Charles George "Chuck" Steurer, BHS 1942

Charles George "Chuck" Steurer, BHS 1942

Chester resident Charles George "Chuck" Steurer peacefully passed from this life with his wife at his side Monday morning, December 10th, 2012 at Enloe Medical Center in Chico, CA at the age of 88.

Born September 11, 1924 in Los Angeles, CA to the late Charles Jacob and Viola Vesta (Chadwick) Steurer he was raised and educated in Southern California graduating from Burbank High School as a member of the "Class of 1942". He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 after obtaining his parents permission and was trained in electrical hydraulics. Assigned to the USS Williamson a destroyer that had no hydraulics he served as a gunners mate in the Asian and South Pacific taking part in the battles of Esperitos Santos, The New Hubertus and Guam.

Upon his honorable discharge he returned home and enrolled in Glendale Junior College where he obtained a degree in Structural Engineering. He soon began what became a forty five year career as a building contractor and commercial lath and plasterer, retiring in 1986.

In 1947 Chuck married Pat Palstine and to this union a son and daughter were born.

Chuck was an accomplished trap shooter who was a member of the Pacific Trap Shooting Association as well as Valencia, CA area trap clubs and was a charter member of the Antelope Gun Club of Quartz Hill, CA. He maintained a top ten position amongst his competitors. Following the death of Chuck's second wife, Nancy Barnett he took up upland game bird hunting especially hunting Chucker, Quail, Pheasants and Dove in Mexico with his ever faithful bird dogs as well as continuing his life long passion of fishing the streams and rivers of California.

At this time he also took up the sport of bowling and it is through this that Chuck met his sweetheart, Carolyn. The couple was united in matrimony in October of 1983 and the couple relocated to the Northeastern California community of Chester on Easter Sunday 1987.

Raised as a Master Mason in April of 1989 as a member of the Westwood Lodge #501 he went on to join the Lake Almanor Shrine Club where he served as President from 1993-1994 and was honored with the Shrine Medal of Honor in 1995. He served as Double Eagle Scottish Rite Club President in 1997, was Raban of the Dogtown Hillbilly Clan #114 in 2006 served as Worthy Patron of the Westwood Chapter #366 Order of Eastern Star from1999, 2001 and 2002, and also served as Worthy Patron of the Sincerity Chapter #53 of the Order of Eastern Star in 2007 and 2008. The Mason's highest honor, that of the Hiram Award was bestowed upon Chuck as a member of the Greenville Sincerity Lodge #132.

Chucks other affiliations include his membership in the Harry Doble American Legion Post #664 of Chester, the Chester-Lake Almanor Senior Citizens Club, the Lassen Shrine Club, the Chester Elks Lodge #2626, the Feather River Shrine Club and the Feather River Scottish Rite Club.

In passing Chuck leaves his loving wife; Carolyn of Chester, CA, daughter; Susan and her husband Jerry Sledge of Hidden Valley Lake, CA, son; Mark Steurer of Santa Cruz, CA, grandsons; Jesse Sledge of Santa Rosa, CA and Justin Sledge and his wife, Jessica and his great grandchildren Audrey, Mia and Madison Sledge all of Camano Island WA. He is also survived by a brother; Earl Steurer and his wife Ruth of Granada Hills, CA, step children; Sally Barnett of Santa Maria, CA, Rob Worthington of Klamath Falls, OR, Lisa and husband Fernando Lopez of Simi Valley, CA, Kimberly and husband Rusty Mays of Huntersville, NC and step grandchildren Chris Lopez of Davis, CA and Vanessa Lopez of Simi Valley, CA.

Masonic memorial services will take place 11:00AM Saturday, December 15th, 2012 at the Greenville Masonic Lodge of Sincerity Chapter #132 of the Free and Accepted Masons. Private inurnment will take place in the Chester District Cemetery. An opportunity to express your condolences to the family along with signing the memorial guest register is available online at www.fehrmanmortuary.com. Any remembrances of Chuck can be made to the Shriner's Children's Hospital of Sacramento c/o Fehrman Mortuary and Crematory P.O. Box 803 Greenville, CA 95947.

Paul Eugene Ward, BHS 1956

Paul Eugene Ward, BHS 1956

Was born June 25, 1938 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to his parents, H.C. and Ruth Ward. He passed away the afternoon of November 21, 2012 the day he and his wife, Cindy, celebrated 56 years of marriage.

Paul is also survived by his daughter, Robin Aspinall and son-in-law Tim Aspinall of Upland, son Craig Ward and daughter-in- law, Evelyn of Menifee, and son Daryl Ward of Ontario. He is also survived by his grandchildren Kristen (Heil) Owen, Christopher Ward, Lauren Heil, Chance Ward, Kaela Ward, Kori Ward, Sean Aspinall, Tristin Muth, great-grandson Tyler Owen, sister Ida Riddle of Texas, brother Fred Ward of Pennsylvania and several nieces and nephews.

The Ward family moved to Southern California from Oklahoma in 1942 where Paul attended schools in Van Nuys and Burbank, eventually graduating from Burbank High School. Paul played football, basketball, and baseball where he caught the eye of the coaches at the University of Redlands. He played football and baseball at Redlands where he and Cindy married while he was a student there.

Upon leaving Redlands in 1961, he began a stellar career in education in the Whittier Joint Union High School District where he taught History and English and coached football and baseball. He then became an Assistant Principal at Walnut High and Diamond Bar High School. Chaffey District called in 1983 and he served as Principal at Ontario High School, Alta Loma High School, and he had the privilege of opening Rancho Cucamonga High School. Since retirement, Paul has enjoyed golfing with his "buds" and spending time with his grandchildren. Paul's infectious smile and great sense of humor will be sorely missed.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 1, at 11:00am at Life Bible Fellowship Church, 2426 N. Euclid Avenue, Upland, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Paul's name to the GAP Food Bank c/o Life Bible Fellowship Church.

Published in Inland Valley Daily Bulletin on November 28, 2012

Bonnie Jean Conkwright Day, BHS 1943

Bonnie Jean Conkwright Day, BHS 1943

BONNIE JEAN DAY Born at Hollywood Hospital November 17, 1925, to Sidney Graham and Faun Conkwright. Taken from our lives unexpectedly on October 29, 2003. Bonnie was a long time resident of Burbank where she graduated from Burbank High School in 1943. During the early 1940's, she worked as a silversmith, attended UCLA, and worked as a dental assistant.

Bonnie became a Real Estate agent in 1962, a Real Estate broker in 1965 and was a past president of the Burbank Board of Realtors. She was co-owner of Griffith Park Realty along with her mother, Faun. Bonnie was a proud member of the Glendale Church of Religious Science for 34 years. For many years Bonnie had enjoyed working as a volunteer usher at the Pasadena Playhouse and the Alex Theater in Glendale. However her true passions in life were her love of travel and of golf, but above all her love of family. Bonnie was a thoughtful, giving, loving person who, throughout her life, exhibited the values of her parents; honesty, integrity, and steadfastness. She was eternally positive in all aspects of her life.

She is survived by her brother, Sidney (Shirley) Conkwright; children, Robyn (John) Lunt, Gayle Ann Frank, Michael (Joan) Day, and was preceded in death by son, Bradley Day. Grandchildren are Robert Brito, Stacy Brito, Graham Phelps, Colin Phelps, Alison Day and Erin Day and 4 great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate her life at the Glendale Church of Religious Science, 2146 E. Chevy Chase Dr., Glendale, on Tuesday, November 25, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Glendale Church of Religious Science.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on November 19, 2003

Fred Herschel McClellan, BHS 1940

Fred Herschel McClellan, BHS 1940

Fred Herschel McClellan, 63, resident of Burbank since 1923; graduate of Burbank high School 1940; World War II Air Force veteran; died in San Diego, CA October 7, 1983.


He retired as an engineer from Caltrans after 25 years of service. Since 1979, he operated his own tax consulting business in San Diego.

Survivors include his wife, Rosemary; his son, Larry; brothers, Malcolm and Hugh; nephews, Steven and Douglas.

Services Thursday, October 13, 11 a.m. at Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills. Slumber Room visitation will be on Wednesday. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Published in the Los Angeles Times, October 11, 1983

Thomas Jackson Burres, BHS 1959

Thomas Jackson Burres, BHS 1959

The Sierra Madre News, March 22, 1984

Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 21, 1984, at 2 p.m. for Thomas J. Burres who would have been 43 years old March 20. Rev. Richard J. Anderson officiated at the service held at Sierra Madre Congregational Church. Interment was at Live Oak Memorial Park, Monrovia.

Mr. Burres died March 18, 1984 two days before his birthday, at Glendale Memorial Hospital in Glendale. He had suffered from cancer for 12 years.

He was born in Burbank and graduated from high school there. He was in the Forest Service for nearly 15 years and mapped out trails for the area from the northern end of the valley through San Gabriel Valley area. He also ran fire crews during major fire in this area.

He was responsible for a major effort to stabilize the local hillsides following the fire of 1978. The large yellow panels put in place to prevent a major mud slide during the rainy season are still visible from the downtown area.

In 1971 he came to Sierra Madre where he started his own electrical business and had been here since. He was with the Sierra Madre Volunteer Fire Department for 10 years.

He is survived by his father and mother, Bruce M. and Helen M. Burres of Burbank; a daughter, Sherryl Burres of Sierra Madre; a brother, Bob Burres of Cloverdale, and a sister, Marjorie Minns of Cottonwood, Alabama. A grandmother, Anna Jackson of Burbank, also survives. Douglas and Zook Mortuary were in charge of services.

Pauline Elizabeth Peterson Cozzens, BHS 1964

Pauline Peterson Cozzens, BHS 1964

Pauline Peterson Cozzens passed away last night, Tuesday, November 27, at her home in San Marcos with her family with her. She was officially diagnosed with Stage Four Colon and Liver Cancer on May 24, 2012, six months and three days before her death. She was 65.

Pauline was a 1964 graduate of Burbank High School, and this message is going to several of her classmates. (1947 is her correct year of birth. She finished school early.)

PAULINE PETERSON COZZENS

January 8, 1947 - November 27, 2012

Pauline is survived by her husband of 45 years, Ken Cozzens, three daughters, one son, five grandchildren, her mother, Virginia Peterson, her sister, Debbie Peterson Lewis (BHS '69), two nephews, and many, many Peterson Family cousins. Pauline was predeceased by her father, Dr. Paul Peterson (BHS '35) in May 2000, and her sister, Barbara Peterson (BHS '67) in November 1994.

Published in North County Times on December 9, 2012

SAN MARCOS


Pauline Elizabeth Cozzens, 65, died peacefully in her sleep on November 27, 2012, in the comfort of her home. She had battled colon/liver cancer for six months. She was born January 8, 1947, in San Francisco, California, to Paul and Virginia Peterson. She was the first of three sisters. They grew up in San Rafael and Burbank, California.

On July 9, 1967, she married Ken Cozzens. She was a dedicated stay-at-home mom to their amazing four children. In 1987, she went to work for Tri-City Christian School. She worked for 25 years as the school secretary and affected the lives of many staff, students, and families with her beautiful smile, loving spirit, and godly counsel. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her five wonderful grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening, quilting, sewing, doing puzzles, and reading.

She was preceded in death by her father and sister, Barbara. She is survived by her husband, Ken; her daughter, Christy Mages and her husband, Cris, and their children: Alyssa and Luke; her daughter, Cindy Ross and her sons, Evan and Adam; her son, Rob; her daughter, Jenni and her husband Richard, and their daughter, Zion. She is also survived by her mother; her sister, Debbie; two brothers-in-law; two sisters-in-law; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She will be missed by all of those who knew and loved her. Memorial services will be held at 4 pm on Tuesday, January 8th, at Tri-City Christian School, 302 No. Emerald Dr., Vista. 92083 Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com

Mary M. Pyne, BHS 1958?

Mary M. Pyne, BHS 1958?


Born September 3, 1940 in Los Angeles, California. Mary was born at Saint Vincent’s Hospital in Los Angeles where both of her grandfathers were doctors.

She lived in Burbank her whole life. Passed away July 18, 2002 in Glendale, California. She was 61 years old. Mary was a homemaker, skater, dance teacher and a dental assistant. She attended Valley College, Glendale College and Burbank High School.

Survived by husband, Donald Pyne; step-son, Michael Pyne; step-daughter, Vicki Pyne; grandsons, Brett and Matthew Pyne; twenty-eight nephews and nieces, and twenty-two great nieces and nephews.

A Chapel Service will be held on Sunday, July 21, 2002, 10:00 a.m., at The Valley Funeral Home, 2121 West Burbank Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506. Cryptside Service at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, Wednesday, July 24, 2002, time pending. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society. VALLEY FUNERAL HOME Burbank Directors 818-845-3766

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on July 20, 2002

Note: Her obit did not give her maiden name so am not sure of the right year of graduation.

Joan Bobel Burnette, BHS 1949

Joan Bobel Burnette, BHS 1949

BURNETTE (BOBEL), JOAN  - Joan Burnette, 81, died July 25, 2012, after a long illness. She was born in Toledo, Ohio in 1931.

Her family moved to Burbank in 1942. Joan moved to San Diego in 1951, where she married Richard Burnette.

She is survived by husband Richard, four children, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. No service is planned except for a family gathering.

Published in San Diego Union-Tribune on July 27, 2012

Edwin S. Schaller, Jr., BHS 1946

Edwin S. Schaller, Jr., BHS 1946

Jan. 16, 1929 - Sept. 16, 2012 Former Resident of Los Gatos

Ed was born in Chicago IL and raised in Burbank CA. He attended Burbank High School where he excelled in sports and served as senior class president. He received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from UCLA and was extremely proud of his membership in the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He later attended Santa Clara University, where he earned his MBA.

Shortly before graduating from UCLA, Ed was offered a job at Lockheed (following in his father's footsteps), this would become his home for the next 39 years. In 1954, a newly assigned secretary in his division, Diane Topp, caught his eye. They were married a year later in the Santa Barbara Mission chapel on Valentine's Day "so I wouldn't forget our anniversary!"

In 1957, Ed was transferred to Sunnyvale and assigned to work on the Polaris Missile Program. He traveled extensively and never would, or maybe never could, talk about the nature of his work. Diane Ed raised their 3 boys in Los Gatos and for 10 years Ed coached each as they rose through the ranks of the Quito Little League. Ed was also active in YMCA Indian Guides Gray-Y, in which he coached basketball flag football. He loved the outdoors, especially skiing fishing. The Family skied at Dodge Ridge, thawed out at the Mi-Wuk Motor Lodge, then headed off to Kelly's for dinner and a little pinball. Ed his boys fished together at Yosemite's Saddlebag Lake and, in turn, they taught their own kids how to fish there.

In April 2000, Ed Diane moved to Rocklin CA. Diane would be diagnosed with cancer in June of that year, and passed away in August. Diane was the perfect housewife, but Ed surprised us all by making a home for himself and surviving 12 years without her support. He was active in the Springfield Senior community, especially at the fitness center, until a circulatory condition hampered his mobility. He kept much to himself, living quietly, enjoying daily crosswords puzzles, watching news on CNN and rooting for his beloved San Francisco Giants, UCLA Bruins, and adopted Sacramento Kings.

Ed was lovingly cared for by his entire family during his final days, and he passed away peacefully with his son, Todd, by his side. Not surprisingly, his final words were, "did the Giants win?" They sure did, Dad!

Ed is predeceased by his parents, Edwin Spencer Schaller Sr and Ruth Eppinger Schaller, and is survived by his children- Mark (Amy) Schaller, Adam (Tricia) Schaller, Todd (Cherie) Schaller, and grandchildren- Trace, Alexandria, and Spencer, and Nik Robbins; and a sister, Jan Borchers Adams.

Ed requested that no services be held and the family is honoring that wish. We love you, Dad!

Published in San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on November 16, 2012

Elma Mary Fulton Vaden, BHS 1923

Elma Mary Fulton Vaden, BHS 1923

Vaden, Elma M., 86, of North Hollywood, homemaker. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Grand View Memorial Park, Glendale. Praiswater Mortuary, Van Nuys.

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Tuesday, April 28, 1992

Gregory Norris Davis, BHS 1965

Gregory Norris Davis, BHS 1965

Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - October 1, 1989

Davis, Gregory N.

Davis, Gregory N., 42, of Van Nuys, art dealer. Services private. Aftercare Funeral Service, Van Nuys.  No other details at this time.

Juanita Saul Baird, BHS 1956

Juanita Saul Baird, BHS 1956

Juanita Saul was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on April 11, 1938. She was raised on a farm that began her life long passion for animals and gardening. Her family relocated to Burbank, California when she was a young child. She graduated from Burbank High School in 1956. In 1957 Juanita met Dick Baird at Disneyland. They had their first date at Bob's Big Boy. Dick and Juanita married on March 21, 1958.

Juanita loved being a mother to her five children, Rose Mariee, Roberta, Richard, Robin, and Renee. Juanita enjoyed being a stay at home mom and was very involved with the kids schools, scouting and sports teams throughout the years. Juanita would later work at Cal State Northridge where she and Dick made many wonderful memories supporting the Women's Softball Team.

Juanita's favorite place to visit with her family was the "Happiest Place on Earth" Disneyland and Disney World. Juanita loved fast rides and roller coasters. Her favorite ride was 'Soarin Over California'. Juanita looked forward to spending time at the Hacienda Hotel in Las Vegas in the early years where Lady Luck was often by her side. More recently Juanita visited the Barona Resort and Casino where she loved the beautiful rose gardens and listening to Jonathan play her favorite requests on the piano. Juanita received great joy in spending holidays with her family which included her children's spouses and grandchildren: Tim, Tommy, Nikki, Karin, Derek, Kyle, Travis, Louie, Alfonso, Catalino, Luisalina, Lisa, Juan, and Cristian.

Juanita died peacefully on Wednesday, October 10, 2012. During Juanita's last hours with family and friends we played her favorite music. The following is an excerpt of one of her favorite songs that truly moved her up until the very end… "Near, far, wherever you are I believe the heart does go on. Once more you open the door and you're here in my heart and my heart will go on and on." You will always be in our hearts "Missy B" and we will carry your spirit and love on and on.

A private Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, October 20, 2012. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial contribution in Juanita Baird's name to the Arthritis Foundation Hope Through Heroes by calling 1-800-283-7800. Juanita will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with family and friends.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on October 20, 2012

Adele Cordes Eisman, BHS Teacher

Adele Cordes Eisman, BHS Teacher

Adele went to be forever with the Lord on July 31, 2003. Adele was born May 18, 1909 in Berkeley, California. She graduated from UC Berkeley and began a lifetime teaching career in Biggs, California and then for many years at Burbank High School.

A long time member of St. Paul's First Lutheran Church, she taught Sunday School and volunteered for many years as a Lutheran Braille worker. Adele was preceded in death by her husband, Albert, who she married in 1937.

She is survived by sons, Ric Eisman and Bob Eisman (Cathy); grandsons, Bryan (Shannon) and Geoff (Tina); great grandchildren, Amanda and Jake; and many friends and family. A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2003, 3:00 p.m., at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 5244 Tujunga Ave., North Hollywood, CA. FOREST LAWN MORTUARY Hollywood Hills 800-204-3131

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on August 5, 2003

Albert D. Seay, BHS 1943

Albert D. Seay, BHS 1943


Burbank Leader, Weekend, July 24-25, 1999

Albert D. Seay, 72, died July 15, 1999, at his Oxnard residence. Mr. Seay was born in Detroit. He was a longtime Burbank resident. He graduated from Burbank High School in 1943. He worked as a superintendent for A.D. Hoppe and Sons Plastering Company prior to retiring.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores, son Stephen, granddaughter Stephanie and sister Helen Cates of Burbank. He was preceded in death by a daughter Susan. A memorial service will be held Sunday at the Channel Islands Yacht Club in Oxnard.

Daniel Phillip Yonan, BHS 1973

Daniel Phillip Yonan, BHS 1973

FIREFIGHTER'S FUNERAL PLANNED; COLLEAGUES FROM ACROSS SOUTHLAND TO PAY TRIBUTE

Firefighters from all over the Los Angeles area will come to Burbank on Monday to mourn firefighter Dan Yonan, who died this week of a heart attack at age 43. Yonan, who had been on the Burbank force since 1981 and worked as a paramedic died at his Santa Clarita home on Tuesday, said Burbank fire marshal Dan Forbes.

The father of four was described by colleagues as a passionate firefighter and family man. ``Once he got going, on anything, there was no stopping him,'' said Jeff Howe of Burbank Fire Station 11.

The memorial service at 11 a.m. Monday at Calvary Bible Church in Burbank will be followed by burial at Forest Lawn Memorial-Park Hollywood Hills. The turnout is expected to be large, with firefighters from at least 12 departments planning to attend the service, Forbes said. Anticipating a long funeral cortege, motor officers from the Glendale and Burbank police departments will control traffic.

Before Yonan joined the Burbank Fire Department in 1981, he worked for the city's public service and parks and recreation departments for about six years, Howe said. Yonan became a paramedic in 1988, Howe said. The 18-year veteran was at home in his garage Tuesday when he went into cardiac arrest ``It was a great shock to everybody,'' Howe said.

There will be a viewing Sunday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Old North Church at Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills. Instead of flowers, donations can be made to Dan Yonan Children's Trust, account No. 17474, Burbank City Employees Federal Credit Union, 1800 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506.

Daily News 1999

NOTE: His heart attack was determined as work related so Daniel is one of two Burbank firefighters listed  on the California State Fallen Fighters Memorial at the California State Capital.

Lowell C. Horwedel, Sr., BHS 1950

Lowell C. Horwedel, Sr., BHS 1950

Lowell C. Horwedel, Sr., 79, of Otterbein, died, Saturday, October 20, 2012, at Cumberland Pointe Health Campus. He was born November 27, 1932, in Cleveland, OH, to the late Albert & Mildred (Hackel) Horwedel. He married Dorothy Anne Deupree, June 21, 1958, in North Hollywood, CA & she survives. He graduated Burbank High School in 1950 & completed University of California at Los Angeles Graduate School of Management majoring in Chemistry. He served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, where he served, as a Medic & with the Battalion Headquarters for Transportation.

He had worked at Electrofilm, Inc, in North Hollywood, CA from 1956 until 1971, serving as Vice President/General Manager of the Lubricants Division from 1969 until 1971. He then went on to work at Microseal Corporation (now E/M Corporation) a subsidiary of Great Lakes Chemical Corporation, as Vice President of Operations. Within a year, he was promoted to President of Microseal & appointed to the Board of Directors. From 1984 until 1997, he served as Vice President of Great Lakes Chemical Corporation, West Lafayette, IN, retiring with the sale of E/M Corporation. From 1996 until 1997, he also served as Vice Chairman of E/M Corporation. Upon retiring, he worked part-time, for a year, as Vice Chairman of E/M Corporation (now wholly owned subsidiary of Morgan Crucible, plc, Windsor, England in charge of International acquisitions, looking for & negotiating purchases of companies worldwide to make E/M Corporation more global). He also, worked part-time as Executive Vice President & CEO of International Lubrication & Fuel Consultants. Starting in 2001, he served as Chairman of the Board of International Lubrication & Fuel Consultants, Rio Rancho, NM.

He was active in the Society of Tribologists & Lubrication Engineers, holding all administrative offices & chairing several technical committees; the Professional Currency Dealers Association, retired President & currently serving on the Board of Governors; for the past 12 years he served on & was President of 5 years, of the Foundation Board of the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette; he served on or worked with the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette Board of Directors for the past 27 years; for the past 8 years he has served on the Otterbein Town Council & was currently the President. He was also active in the Community Cancer Network & was currently on their Board of Directors. He was also a Distinguished Kentucky Colonel. In 2006, he was the recipient of the State of Indiana Distinguished Hoosier Award from the Office of Governor Mitch Daniels. Tippecanoe County State Representative Shelia Klinker presented this award, one of the highest tributes given by the state to individuals of great honor amongst the citizenry, at the occasion of the Annual Meeting of the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette.

Surviving with his Wife, Dorothy Anne Horwedel, Otterbein, are 2 Daughters, Nancy Willard, Husband Jerry, Burbank, CA; Mary Fultz, Husband Mike, Otterbein; Son Charlie Horwedel, Wife Sheri, Otterbein; 8 Grandchildren, Brandon, Wife Lori, & Sierra Fultz, Kayse & Kameron Willard & Samantha, Tyler, Garrett & Shyann Horwedel; 2 Great-Grandchildren, Reagan & Hunter Fultz & Brother, Jerry Horwedel, Wife Carol, Keene CA.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 25, 2012, from 5-8 PM, with Rosary at 5 pm, at Shoemaker Funeral Home, Otterbein. Funeral Mass will be, at 10:30 AM, Friday, October 26, 2012, at St. Charles Catholic Church, Otterbein, with Father Robert Klemme officiating. Burial will be at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens, West Lafayette. Memorial Contributions, may be made, to the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette or Community Cancer Network.

Lyle David Cascadden, BHS 1960

Lyle David Cascadden, BHS 1960


Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Sunday, December 4, 1988

Cascadden , Lyle D., 47, of Sunland, letter carrier. Private services. Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service. No other detals. Note: Buried in Grand View Memorial Park, Glendale, California.

Frederick Dustin "Dusty" Worthen, BHS 1942

Frederick Dustin "Dusty" Worthen, BHS 1942

FREDERICK DUSTIN "DUSTY" WORTHEN Age 82, of Burbank, California, died Tuesday, March 21, 2006, at St. Joseph's Hospital, in Burbank. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota on May 25, 1923, the second son of Kenneth B. Worthen, an architect of renown in St. Paul and Southern California, and of Frances Smith Worthen, former industrial detail designer and interior decorator/designer.

Dusty is survived by his wife of 60 years, Connie Woolley Worthen; their two daughters, Janet Worthen Moon, and Jill Worthen; two grandchildren, Eric and Deana Moon; a sister, Dorothy Ann McLean; and two brothers, Kenneth and Ronald Worthen.

Dusty was a graduate of Burbank High School, and for many years a most revered member of the Burbank Historical Society and the Veteran's Council. He designed the Historical Museum in Burbank. World War II interrupted his college career, when he joined the Air Force. He was a Lead Bombardier/Navigator in a B-24 Liberator crew in the 8th USAAF, 2nd Air Division, 20th Combat Wing. On their 24th mission their B-24 was disabled and crashed. The crew bailed out, but landing in German-held territory, they were confined in several prisoner-of-war camps throughout Germany until liberated on April 29, 1945.

He received the Purple Heart and after the War joined the Air Force Reserves from which he retired in 1983 with the rank of Major. Following the War, his career included design and engineering work with his architect father, then as an architectural designer with the firm of Carpenter/Smallwood, and then as a commercial development Project Manager.

In retirement Dusty wrote two books, "Against All Odds -- Surviving World War II" concerning the combined and separate war experiences of his flight crew; and "Monty's Folly -- Operation Market Garden".

Graveside Services will be held at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills on Monday, March 27, 2006, 10:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Dusty may be made to the Burbank Historical Society, at 1015 West Olive Ave., Burbank, CA 91506.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on March 24, 2006

Flora May Pomeroy Hanger, BHS 1940

Flora May Pomeroy Hanger, BHS 1940

FLORA MAY POMEROY HANGER Age 83, passed away February 26, 2006. She was born in Burbank on June 22, 1922 to Charles and May Pomeroy. Flora May attended Burbank Schools and was a 1940 Burbank High School graduate. She attended Santa Barbara State College and continued her education at the University of Southern California in occupational therapy.

In 1944 she served in the military as a occupational therapist in New Orleans. Following WWII, she married Arthur Hanger and in 1950 began a 24 year career as a teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District. After her husband passed away in 1970, Flora May continued living the rest of her life in Orange County.

She is survived by her adopted son, Steven Hanger; brother, Charles H. Pomeroy III; and sister, Mildred Dean. No Services. Care entrusted to DOUGLASS & ZOOK MORTUARY Monrovia (626) 358-3244

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on March 11, 2006

Linda Marie Suthann, BHS 1995

Linda Marie Suthann, BHS 1995

Suthann, Linda Marie, 21, of Burbank, student. Pierce Bros. Valhalla, North Hollywood.

Los Angeles Times, January 9, 1999
No other details at this time.

John A. Heisman, BHS 1956

John A. Heisman, BHS 1956

John was born December 15, 1937 in Chicago, Illinois. Passed away June 7, 2002 at the age of 64. He attended Emerson Elementary School, John Muir Junior High, Burbank High School (Class 1956), Glendale Junior College of Mortuary Science (Class of 1958).

He began his career in early 1958 at The Max M. Eckerman Funeral Service with Grace and Max Eckerman. In 1967, he bought the firm which became known as Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service. John and his sister, Jean, have worked side-by-side since 1961. Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service eventually became Burbank's only family owned and operated funeral service. Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service was voted "Best Mortuary 2000".

John was a member of the California Funeral Directors Association, a member of Burbank's first Junior Achievement, a member of Burbank High Boosters, a long-time member of Burbank Kiwanis, past President of Key Club, joined the Burbank YMCA and Leaders High Y, was one of the first leaders of "Gray Y" for elementary school students, served on Advisory Board of Burbank YMCA, was a member of the Independent Order of Foresters, and served as a member on the Board of Directors for Business Homes Inc., formerly Wesley Homes (provides 521 apartments for seniors in Burbank).

John was a firm believer in and supporter of youth and youth activities. His great love of animals led him to Paul Owens' "Pets with Paws" and author of "The Dog Whisperer" who uses John's parking lot for dog training. His lifelong involvement with horses contributed to tremendous pride in his San Luis Obispo county ranch.

John was predeceased by his parents, Beth and Arnold Heisman; and his sister, Betzy Sue Soseman. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Don Siegel; one niece, Donna Jean Siegel; and one nephew, John D. Siegel, all of Burbank.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2002, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Service. On Wednesday, June 12, 2002, there will be Visitation at the Church from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Service will be at 11:00 a.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 136 N. Sunset Canyon Rd., Burbank, CA. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions to: The People-Animal Connection, UCLA Medical Center, 17-116 CHS, 10833 Le Conte Ave., Mail Code: 715916, Los Angeles, CA 90095-7159. ECKERMAN-HEISMAN FUNERAL SERVICE Directors (818) 846-2131

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on June 11, 2002

Alton “Longbow” Safford, BHS 1932?

Alton “Longbow” Safford, BHS 1932?


WWII Veteran, Educator, Outdoorsman

1914 - 2011

Alton “Longbow” Safford, long-time Wrightwood Resident, died peacefully in his home on December 21, 2011, having just turned 97. He was known throughout the West as an expert in Indian craft, primitive archery, flint-knapping and tanning in particular. He was also an expert marksman, fly-fisherman and a tireless hiker of the High Sierras.

Alton was born where his father, Lee Ashton Safford, worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs on the Toppenish Reservation near Yakima, Washington, on December 6, 1914. His mother, Alice Agnes Lugton, was born in Magdalena, U.S. Territory of New Mexico. As a child he learned to make Indian bows and arrows and to brain-tan deer hides, lessons he never forgot. Indians from all over the west lived there; Sioux, Arapaho, Utes and Cheyenne. He watched Indian women brain-tan buckskin and men make their small plains-style flat bows. They taught him to shoot when he was six and he made his first bow, of willow, when he was eight. He learned to make his own moccasins and baskets.

Alton’s parents were told by a doctor that Alton and his brother, Lee, were not thriving as they should be because of the damp climate, so the family moved to Greater Los Angeles. Alton joined the local Boy Scouts and attained Eagle Scout rank. While in high school in Burbank he and his brother sneaked off to Catalina Island and shot a buffalo with their handmade bows and arrows. They were eventually caught and paid a penalty.

Alston graduated from high school during the Great Depression and among other jobs, he cleared trails in the Civilian Conservation Corps (Roosevelt’s CCC), worked in a junk yard, as a “grease monkey” in a garage, on oil rigs, in mines, and for the railroad. One job that stands out was his co-ownership of an archery shop in Hollywood, where he became well-acquainted with all the great Southern California archers of the time, such as Howard Hill, Captain Jack Hoefer, Frank Garske, and his close friends Hugh Rich, Howard Mathisen and Fred Bear. He recalled great camaraderie with this group, as they hunted deer in the California foothills with their self-made 100-pound bows and broadheads. Also, because he had a tuxedo and could work as an usher in theaters, symphony halls, and other venues for live performances, his life became enriched by this education in drama and all kinds of music.

In 1937, influenced by his reading of Ernest Hemingway, Alton traveled to Spain in support of the Loyalist democracy against Franco’s fascist opposition. He drilled troops with wooden machine guns, expecting a shipment of arms to arrive from the Soviet Union. The arms never came. When Barcelona fell, he and others hiked over the Pyrenees to France, where he was arrested and deported back to the United States.

Having taken some machine shop courses in high school, he was able to get a job with Lockheed as the country geared up for World War II, working on Lockheed P-38 Lightnings. At that time he met and married his first wife, Margaret Blankenship. He was promoted to Senior Machine Parts Inspector. In 1943 he was drafted even though he was then 29 years old and working in the defense industry.

In the Army Alton was first posted to England with the 9th Air Corps but in June,1944 went ashore at Omaha Beach, Normandy, landing on D-Day + 17. As the best shot in his outfit, for a time the Army made him a sniper. He once said it was a strange duty because he always felt that when he was aiming, the enemy sniper was probably sighting him. He worked across France preparing advance air field bases, was in Paris for its liberation, was witness to de Gaulle’s triumphant return, and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. After the war he ushered at the Nuremburg Trials before coming home.

Back in California, Alton returned to work at Lockheed and became the father of two children, John and Jeanne Safford. Laid off for lack of production, he decided to use his G.I. Bill to get a higher education at nearby Occidental College. He earned a B.A. degree in education and taught 5th grade for about 8 years while working on his M.A. degree.

Divorced, Alton met his second wife, Juliana Brailovsky in Eagle Rock. They lived and taught in Ojai briefly before returning to Los Angeles where he administered academic tests for the Palos Verdes school district. Alton entered the doctoral program at USC and earned his degree in Education in 1965 at age 51. From his second marriage he now had three more children, Monique, Kimberly and Tony Safford. For the rest of his career he worked for the County of Santa Barbara as head of its Special Education department. Always an unusually good listener, he also used his skills and education as a practicing educational psychologist. Divorced, he met his third wife, Miriam Sacks Coker, a local Santa Barbara educator. They remained together for the rest of his life.

Since his father had died of a stroke at age 54, Alton decided to retire at age 63. He and Miriam moved to Wrightwood in 1977 where he continued with a limited practice for a few years. It was here for the next 34 years that he flourished, passing on the old ways of bow- and arrow-making, bone work, tanning, and hunting to whoever would listen and work with him. Alton found a group of wonderful friends and students at the annual Wrightwood Flintknapping Rendezvous, which drew Indian-lore aficionados from all over the West. Alton attended the first California Flintknapping Rendezvous in 1983 set up by Ray Harwood at California State University at Northridge. Subsequent Wrightwood Flintknapping Rendezvous were held at Jackson Lake, Camp Guffey, and Indian Hills Ranch. He participated in archer shoots across the state and particularly enjoyed the annual Mountain Men Rendezvous in the southern Rockies. He was known as “Longbow” among flintknapping friends and collected a room full of rare and significant Indian artifacts.

Alton was active until the very end, continuing to hike and camp and even renewing his driver’s license for two more years late in 2011. He had many circles of friends, including the Saturday and Monday Hiking Groups, the flintknapping friends, the Thursday Breakfast Group, the First Friday Reading Group (where his wide knowledge and expansive reading were particularly appreciated), ex-students and clients, and hundreds of people with whom he corresponded. A memorial was held for him on Wednesday, December 28, at the home of Ed and Phyllis Gallagher. Half of Alton’s ashes were interred at the Riverside National Cemetery with full military honors on January 13, 2011. His friends and family plan a spring flintknapping memorial and will also scatter his remaining ashes in the High Sierras as soon as weather allows.

Alton is survived by his wife, Miriam; his son and daughter from his first marriage, John and Jeanne Safford; and former wife Juliana and his children from that marriage; Monique, Kimberly and Tony Safford. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Joseph David Safford, Janet Arlene Safford, Miles Jameson Safford, Sophia Rose Mindas, Benjamin Jacob Safford and one great-grandchild, Benjamin David Safford.

Alton Safford–, one of a kind.

Mountaineer Progress Newspaper, December 2011

Michael Johnson, BHS 1955

Michael Johnson, BHS 1955

Michael Johnson August 3, 1937 - Sept. 17, 2012

Glendale News - Press, October 02, 2012

Michael was a long time resident of Burbank, California for 73 years. He was retired from the County of Los Angeles, where he worked for 42 years as a Supervising Engineering Geologist. Michael had been retired for 13 years.

He passed away September 17, 2012 peacefully in his sleep at his home in Bermuda Dunes, CA. Michael will be sorely missed by all who loved him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. It breaks our hearts to lose you but God blessed us with the time we had with you

Jacqueline Lee Hickman McKenzie, BHS 1959

Jacqueline Lee Hickman McKenzie, BHS 1959

Burbank Review, Wednesday, August 13, 1969

Funeral services will be conducted Thursday for Mrs. Jacqueline McKenzie, who died Sunday at the age of 27. Mrs. McKenzie, who made her home at 541 N. Sparks, had been a Burbank resident for 20 years.

A 1959 graduate of Burbank High School, Mrs. McKenzie also graduated from San Fernando Valley State College. She had been employed as a teacher for the Ventura School District in Newbury Park. She was a member of the Emanuel Evangelical Free Church.

Surviving are her husband, Steven; two daughters, Heather Anne and Holly Lynne; and parents, Mr. And Mrs. Lee Hickman of Burbank.

The Rev. Carroll A. Nelson will conduct the funeral services at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Emanuel Evangelical Free Church, 438 E. Harvard. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills. The Eckerman-Heisman Funeral Services, 333 E. Magnolia, is in charge of arrangements.

The Valley News, Tuesday, August 12, 1969

Identify Woman 27 Killed by Truck; Apparent Suicide

A woman who threw herself in front of a gasoline tank truck on the Golden state Freeway near Los Feliz Blvd. on Sunday was identified yesterday as Jackie McKenzie, 27, of 541 Sparks St., Burbank.

The driver of the truck, Max Goshert, 60, told police that the victim ran into the right lane of the southbound freeway and was struck by the right fender of his tanker.

Police asked for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

According to reports, the woman, in apparent suicide attempts, repeatedly dashed in front of cars in the freeway before the truck hit her. Other motorists were able to avoid her, officials said. Goshert reportedly told police the woman appeared to run into the path of his truck when he swerved to avoid her.

Euna Emerson Weber Crosby, BHS 1923

Euna Emerson Weber Crosby, BHS 1923

Una Emerson Weber Crosby, (April 19, 1906- October 28, 2002). Born in Searchlight, Nevada, her family moved to Burbank in 1918, where she attended Immaculate Heart Convent and graduated from Burbank High School.

In 1924 she married Fred Warren Weber, and became a loving mother to two sons, Warren and Richard. Una served countless hours as a Grey Lady at the Long Beach Naval Hospital during WWII. She attended USC as a returning student in 1949.

She was actively involved in many charitable groups including the International Committee for the LA Philharmonic, Downey Assistance League, LA World Affairs Council, Women's Auxiliary of Huntington Memorial Hospital, and the Women's Committee of the Pasadena Symphony. She was a member of the Annandale Country Club and Pasadena Women's City Club.

Predeceased by husbands, Fred Weber and Joseph J. Crosby, and son, Richard E. Weber. Survived by son, Warren (Vanessa); daughter-in-law, Sue Weber Tetzlaff; grandchildren, Leslie (Bill) Orsburn of Arcadia, Gretchen Weber, Lake Tahoe, Fred Weber, Colorado, Mary Weber (John) Ratliff, Colorado, Douglas Weber (Adrienne), Santa Ana, and Kate Weber of Thermal, CA; great grand-children, Adrienne, Will and Alex Orsburn, Zack and Jake Weber; sister, Louis Eberle of Walnut Creek; nieces, Betty Hudson and Lolita Keating.

Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Downey, Friday, Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to a favorite charity.

Published in Pasadena Star-News from October 31 to November 1, 2002

Freadus "Buzz" Seal, BHS 1940

Freadus "Buzz" Seal, BHS 1940

Freadus "Buzz" Seal passed away on Monday, July 23, 2012 of congestive heart failure.

Buzz attended schools in Burbank, CA and graduated from Burbank High School in 1940. He played the tuba in the High School Marching Band. He served in the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during WWII as an electrician. He and a friend owned a TV Repair Shop in Burbank for many years.

He was a resident of Sepulveda, Palmdale, Camarillo, and Canyon Country. Buzz was married twice and both are now deceased. His son, Mike, is also deceased. He is survived by his daughter, Suzanne Lee of TN; four grandchildren; and his sister, Betty Campbell of Camarillo, CA.

His final four years were spent with his companion, Georgia Newton George (who also graduated from Burbank High School in 1940) in her home in Sand Canyon, Canyon Country, CA. Georgia lovingly took care of Buzz in his final years of illness and he will be dearly missed.

Published in Santa Clarita Valley Signal on September 30, 2012

Paul Eugene Estes, BHS 1935

Paul Eugene Estes, BHS 1935

Passed away on Tuesday, February 7, 2006, in Camarillo, California. He was born December 5, 1916 in Bellingham, Washington, and moved with his family to Burbank, California, in 1926. He graduated from Burbank High School in 1935, where at the age of 14 he organized the school's first hiking club. Paul then attended Glendale Junior College where he majored in Journalism and in 1938 he was employed by the Los Angeles Times as a sports reporter. Paul graduated from UCLA with a Bachelors degree in Geology and a Masters degree in Geography and he was always an avid UCLA Bruins fan.

During WWII Paul joined the United States Army and trained in Colorado. He was then based with the 10th Mountain Division in Ak. Where they specialized in combat on skis. Paul also served a tour of duty in the South Pacific as a S/SGT. Where he was a Scout during the Philippine liberation. He was awarded the Victory Medal, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and a Good Conduct Medal.

Paul was a lifetime Sierra Club member and throughout his life he enjoyed snow skiing, hiking, mountain climbing and camping. With these outdoor skills, he climbed the highest point in each state of the continental United States, and was one of the first to reach Mt. Whitney's peak on skis. He appeared in a role as a mountain rescuer in the 1950 Patricia Neal movie Three Secrets.

In 1951 Paul married Claire Germain, whom he met at a Sierra Club dance. While raising their family in Burbank, California, they enjoyed square dancing and camping in many of the National Parks in both the United States and Canada. Paul also enjoyed working in his yard, tending to his fruit trees and vegetable garden. Pau l was employed by the County of Los Angeles as a regional planner for 33 years. After his retirement, Paul and Claire enjoyed traveling worldwide and continued their passion of square dancing. In 2002, they moved to Leisure Village in Camarillo, California.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Claire Estes of Camarillo; his five children: son, Bob Estes of Burbank, daughter, Cathy Estes of Eugene, Oregon, daughter, Marilyn Buchanan of Palmdale, California, daughter, Janet Gibbs of Burbank, and daughter, Betty Estes of Burbank; grandchildren, Mike Buck, Sean Estes, Rhahn Gibbs and Justin Gibbs; and great-grandchildren; Holly Marie Buck, Ashley Mayer and Morgan Mayer. A Mass will be dedicated in his name at Padre Serra Church in Camarillo, on Sunday, March 5, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. Graveside services will be on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2006, 1:00 p.m., at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on February 22, 2006

Phyllis Pauline Benoit Owens, BHS 1974

Phyllis Pauline Benoit Owens, BHS 1974

August 14, 1956 - August 30, 2004

Mrs. Phyllis Pauline (Benoit) Owens, 48, of Burbank, California, died August 30, 2004 at 12:56 p.m., in the Oklahoma University Medical Center, Oklahoma after a long illness. Phyllis was born August 14, 1956 at St. Francis Hospital in Lynwood, California. She is the youngest child of the late Joseph-Eugene Ernest Benoit (Rhode Island) and Marie-Marguerite Delia Duhamel Benoit (Burbank, California).

Phyllis is the widow of Jack Vestil and is survived by her husband, Eugene Owens of Oklahoma City. During her academic years, she attended Glenwood Elementary School (Sun Valley, California), John Muir Jr. High School and Burbank High School (Burbank, California).

Among her favorite activities is the sport of fishing. In her youth she worked as a waitress before her employment with Orowheat Bakery (Burbank, California). Phyllis retired early as a Store Manager to care for her ailing husband and best friend, Jack Vestil. After his death, she relocated to Oklahoma and lived with her sister, Roberta Stoops, until her marriage to Eugene Owens. Phyllis had a gentle nature, a kind heart, trusting of everyone and was loved by her family.

She is survived by her mother, Marie-Marguerite Benoit; brother, George P. Viens; sisters, Stella J. Giese, Roberta E. Stoops and Claudette D. Rockwell; and many nieces and nephews. Graveside Services will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery - Hollywood Hills, Friday, October 22, 2004, 11:00 a.m. Her cremated remains will be interred near her beloved Pepere, Philippe Andre Duhamel, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on October 3, 2004

Michael F. Kosteva, BHS Teacher

Michael F. Kosteva, BHS Teacher

MICHAEL F. KOSTEVA Age 87, of Ventura, was taken home to be with his Lord Sunday, January 23, 2005. Mike was born September 29, 1917 in Ashley, Pennsylvania, to Michael Kosteva and Antonina Kubicki of Ashley, Pennsylvania (and Poland).

Mike had seven brothers and sisters whom were all reared in Pennsylvania. He graduated from Ashley High in 1936 and from LaSalle College in 1940, cum laude, where he was given the student athlete award. Mike played football (in a leather helmet) on a scholarship for 4 years at LaSalle.

In 1941, he was already teaching school and coaching football when drafted into the Army. During WWII he served in the 29th Infantry Division as 2nd Lt. under Gen. Mark Clark in the 1942 invasion of North Africa and 1943 invasion of Sicily. Later in Milan, Italy he was assigned to Special Services (Soldier Recreation and Rehab .), in which he helped get entertainment for the troops. In 1944, Mike was in Milan when Mussolini and his friends were assassinated and he took a picture of the gruesome scene for Gen. Clark.

After the war, Mike moved to Burbank where he continued his education at USC, obtaining his Masters Degree in 1960, in U.S. History. He taught at Jordan Junior High in Burbank then U.S. History at Burbank High where he was one of the most popular teachers during the 1960's and 1970's. Mr. Kosteva had many student s tell him they had a love for our country and a desire to teach because of him. He continued on as the Work Experience Director at Burbank High, where he helped kids develop a work ethic, until his retirement in 1977.

Then he took up tennis and made keeping "in shape" his career!! While in Burbank, Mr. Kosteva served in many volunteer capacities. He was very active at First Presbyterian Church, serving as an elder for many terms. His love for the Lord was widely known (because he told everyone) and the effect this had on his life was obvious in all that he did.

Mike launched many youth committees and commissions, organized a drug program for problem teens, led fund raisers for many of these groups, was a Distinguished Teacher of LA County in 1972, was awarded the Service to Mankind Award from the Sertoma Club of Burbank in 1973, and in 1975 was awarded "Citizen of the Year" by the Burbank Board of Realtors.

Those who knew him well remember him as the well organized one, always on time, taking notes and with the most well-groomed house with every leaf in place. When new to Burbank, Mike met a stunning red head named Mary Jayne (Moffitt) Cooke (1925-1998), a widow, whom he married in 1954, and subsequently adopted her children, Nancy and George. In 1955 Mike and Mary Jayne had a baby girl, Kathleen.

Mr. Kosteva is survived by his daughter, Nancy Trombley-Swendsen of Burbank; son, George Kosteva of Ventura; daughter, Kathleen Meyer of Ventura; grandchildren, Marianne Trombley of Hawaii, Jordan Kosteva, Derek Allen Meyer, Michael Carlson Meyer, and Alyson Jean Meyer, all of Ventura; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins from Pennsylvania and Michigan.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 28, 2005, at Community Presbyterian Church in Ventura, conducted by the Rev. Paul Dugan. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Community Presbyterian Church, High School Ministries, 1555 Poli St., Ventura, CA 93001.

Published in Los Angeles Daily News on January 26, 2005