Ralph Samuel Fesler, Former BHS Teacher

Rites,Today For Ralph Fesler, 52

Services were held today for Ralph Fesler, 52, a science teacher at Burbank High School for 18 years who died August 24, 1961. Services for Mr. Fesler of 3936 Santa Carlotta Street, were held in the Church of the Brethren in Covina, his birthplace. He is survived by his widow, Catherine.

On sabbatical leave for the past year, Mr. Fesler had been ill and was unable to attend the summer fellowship at Harvey-Mudd College this summer. It was one of the many fellowships he was awarded during the past few years. 

In summer of 1960 Mr. Fesler attended Stanford University on a Shell Merit Fellowship as one of 100 outstanding high school mathematics and science instructors from the United States and Canada. Mr. Fesler attended the Fifth Chemistry Institute at Montana State College in the summer of 1958.

A graduate of La Verne College, La Verne, California, he received his secondary teaching credentials from the University of California at Berkeley. In recent years he did graduate work at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles State College and Montana State College. While at La Verne he earned a Phi Beta Kappa award for scholarship.

Mr. Fesler was a member of the California Teachers Association, the National Education Association and the Pacific Southwest Association of Chemistry teachers. He was also a member of the La Crescenta Presbyterian Church and on the board of Presbyterian Men.

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, Monday, August 28, 1961

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Valley Times Today, North Hollywood, California, Saturday, August 26, 1961 

FESLER, Ralph S., of La Crescenta, teacher in Burbank High School. Passed away August 24, 1961. Member of Presbyterian Church, La Crescenta. Survived by his wife, Catherine; 3 daughters, Mrs. Jerry Rotta of Escondido, Mrs. Frank Aranguren of Big Bear, and Mrs. Valton Dickson of Tujunga. 6 grandchildren also survive.

Visitation at Custer & Christianson Mortuary in Covina, Sunday afternoon. Funeral services will be Monday, August 28, 10 a.m., at The Brethren Church, Covina, California, Rev. Harry Thomas officiating.

Interment Oakdale Cemetery, Covina. In lieu of flowers please send contributions to the La Verne College Scholarship Fund, La Verne, California.

Suzanne Virginia Decker Victoreen, BHS 1969

Suzanne Virginia Decker Victoreen
November 17, 1951 - November 30, 2019

Suzanne Decker Victoreen was born on November 17, 1951 in Burbank, California to Patricia and Robert Decker, and passed away peacefully with her family by her side on November 30, 2019 at the age of 68. She lived in Burbank for the entirety of her life and graduated from Burbank High School in 1969. Suzanne attended California State University, Northridge. As a mother, she dedicated herself to her children and their activities, never missing a game in any of the sports that they played.

Suzanne was an avid reader and could always be found with a book in her hand. She excelled in her career as a business account manager and loved visiting her five grandchildren near and far. She was a devoted wife to her husband Robert Victoreen (BHS 65), also of Burbank, with whom she shared 47 years of marriage.

Suzanne is survived by her husband Robert; children, Sara Linck (Scott) and Rachel Victoreen (Keith); grandchildren, Robert, Ryan, Alice, Jane and Theodore; sister, Kathy Besnard; brother, David Decker; and mother Patricia Decker. A celebration of Suzanne's life will be held at the Burbank's Elks Lodge 1497 on December 23rd at 11:30 a.m.

Lonnie Wayne Baker, BHS 1970

Lonnie Wayne Baker, BHS 1970

This was posted on Facebook:

Passing of Lon Wayne Baker, BHS '70

Born October 3, 1952 

Our classmate, Gary Cotter, told me that he recently learned that Lonnie Baker passed away in the last few years due to liver failure. No other information was available, including Lonnie's date of death. He had lived back and forth over the years in Santa Cruz and that area, besides in Southern California in Marina del Rey and Culver City, and that area. Lonnie attended our BHS '70 20 year reunion in 1990 held in Burbank. That was the last direct contact we had with him, sorry to say.

Two of our BHS techy people (from other BHS classes) tried to find Lon's death date, but since the Social Security Death Index hasn't been updated since 2014 his name doesn't appear on that Index, so possibly he passed away during 2014 or after that. His name didn't come up on any other site either. Possibly someone who reads this notice will be able to add information about Lonnie. 

NOTE: I was able to find when Lonnie passed away. He passed away on February 20, 2017 in Los Angeles County, California and he died in an alley due to natural causes. His cause of death was due to Arteriosclerotic CardIovascular Disease. He was 64 years old. No other details at this time. May he rest in peace.

Patricia Moore Cervenka, BHS 1969

Posted on Facebook by Debra Brewer Hagan
In memory of Patricia Moore Cervenka, BHS ‘69 

Her daughter has asked me to share the sad news that we lost Patty suddenly and unexpectedly on December 4th, 2019. 

Please keep her daughter Christina, son Timothy and husband Ron (BHS ‘72) in your thoughts and prayers. Pat is also survived by 5 siblings. Kathleen and Marguerite who are graduates of Bell- Jeff and Bob BHS ‘71, Bill BHS ‘74, and Dennis BHS ‘76.   RIP, dear Patty. 
From Pat's daughter,  My incredible mother died on Wednesday evening very unexpectedly. From what I understand, she had an amazing day and was feeling great, went to a Beach Boys concert, and then her heart gave out and she was gone.

She was the original badass who climbed Mt. Whitney three times, surfed, camped, became a pilot in the 70s when women “didn’t do that,” and raised my brother and I to be strong, independent people. 

There are no words for a loss like this. She meant so much to so many and gave all of herself to anyone she met. I’m heartbroken and just wish I could hug my mom one more time. Let’s just all celebrate the incredible, quirky, wonderful woman my mom was. I love you forever, mom. I miss you so much.

Patty studied at San Jose State, San Jose, California after graduating from Burbank High School in 1969. No other details at this time.


Celebration of Life will be held:

Saturday 12/21/19 at 11am

Grace Baptist Church

22833 Copper Hill Drive

Santa Clarita, CA 91350

William Robert Whitlow, BHS 1965

William Whitlow, 1947-2019

William Robert Whitlow Sr., 72, of Eureka, passed away on Sept. 17, 2019 surrounded by his family who loved him dearly.

He was born to parents David and Louise Whitlow on October 16, 1947 in Burbank, California. He graduated Burbank High in 1965. He also extended his education and became a paramedic and helped save many peoples lives.

He married the love of his life, Rebecca Marie Cadenas, and had three handsome sons. William always fought hard to keep his family together and did whatever he had to do to make that happen.

William is survived by Rebecca Whitlow, son William Whitlow Jr. and wife Hannah and their five children; Maizy, Tava, Miles, Iven and Walker. Son Thomas Whitlow and son Wyatt Whitlow and Crystal Whitlow and their children Kaiden, Kyler, and Kierra. William is laid to rest with parents David and Louise Whitlow, brother David and sister Linda Whitlow.

William was known for his great adventurous stories, the love for his family, fighting for what he thought was right, and spending as much time as he could with his family. He loved God and believed in the magic and power of love.

The family will spread his ashes over the ocean somewhere tropical in remembrance of his amazing life of love and adventure.

The obituary above was submitted by William’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. 

Published September 26, 2019

Thomas Gale Kewish, BHS 1947

Thomas Gale Kewish
July 21,1929 - November 24, 2019

Sadly, we announce the passing of Thomas Gale Kewish who left us on Sunday, after a brief and heroic battle. At his bedside was his wife of 30 years, Carol Love Kewish.

Tom graduated from Burbank High School in 1947 and was employed by Lockheed Aircraft where he was a production Leadman. In 1949 he purchased his own manufacturing business, Anderson Crash Helmets. He developed the first fiberglass race car helmet and also manufactured helmets for police departments. In 1958 Tom was employed by Airborne Research and Development Inc. where he was an inspector. In 1960 he worked for RCA on the Unitary Project and ground support guidance systems. In 1996 he retired from the Charter Oak Unified School District and relocated to Ivy Ranch Country Club, Thousand Palms, CA, where he was an active part of the HOA.

He leaves behind his wife Carol, his children, Ron & Judy Kewish of Arroyo Grande, Robin Kewish of Simi Valley, Vicki & Richard Turziano of Simi Valley, Michael Carlone, Richard Carlone, & Linda Carlone, and many many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

No written words can express the extent of this loss. Tom's soft spoken voice and spirit will be greatly missed by all of his family and his many friends of Ivy Ranch Country Club. R.I.P. A Celebration of Tom's life will be held in January at Ivy Ranch Country Club.

Published in San Gabriel Valley Tribune on Nov. 30, 2019

Kathy Lorenz Waldron, BHS 1976

This was posted on Facebook a while back. 

Kathy Lorenz Waldron, Burbank High class of '75, died today, January 22, 2019. Kathy actually was graduated from the Class of 1976 and not 1975.  According to fellow classmates she had been ill for a long time. She was 60 years old. No other details at this time. May she rest in peace.

James Kenneth McCreery, BHS 1962

Burbank Daily Review, Friday, July 28, 1961

Ex-Burbanker Killed When Jack Slips

A former Burbank youth was crushed to death over the weekend when a jack apparently slipped on the car he was working under. The youth, Jim McCreery, 17, of 8547 Minuet Place, Panorama City was pronounced dead on arrival, Sunday at Valley Receiving Hospital.

His parents and Mrs. William K. McCreery were on a fishing trip at the time of the accident. The victim attended Burbank High School. He was at home alone installing a rebuilt motor in his car.
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Burbank Daily Review, Tuesday, August 1, 1961

James McCreery - Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. for Burbank High School student James McCreery at Eckerman Funeral Service Chapel.  The Rev. George E. Lokie will officiate. Mr. McCreery died Sunday. He had resided at 8547 Minuet Place, Panorama City. 

He is survived by his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. William McCreery, and a sister, Carol Lynn of Los Angeles. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Burbank. Interment will be Thursday at Grand View Memorial Park.

Alan Dennis Leger, BHS 1966

Alan Dennis Leger, BHS 1966

The Valley Times, North Hollywood, California
Dated: Wednesday, July 12, 1967, Page 38

Alan D. Leger, age 19, of Burbank, passed away July 10, 1967. Survived by his loving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred J. Leger; brothers, Robert, Gene and Kenneth Leger and his grandfather, Tilman Leger. Employed as a machinist at Conair, Inc. Aerospace company.

Recitation of the Rosary, Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. J.T. Oswald Mortuary, Good Shepherd Chapel, North Hollywood. Requiem, will be celebrated Thursday, 9:00 a.m., St. Patrick's Church. Interment in San Fernando Mission Cemetery, Mission Hills, California.

Brenton James Billos, BHS 1987

Brenton James Billos, BHS 1987
December 5, 1968 - July 3, 2006

Brenton James Billos was born on December 5, 1968 in Los Angeles County, California. Brent graduated from Burbank High School with the Class of 1987.  Brent's passion was surfing. He at one time lived at Mission Beach in San Diego. His classmates said that Brent's lifestyle and his addiction lead to his early death. According to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner report Brent's cause of death was determined to be accidental due to alcohol intoxication.

Brent passed away on July 3, 2006 in Los Angeles County, California at the age of 37. Brent's family held a memorial service at San Onofre State beach where his ashes were spread. Everyone knew how much Brent loved to surf. Brenton James Billos is missed by his family, friends and fellow classmates. Rest in Peace!

Susan Finnegan Ratliff, BHS 1965

Susan Finnegan Ratliff, BHS 1965

Sue passed away suddenly on Thursday November 7, 2019 of an apparent heart attack. 

Sue first married Ron Fransen and that marriage ended in divorce and she later married Don Ratliff. 

Funeral arrangements are pending, cards can be sent to Sue's husband, Don Ratliff, 1924 Manning Street, Burbank, California, 91505. 

Besides her husband Don, Sue is also survived by a half brother, Stan Hill who also graduated from Burbank High in 1965. Sue will be missed by her family and friends. May she rest in peace.

Donald De Forest Warren, Jr., BHS 1980

Donald De Forest Warren, Jr.
January 21, 1962 - December 27, 1995

Donald D. Warren, Jr., 33, passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 1995 while on his postal carrier's route in Santa Clarita. He was born January 21, 1962 in Castro Valley, California to Donald D. Warren and Clara Maria Folster Warren. He attended Hayward and Burbank schools and graduated from Burbank High School in 1980.

His love of animals and the outdoors resulted in his working at a dog kennel while in high school and college and subsequent management of the kennel before managing a business form warehouse. He then became a U.S. Postal Service Carrier and purchased property in Kern County to build a home.

He is survived by his mother and father of Glendale; maternal grandmother, Mrs. N.W. Folster of Arvin; uncles, Albert N. Folster of Lamont and Carlton C. Warren, Sr. of Michigan.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 1996 in the Open Air Chapel at South Kern Cemetery District/Arvin, with the Reverend Rick Francis of the Arvin Congregational Church officiating. Interment will follow the services. 

Hopson-Anspach Family Mortuary, Lamont, Directors

David Ray Swab, BHS 1985

David Ray Swab was born on June 22, 1967 in Glendale, California and passed away on July 12, 2019. 

Burial was at Rose Hills Memorial Park, Whittier, California. David was a graduate of Burbank High School graduating with the Class of 1985. 

A friend remembers Gary Ray Swab:
GM1 Swab was a true Patriot, Leader and a fantastic Gunners Mate. He always had a positive attitude and very dedicated to his Junior Sailors and the Navy. He will be truly missed but now he can watch over his Shipmates. 

Very Respectfully, BMCS(SCW) Gayle Merino, USN (Ret)

No other details at this time.

Gary Allen Hamner, BHS 1970

Passing of Gary Allen Hamner, BHS 1970
June 9, 1952 ~ November 16, 2019

Gary Hamner passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2019, after recently being hospitalized with pneumonia, which was after recently being diagnosed with leukemia. He was 67.

Gary grew up in Burbank at 422 Cornell Dr. He attended Emerson Elementary, graduated from John Muir Junior High in 1967, and graduated from Burbank High School in 1970. He was the oldest of three, with younger sisters, Denise (BHS ‘72) and Teresa (BHS ‘73, Teresa’s husband is Roger Starkey BHS ‘72). Gary Hamner’s cousin, Leila Hamner, was also BHS ‘70. Leila Hamner Wasson passed away in October 2008.

Gary had lived in the Sacramento area for many years. Previously he and his family had also lived in Oregon. Over the years Gary had owned several new car dealerships. He was also a Minister of the Gospel during times in his life.

Among the family that survive Gary are his wife of 45 years, Sonnie Hamner, and their 44 and 43 year old daughters and families, and his two sisters and their families.

Gary’s good friend since early elementary school, Brad Wilhelm, BHS ‘70, has been receiving updates about Gary the last few days from Gary’s wife, Sonnie, and passing along the news to many of us who knew Gary.

Alan Landros, BHS ‘70
November 17, 2019

Kathleen Louise Bryan, BHS 1967

Kathleen Louise Bryan
July 10, 1949 - November 3, 2019

It is with great sadness the family of Kathleen Bryan announces her sudden passing in Tacoma, Washington on November 3rd, 2019 – 70 years young.

Kathleen was born to William and Mary Lou Bryan on July 10th, 1949 in Glendale, California. She grew up in Burbank, California and attended Burbank High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Redlands and a master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin. Over the course of 35 years she was a speech pathologist in Seattle, Washington and Newport Beach, California.

Kathleen was an amazing chef, cookbook collector and devotee of the performing arts. She loved her family and friends fiercely. She is survived by her two children, Bryan and Shannon, her brother Jeff and sister Jennifer, her five nieces and nephews, and seven grandchildren: Henry, Stella, Chase, Lucy, Oliver, Alice and Miles.

She was preceded in death by her parents whom we are so grateful she is back together with. There is a huge hole in our hearts without her.

A service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Burbank on November 16th at 1:30 PM, with a celebration of her life following.

Any donations in memory of Kathleen may be made to the Tacoma Opera, 47 St. Helens Ave, Suite 201, Tacoma, WA 98402.

TUELL-MCKEE FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES

Lynda Louise Scroggie Bryant, BHS 1960

Lynda Louise Scroggie Bryant, BHS 1960

In Loving Memory

Lynda Louise Bryant passed in peace on June 20th, 2019, at the age of 77. Born and raised in Burbank, California, and longtime resident of Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Bryant  was loved and cherished by all who knew her. She was very much a "people person" and touched the lives of so many with her kind spirit, sense of humor and quirky sayings, and above all , her huge heart.

Lynda is survived by her high-school sweetheart and loving husband of 56 years, Earl Sr.; Son Earl Jr. and wife, Dalia; Daughter, Kim and husband, Eric; Daughter, Cassie and husband, Scott; Grandchildren, Alexandra, Aaron, Gabriel, Cortland, and Amanda, and her sweet dog, Bella. 

Other loving, surviving family includes, Brother, Donnie, Sisters, Barb and Sharon, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was a real-life Super Woman who did it all, and fought incredibly hard to the end. She is finally at peace. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Note: She was a Pharmacy technician, and studied at University of Southern California.

UPDATE: 
Memorial service for Lynda Scroggie Bryant, Class of 1960, will be held in Burbank on December 28th. Place and time will be posted later.

Micah Lee, BHS 2000

Micah Lee, BHS 2000

Posted on Facebook that Micah Lee passed away on July 8, 2019 in an auto accident. I could not find him listed in the 2000 BHS 

yearbook. No other details at this time.

Gary Bridgman Cowles, BHS 1962

Gary Bridgman Cowles, BHS 1962
December 17, 1944 - October 23, 2019

Gary was born on December 17, 1944. On August 12,1999 in Clark County, Nevada Gary married his wife, Norma Baker Krueger. 

Gary teamed up with another fellow and did years of research on the original Pasadena’s world-famous Busch Gardens, a botanical marvel created in the Arroyo Seco at the turn of the 20th century, have all but faded since its closure in 1938, when it was subdivided for housing. All of Gary's research is held at the Huntington Library.

Gary passed away on October 23, 2019 at his home in Pasadena, California. 

He is survived by his wife, Norma and his brother, Bob. No other details on his death at this time.

Linda Lee Tanner Graham, BHS 1958

Junior Photo

Linda Lee Graham, 78, of Newbury Park, California, and long-time Windsor, Missouri resident, died Sunday evening, September 22, 2019, at Kansas City Hospice House, Kansas City, Missouri.

She was born October 17, 1940, in Washington, DC the daughter of Benjamin Wallis Tanner and LeFaye “Georgia” (Shobe) Tanner. In April 1965, in Los Angeles, California, she married George John Graham.

She was a 1958 graduate of Burbank High School in California. She attended UCLA in California and was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology. She began a life-long career of helping others as a deputy probation officer in Los Angeles County. After a move to Lake Charles, Louisiana, she served as a member of the city council and earned her second bachelor’s degree in accounting and became a CPA. Continuing to help others, she was a founding member of the first women’s shelter in Lake Charles. A move to Phoenix opened the doors for a new career opportunity selling real estate while serving as Executive Director of a cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy awareness association. Linda moved to Dallas and began selling real estate around 1985. She was a consistent leader in sales and was highly respected for her expertise and wisdom. She will be missed by her many Dallas coworkers and clients and especially by her business partner during those years, Mary Lavender. A final move to Newbury Park, California allowed Linda to continue working in real estate until retirement.

As a child, Linda was an accomplished equestrian rider. She enjoyed many cherished friendships over the years and especially loved taking family and friends to one of her favorite restaurants, Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, in Malibu. She also enjoyed attending sporting events for her grandchildren. Pottery, taking her Border Collie “Mate” for walks and to the dog park, and Friday morning breakfast with her Windsor friends were also things she enjoyed. Woven through Linda’s life was her love for Windsor. Visiting every year, she remained connected to her Windsor roots. The annual July 4th celebration in Windsor brought the family together for fun at Farrington Park and back under the roof that saw five generations of the Sisson/Tanner family grow up.

She was a life-long member of the Methodist faith and attended Northaven United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas, and most recently the Windsor United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Windsor Keystone Club.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Adrienne Lee Hahn (Raymond), Newbury Park, California; and Allison Lee Graham, Newbury Park, California; 2 grandchildren, Alanah Lee Hahn and Alexander Lee Hahn, both of Newbury Park, California; her beloved ex-husband, George Graham; and 8 nieces and nephews, whom she thought of as cousins, Michael, Dennis, Patrick, Pamela, Moira, Kevin, Monica, and Margaret “Maggi.” In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Anita Joy Riordan.


Memorial services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 19, 2019, at the Windsor United Methodist Church with Rev. Peggy Eshelman and Pastor Pete Hill officiating. Burial will be in the Laurel Oak Cemetery, Windsor. The family suggests contributions to Windsor’s Farrington Park and may be left in care of the Hadley Funeral Home, Windsor.

Published in Dallas Morning News on Sept. 29, 2019

Gordon Louis Roskam, BHS 1944

Gordon Louis Roskam
August 1, 1926 - November 24, 2012

Gordon Louis Roskam (86). Born in Hollywood on August 1, 1926. Graduated Burbank High and earned a B.S in Electrical Engineering at UCLA. He also attended Occidental College and UC Berkeley under the V12 NROTC programs. Served active duty in Guam (1951-53) and was a Lt. Commander (retired) in Naval Reserves. Married Lois Quinn Roskam (1928 - 1994); survived by their children Scott, Brian & Pamela. Worked in Radar Systems Group at Hughes Aircraft - El Segundo from 1954 until retirement in 1991. 

Survived by second wife Mary Toolen Roskam with whom he spent 16 wonderful years of happiness. Hobbies included restoring Citroen and Jaguar autos, furniture-making, 35mm photography, and fixing anything that needed repair.

Services at Hollywood Forever, Thursday Nov. 29 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to ALSC (323-469-1973) or The American Cancer Society are welcome. Farewell to an all-around great guy.

Published in the Los Angeles Times on Nov. 27, 2012

Michael Kenneth Wood, BHS 1967

Mike Wood, age 70, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2019, at UnityPoint-St. Luke’s Hospital of Sioux City, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 27, 2019, at the United Methodist Church of Anthon, Iowa. Rev. Jena Finch-Manchester will officiate. Military Rites will be conducted by the McNiff Post # 389 of the American Legion of Anthon, Iowa. Burial will be held at a later date. 

A Visitation will be held on Monday, August 26, 2019, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the United Methodist Church of Anthon, Iowa. A Masonic Service and Order of the Eastern Star Service will be held Monday, August 26, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., at the United Methodist Church of Anthon, Iowa. The Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Home of Anthon, Iowa is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online www.armstrongfuneral.com.

Michael Kenneth Wood, age 70, of Sioux City, died Friday, August 23, 2019, from complications during his battle with cancer.

Mike was born July 21, 1949, in Long Beach, CA, to Dale and Sarah (Agnew) Wood. His early life was spent traveling as his father was in the military, ending up in Marysville, CA. He married Lorraine Staley and two children were born of that union; Shelly and David Wood. They later divorced and he married Barb Day in 1991.

He graduated from Burbank High School, CA, and attended Morningside College, Sioux City, IA, joining the Air Force in 1969-1973. He attended the University of Iowa College of Nursing, obtaining a Bachelors of Nursing (BSN) in 1976. While attending nursing school, Mike worked in Iowa City in the Pediatric Unit until he moved to Sioux City where he worked at Unity Point in the Orthopedic Unit for 35 years.

He was a loving, patient and kind father, husband, brother and friend. Mike was an avid reader and enjoyed camping and watching sports. He belonged to American Legion Post #64 of Sioux City. He was a member of the Triangle Lodge #643 A.F. & A.M. where he was Worshipful Master in 2007. He was a member of the Loess Hills Chapter #502 Order of the Eastern Star. He also served as Worthy Patron, Thonna Chapter of Anthon, IA. He was Grand Warder for the Grand Chapter of Iowa, Order of the Eastern Star in 2017.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; two children, Shelly of Sioux City, IA, and David, of Brazil, Indiana; three grandchildren, Trevor, Grace and Valor of Sioux City, IA; brother, Mark of Paradise, CA; step-sisters, Barb Hendershot of Vacaville, CA, Pamela (Buckey) Tentinger of Marcus, IA, Diana Draper of Early, IA and Patti (Dennis) Heath of Marshall, TX.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Evelyn Wood, Sarah and Hank Long; brother, Tom Wood; and step-sister, Cynthia Wiebersch.

In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Mike may be made to his family. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Published in Armstrong - Van Houten Funeral Homes - Anthon, Iowa

Wendi Wyness McBride, BHS 1979?

Wendi Wyness McBride, BHS 1979?
November 5, 1961 - September 3, 2019

Wendi Mc Bride passed away suddenly at her residence on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at 57 years old. She was born Wendi Lee Wyness at St. Mary's Hospital in Long Beach, CA on Sunday, November 5, 1961. She moved to the San Fernando Valley as a child and attended Campbell Hall in Studio City. She then went on to Burbank High School and received her registered nurse training at Los Angeles Valley College. She later went on the get her Bachelors degree in nursing. 

She worked as a registered nurse at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Burbank. In 1991 she married James McBride and moved to Valencia in the Santa Clarita Valley where they bought a house. In 1995 they welcomed a daughter, Haylee Alana Laura. 

After 25 years at Providence St Joseph Medical Center she retired to do accounting work at her husband's lock smith business, Golden State Lock and Safe in Burbank. She also worked part time at Specialty Surgical Center and Freedom Vision in Encino. Wendi and Jim had many friends and loved to have parties and barbecues at their beautiful home in Valencia. She was a dedicated nurse a beautiful daughter, mother and wife. 

Wendi leaves behind her husband, Jim, daughter Haylee, her mother, Carolyn Sinclair, her father, John Wyness and his wife, Hing, two half brothers, Randy and Scott Wyness, her mother-in-law, Georgina Hayes a sister-in-law Connie Constanza, a brother-in-law Kenny Hayes in addition to cousins and many friends. Wendi will remain in out hearts forever as she will always be loved and missed.

Published in The Burbank Leader on Sept. 28, 2019

Gail Denise Hahn Crawford, BHS 1972

Posted on Facebook in April 2015 from Gail's husband Robert Crawford.

Today April 2015 has been a sad day for me, my family and friends. My wife of almost 25 years, Gail Hahn, mother of four, grandmother of 1 and friend to countless others lost her battle with cancer. Her heart was large and her love was endless.

We will miss her love and laughter most of all. She is in God's hands now, feeling His love, and surely looking down on us. We will endeavor to live up to the expectations, hopes and dreams she had for us. 

No other details at this time.

Lawrence Virgil Marak, BHS 1968

Lawrence Virgil Marak
August 5, 1950 - October 23, 2019

Larry Marak was born on August 5, 1950 in Los Angeles County, California and passed away on October 23, 2019. Larry grew up in Burbank and graduated from Burbank High with the Class of 1968. Larry married to fellow BHS graduate Susan Melissa Williams on September 4, 1976 in Los Angeles, California.  Larry and Melissa were married for 37 years.

Larry got a Masters from U.C.L.A. in ancient history, and had a teaching position lined up on the east coast when his wife Melissa had a stroke at age 27.  Didn’t have health insurance then and that put them behind the financial for 7 years, and so he entered public service.  Got hired with the city of Burbank.

Larry Marak, has had a long career at BWP (Burbank Water and Power). He was recognized for 35 years of service in a program at City Hall in 2015,  in fact, he says he is known as ‘old man Marak’ because he’s “outlived everyone else who was working there when he started.” 

Larry did a variety of field positions at Burbank Water and Power, Messenger Bill-Deliverer, mail room supervisor, meter reader, collector and senior field rep (doing new service connects and disconnects back in the days before smart meters).  The last 4 years I’ve transferred over to the credit section and process payments for transmission to treasury.

Larry and Melissa got into the construction toy hobby about 8 years ago while looking for bargains to give to a Salvation Army Angel tree.  We’ve supported the Angel trees for many years.  We are lifetime members of Legoland and have done quite a bit of building over the years.   Larry and Melissa transferred 10 years of parts to the Fort Erie and Burbank children’s libraries LEGO clubs.  Virtually all you see at the Burbank Central Library, including the cases, came from the Marak's. 

Larry and his wife have also done a lot of traveling, including seeing a total eclipse in the Amazon, climbing the Great Wall, making it to the top of one of the pyramids in Tikai Guatemala, and attending opening ceremonies of both the Los Angeles (1984) and Calgary (1988) Olympics. Larry also made an occasional television appearances.

Larry will be missed by his family and fellow classmates and friends. Funeral services are pending.

Update:
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at 10:30 AM at the Burbank Faith Church of the Nazarene, 505 S. Sixth Street Burbank, CA 91501 (Corner of Sixth & Santa Anita) In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Burbank Faith Church Building Fund.

Paul Lagumina, BHS 1985

Lost another Bulldog Class of '85

On this day October, 19, 2019, Paul Lagumina passed away. He is survived by his daughters, a grandson, sister and parents. Rest in peace my friend.

This was posted on Facebook. No other details at this time.

Angelo Russell Brovelli, BHS 1955, Played for the RAMS

Angelo Russell Brovelli, BHS 1955
September 14, 1936 - January 8, 2018

Angelo grew up in Burbank and graduated from Burbank High in 1955 where he played football, baseball and was involved in Art, Key Club, Legislative Council, Boys League President and Vice President, Lettermans Club and Senior B President.

After graduating from Burbank High he played football with the Los Angeles Rams. In the 2000 Burbank High Yearbook it says: December 16, 1960 - On the same day, former BHS Athletics Angelo Brovelli and Frank Sullivan were traded by their football and baseball teams, respectively. Brovelli was an all league lineman who was traded from the Los Angeles Rams to the Green Bay Packers, while Sullivan, both a baseball and basketball star at BHS, was traded by the Boston Red Sox to the Philadelphia Phillies. 

Angelo passed away on January 8, 2018 in Arrowhead Lake, California at the age of 81. Mountain View Mortuary and Cemetery, San Bernardino, California handled the arrangements.
From Thom McGraham
March 27, 2019

God Bless Angelo! I founded a restaurant bar called Tinhorn Flats Bar and Grill at 2623 West Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank Calif. in 1977 (it's still there). I have fond memories of Angelo and knew him well because I bought a 1968 yellow Volkswagen from him in cherry condition and he used the money to relocate to Arrowhead to open a gym. I remember Angelo told me he played for the L.A. Rams in 1957 and for a salary of $7,000 per year. He was always athletic and in the mid-80s, was a powerful body builder. In fact, a film short was shot at my business and Angelo was in it and paid well. I always liked Angelo, He was a very nice man and second, because he had a great sense of humor. I'm sorry he's gone but he lived a good live. God rest his soul.

BHS Baseball

BHS Football

Judith Opatz, BHS 1961/60

Junior photo in 1960 Yearbook

Judith (Judy) Mills Opatz
December 2, 1943 - September 21, 2019

Judith Opatz passed peacefully with her daughters by her side on Saturday, September 21, 2019. Judy was born in Los Angeles and moved to San Francisco where she met and fell in love with Alois (Al) Opatz and spent the next almost 50 years helping to manage their bar and farming businesses. She is predeceased by spouse Alois Opatz (2013) and survived by Elizabeth (George) Gamarra and Mary (Daniel) Neustadt. She is also survived by the lights of her life, her beloved grandchildren: Danielle, Isabella, John and George.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation at the Fred Young Funeral Home Cloverdale, on Friday, September 27th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Services will be held at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Cloverdale on Saturday, September 28th, at 10 a.m.,, followed by burial at Olive Hill Cemetery in Geyserville. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: www.guardiansoflove.org a non-profit foster family agency, per her wishes.

Published Online in the Press Democrat from Sept. 26 to Sept. 28, 2019

Note: Judy is not listed in 61 yearbook, her junior picture is in the 60 yearbook and family says she graduated in 1960 so it is possible she graduated early.