Richard Lee Peterson, BHS 1964

Richard Lee Peterson, BHS 1964

We are sorry to report the recent passing of Richard Peterson BHS '64. Richard was born on April 25, 1946 and passed away on July 29, 2021 in Henderson, Nevada, after battling several lengthy illnesses.

Richard grew up in Burbank, California. He played Football for Burbank High School and was a quarterback. Richard was also a United States Air Force Veteran.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Peterson  and survived by his brother, John Peterson BHS '65 and sister-in-law, Marilyn Williams Peterson BHS '67, nieces and nephews.

Richard was one of the "Keystone Street Kids" and grew up with my husband, Jon Kirkwood. Jon has so many fun memories of childhood adventures that he shared with Richard. From  playing baseball in the street to hiking the Verdugo Mountains just above where they lived. During their high school years and after, Richard and Jon worked together at Shopping Bag Market. Jon remembers that Richard was a good Big Brother to his younger brother, John. He always looked out for John.

Bon Voyage, Richard...You will be missed.

Pam Zipfel Kirkwood BHS '64 and Jon Kirkwood BHS '64

Betty Lee Kesling Costa, BHS 1949

Betty Lee Kesling Costa, BHS 1949

Died unexpectedly June 11, 2017 in Loveland, Colorado. Greatly missed by husband Larry, daughters Marie (Regan) of Broomfield, Beverly (Brown) of Hendersonville, North Carolina, and Sharon (Helard) of Eureka, California, as well as numerous friends, colleagues and acquaintance.

Published by Denver Post, Denver, Colorado on August 14, 2017.

Debra Anne Winkler Ohanian, BHS 1971

Debra Anne Winkler Ohanian, BHS 1971 

Debra (Debi) Anne Ohanian passed away on November 11, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends. Debi was born on June 28, 1953, in Burbank, California, to Eugene and Gladys Winkler. She attended Burbank High School, graduating in 1971. In 1973, she married her high school sweetheart, Mark Ohanian. Debi and Mark traveled the world together and lived in a variety of places along the West Coast.

Together, they built a family that was the center of their world. They raised their two sons, Josh and Chris, in Sebastopol, California, and found their greatest joy when spending time with family. Mark went to Heaven in 1998, leaving Debi to very successfully raise Josh and Chris on her own.

Debi was the best mom and grandma, sister and friend. She loved spending time with her sons and granddaughter, Aliyah, as well as with her sisters and friends. She was an avid athlete. She loved to swim, walk, fish, play baseball, tennis, basketball, golf, ping- pong and billiards. She was competitive, often dominating her sons in sports, but was always a gracious winner. She was also an avid genealogist, tracing her family back to before they came over on the Mayflower.

Debi loved all animals, particularly dogs and cats. She had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh and joke. She loved listening to and playing music. She really enjoyed spending time with her many friends. She spent time enjoying the sun, either in her pool or on her boat on Lake Sonoma. More recently, she loved to take Aliyah to the park with slices of bread to feed the ducks; something Aliyah will likely never forget. She was an excellent writer, wordsmith and poet. As her profession was court reporting, actively working until her passing, she always took pride in her writing and grammar. She taught her sons these skills at a young age as well. She was an amateur artist (painting and drawing) as well, although, some of her works were unintentionally quite Picasso-esque, which her family loved.

Debi was the best mom her two sons could ever have hoped for. Always telling them how much she loved them and how much they meant to her, and they always felt the same about her. She put both boys through college on her own, each graduating with multiple bachelor's degrees. She saw or spoke with both of her sons every day until her passing.

Debi is survived by her two sons, Josh and Chris, her granddaughter, Aliyah, her sisters Annette, Kathy, Jeanne, and sisters-in-law, Nancy and Priscilla, several nieces and nephews, and her cat, Biggy Smalls.

There will be a celebration of life ceremony at Hop Monk in Sebastopol on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. We (Debi's family) invite anyone who would like to celebrate her life with us. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue in Pacific Grove, CA, in memory of Debi Ohanian.

We will always love you, Mom, and will miss you always. You are the best mom in the entire world. We know that we will see you in Heaven when our time here is done.

Published by Press Democrat, Santa Rosa, CA on Jan. 11, 2026.

Memorial Events for Debra Ohanian

Jan 24

Celebration of Life

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Hop Monk, Sebastopol, CA

Nancy Jean Baird, BHS 1963

Nancy Jean Baird

January 24, 1945 - December 13, 2025

Nancy Jean Baird was born on January 24, 1945, in Burbank, California, to William Vernon "Junebug" Baird Jr and Margaret (Morrison) Baird. She passed away on December 13, 2025, in Porterville, California at the age of 80.

Nancy grew up in Burbank California, graduating from Burbank High School in 1963, then moving with her parents to Strathmore, California. She first attended COS then graduated from Porterville Jr College in 1966, where she was a proud cheerleader. She then began working several jobs including an escrow company & Jostens. She then served as Secretary to the Strathmore High School Superintendent/Principal. Nancy also helped lead and chaperone the Friday Night Live group, guiding students through leadership activities, community events, & positive youth development. After 31 dedicated years of service, she retired in 2008.

In 1969, Nancy made the profoundly selfless decision to place her son for adoption, giving him the chance to grow up in a loving family. Many years later, they reunited and spent the next 26 years building a deep and meaningful relationship. Her son, John McCormack, expressed heartfelt gratitude for her sacrifice, recognizing it as a gift that shaped his life and allowed him to grow up surrounded by family, love, and opportunity.

Nancy was deeply involved in her community and belonged to the Grand Ave United Methodist Church, SETCO Republican Women, Strathmore Town & Country Club where she served as President 2007-2010, Springville Community Club, and Friends of the Porterville & Strathmore Libraries, Exeter Women's Club serving as Corresponding Secretary and Vice President. Nancy also proudly served as a Pink Lady Life Member at Sierra View District Hospital beginning 1977.

In 2012, Nancy survived a catastrophic stroke which affected her mobility but didn't diminish her sharp mind or extraordinary memory. Known as the most positive person in any room, Nancy remembered not only people's stories but their families as well. She could recall names and exact dates with ease. Her remarkable memory and attention to detail earned her the nickname "computer brain". She loved reading, always having a book checked out until her final days.

For the last 5 years, Nancy lived at the Serenity Senior Care Home in Porterville, where she received excellent care, found comfort, friendship, and a true sense of home. She especially loved that she lived in the same room her mother once had.

Nancy is survived by her son, John McCormack (wife Kristi) of Riverside, California, grandchildren, Chad McCormack (wife Sarah) & Alee McCormack, and great grandson Liam McCormack.

Nancy will be remembered as a kind, caring, and selfless woman. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her generous heart.

A celebration of life will be held at the Grand Ave United Methodist Church on her birthday, January 24th, 2026, at 2 pm.

https://www.myersfuneral.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Porterville Recorder on Jan. 15, 2026.

 

Rex Karl Peppmuller, BHS 1931

Rex Karl Peppmuller, BHS 1931

February 6, 1912, Spencer, South Dakota - October 11, 2001, Burbank, California

Burbank Leader, 2001

Rex Karl Peppmuller died October 11, 2001 in a Burbank hospital. He was 89. Mr. Peppmuller was born February 6, 1912 in Spencer, South Dakota, and lived in Burbank for 72 years. He was a machinist for Adel Company. He was a member of Calvary Bible Church.

Mr. Peppmuller is survived by his son Rodney Peppmuller; brother, Robert Peppmuller; five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

A graveside services was Tuesday at Grand View Memorial Park, Glendale, California. Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service was in charge of arrangements.

Robert Charles Konstanzer, BHS 1959

Robert Charles Konstanzer, BHS 1959

The Bakersfield Californian, October 1, 2002

Caliente Man Dies Of Injuries Suffered In Car Crash Monday

A Caliente man died Monday afternoon from injuries suffered in a car crash, California Highway Patrol Officers said.

Robert Charles Konstanzer, 61, suffered massive chest and head trauma, Officer Vaughn Cain said. He was pronounced dead at 2:10 p.m. at Kern Medical Center after being airlifted there, Cain said.

Konstanzer was driving a 1994 Honda at about 12:30 p.m. when he ran off of Caliente Bodfish Road close to Walker Basin Road and struck the canyon wall, Cain said. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

-------------------------------

The Bakersfield Californian, October 3, 2002

Obituary 

Services: Monday, October 7, 10 a.m.

Memorial services will be held at Greenlawn Southwest Memorial Chapel, 2739 Panama Ln., Monday, October 7, at 10:00 a.m., for Robert Charles Konstanzer, 61, who passed away September 30, 2002, in Bakersfield.

Known as "Big Bob" to many of his friends and co-workers. Robert was born May 16, 1941 in Tucson, Arizona and resided in Kern County for 30 years. He was a safety coordinator for Walmart for 13 years. Bob gave of himself to support many youth activities in the Kern Valley, such as FFA and sport activities.

In life he expected the best anyone had to give. In return he gave his best through love and commitment, not only at his job, but in his personal relationships as well. Bob will be missed by more than he could ever know.

He is survived by his wife, Donna C. Konstanzer of Caliente; son and daughter-in-law; Kevin C. and Pam Konstanzer; daughter, Kimber C. DuPuy; granddaughter, Alyssa C. Konstanzer, all of Fresno; sisters and brothers-in-law, Renee and Ron Brocca of Burbank and Joan and Victor Lozano of North Hollywood; and many other loving relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Associations, Central Valley Office, 55 Shaw Ave., Ste105, Clovis, CA 93612. No visitation is scheduled. Greenlawn Southwest Mortuary Funeral Directors.

-------------------------

The Bakersfield Californian, June 15, 2003

Ronald George Eichensehr, BHS 1953

Ronald George Eichensehr, BHS 1953

May 12, 1935 - May 8, 2023

Ronald George Eichensehr passed away peacefully in his sleep the morning of May 8, 2023, just four days before his 88th birthday.

Beloved husband of Edith; loving father of ... Papa to 11 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

Ron was born in Johnstown, PA on May 12, 1935 and spent his teen years in Burbank, CA with his parents Robert and Jesse and his siblings Bob and Joyce. He moved to the Bay Area in his 20s where he quickly fell in love with Edith. They spent their 60-year marriage raising their five children in South San Francisco where he loved having the nicest lawn on the block.

Ron and Edith were proud founding members of Mater Dolorosa Church. He was an honored veteran who loved recounting his stories of his time stationed in Korea. Ron spent 30 years working at Chevron and was able to retire at the young age of 57.

In his retirement, Ron enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his friends and family on the golf course, tinkering in the garage, and rummaging for treasures at the Salvation Army store which he fondly referred to as "Sally's Boutique". He and Edith spent many years traveling the world on cruises, where he loved indulging in the delicious buffets and relaxing on the deck playing his sudoku.

Ron will be remembered by his sweet smile, infectious chuckle, amusing jokes, and generous heart. The love he shared with his family and friends will always be remembered.

A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated Thursday, May 18 at Mater Dolorosa Church, South San Francisco. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery, 1500 Mission Rd, Colma.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle on May 12, 2023.

James Collier Cummings, Jr., BHS 1960

James Collier Cummings, Jr., BHS 1960

James Collier Cummings, Jr., passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 at the Irvine Medical Center. He was born on May 2, 1942 to James Cummings, Sr. and Dona Raborn. James graduated from high school and went to the Army to serve his country. 

He will be forever loved and greatly missed. 

(Calimesa, CA) | Date of Publication: 04 Feb 2021

Arline Lillian Stripe Tobey, BHS 1935

Arline Lillian Stripe Tobey, BHS 1935

November 3, 1917- November 13, 2004

Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of Mount Lebanon St. Peter Cathedral, 333 S. San Vicente in Los Angeles on Thursday, Nov. 18 at 10 am, for Arline L. Tobey. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 5835 W. Slauson Ave. in Culver City. Visitation was at Ross, Burke & Knobel Mortuary in Reno, Nevada on Tuesday, November 16.

Born on Nov. 3, 1917 in Burbank to George and Hazel Thomson Stripe, Arline died on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2004 at St. Mary's Regional Medical Center in Reno. She was 87.

Arline worked with her husband in the family business as a bookkeeper. Arline was a dedicated housewife who loved to travel. She enjoyed taking cruises with her husband and was very active with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Winifred Stripe Krause and brother, William S. Stripe.

Arline is survived by her husband, Nason A. Tobey of Reno; son, Richard Tobey of Missoula, Mont.; daughters, Dottie Bower of Idaho and Patty Lydick of Reno; sister, Margie Muterspaugh of Castaic; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

The Inyo Register, Bishop, California, November 18, 2004

Bret Matta, BHS 1980

Bret Matta, BHS 1980

February 25, 1962 — November 25, 2025

Bret Matta, 63, born on February 25, 1962, in Burbank, California, passed away November 25, 2025.

Born in Burbank, California, Bret Matta entered the world as a fighter—less than four pounds, alongside his twin brother, Bart. That early resilience carried through his entire life. As a teenager, he proudly lived up to his nickname “Mr. Excitement” —always at the heart of the day’s craziest story. He was well-known for his boundless energy, confidence, and the way he dove—literally—into everything he did, especially baseball. He was a standout player, willing to sacrifice his body for the out.

He built an honorable 40-year career in aerospace manufacturing, rising to become President of STADCO in Los Angeles. He led with dedication, humility, and genuine care for the people he worked with. He believed deeply in treating everyone with respect, and he developed close, meaningful relationships across every level of the company.

He was a die-hard Steelers fan from birth, and he carried that passion like fuel—arguing play calls, celebrating wins a little too loudly, and turning every game day into a show. In his twenties, he and his twin shared a boat and spent many days fishing and tearing across the water. He loved to explore new places, go to the beach, and being outdoors. He loved to crack jokes and always welcomed the kind of chaos that made each day with him unforgettable.

What defined him most, though, was his connection to people. He cared deeply and sincerely about everyone around him; His humor, timing, wit, and presence made people feel seen and welcomed. He was approachable, goofy, and always himself.

Above all else, he was a devoted husband and loving father. He planned with care, supported without hesitation, and showed up in every way that mattered, always. Whether it was attending his son’s football practices, answering his daughter’s late-night calls, or organizing family trips down to the cent, he was fully invested in the people he loved most. His devotion extended to every member of his family, including his childhood dog, Barney; his late cat, Goody; his beloved Riley; and his two loyal companions, Hampton and Gnocchi.

He is survived by his loving wife, Penny Matta; his son, Garrett Matta; his daughter, Rachel Matta; his older brothers, Bill and Bud Matta; his twin brother, Bart Matta; and all those who loved him.

He’ll be missed in this world, even as he’s welcomed into the next.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16

Service Schedule

Funeral Service of Bret Matta

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

12:30 - 1:30 pm (Pacific time)

Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills - Church of the Hills

6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Daniel Wain Ruffell, BHS 1962

Daniel Wain Ruffell, BHS 1962

1944 - 2016

RUFFELL, Daniel Wain born May 22, 1944 Burbank, California. Passed away on April 30, 2016, Tucson Arizona. Leaving behind his loving family, Julie wife of 51 years; three children, Jaime, Christina, Geoff; five grandchildren,, Zachary, Savannah, Collin, Kealy and Jake; one great-grandson, Zachary. 

Daniel and his wife owned a construction company for 50 years. Danny and Julie were in the process of building their dream home at the time of his passing. Danny loved music, dancing and spending time with his family and friends. 

Honoring Danny's last wishes no services will be scheduled. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, Dodge Chapel.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on May 15, 2016.

Kathryn Louise Hoadley, BHS 1968

Kathryn Louise Hoadley, BHS 1968

7 November 1950 - 31 October 2004 

Kay suffered from Lupus for many years. During her first few years of life she was diagnosed with melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Because of her lupus, the doctors didn't really know how to treat the cancer, which rapidly spread to her lungs.

She underwent experimental treatment at the Norris Cancer Center as a last resort. This treatment was not successful and Kay died a week before her 54th birthday. 

Kay was a special education teacher in the Burbank schools. I believe one of her last teaching jobs was at John Burroughs High School. When she was forced to retire early because of her lupus, she volunteered at the Burbank Temporary Aid Center. 

Kay and I knew each other from the time we were 1 years old. She's now been gone for several years. I miss her very much. (sent in by Laurie Eisenberg to the Class of 1968)

Note: Burial was in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, California. See Kay's Find A Grave memorial here

Ronald Murray Everett, BHS 1958

Ronald Murray Everett, BHS 1958

October 2, 1940 - July 5, 2020

 Late last night or very early this morning my dad passed away. The past two to three years he dealt with medical challenges that slowly took from him that which we take for granted. His name was Ronald M. Everett but was know simply as "Ron". Losing my blood father to a plane crash at a very young age, my mom remarried Ron and from that day forward, he has been my "Dad". In the beginning, it was he, my mom, me and my sister. And then soon came three more sisters. Something that impressed me over the years he raised the five of us, was that he always treated us equally.

"We were both of similar stature, broader in the shoulders and thicker in the chest. In years gone by more that a couple times someone had said, you look like your dad. We'd smile at each other and just say thank you.

"If there was a memorial/celebration of life that could have been done Pre-Covid, I'm quite sure there would be a good number of people in attendance. Not just because we come from a large family but because he touched many lives. Yes he was a husband, father and grandfather but also

-Involved in his church for decades

-Participated in leadership for the Walnut Valley School District

And

-Participated in city politics for his city of Diamond Bar, CA. He was a Councilman and then held the position of Mayor of Diamond Bar.

"It was some months back we were told that his time may be near and Debbie and I went out to see him at the care facility he was at. We made up a little photo album for him to flip through and hopefully trigger memories. My sister Marla shared later that there were two pictures we put in the book of he with his two brothers and he'd tap his finger and linger on. I was able to hold his hand we shared a gaze but the ability to share in give and take conversation, that time was gone.

"If this had been fast and sudden, there would be more sorrow. But given the road he had traveled to get here, my feelings today are more of joy knowing he is in heaven and is suffering no more.

"Blessings to my sister Marla and brother-in-law Steve Rickard, who for so many months drove up to my folks and cared for dad, daily. I am moved by their enduring care and love."

George W. Charles Key, BHS 1967

George W. Charles Key, BHS 1967

"Sho Fur"

February 11, 1949 - January 20, 2002

George was born in Culver City, California and grew up in Burbank, California where he graduated from High School and enjoyed driving the Pacific Crest Highway to his favorite surf spots. He served in the armed Forces for  3 years as a helicopter crew chief and mailman. He then went to work at Lockheed. George then married Gail and they had a daughter Melissa in 1976 when they all moved to Bakersfield, California. George served the Lord at Westside Church of Christ for many years doing many different tasks. People there will remember him for being in charge of communion preparation. He was a member of the Muedell Oildale Masonic Lodge #695, the Scottish Right of Bakersfield and Shriner with the Al Malaikah Temple of LA. He was best loved as a clown with Kern County Shrine Club Clowns. He sponsored many children for the Shriners Hospital. Along with all his accomplishments he was an inspiration to many. We will cherish the memories we had with him and remember all the wisdom he passed on.  

George is survived by his loving mother, Anna Key, his wife Gail Key of 28 years, daughter Melissa and her husband Carl Powell, brother-in-law Gary Brown, devoted sidekick Hunnee, his Aunt Dot and Auntie Lolo. Along with numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and "the Caldwell Dr. kids."

Graveside services will be held at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills on Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 3 p.m. Memorial services will be held at the Westside Church of Christ, 7300 Stockdale Highway in Bakersfield at 10 a.m. on Monday January 28.

Published in The Bakersfield Californian,  Thursday, January 24, 2002