
Cremation Society of South Carolina
Lynne Seaborg Owomoyela, passed away May 15, 2014 after a long courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Lynne grew up in Burbank, California, then lived in Lagos, Nigeria and Lincoln, Nebraska, where she graduated from the University of Nebraska before settling in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Known as “Ms. O” by her students, she taught English and esL for over 30 years at Valley High School and Orr Middle School. Lynne was beloved by family and friends for her generous heart and fabulous sense of humor.
Lynne was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Ethel Seaborg; and son Steven. She is survived by her son, David Ollison, sister; Judy Parker; brother, David W. Seaborg.
Senior Bulldogs
Austin American Statesman, Austin, Texas, Friday, February 10, 2006
Robert Greer Kimball, 52, contract laborer, of New Braunfels, died January 24, 2006. Survived by wife Sharon. Services will be private. Arrangements by All Faith, south location.
No other details at this time.
December 31, 1946 - January 23, 2021
Las Cruces - Born on December 31st 1946 in Los Angeles, CA, Pamela Joe Mackey died peacefully at home at the age of 74 on January 23rd 2021.
Pam was such a vivacious spirit with a loud and happy personality. She was known as a compassionate and friendly person, and also driven and independent. She could be the "life of the party", and anyone and everyone who met her on a personal level can recall fun and fond memories involving her. Pam's passions included singing, fishing, camping, spending time with her friends and family, and was also an avid animal lover who loved her dogs.
Pam lived her younger years in California training horses and working in the Hollywood movie business for a time. In 1980 she moved to Las Cruces with her son, Jeff Bittle, to operate a dairy farm. She met her husband, Wyatt Mackey, in 1982 and they were together for years before finally marrying 1996. Pam was a member and a past Madame President (2000-2001) of the Eagles Club F.O.E. 4038.
She is survived by her husband Wyatt Mackey; son Jeff Bittle; 3 siblings: Bob Long, Johnny Angel, and Paula Napper; 3 grandchildren: Brayden Bittle, Maddie Bittle, and Bobby Bittle. Also survived by numerous other family members and friends, along with her beloved Boston Terrier, Rigby.
Pam is preceded in death by parents: Betty Long and Donny Long (step-father), and Paul Angel and Smokey Angel (step-mother).
Pam has chosen to be cremated in death and no services are going to be held at this time, but the family would like to hold a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask for donations to the Jimmy Durante Fund, which held a special place in Pam's heart. Donations can made to the Lady's Aux 4038.
Arrangements by Getz Funeral Home, corner of Solano and Bowman Ave.
Published in the Burbank Review, Thursday, February 17, 1966
Donald Ruliffson, 41-year resident, dies
Donald Wilson Ruliffson, 43, a resident of Burbank for 41 years, died Monday. He was born in Fargo, North Dakota and lived at 2702 Chandler Blvd. Mr. Ruliffson,a printer by trade, was a veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict.
He is survived by his widow, Carolyn S. Ruliffson; his mother, Leona Ruliffson; two daughters, Mrs. Carroll L. Toland of North Hollywood, and Beverly Jean Ruliffson of Burbank; two brothers, Allen of San Diego, and Howard of Burbank; and four sisters, Marie C. Wirgler of Burbank, Mrs. Jean Nelson of Leucadia, Gayle Mohr of Turlock and Frances Anderson of Burbank.
Funeral services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m., at Eckermans Funeral Service Chapel. Intermentwill be at Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, California.
The Olympian, Olympia, Washington, Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Edward Joseph Aceto, 73, Shelton, died Monday, February 9, 2015 at Mason General Hospital, Shelton.
McComb and Wagner Funeral Home and Crematory, Shelton, 360-426-4803.
No other details at this time.
The Tribune, San Luis Obispo, California, Wednesday, March 22, 2000
Carol E. (Feeney) Chappell, 50, of Paso Robles died at home Sunday, March 19, 2000, after a five month battle with a brain tumor.
Burial will be at Paso Robles District Cemetery at 2 p.m. Friday. A memorial potluck celebration is planned for 1 p.m. Sunday, April 9, at Paso Roble’s Shriner’s Club on Sherwood Avenue.
Mrs. Chappell was born Oct 31, 1949, in Glendale, and had resided in Paso Robles for 15 years. She graduated from Cal Poly in 1976 with a B.S. degree in biological sciences. She and her husband, Don, were married in July 1976.
Multi-talented, she was employed in biological research, secretarial positions, pharmacy technology and in special education as a “Para educator.” She enjoyed her family, her many friends and her Bahai faith.
She is survived by her husband, Don, son Danny, daughter Becky, her mother, two sisters, a brother and numerous nieces and nephews. For those who wish, donations may be made to a college fund set up for her son, Danny, and daughter, Becky, at SESLOC in Paso Robles.
Arrangements are by Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home in Paso Robles.
Los Angeles Times, Thursday, September 7, 2000
Robert I. Coverly, 51, of Sherman Oaks, California, Respiratory Therapist passed away on September 4, 2000.
Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service, Burbank, California handled the arrangements.
No other details at this time.
March 4, 1957 – September 20, 2009
Ralph Urquiza, Firefighter III, Fire Station 89 – A
There will be a headstone placed where Ralph Urquiza now lies, a monument of sorts to a man taken from us long before his time. But it will not be the only testament to this remarkable man who embodied both strength and benevolence. Look about and you will find that he still lives amongst us.
Look over your shoulder as you enter a blazing building and hope that the guy who’s got your back has the skill and experience which Ralph Urquiza displayed at every hostile fire he helped to extinguished.
When an ambulance pulls up to transport your patient, hope that fireman who steps out has the same knowledge, demeanor and caring ways that Ralph Urquiza exhibited on each and every call, no after the time of day. Set upon any garden path, sidewalk or sunny patio and take the time to appreciate the craftsmanship and utility of he creation, remembering that Ralph Urquiza was dedicated to making each of his works a masterpiece.
Ralph was raised in Burbank, a place he could call his hometown. Here is where spent his childhood, where he met his wife and would eventually marry her, and then where their children were baptized.
It was here in his hometown that early in life he developed a love and passion for the fire service. When he was just 12 years old he assisted a group of firemen deliver a baby. It just happened to be in his own home, his mother giving birth to his youngest sister. Ralph was ready, willing and eager to assist the firemen with whatever they needed of him that day, and they were happy to let him help.
Ralph developed and fostered his love for the fire department by association with a family friend who lived nearby. Ralph was close friends with one the sons of Ray Hickman, Sr., a Burbank firefighter. He spent many a day asking Ray Sr. questions about the fire business and about how to go about getting hired. Ralph was about 19 then.
However, he wasn’t meant to be a fireman just yet, although he never gave up on his dream. His worked turned towards the concrete industry where he began working for Quality Ready Mix in Burbank. But because of his desire was so great, because the yearning was something he chose to nurture rather than suppress, he continued to pursue his fire department ambitions. Finally at the age of 27, Ralph realized his dream and joined the LAFD.
It was about this same time, on his last of probation at Fire Station 33, that he would realize another dream. And again his mentor. Ray Hickman, Sr., would be responsible. Hanging out at the Hickman’s, Ralph was introduced to a friend of Ray’s daughter. Her name was Jeanne. It didn’t take him long to realize that Jeanne was he one, the girl of his dreams, the perfect match for his passion and his life.
Besides being a steadfast friend, Ralph was a strong and dedicated father figure. He was devoted to his children, Troy and Jessica, taking great joy in nurturing, teaching, loving and molding them into resilient individuals who will make their family proud.
But his devotion to children extended beyond his own flesh and blood, and he reached out to the young men and women of the Explorer Program. He was a motivator and role model to the explorers who passed through his post. They would come back to thank him and express their gratitude for all that he had done for them, especially when they were finally hired as firefighters themselves.
Nevertheless, many youths in his post, for a variety of reasons, would never be able to attain firefighter status. But this was never an issue for Ralph. He spread his inspiration and passion equally, finding strengths and talents among all his flock. The valuable life skills and tools they received from Ralph will help them in whatever endeavors their future hold.
Ralph also had two very special children besides his own that he took under his wing, Katie and Jeff. According to Jeanne, “Anybody who knows these two knows that his work was cut out for him because these two broke the mold, so to speak. But Ralph stepped and never wavered.”
Ralph Urquiza spent a lot of time with many different people, from many walks of life; listening, learning and always lending a hand. He devoted his life to helping others, never asking for or expecting anything in return. The result of all this is something he never intended, it was never his aim or purpose. But his unselfish deeds leave with us a monument to a man which no tribute of stone or steel could equal. It is his spirit that will continue to live in all of us.
Jeanne hopes that we won’t be selfish in expressing our feelings for her Ralph. She asks that each of us, “Share your Ralph – the one you with everyone. Let him live because the Lord shared him with us. And remember to laugh when you do.”
By Dave Wagner, October 2009
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May 9, 1937 - July 15, 2023
Sacramento, California - Dennis Wayne Shimek
Dennis was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Raymond Ramon Shimek and Alvalda Hertha Wenzel.
He moved west with his family and graduated from Burbank High School and earned an AA degree from Pasadena Community College, working as a baggage handler at the Burbank airport. He went on to earn a BS degree from UC Berkeley, as a proud member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity, and an MBA from California State University San Francisco in Labor Relations. During the summer he worked for Del Monte Company as an accountant in their fish canneries in Egegik, Alaska and for the National Labor Relations Board in San Francisco overseeing union elections.
In 1961 he married his college sweetheart, Cherie Bernardo, moved to Sacramento, and after a short stint with the California State Employees Association, he was hired away by UC Davis to begin a 42-year career with the Aggies. His title, Director of Personnel, morphed over the years and he retired as Associate Vice Chancellor, Human Relations (same job description, thousands more employees). He will be remembered as a fair but fierce and effective labor contract negotiator and champion for minority causes including the implementation of the Title IX directives. After a short retirement he answered a call from California State University, Stanislaus, to become their Vice President, Human Relations, commuting to Turlock with ease for eight years until his final retirement at age 80.
Dennis had many interests. He was a Docent for the Old Eagle Theatre and the Railroad Museum leading tours in costume and, until recently, was a jail visitation volunteer for Loaves and Fishes. He loved all kinds of music having season tickets to the San Francisco Opera & attending all central valley George Jones and Merle Haggard concerts. After retirement he took up the ukulele and spent many Saturday mornings playing and singing at the Music Café in Folsom.
He traveled the world with family and friends eventually visiting all seven continents. Closer to home he annually backpacked the Sierras, deer hunted in Northern California and fished the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota. He was a long time fitness fanatic beginning with his workouts at Gold's Gym in Los Angeles and until recently working out most every day at Del Norte Sports Club.
Per his request, there will be no service. His family will spread his ashes beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, at deer camp and in the Boundary Waters.
He was one of the good guys, gone but not forgotten.
Published by The Sacramento Bee on Aug. 20, 2023.
Connie Marie Smith, BHS 1990
Published in the Palladium-Item, Richmond, Indiana, Monday, August 16, 1993
CONNERSVILLE – Connie M. Smith, 21, 814 1/2 Lee Street, died Saturday, August 14, 1993 at Christ Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio. She had been a patient there two weeks and ill the past few months.
She was born April 1, 1972, in Burbank, California, to Herschel and Janis Keith Miller Smith (BHS 66), and had lived most of her life in California. She attended Connersville High School from 1988-89 and graduated from Burbank (Calif.) High School in 1990. She returned to Connersville two years ago.
Survivors include one daughter, Kelsey Nicole Sheppler of Connersville; her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. James L. Miller of Stevenson Ranch, California; her father Herschel Smith (BHS 65) of Los Angeles; a stepmother, Yvonne Smith of Connersville; two sisters, Churee and Lauran Amber Smith both of Connersville; two brothers, Wayne Howard Smith of Stevenson Ranch and Herschel Travis Smith of Connersville.
Service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 17, at Showalter-Blackwell Funeral Home, Myers Chapel. Burial will be in Dale Cemetery. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today and until time of service Tuesday at the funeral home.
Note: No senior photo, but connie is listed in the 1990 BHS Commemencent program.
Hollywood LA News,Hollywood, California, May 2023
(L.A.) Johann Bonar, 45, Died in a Walkway
Case Number: 2023-05432
Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 45-year-old White/Caucasian male that occurred in a walkway on May 13, 2023.
The coroner’s office has identified the man as Johann C Bonar. Born in L.A. County.
Manner of Death: Suicide
Cause of Death: Gunshot Wound of Head
RIP JOHANN CHRETIEN BONAR (March 7, 1978 – May 13, 2023)
Formal pronouncement of death was made on Saturday at 12:17 a.m.
Published in the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin, Walla Walla, Washington, December 31, 1984
Frederic Douglas Biddle, 53, of 1809 Plaza Way, Apartment 18, died Sunday at St. Mary Medical Center.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Wednesday at the Herring Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. Robin Peterson will officiate. Private inurnment will be held later.
Biddle was born November 21, 1931, in Longview, Washington, James and Georgia McKinnis Biddle. He attended grade school in Longview and graduated from Burbank High School, Burbank, California. He attended Pasadena City Junior College, Pasadena, California.
He served in the United States Navy Fleet Marines, having served in Korea as a corpsman. Following his discharge he returned to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he was a deputy sheriff for 17 years.
Biddle married Ramona Chancey. In 1967 they moved to Waitsburg and he was manager of Duckworth Ambulance Service. He later worked at Rose Street Safeway Store and at the Washington State Penitentiary as a physician’s assistant, retiring in 1980.
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church in College Place, the Masonic Lodge and Blue Mountain Shriners El Katif, and Elks Lodge 287, “Good Sam” Recreational Vehicle Club.
Riddle is survived by his wife, at the home; two daughters, Tammi Biddle, at the home, and Jean LaRue of Walla Walla; two sons, Andrew Biddle and Douglas Biddle, both of Walla Walla; his mother of Las Vegas; two brothers, Harold Biddle of Reseda, California, and James Biddle of Sedona, Arizona and five grandchildren.
Kim was an independent Cinematographer and when he passed away this was written by one of his co-workers and friend:
In Memory of Kim Norwood – December 21, 2009 by A V.
It is with great pain and deep sadness I have to announce that Kim Norwood, my friend and Director of Photography for “The Chronic Pain Educational Documentary Series,” has passed away on Sunday, December 20th, 2009 due to liver metastatic cancer complications. Kim’s 22 year battle with hairy cell Leukemia and chronic pain combined with an Emmy Award (4) 35 year broadcasting career experience he shared with my valuable team made him an indispensable member of our team’s effort to educate on the issues related to chronic pain. He will be missed greatly.
During the past year that I have been fortunate to work and become friends with Kim he has been a driving force and constant source of inspiration. Kim’s life experience will serve as reminder of why ‘The Chronic Pain Educational Series” have started and how we have all discovered each other set on our mission to educate on the issues related to chronic pain.
Kim, thank you for your humanity, your friendship, your great work and most of all for being courageous, honest and authentic. Wherever you might be at I wish you are cancer and pain free, safe, loved and pampered with joy, fulfillment and pleasure should you wish toying with the best camera your mind can conceive, your hands can operate and your eyes can record through. Thank you and have a good trip.
Kim was survived by family, siblings, his father, a few friends, colleagues, the numerous people that treated him over the years, the millions that struggle to battle cancer and chronic pain day after day and the many millions around the world who have witnessed countless hours of 4 different Olympic events coverage through his eyes and ears. As an independent Cinematographer Kim had made an equal contribution and his work will be seen in 2010 through “The Chronic Pain Educational Documentary Series,” and his spirit will live on. My sympathies go to his family members, friends and everyone Kim’s life has touched.
With Gratitude
Charalambos Kesta, Executive Producer/Director, “The Chronic Pain Educational Documentary Series”
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SEPTEMBER 26, 1951 – AUGUST 16, 2023
IN THE CARE OF - Weerts Funeral Home
John H. Niers, 71, of Davenport, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at Genesis East Medical Center. Per his request cremation rites have been accorded. Following the cremation he will be inurned at the Muscatine Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials in John’s name may be made to the Humane Society of Scott County.
John was born on September 26, 1951 in the Netherlands to John and Bernadina Niers. John and his family immigrated to the United States in 1956. He was a 1969 graduate of Burbank High School. Following high school, he enlisted with the United States Army and served for six years. John married Carolyn Metcalfe on April 27, 1974 in Burbank, California. Shortly after their two children were born John and Carolyn moved to Davenport. John became an official United State Citizen in the early 1980’s. While in Davenport, John worked as a Medical Assistant at St. Luke’s Hospital in the Pathology Department. He later went on to work at Vera French as Administrative Staff and retired from Vera French after 27 years in June of 2014. John also enjoyed driving limos for Luxury Limousines. He enjoyed watching movies, going on vacation with his family, and spending time with his pets. John was an excellent joke teller and his jokes will be greatly missed.
Those left to honor his memory are his wife of 49 years, Carolyn; children Caryn (Ed) Wright and Bryan (Lori) Niers; and his grandson Dylan Niers. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings Harry, Hetty, and Marion.
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David W. Seaborg, passed away on November 4, 2015 from complications of pancreatic cancer. Dave graduated from UCSB in 1969 with a degree in psychology. He moved to Seattle, Washington and worked many years for the King County Department of Corrections.
Dave had a wonderful sense of humor, loved working with wood, and collected quirky things. David is survived by his beloved wife, Flora, and sister Judy Seaborg Parker (BHS 60). David was preceded in death by his sister Lynne Seaborg Owomoyela (BHS 62) in 2014.
From Senior Bulldogs
