Monday, March 31, 2025

James Lee (Jim) Haws, BHS 1977

James Lee (Jim) Haws, BHS 1977

3/12/1959 - 3/15/2025

It’s with heavy heart that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Haws who passed peacefully in his sleep on March 15, 2025 in Palmdale, California.

Jim grew up in Burbank, California, and attended Horace Mann, John Muir and Burbank High School, Class of 1977. Jim was a carpet installer for many years and later in life worked as a lighting electrician for the studios. He was a member of IATSE Local 728 in Burbank.

Jim enjoyed fishing, hunting and going on rides on his Harley motorcycle. In his retirement, he was a longtime member of the Moose Lodge 507 and spent many summers running the firework concessions for the lodge in Palmdale.

Jim’s wife Courtnay preceded him in death in 2023. He is survived by his father Glen, his brother John and sister-in-law Kathy, Brother Bob and sister-in-law Terrie and his sister Linda (Wright) and brother-in-law Mark. He had 7 nieces and nephews and 8 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Published in Burbank Leader



Monday, March 24, 2025

Victoria Kathleen Esra Echols, BHS 1994

Victoria Kathleen Esra Echols, BHS 1994

November 8, 1976 – March 13, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Victoria Kathleen Echols on March 13, 2025. Born on November 8, 1976, in California, Victoria was a bright light in the lives of her family and friends. She grew up in Burbank, CA, and graduated from Burbank High School in 1994 where she enjoyed cheerleading and swimming. Creative and passionate about design, she pursued higher education at Brooks College, a design school in California, where she earned an Associate Degree in 1998.

Victoria built a career in the furniture and textile industry, where her keen eye for design and dedication to her work left a lasting impact. She contributed her talents to several companies, including Minson Corporation; Tropitone Furniture; Trivantage, LLC; Outdura , ultimately ending up as the Director of Outdoor Sales for Revolution Fabrics. Known for her creativity, commitment, and the friends she developed during her career, her passion was connecting people in the industry.

A Life of Love and Family

More than anything, Victoria’s true passion in life was her family and her friends. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished daughter, adoring grandmother, and a passionate friend who always put the needs of her loved ones first. She found immense joy in spending time with her family, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Victoria is survived by her husband, Bryan Echols, and their four beloved children:

Madison Bolt

Maverick Bilsky

Chandler Echols

Gabrielle Yow

She was a proud and loving grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren:

Beau Echols

Cassie Yow

Wyatt Echols

Victoria’s family also includes her dear parents, brother, and her extended family:

Susan Dawson

Gerald Esra

Kathleen Esra

Phil Esra

Megan Bergkessel (sister-in-law)

Rebecca-Lynne Echols (daughter-in-law)

Orion Yow (son-in-law)

Jacob DeWitt (Madison’s boyfriend) 

Her kindness, love, and unwavering support made her the heart of the family, and she was always the first to offer a listening ear, a warm embrace, or words of encouragement.

A Legacy of Strength and Kindness

Victoria had an incredible ability to make people feel valued and loved. She was someone you could always count on—whether for advice, a good laugh, or a shoulder to lean on. Her presence lit up every room, and her laughter was infectious. She enjoyed design, anything creative, and spending time outdoors, often finding joy in life’s simple moments. Her family will forever cherish the memories of her warm hugs, her passion for life, and the unwavering support she provided to everyone she loved. 

Victoria’s love, kindness, and strength will remain in our hearts forever. While she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she touched. 

For service information see link below:

https://everloved.com/life-of/victoria-echols/

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Debra Jean Baumgartner May, BHS 1969

Debra Jean Baumgartner May, BHS 1969

Debi (Baumgartner) May went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 8, 2021. 

Debbie was born on December 12, 1950 in Glendale, California. She graduated from Burbank High School in 1969 before coming to Denton, Texas in 1970. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Millie Baumgartner, and her brother, Rev. John D. Baumgarnter. 

She is survived by her husband of Michael, as well as four children and their spouses, David (Terah) of Irving, Rebecca (Jared) of Denton, Jennifer (Brandon) of Denton, and Melissa (Matt) of Denton; nine grandchildren – Nicholas, Mackenzie & Karleigh Johnson, Nathan & Sarah St. John, William & Ashley Fowler, Marcus Tolson, Marley Basham; and one great-grandson, Jesse Johnson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 15 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Mulkey-Bowles-Montgomery funeral home, 705 N. Locust St. Funeral service will Thursday, September 16 at 10 a.m. at Central Baptist Church, 2221 N. Carroll Blvd.




Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Judith Riddle Pike, BHS 1957

Judith Riddle Pike, BHS 1957

The Signal, Santa Clarita, California, Saturday, August 30, 2008

Judith Pike, 68, died Wednesday, August 27, 2008 at Henry Mayo Hospital Newhall after a yearlong battle with esophageal cancer.

Judy was born on February 1, 1940 in Peoria, Illinois and was the middle child and only girl of three children born to Lloyd and Ruby Riddle. In 1944, Judy moved with her mother and brothers to Burbank, California while her father was serving in the U. S. Army. She attended Burbank High School then married John Pike in 1961, and moved to Canyon Country where they still lived at the time of her hospitalization.

Devoted wife, mother, daughter and grandmother, Judy leaves to mourn, her husband John; her son, Steve (Christine) Pike; her daughter, Kerry; her grandson, Spencer Pike; her brothers, Ron and Terry Riddle; her uncle, Dale Riddle and several nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Eternal Valley Mortuary, Chapel of the Oaks, 23287 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita. The family request that Judy be remembered with contributions to the American Cancer Society, 25070 Avenue Stanford #170, Valencia, California 91355

 

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Donnis Marie Hulbert Plott, BHS 1946

Donnis Marie Hulbert Plott, BHS 1946

Donnis Marie Plott, 96, of Orland, CA, passed away very peacefully in Chico, CA, on February 18, 2025, with her children beside her.

Born in Los Angeles, CA, August 5, 1928, to Francis M. and Faye Hulbert, the family moved to Kansas. After her sister, Dorothy, was born, the family returned to Burbank, CA, in 1937.

Upon graduating from Burbank High School, Donnis began her career in banking as Secretary to the Bank Manager of Security First National.

On a trip to Northern California to visit friends in 1949, Donnis attended a dance at the Paradise Veterans Memorial Hall. There she met the love of her life, Kent Plott, a dairyman from Vina, CA.

They married November 12, 1950. Inducted into the Army January 1, 1951, Kent was stationed in Oahu, HI, and Donnis was fortunate to move with him and work there. Upon discharge from the Army, they returned to Vina, CA, where they started their family.

They had Karen in 1953, Janet in 1954, and Eric in 1963. Operating a dairy was a full time job for all. Yes, Donnis learned to milk cows!

In 1970, the family moved to Orland, CA, and continued in the dairy business. Donnis returned to work for Bank of America in Corning, CA, and later in Chico, CA. Serving 30 years earned her the distinction and honor of "Founders Club", which was celebrated in San Francisco.

Donnis was extremely proud of the service she provided and the relationships she built with her clients, co-workers and community. Donnis retired in 2000.

Donnis joined the Corning Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi in 1979, and valued those longtime friendships. As a member of the Orland Federated Church, Donnis was active in the Morningstar Circle. Donnis and Kent enjoyed time spent with their family and friends, and traveling in their RV.

Donnis is survived by her children, Karen (Dwayne) Landrum, Chico, CA, Janet "JP" (Roger) Clark, AZ, and Eric (Polly) Plott, Dayton, OH; four grandchildren, Keith, Katie, Tyler, and Brad; sister, Dorothy Vadney; sister-in-law, Sharon Williams; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Donnis was preceded in death by her husband, Kent, in 2020. Donnis has been laid to rest next to Kent, at the Vina Cemetery.

A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate Donnis' life on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 2 PM, Orland Federated Church. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Orland Federated Church or your favorite charity. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Corning Observer on Mar. 13, 2025.

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Dennis Edward Shaw, BHS 1960

Dennis Edward Shaw, BHS 1960

December 27, 1942 – March 6, 2025

Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home

Dennis Edward Shaw of Jacksonville, FL, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Glendale, California, on December 27, 1942, Dennis lived a life rich in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those closest to him.

From an early age, Dennis had an insatiable curiosity about the world. A lifelong scholar with a deep passion for history and culture, Dennis earned an associate’s degree at Glendale College, a bachelor’s and master’s degree in anthropology from UCLA and UC Santa Barbara, as well as a doctorate in history from the University of Miami. His early work as an archaeologist took him to the King Ranch in New Mexico, where he was the Field Director of the Anasazi Origins Archeological project, as well as Santa Barbara where he assisted with the excavation of the chapel of the Spanish Presidio. In 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving honorably until 1971. He attained the rank of sergeant and was stationed at the Pentagon, Shu Lin Kou Air Station near Taipei, Taiwan and Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Following his service, he began a 33-year career as a professor at Miami-Dade Community College, teaching a range of subjects from anthropology and history to archaeology and geography and inspiring generations of students. He also taught at Florida International University and the University of Miami and earned an Emmy Award in 1984 for his work on the television series Faces of Culture.

In addition to his passion for education and the social sciences, he was an avid poker player. He was also a lifelong country music fan and taught himself the guitar, banjo, and mandolin.

But while his professional achievements and personal pursuits were many, his greatest joy was his family. On September 1, 1973, he married the love of his life, Maria Elena Garcia, and together they built a beautiful life filled with adventure, shared dreams, and a deep and abiding love. Their home was always warm, welcoming, and full of the stories he loved to tell.

Dennis was a devoted father to Kimberly and Harley, always present with guidance, encouragement, and an endless well of love. He made every moment count—whether it was summer road trips across the country in the family camper, teaching his children about history and culture through real-world experiences, or simply sharing a quiet moment over a home-cooked meal. He instilled in them a love of learning, a sense of curiosity, and, above all, the importance of family.

As a grandfather, Dennis embraced his role with joy and enthusiasm. Harper, Charlotte, Amelia, and Brooks were the lights of his life, and he cherished every hug, every storytime, and every chance to spoil them with love and laughter. His heart swelled with pride as he watched his family grow, and he never missed an opportunity to remind them how deeply they were loved.

Dennis and Maria shared a love of travel, embarking on countless European river cruises, exploring new cultures, and creating lifelong memories together. But no matter where he traveled, home was always wherever his family was. In 2023, Dennis and Maria moved to Jacksonville to be closer to their children and grandchildren, a final chapter spent in the embrace of those he cherished most.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Maria Shaw; his daughter, Kimberly Shaw and husband Michael Doyle, his son, Harley Shaw and wife Michelle Shaw; his cherished grandchildren, Harper and Charlotte Doyle and Amelia and Brooks Shaw; his niece, Denyse Esswein, and her children, Lacey and Brandon Fountain; as well as countless cousins and extended family in Oklahoma, Arizona, Missouri, New Mexico, and Arkansas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Montine Shaw, his sister, Sandi Esswein, and his brother-in-law, Roy Esswein.

Dennis’ legacy is not only in the books he read, the lessons he taught, or the places he explored—it lives on in the love he poured into his family, the stories he shared, and the kindness he showed to all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on Wednesday, March 12th, at 1 p.m. at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Roger P. Johnson, Jr., BHS 1945

Roger P. Johnson, Jr., BHS 1945

March 5, 1927 – January 13, 2015

The Los Angeles Times, Sunday, February 15, 2015

Robert P. Johnson, Jr. was born in Los Angeles, the son of Roger P. Johnson, Sr. and Eunice Peart Johnson. He spent his childhood in Hermosa Beach, Berkeley and Burbank, where he graduated from Burbank High School. He then served his country in the United States Navy.

Roger attended the University of Southern California where he was a member of the Chi Phi fraternity and played basketball. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the USC Marshall School of Business, Class of 1950. He then received a teaching credential and a Master’s Degree in Education from Long Beach State University.

His career with the Los Angeles United School District spanned decades of achievement including teacher, vice principal, principal, director of instruction, staff relations coordinator and labor relations negotiator. He retired from LAUSD and joined the staff of the Associated Administrations of Los Angeles as labor relations negotiator. He then served as a benefits consultant for the State Teachers Retirement System and two years serving on the Santa Barbara County Grand Jury.

In 1965, Roger married Ann Louise Rosenquist, whom he met on the Strand in Hermosa Beach. They lived on the Strand for many years and their sons, Christopher and Matthew were born. A move to Lunada Bay in Palos Verdes Estates kept the family close to the surf.

In 1962, Roger and Ann became involved in the fledging wine industry in Santa Inez Valley. Being a part of the winery was one of Roger’s greatest pleasure and pride. In 1990 they moved to Solvang. Roger was a member of the Viking Charities of Solvang where his favorite involvement was with the annual Children’s Christmas Party.

Roger was one of the earliest members of the San Onofre Surf Club and passed his passion for surfing on to Chris and Matt. The family trips to Hawaii with surfboards in tow are the fondest of family memories. He also enjoyed snow skiing, beach volleyball, racquetball and numerous other sports. He was a dedicated Trojan football fan! He and Ann enjoyed travel together far and wide.

Roger was a man of great elegance, intellect, grace and generosity. His devotion to his family was the center of his being. Ann, Matt, Chris and wife Kathleen, grandchildren, Leila and Luicas celebrate his legacy, his love and wonderful life. How blessed we were to be there with him. A family memorial will be held.



Saturday, March 8, 2025

Helene Ruth Texier Acton, BHS 1948

Helene Ruth Texier Acton, BHS 1948

Helene Acton, born Hélène Ruth Eleanor Texier, passed away in her beautiful home on February 22nd, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Helene was born November 30th, 1929, in Juan Les Pins, on the Cote D'Azur in southern France. She was the daughter of Charles and Ruth Texier, two musicians who met while attending the Liege Conservatory in Brussels. Charles was a French Opera singer, and Ruth was a promising Canadian violinist born in England. In tribute to their love of music, Helene was named after the operetta, La Belle Hélène, by Jacques Offenbach. Helene enjoyed much of the first nine years of her childhood on the shores of the Mediterranean. Later, her family moved to Paris. As her musician parents traveled to perform in Egypt, Vietnam, and other global venues, Helene spent parts of her early years with her grandmother and aunt in rural Provence and the Brittany coast.

In the fall of 1939, young Helene and her mother left France to spend 6 months visiting her mother's relatives in Vancouver, Canada and Southern California. The decision to travel with the rumblings of war brought some trepidation to her parents, but they honestly believed that war would be avoided. In a story she liked to tell later in life, she and her mother sailed up the St. Lawrence River in Canada in early September 1939 just as World War II was erupting in Europe. Helene's return voyage to France was extended well beyond the 6-month period intended.

Initially, Helene and her mother visited relatives in Vancouver and continued with their plans to visit her California relatives in San Bernardino. Helene attended the local elementary school there until she and her mother relocated to Burbank, several years later. Soon, most of her remaining Vancouver relatives moved nearby, and her future as a U.S. citizen became clear. It was not long afterwards that Helene graduated from Burbank High School. She has many fond memories of the friendships she developed during those years.

Around the time of her 18 birthday, Helene met Albert Acton while she and her mother were living in a boarding house. He was a young man from Baltimore who had come to visit his Uncle Eugene Young and stayed! Gene was a talented artist who married Helene's mother and became her stepfather. Helene and her mother insisted that, with marriage, Helene and Al spend a year with her father in France– and they did just that shortly after their wedding in 1950. It was an incredible year! Helene helped Al by transcribing the lectures of classes he attended at the Sorbonne. They both enjoyed traveling to different areas of France and engaging in many cultural experiences.

Upon returning to Southern California, Helene and Al enjoyed time with friends, as Al pursued his career as a public-school educator. Helene worked at Mobil Oil and later assisted in a pediatrician's office until they welcomed their children a few years later. Helene became a devoted mother and cherished her involvement in the Thousand Oaks community where the family moved in 1965. She supported her children's involvement in school activities, scouting, dance, and, of course, music lessons. Summers were spent on family camping trips throughout the Western US-wonderful memories! Most Sundays were filled with her mother and stepfather spending the day, remodeling our home, and landscaping our yard. These Sundays inevitably ended with discussions about world politics and cultural events around the dining room table, with everybody eating and talking. Helene and Al always had opinions!

Helene was supportive of her husband and eager to embark on the adventure of a lifetime when the Acton family spent two years in Thailand in the early 1970s with Al's career in education. This time was relished by all and added so much to Helene's life.

Helene returned to the workforce as a teacher's aide in an elementary school in the late 1970s; she was able to express her passion for early childhood education-especially reading-for all children. As her own children became adults, Helene became more involved in the Thousand Oaks community and in her church at Saint Paschal Baylon where she was a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the Mission Circle, a group that supported the international Church. She enjoyed volunteering at Mary Health of the Sick thrift store; was an eager member of League of Women Voters and election day poll worker; and was an advocate for improvement in our mental health care system.

Pets were important in the family home-over the years there were dogs, goats, chickens, geese, doves, peacocks and koi fish, and even a burro. And Helene also loved her Siamese cats!

Helene cherished the friendships she maintained, particularly with neighbors and those at Saint Paschal Baylon Church. She was always willing to give her time to help others as well as to learn. She enjoyed the intellectual curiosity offered by University Series and her involvement with the Mission Circle.

Helene loved to read and continued with daily newspapers, the Economist, the Los Angeles Diocesan magazine, and America magazine, very often sending children and grandchildren clips of interesting articles or calling and letting them know about what she was reading. In later years, she delved into crossword puzzles even more than before and still excelled in them right to the end. She was also great at Scrabble. Words were her friends, and she knew them well!

When Al passed away suddenly in 1995, Helene continued to stay involved in multiple activities and did so into her late 80s. She traveled to Maryland, Hawaii and Europe several times with her children and grandchildren and encouraged their own travels around the world. She supported her children's love of the outdoors, and over her last years, became environmentally conscious-especially toward issues in Thousand Oaks and Ventura County. She loved the natural beauty of her own home, developed with the tremendous help of her nearby son and daughter-in-law. She was an integral part of her youngest granddaughter Trinity's upbringing, like her grandmother was with her.

When her health started limiting her mobility at age 91, she fiercely protected her independence and enjoyed the time in her home-a home she had cultivated with care over 60 years in Thousand Oaks-filled with waterfalls and trees lovingly created and planted by her husband and son many years ago and the ongoing menagerie of koi fish, birds, squirrels, and dogs that lived with her. And let's not forget the ducks which gave her delicious fresh eggs!

Helene was predeceased by her husband Al and her son Mark (Feb 4, 2025). She is survived by her daughter Danielle Acton (Marc Tunzi), son David Acton (Debbie), grandchildren Gabriela (Martin) Behn, Dominique Tunzi, Matthew (Natalie) Tunzi, and Trinity Acton. In addition, she is survived by 4 great grandchildren - Theodore, Franklin, Wilhelmina, and Giovanni, a brother-in-law and dear cousins as well as several nephews and nieces and their families.

Mom's gift to us, to her friends, and to her community is a reminder that each of us has the power of kindness and compassion for each person. Even in the last week of her life, she was complimenting people on their beautiful smile and so thankful to those who came to visit. She was full of faith and empathy for the marginalized. We believe she would want everyone to honor her with acts of kindness-not just toward those we know, but particularly toward those we don't.

Helene also enjoyed a good joke: thank you to St Paschal's morning Mass coffee group! She would want everyone to enjoy a hearty laugh each day, regardless of whatever else might be going on around them.

Funeral services will be held Saturday April 5 at 10 am; the service will be held jointly with those for her son, Mark, at St Paschal Baylon in Thousand Oaks. A celebration of her life will occur immediately after at the family home. Please join us!

Donations in her honor may be made to Catholic Charities of Ventura County, St Paschal Baylon, Catholic Relief Services, SOAR (a Ventura County land conservation nonprofit), and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Ventura County.

Rose Family Funeral Home & Cremation on Mar. 8, 2025


Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Frank M. Perry, BHS 1940

Frank M. Perry, BHS 1940

The Daily Press, Victorville, California, Saturday, November 18, 2006

Frank M. Perry was born in Inglewood on September 21, 1921, and passed away peacefully October 31, 2006, in Hesperia. He was 85 Frank had recently undergone surgery for lung cancer and was also diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He lived most of his early years in Burbank, where he graduated from Burbank High School in 1940. 

Frank served in the California Conservation Corps, worked at Universal Studios, and then enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. His last tour in the Navy was on the ship SS David Star Jordan in the Pacific, off the coast of Japan. After completing his service to his country, Frank returned to Burbank. He worked for the city and then went to work for Lockheed Aircraft, until he retired 26 years later. Frank met his wife, Carol, at Lockheed. The couple lived in the High Desert area for many years. Carol preceded Frank in death in 1997, also from cancer. He was also preceded in death by his father, John Perry; mother, Angeline Perry; two daughters, Sylvia and Susan; two sisters, Josephine and Janet; brother-in-law Charlie; and nephew, Jimmy.

Frank is survived by his sisters, Marie Getchel of San Francisco and B.J. Perry of Burbank; niece, JoAnne Szelazek of Mission Hills; daughters Janet Johnston and her husband, Doug of Hesperia and Judy Price of Missouri; two sons, Art Cradit of Idaho and John Cradit of Orange; nephews and their wives Johnny and Lynn Perry of Oregon and Bob and Kathy Ludeke of Big Bear City; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. Monday at Church of Jeasus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Navajo building in Apple Valley. A niche-side service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Victor Valley Memorial Park. 

The family would like to publicly thank Community Hospice for the care Frank received in his last days, and all of his friends who helped him, whether he wanted it or not. He loved and appreciated you all. Frank is happy now, with his Lord and loved ones.

 

Friday, February 28, 2025

Barbara Maria Funkhouser Ireland, BHS 1946

Barbara Maria Funkhouser Ireland, BHS 1946

Albuquerque Journal, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Sunday, May 30, 2021

Barbara Maria (Funkhouser) Ireland of Albuquerque, NM passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on April 27, 2021. She was born to parents Clarence Funkhouser and Bess Schick Funkhouser on September 24, 1928 in Hagatna, Guam (formerly Agana).

Barbara, also known as “Granny B”, is survived by her brother, Paul Funkhouser and his children; Barbara’s three children, Cyndee O’Hara, Wendy Maxwell, and Todd Ireland and his wife Karen Ireland; five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Arthur T. Ireland (Art); and her sons-in-law, Lee Maxwell and William O’Hara.

Barbara met Art in 1943 in Long Beach, CA when she was 14. He was older, in the Navy and was smitten. She graduated from Burbank High School in 1946, they were married in 1947 and raised their three children together. They were married for 61 wonderful years.

Barbara dedicated her life to her family as a wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed Tai Chi, sewing, gardening, reading, and garden clubs. She was a volunteer for the Scouts, many hospitals, blood banks and taught others how to read. Barbara will always be remembered for her beauty, grace and strength.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will take place during a private family ceremony in August. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.