Friday, December 31, 2021

Timothy Paul Loock, BHS 1978 and BHS Coach

Teen charged in death of his father

BY CHRISTOPHER CADELAGO, L.A. Times

JUNE 27, 2009

BURBANK — Burbank police officers on Wednesday arrested a 19-year-old man in connection with the Nov. 29, 2008 death of his father, Timothy Loock, assistant football coach at Burbank High School.

Noah Loock faces one felony count of involuntary manslaughter and was released from custody on $25,000 bond. He is due back in Pasadena Superior Court on July 16, authorities said.

The incident occurred shortly before 2 p.m. Nov. 29, when police responded to a fight at the family home on the 1800 block of North Avon Street.

“After a couple of punches, the father fell to the ground,” Burbank Police Sgt. Robert Quesada said.

Timothy Loock, 48, was rendered unconscious and was transported to Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Noah Loock fled the scene of the fight Nov. 29 and was taken into custody later that day and booked on suspicion of killing his father, Quesada said.

The Los Angeles County district attorney’s office filed no charges at that time, and the investigation continued until the Los Angeles County coroner’s office ruled the cause of death as homicide.

The Dec. 2 autopsy revealed that Timothy Loock died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and neck, said coroner-investigator Denise Bertone.

The county district attorney’s office filed one count of involuntary manslaughter, and an arrest warrant was issued Wednesday.

“Because of the unknown nature of the circumstances, the actual length of the sentence varies and depends on what they look at,” Quesada said.

The Loock family could not be reached for comment.

Timothy Loock worked in the entertainment industry on post-production for 30 years, according to his profile on the Internet Movie Database.

An all-league wide receiver for the class of 1978 at Burbank High, he went on to coach receivers and defensive backs until his death last season. Noah Loock graduated from Burroughs High School in 2008. His Facebook profile was rendered inactive.

SON WILL NOT GET JAIL TIME

"Noah Loock was sentenced to eight days in jail, but will not spend additional time behind bars based on credit for time served, prosecutors said. The deal specifies that he spend three years on probation, complete 120 hours of community service and attend anger management classes."

 

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Marvin Brian Berry, BHS 1965

Marvin Brian Berry, BHS 1965

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, Friday, February 25, 1966

Leave Ends In Death For Local Youth

A leave ended tragically for four young Marines early this morning when one of them, a Burbank resident, was killed and the others were injured in a traffic accident. Los Angels Police identified the dead youth as Brian Berry, 18, of 922 E. Tujunga Ave.

Berry was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Charles Searles, 17, of 606 E. Santa Anita Ave., when the compact car smashed into a telephone pole on Ventura Boulevard just east of Goodland Avenue in North Hollywood.

Searles apparently lost control of the car and it struck the pole at 7: 15 a.m., according to police. Also injured in the crash were Dan Blackwood, 18, 547 E. Magnolia Blvd., and Douglas Lamb, 18, of Glendale. The injured were taken to Valley Doctors Hospital in North Hollywood where all were reported in satisfactory condition. NOTE: Searles would later be killed in Vietnam.

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

Berry-M. Brian

Beloved son of Lorene and Marvin Berry; brother of Janet Kelly; grandson of Carrie Ockander. Services Monday 10 a.m. in the Little Country Chapel, 10621 Victory Blvd,, North Hollywood, Pierce Brothers, Directors. In lieu of flowers, donations to Voice of Calvary, Burbank, California preferred.

Burbank Daily Review, February 26, 1966


Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Gerald Kenneth Adler, BHS 1958

Gerald Kenneth Adler, BHS 1958

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, June 25, 1958

FRIEND QUIZZED BY AUTHORITIES

Eighteen-year-old Jerry Adler lay dying at St. Joseph Hospital today with pieces of a .38 caliber bullet still lodged in his brain. The youth, critically wounded in a playful "Old West" gun battle yesterday, had not regained consciousness. And 16-year-old Paul Whitton, whose shot pierced Adler's head between the right eye and bridge of his nose, was in custody at juvenile hall,

Police say the accident occurred while Adler and Whitton, childhood friends, were engaged in a mock "quick draw" contest at Whitton's 1068 E. Verdugo Ave. home shortly before 1:30 p.m. yesterday.

Young Whitton told detectives that he and Adler had decided upon the fast-draw contest from a belt position. Whitton's weapon , a .38 Spanish replica of the Smith and Wesson revolver, and Adler's gun, a .45 caliber single-action pistol, were part of a collection by Whitton's father. Whitton told police Adler said, "I'm taking you in Ringo!" after which both of the youths drew their weapons and "dry-fired" several times. But an unfired .38 caliber bullet moved closer into firing position with each snap until being discharged. Whitton then called police, who found young Adler gasping for breath and bleeding profusely from the wound.

The victim's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Adler of 644 Groton Drive, maintained a constant vigil at the hospital. Young Whitton's mother, who arrived at home while police were questioning the youth, was near collapse. Whitton will remain in juvenile hall pending a preliminary hearing.

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

Burbank Daily Review, Thursday, June 26, 1958

TEENAGE SHOOTING VICTIM DIES, PAL FACES CHARGES

'"QUICK - DRAW", ENDS IN DEATH

Death came to 18-year-old Jerry Adler at 9:47 last night, 32 hours after a mock "quick-draw" contest in which a .38 caliber bullet crashed through his head.

Physicians at St. Joseph Hospital indicated  today they were "amazed" that young Adler had lived more than a few hours after the shooting. Adler's companion, 16-year-old Paul Whitton, remained in juvenile hall today awaiting a pre-detention hearing tomorrow.

It was Whitton's shot that struck young Adler between the right eye and the bridge of his nose in a playful "fast-draw" contest at Whitton's 1068 E. Verdugo Ave. home Tuesday.

Police say the accidental shooting occurred when Whitton and Adler, standing 11 feet apart, drew for their weapons, both items in a collection by Whitton's father, then "dry-fired." An unexploded cartridge in Whitton's gun moved into firing position until being discharged. The bullet went through Adler's head and lodged in a wall behind him.

Juvenile authorities indicated today that the original charge of attack with a deadly weapon may now be changed to involuntary manslaughter. Funeral arrangements are pending at Eckerman Funeral Home in Burbank.

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

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, June 27, 1958

Gerald Adler Services Will Be Sunday

Services for Gerald Kenneth Adler, 18, of 644 E. Groton, will be held at 10 a.m. tomorrow in First Methodist Church. Mr. Adler died Wednesday night in a Burbank hospital.

He leaves his parents Mr. Paul W. Adler and Mrs. Theodora Buckles Adler; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William J. Adler and Mrs. Myrtle Buckles, all of Burbank, and two sisters, Loretta P. Penwarden, of Granada Hills, and Valerie Adler of Burbank.

He had been affiliated with Burbank YMCA activities and was a member of First Methodist Church.

The Rev. Randall C. Phillips, pastor of the church, will officiate at the funeral service, Stewart Hamlin will be soloist. Interment will be in Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills. Eckerman Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.










Monday, December 27, 2021

Patricia Ann DeSoto, BHS 1964

Patricia Ann DeSoto, BHS 1964

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, Monday February 28, 1966

Drug is possible cause of local woman's death

A 19-year-old former Burbank woman died Saturday February 26, 1966 from a possible reaction to a drug she had been taking for headaches. The victim, Patricia DeSoto, who had been living in Montrose, died in a Los Angeles hospital where she was reportedly being treated for a reaction to the drug Gilantin.

Montrose sheriff's deputies said the girl had been taking the drug for headaches and fainting spells. It had been prescribed by Dr. Foster Gossard of Glendale, on the advice of a neurological specialist, to treat the woman's alleged nervous disorder, according to the girl's parents.

An associate of the girl's doctor, Dr. Robert Lowrey, told deputies the drug is commonly prescribed in such cases. The drug sometimes causes reactions, however, the doctor reportedly told deputies. In rare cases it causes a reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which causes the body to blister. The reaction is usually fatal, the doctor said.

Miss DeSoto broke out with the measles-like blisters and was taken to Los Angeles County General Hospital a week ago, according to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. John DeSoto of 818 S. Sunset Canyon Drive.

A local druggist said the drug is a member of the antihistamine group, and is a sedative. He said the drug is commonly used in treating brain disorders. He feels reaction from the drug could be attributed to the condition that necessitated its use.

The girl graduated from Burbank High School and attended Glendale College before going to work for a Los Angeles insurance company as a secretary.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Burbank First Presbyterian Church, under the direction of Eckermans Funeral Service. The case has been assigned to the county coroner.

 

Sunday, December 26, 2021

Linda Lee Lervold, BHS 1963

Linda Lee Lervold, BHS 1963

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, Monday, February 20, 1984

CRASH KILLS WOMAN CLOSE TO HER HOME

BURBANK - A Burbank woman was fatally injured Saturday at Victory Boulevard and North Valley Street - less than a block from her home- when another car broadsided her at an estimated 50 mph, police said. Linda Lervold, 39, was pronounced dead at Saint Joseph Medical Center of blunt trauma to her head, chest, pelvis and leg, according to police reports.

Lervold, a resident of the 2100 block of North Valley Street, pulled onto Victory Boulevard at 6: 15 p.m. after stopping at the stop sign at Valley and Victory. A car driven by Daniel Nagy, 28, of Burbank, plowed into her in the intersection. Police said Nagy, driving a 1969 Pontiac GTO, and a friend in a 1953 Chevrolet apparently stopped at a traffic light at Victory and Maple Street at the same time.

Nagy gunned his engine "as a joke" and the car burned rubber 50 feet down the street, according to police reports. Nagy had reached an estimated 45-50 mph when he saw Lervold's 1972 Ford Pinto, swerved to the left to avoid a collision, but rammed into the driver's side of car, police said.

Lervold was trapped inside the car for several minutes before fire crews extricated her with a "jaws of life" device, Paramedics rushed her to Saint Joseph Medical Center but she was not breathing and had no pulse when she arrived at the hospital.

Nagy and his 16-year-old passenger were treated at Saint Joseph's for minor injuries and were released, hospital officials said. Nagy was not cited at the scene of the accident. Traffic investigators will conduct a follow-up investigation, Sgt. Jeff Pratt said.



Friday, December 24, 2021

Janet Marie Mercurio, BHS 1969

Janet Marie Mercurio, BHS 1969

I am sad to report the passing of Janet Marie Mercurio. Janet was born on March 2, 1951 in Los Angeles County, California and passed away on Wednesday, February 2, 2011 in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon. She was 59 years old.

Janet grew up in Burbank and was active in the Burbank Ponytail League. She at one time played on the Pixies and was involved in the yearly Ponytail Jamboree which was held each year in Burbank and Janet took some  individual  awards home. 

Janet graduated from Burbank High School in 1969. After graduating from Burbank High, she went on to Los Angeles Valley College where she played on the women's softball and basketball teams with me. I was 2 years older than her when she joined the team. I lost track of Janet after I graduated. I always wondered what ever happened to her. No other details at this time. May she rest in peace.

From Linda Mustion, BHS 1967

Janet is in center back row behind woman kneeling.


Monday, December 13, 2021

Robert Joseph Elias, BHS 1948

Robert Joseph Elias, BHS 1948

Port Hueneme - Robert Joseph Elias, 91, of Port Hueneme, CA, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 4th, 2021 after a long battle with kidney disease. Robert was born in East Los Angeles on July 6th, 1930 to Henry and Julia Elias. He attended Burbank High School and Glendale College. He married his High School sweetheart, and had two sons, Mark and Richard. He was drafted into the Army, and became a Korean War Veteran. On his return, he joined the San Fernando Police Department, where he worked from 1960 to 1965. He then returned to his childhood home to work for the Burbank Police Department from 1965 until June of 1992 with 33 years of combined service. He was a detective at the time of retirement. While he worked in many capacities, his favorite assignment was Traffic Bureau Detective. His interests and skills were many, from flying private helicopters and small planes, photography, polygraph operator and Spanish interpreter. He also was part of the Volunteer Horse Patrol as a Reserve Officer when he was younger. He was a Mason with Magnolia Park Lodge, and a member of the Burbank Police Officers' Association.

Robert is survived by his wife Judith Elias, daughters-in-law Kim Simmons and Deb Schneider, grandson Sean Simmons, sister-in-law Esther Elias, nephews Kenny and Dan Elias, nieces Sherry Kelley, Karen Olson and Kathy Cervantes. He is preceded in death by his sons Mark Simmons and Richard Simmons, sister Margaret Lucero and brothers Henry Elias Jr. and John Elias.

Funeral services are pending. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Diabetes Assoc. or American Kidney Fund.

Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.

Posted online on December 07, 2021

Published in Ventura County Star



Thursday, December 9, 2021

Beverly Frances Webb Lindsey, BHS 1957

Beverly Frances Webb Lindsey, BHS 1957

Beverly "Bev" Frances (Webb) Lindsey of Simi Valley died on Sunday, March 14, 2021 at the age of 81. Bev was born in Dallas, Texas on February 27, 1940 to visual artists Frances (Trippet) Webb and Frank Sexton Webb of Dallas. The family moved to Burbank, California in the early 1950s and her father worked as an illustrator for several advertising firms, as well as the Los Angeles Times. Bev graduated from Burbank High School in 1957, where she met and fell in love with Billy "Bill" Alvis Lindsey. They were married in 1958, and embarked on a 63-year marriage as parents of 4 and grandparents of 13.

Bev was an accomplished artist of crafts, miniatures, and fiber arts. Under the auspices of her small business, "Bev's Miniatures," she created and sold original miniature works of art for over 20 years on the national trade show circuit in addition to her work in quilting and crochet. Bev loved to travel with her husband Bill, and had an abiding love for animals, especially cats and California desert tortoises. An avid life-long reader, especially of science and speculative fiction, Bev passed her reading habit on to her children and grandchildren.

Beverly is survived by her husband Bill of Simi Valley, sister Mary Kay (Webb) Osborn of Coloma (Monte Osborn), daughter Robin Lindsey (Tom Stough) of Thousand Oaks, daughter Brook Calderon (Art Calderon) of Bakersfield, son Mark Lindsey (Beth Lindsey) of Austin, Texas, son Joshua Lindsey (Keri McIntyre) of Modesto, and 13 grandchildren. Arrangements are pending with the Neptune Society. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, the ASPCA, Alley

Cat Allies, or another charity of your choice serving children or animals.

Published by Ventura County Star from May 27 to May 30, 2021. 

Monday, December 6, 2021

Kenneth B. Vail, BHS 1950

Kenneth B. Vail, BHS 1950

Kenneth "Ken" B. Vail passed away on June 24, 2021 at the age of 89 in Lancaster, California. He lived in the Antelope Valley for over 67 years where he was employed by Lockheed and Northrop Grumman. Ken, also, served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955.

Ken was born November 12, 1931 in Ohio and moved to California at age 5. He graduated from Burbank High School in 1950. In 1953 he married his first wife, Jackie, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, Scott Vail, Alice (Johnny) Apuan, Jana (Barry King) Ouimet, and grandchildren Travis Vail and Ethan and Olivia Ouimet.

In 1986 he married Elaine Hooper who preceded him in death. Also, preceding him in death are step-son Steven Henderson and Steve's son, Andrew, and step-son Robert Henderson. He is survived by step-daughters Carol McMillan and Dianne (Ed) Luman, and step-grandchildren Brian and Scott McMillan, Erin Biank, Amy Medefesser, and David Luman.

In 2010, Ken married Phyllis Bonde. He is survived by Phyllis and her sons Richard, Howard. Gogo, RC, and David.

Ken is beloved by his large and blended family and will truly be missed by us all. His love of music, his fondness for problem solving and tinkering, and his gift of gab will long be re- membered by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Ken's church home, St. Stephen's of the Valley Lutheran Church in Palmdale on July 10, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Stephen's.

Published by The Antelope Valley Press on Jul. 3, 2021.

Saturday, December 4, 2021

Sterling Ray Ericksen, BHS 1946

Sterling Ray Ericksen, BHS 1946

September 25, 1928 - October 20, 2021 

Ray was born in Carlin, Nevada. His family moved to Los Angeles in 1931 during "The Great Depression". He graduated from Burbank High School in August, 1946, and enlisted in the Navy at the age of seventeen. 

After graduating from Treasure Island Navy Electronics School, he was assigned to the USS Piedmont, a Destroyer Tender (AD-17), where he repaired ship vacuum tube electronics. His ship was stationed in Tsing Tao, China, for most of 1948. 

When discharged from the Navy, he received the WW II Victory Medal, the China Service Medal, and the WW II GI Bill, which made it possible for him to attend USC. At USC in 1953, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and was President of the Sigma Phi Delta Engineering Fraternity. That college degree was a first in his family. He met Margareta (UCLA) on a blind date and immediately began a three year quest to convince her to say "I do". After graduation, they married, and then honeymooned in Atami, Japan. 

They lived in Yokohama, Japan, where Ray worked for Philco Radio Corporation at the Army Signal Corp Depot. After Japan, he was assigned to San Francisco supporting Army Nike Missile Sites and then to the Signal Corps Depot in Pirmasens, Germany. While in Germany, Ray and Margareta traveled extensively throughout Western Europe. In 1959, Ray went to work for System Development Company. For the next 30 years he worked in the Computer Program Integration Contractor (CPIC) organization supporting satellite projects. At retirement in 1989, he was Department Manager of the company's satellite support program with the Air Force. 

After retirement, Ray and Margareta moved from Palos Verdes Estates, CA., to live for ten years in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Margareta would take award winning photos and Ray would study the local geology. Ray was an amateur geologist, who loved to share his enthusiasm for this earth science with his friends and family. In 2000, they moved back to the Palos Verdes Peninsula to stay. Ray took up golf and connected with San Pedro and Palos Verdes golfers. He "shot his age" at 77. He and Margareta continued their traveling. They met and became lasting friends with many wonderful people. Ray felt that he was lucky to live in such an interesting time span, and travel to and live in many countries. 

Ray was preceded in death by his mother and father, Elva and Lorin Ericksen, and his brother, Leon. Ray is survived by the one and only love of his life, his wife of 68 Years, Margareta, and by his loved and loving family: a daughter, Karen, a son, Carl and Carl's wife, Anna, and grandchildren Kerstin, Lisa (Chris), Nathan (Samantha), and Todd (Saliha), and two great-grandsons, Ali and Sami. 

The memories of joy, humor, and love that Ray brought into all of our lives will stay in our hearts forever. The date for a memorial service is pending. In Ray's memory, contributions can be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Published by Daily Breeze on Oct. 28, 2021.

Thursday, December 2, 2021

Carol A. Root Minnick, BHS 1965

Carol A. Root Minnick, BHS 1965

Received some sad news from the class of 1965 as they received word that Carol A. Root Minnick passed away on Sunday, October 10, 2021 at her home. Carol had been hospitalized several weeks, but was home when she lost her battle with COPD.

Carol married Paul Cox, but the marriage ended in divorce. Carol married Ronald Fletcher Minnick (BHS 1962) on September 4, 1971 in Los Angeles County, California.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband Ron Minnick, who passed away in 2011. Carol is survived by sons; Eric Cox and Richard Minnick; daughter, Pamela Peterson, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Burial will probably in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale, California, next to her husband Ron Minnick.

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Virginia Kathleen Zoraster, BHS 1990

Virginia Kathleen Zoraster, BHS 1990

November 28, 1972 - November 28, 2021 (49 years old)

Burbank, California 

It is with great sadness that I announce the death of Virginia Kathleen Zoraster of Burbank, California, who passed away on Sunday November 28, 2021, at the age of 49, leaving to mourn are family and friends. The Valley Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Virginia was a 1990 graduate of Burbank High School. Virginia was born November 28, 1972. No other details at this time.

Posted on Facebook: As many of you have probably heard, we lost my dear sister Ginny unexpectedly on Sunday. Words cannot express how this loss has affected Carlos, my Dad David and myself as well as so many other family and friends who love her. Memorial details are pending. But, in lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation in her name to her favorite charities, the Betsy Leuke Creative Arts Center https://www.burbankca.gov/.../betsy-lueke-creative-arts... and Hilarity for Charity https://wearehfc.org/. 

We also want to thank all of you who have already reached out with messages of love and condolences; they have brought us comfort during such a difficult time.

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Nancy Kleber Bower, BHS 1956

Nancy Kleber Bower, BHS 1956

February 6, 1938 - September 16, 2020 

Nancy Bower passed away on September 16, 2020 at her home in Burbank, California. She was born on February 6, 1938 to Hazel and Norm Kleber in Belvidere, Illinois. The family moved to California when she was young. Nancy attended school in Burbank with her sister Sally, and graduated from Burbank High School. 

Nancy is survived by her daughter Tracy, step-daughter Cheryl, and four grand-daughters, Kristin, Janelle, Jennifer, and Jessica. 

Due to Covid restrictions, a small service was held at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, but the family still hopes to have a beautiful Celebration of Life event in the near future. Thank you for all of the love and support received in the past months.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Aug. 1 to Aug. 4, 2021.

Sunday, November 28, 2021

Alyssa Lei Aguinaldo, BHS 2020

 Alyssa Lei Aguinaldo, BHS 2020

January 13, 2002 - October 02, 2021

Alyssa was born in Manila, Philippines and migrated to the US at the age of 5. She spent most of her life in Burbank. She went to Thomas Jefferson Elementary School and received the Presidential Academic Excellence Award when she graduated. She attended John Muir Middle School where she joined the Musical Mustangs (choir) and graduated with honors. 

While enrolled at Burbank High School, she joined the BHS Color Guard. She also volunteered at YMCA tutoring elementary students after school. In her senior year, she was one of the students accepted to the Nickelodeon Animation Studio Mentorship Program. Her short film titled, Adopt Me, was chosen as one of the Best Animated Shorts. That same year she was awarded the Bridge Program Scholarship for Animation and Visual Effects at Gnomon School of VFX and Animation in Hollywood. She started her college life at California State University- Northridge to pursue animation and visual effects as her major. While in college, she worked as a part time cashier at 99 cents store in Granada Hills.

Alyssa loves outdoors. She enjoys riding her bike around the neighborhood, roller skating in the park, exploring new places with her family and going on nature trips. She even introduced hiking to her parents and hike together once in a while. When at home, she plays her guitar or piano or read books. But most of her leisure time is spent in drawing and sketching.

Alyssa brings joy to her family. When celebrating family occasions, she always makes handmade cards or personalized handmade gifts. These gifts become more special because of her drawings in the cards. She finds joy helping others. She has the ability to sense when people need help and has compassion for those who are left behind and alone. Her ability to find happiness in simple things is amazing.

Alyssa, our beloved daughter, sister, niece, grand daughter and friend passed away on October 2, 2021, at the age of 19. She was a budding animator and artist who leaves behind her parents, Edward and Leila, her siblings Samantha and Ted Jr. She will be fondly remembered because of her golden heart, the unforgettable memories we created, the laughter and experiences we had as a family. She will be deeply missed by her family, relatives and friends, whose lives she touched and made significant impact on.

Funeral Service

Saturday, November 06, 2021

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

St. Francis Xavier

3801 Scott Road

Burbank, CA 91504



Friday, November 26, 2021

Diana Michelle Osorio, BHS 2003

Junior Photo
Diana Michelle Osorio, BHS 2003

January 9, 1985 - September 5, 2021

On Sunday, September 5th,2021 the world lost a beautiful soul. Diana Michelle Osorio, beloved daughter of William and Pura Osorio, sister to Manuel and Tiffany Osorio, and Aunt to Damian Osorio, passed away after an almost two-year battle with cancer.

Michelle accomplished so much in her time here on earth. She served her country in the United States Army, built a successful career in accounting in the entertainment industry, and was a talented musician. But Michelle will be most remembered for her radiant smile and spirit, the strength and determination with which she approached any task or obstacle, the kindness of her heart, her wonderful sense of humor, and above all, her total devotion to her family, friends and faith.

For those wishing to honor her memory, Michelle's family respectfully asks that you would please consider making a donation in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause dear to her heart that she supported for years.

Please share any memories and photos you have with Michelle so we can all celebrate her life together. Diana was born on January 9, 1985 in Los Angeles County, California and graduated from Burbank High School in 2003. May she rest in peace. Burial was in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, California.








 













Thursday, November 25, 2021

Steven Mills, BHS 1979

Steven Mills, BHS 1979

Posted from Facebook

We are sad to announce the passing of Steven Mills, class of 1979. I have been friends with the Mills brothers for 60 years and it’s like a hole has been opened in my heart since Steven passed away on Sunday November 21st. 

He is survived by his wife, son and daughter. As well as his brothers Danny, Gary and Greg. We’ve had some amazing times together over the many years we have been friends. 

His memory will forever live on in our hearts. 

Note: Steve was an awesome guy and a great track and field athlete. No other details at this time. May he rest in peace.



Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Debra Lynn Gordon Hartrum, BHS 1974

Debra Lynn Gordon Hartrum, BHS 1974

1956-2021

Sent by her sister, Pamela Gordon Ryan. 

“If you should ever leave me 

Though life would still go on, believe me 

The world could show nothing to me 

So what good would living do me 

God only knows what I'd be without you” 

The matriarch of the Hartrum family, Debra Lynn Hartrum, took her last breath in Charlotte, North Carolina on November 12th, 2021. She passed on to the next world peacefully, surrounded by her loving family while listening to her favorite album, Pet Sounds, with Sloop John B. bringing her home to rest. 

Debbie is survived by her best friend and husband Kerry Hartrum, sons Kris, Dustin, Adam, and Jameson Hartrum, grandsons Max and Woody Hartrum, sisters Pam Ryan, Sondra Cooper-Gullion, and Lynda Zivalich, and father Frank Cooper. She has fourteen nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death is her mother, Frances Cruise and her brothers Charles “Chip” Gordon and Frank Cooper Jr. 

Debbie was born September 9, 1956, in Würzburg, Germany to Frank Cooper and Francis Bowers. She lived in Lima, Ohio until her family moved to Los Angeles, California. As a child, Debbie was a dancer, gymnast, and beauty queen. After graduating from Burbank High in 1974, she worked as a model and then as a flight attendant for PSA. 

She met her husband Kerry in a production of Grease at The Manatee Players in Bradenton, Florida in 1980. Kerry was Danny Zuko and Debbie was Cha Cha, the best dancer at St. Bernadette’s. The two fell in love and were quickly married on a beach at Anna Maria Island. After moving the family to Ohio, Debbie attended The College of Wooster, obtaining her BA in Religious Studies. She also received a Master's in Theology from Princeton University and a Master’s in Museum Studies from John Hopkins University. She was a lifelong academic and a voracious reader. She loved film, especially Gone with The Wind, West Side Story, White Christmas, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Graduate, and The Godfather. 

To say that Debbie’s life was dedicated to her family is an understatement. Everything else was insignificant by comparison. Her family’s well-being was her every waking thought. She raised and educated her four sons, and unofficially adopted many of their friends over the years. She built a meaningful cultural hub at her Marion Street Home in Shelby, North Carolina. For decades, she maintained an intimate meeting place full of food, friends, parties, and the sounds of Frank Sinatra & The Beach Boys. 

She was well-known for her Italian dinners which were passed on to her by her mother Frances through her Italian-American heritage. Vodka rigatoni, spicy meatballs with raisins, stuffed shells, and endless Christmas cookies filled the bellies of many through the years. Debbie loved to argue. If she didn’t like something, she told you. She was headstrong and outspoken and a powerful, rebellious woman. She didn’t have a poker face and she was as gullible as they come. Kerry’s jokes drove her up the wall, but you could tell she secretly liked them. 

Above all else, she was obsessed with her boys, grandsons, sisters, nephews and nieces, Christmas, and musicals. She truly loved her best friend and husband, Kerry. Debbie was the beating heart of the Hartrum family. The connective tissue that held us all together. She was our mama, our sister, and our Nonna. God only knows what we’ll be without you.



Saturday, November 20, 2021

Herbert Taylor Greenfield, BHS 1950

Herbert Taylor Greenfield

June 5, 1932 - October 29, 2021

Resident of Santa Cruz

At 89 years, Herbert Greenfield can be said to have lived a long and largely satisfying life. He was born in Los Angeles in 1932 to Herbert Taylor Greenfield and Margery Combs Greenfield. He graduated from Burbank High School and attended Glendale College where he earned his Associate Degree in Aircraft Mechanics. After a two year stint in the Army, where his aircraft training advanced him to crew chief on an airplane, he attended Cal Poly's engineering program and took a job at Lockheed Burbank and then at Jet Propulsion in Pasadena.

In 1960 he married a school teacher from Michigan and at her urging they left Southern California for Los Gatos in the Bay Area where Nancy found a position teaching English at Los Gatos High School and where Herb transferred to Lockheed Sunnyvale. For the next 30+ years he continued his association with Lockheed, capping his engineering career by working on the Hubble Space Telescope from conception to launch.

The following year he and Nancy retired, with the luxury of time to pursue hobbies, including Herb's antique clock collecting and restoration, and cycling the scenic by-ways of three counties with his bicycle club. They also found time to travel, from early camping trips in the Sierras to their small condo on Lake Michigan in later years. They couldn't have asked for a better retirement or better friends to enjoy it with.

Nancy will miss Herbert every day for the rest of her life. Alas, a particularly virulent form of pneumonia took him away from her, but she will be forever grateful for those 61 years together.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to one of the following: Hospice of Santa Cruz County or Pacific Angels Home Care, 9058 Soquel Drive Suite B, Aptos, CA 95003.

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Nov. 21, 2021.





Friday, November 19, 2021

David Clift LeSueur, BHS 1967

David Clift LeSueur, BHS 1967

September 26, 1949 ~ May 17, 2020 (age 70)

David Clift LeSueur was born on September 26, 1949 and raised in Burbank, California. He was John and Dolores LeSueur’s first of four children: David, Stephen, Diana (Bartlett), and Jeff. As a boy, David’s next younger brother Steve aspired to be David’s rival. Instead he became David’s closest life-long friend, after David’s wife Mary. All their lives, Steve and David enjoyed disagreeing about baseball and politics.

David met Mary in December 1970. He had recently returned from serving a mission in Belgium and France for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His friends told her-because he wouldn't have-that he was a high school All-American basketball player, that he entered Brigham Young University as one of a handful of students honored with the school's top academic distinction, the David O. McKay scholarship, and that he was student body president in high school (because everyone else withdrew their names after his friends nominated him). She tried to convince him to marry her and gave up. Then he tried to convince her. It worked. They married on September 3, 1971.

David earned a B.S. in Mathematics. As David later often told his children, he could have played professional baseball. He chose to become an actuary instead. He then did what even Nobel laureate Milton Friedman could not do: he passed all the actuarial exams. On his first try.

He and Mary have four children. David is the kind of father who attended all of his children's games and competitions, played piano with his children on his lap, and wrote treasure hunt clues for their Easter eggs. Stephanie (Price) inherited his athleticism and mathematical excellence. He taught Carl to shoot free throws and to love The Beatles and The Beach Boys. John has David's gentle kindness. Amanda (Berns) learned to make the violin sing in duet with David’s piano. (She also did David the favor of marrying a man who has an opinion on the integrity of the designated hitter rule.) David taught his children that setbacks and heartbreaks are temporary, and the future always holds greater joy and more success than any present disappointment.

So fate had it that he would suffer from multiple sclerosis for the last twenty years of his life. But he took it on one day at a time. He could no longer play basketball, so he played tennis. When he could no longer play tennis, he played more piano. When he could no longer play piano, he typed out witty articles with humility, hope, and gratitude as a subtext. When he couldn't type, he dictated. When that became too tiring, he told jokes to his grandchildren. When telling jokes became too tiring he laughed at their jokes and smiled at their cute antics. He made it through those many years only with the determination of Mary, constantly at his side. Thanks to her devoted care he lived to meet fourteen of his grandchildren.

Now his challenges - punctuated with these joys - have come to an end. He succumbed to the effects of MS on May 17, 2020. His family expects he now reaps the promise of surpassing joy, gorging on his mother's peanut butter cookies, swapping commentary with his dad on any available sports reruns, and looking forward to the day he will be reunited with Mary and the rest of those he loves.

Memorial services and dedication of a park bench will be held at a future date that allows for gatherings. Friends and family who so desire are asked to share memories in written or video form by sending them to lesueurmemories@gmail.com or posting to the David C. LeSueur Memorial Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/547373392637877/

The family requests that anyone wishing to make donations or send flowers consider donating instead to the David C. LeSueur Math and Physics Endowed Scholarship Fund at Brigham Young University. Donations may be made by going to the link below or sending a check to the address below, with the name of the fund in the memo line:

https://donate.churchofjesuschrist.org/donations/byu?funds=30124519

LDS Philanthropies

Attn: Brent Sharp

1450 N. University Ave.

Provo, UT. 84604

memo line: David C. LeSueur Math and Physics Endowed Scholarship Fund

Published by Horan & McConaty.

Visit Dave's Find A Grave Memorial



Thursday, November 18, 2021

Lucy Zappala, BHS 1963

Lucy Zappala, BHS 1963

Lucy's sister Cecelia Zappala Miconi posted this on Facebook, that her sister Lucy Zappala who graduated from Burbank High School in the class of 1963 passed away October 27, 2021 in Flagstaff, Arizona. 

She did not give Lucy's married name but said Lucy's husband Tom had passed away a couple of weeks earlier. Both had Covid with underlying conditions. No other details at this time. May she rest in peace.


Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Douglas Richard Collard, BHS 1964

Douglas Richard Collard, BHS 1964

Received this from his wife Cindy.

Doug Collard passed away Oct. 28, 2021 at the age of 75. He had suffered from Parkinson's Disease & Lewy Body Dementia for the past 3+ yrs. He passed with his family and an angel of a care giver, Craig, around him.

Doug came to the United States at the age of 5 with his family from Canada and settled in Burbank, CA.  He graduated from Burbank High School in 1964 and joined the U.S. Marines in August 1965. He did 2 tours in Vietnam between 1966 and 1968, but before first tour, he married his high school sweetheart, Cindy on December 7, 1965. He graduated from CSUN with a BS degree in Anthropology. In 1978, he started his career with the phone company, transferred to Humboldt County in 1994 and retired in 2005. Doug then got his Real Estate License and enjoyed doing that for about three years, when he qualified for 100% disabled veteran and retired completely.

He leaves behind his high school sweetheart, Cindy, his children Bernie (wife Suzie), Jaime  (husband Randy), Jessica, & Douglas (significant other Meghan), sister-in-laws Cathy (Shorty) & Dolly Sue, sister Debbie (friend Art) and 2 nieces (Tita & Stef) as well as 3 nephews (Joey, Jason, & Travis), 4 grandchildren (Kayla, Brieanna, Mason, & Mackenzie) & 8 great grandchildren.

Doug requested no service & we will honor his wishes.



Wednesday, November 10, 2021

Kevin Scott Highfield, BHS 1981

Kevin Scott Highfield, BHS 1981

Local News in Brief: Sunland Gas Station Argument Leaves 1 Dead, Another Injured

Los Angeles Times, December 23, 1988 

An argument at a Sunland gas station erupted into gunfire that left one man dead and another critically injured, Los Angeles police said Thursday.

Kevin Scott Highfield, 24, of Tujunga was killed about 10 p.m. Wednesday after the driver of one car apparently insulted someone in another car at the station at Foothill Boulevard and Sherman Grove Avenue, police said.

Detective Al Ferrand said six youths got out of the vehicles and began arguing. Two men in a pickup truck joined in the squabble but did not get out of their vehicle, he said. The argument turned into a fistfight among the youths, Ferrand said.

“It had started out over trivial circumstances,” he said. “It looks like somebody just flipped the finger at somebody else. It escalated to the point that one of the participants in the fight armed himself with a handgun.”

The youth with the gun fired into the pickup, hitting both men inside, Ferrand said.

Highfield, a passenger in the truck, jumped out and started running but collapsed and died near the gas station. His wounded companion, Gregory Boots, 26, also of Tujunga, attempted to drive away but crashed into a car on Foothill Boulevard, police said. He later was taken to Northridge Hospital Medical Center, where he was in critical condition.

After the shooting, the youths in the two cars sped away. Ferrand said that none had been identified, and police were looking for witnesses.

Ferrand said it was unclear whether the people from the three vehicles knew each other. He said Boots’ injuries had prevented detectives from talking to him.


Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Debra Susan Lubow Zeid, BHS 1971

Debra Susan Lubow Zeid, BHS 1971

Jewish Journal

October 1st 2014

Debra Susan Zeid died Sept. 7 at 61. Survived by husband Mark; son Evan Louis; brothers Phillip Lubow, Larry (Sylvia) Lubow, Michael (Teddy) Lubow. Mount Sinai

No other details at this time.

Sunday, November 7, 2021

Virginia Faye Johnston Shadwick, BHS 1965

Virginia Faye Shadwick, BHS 1965

Published in The Signal, Santa Clarita, California, Sunday, April 23, 2000, Page 3, Col. 5/6

Virginia Faye Shadwick, Recreational Services Leader for Parks and Recreation 

Virginia "Gini" Faye Shadwick, 52, died April 14 in Van Nuys following a long battle with cancer. She was born on April 16, 1947, in Evanston, Illinois, and resided in Santa Clarita and Pinion Hills. 

Gini was very active in the Santa Clarita Community. In 1990 Gini began to volunteer at the Placerita Canyon Nature Center. While tere she ran the Docent Training Program, the Student Naturalists, and Junior Rangers, she also took part in Outreach Programs, which brought wild animals to schools and other organizations. She hosted field trips, birthday parties, nature hikes, and organized the annual Reptile Fair.

Gini left Placerita Canyon in 1999 to serve as a Recreational Services Leader at Hart Park in Newhall. While at Hart Park, Gini started the birthday party program and the annual Easter Eggs-travaganza. In 1992, Gini was awarded the Volunteer of the Year award from Los Angeles County.

Gini is survived by her son, Jon; daughters, Carol Coffman, Trisha Comstock and Jeri Nesmith; grandchildren, Carly, BJ, Derek, Crystal, Melissa and Jessica; sister, Carole Hodges; mother, Cora Johnston; and her partner, Owen Shadwick; as well as the many beloved friends that she called family.

A celebration of Gini's life will be held at Hart Hall in Newhall at Hart Park on Friday at 9 a.m. Gini requested that no black be worn.

Friday, November 5, 2021

Stephen Eugene Forrest, BHS 1966

Stephen E. Forrest, 69, passed away on June 26, 2017, with his family by his side.

Stephen was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved his family dearly and will be truly missed. 

Stephen was born on November 16, 1947 in Burbank California to Gene and June Forrest. He graduated from Burbank High school in 1966. He was inducted into the United States Navy 1968. He was an electricians mate on the USS Independence where he proudly served 4 years and received an honorable discharge. Stephen retired from the City of Burbank after 25 years. He then continued on his fathers business as a Real Estate broker at Forrest Realty in Burbank.

Stephen was an avid outdoors man and golfer. He loved fly fishing and belonged to the Pasadena Casting Club & the Saltwater Fly Rodders. He loved spending his days on the river fishing with his brother, sons and grandson. He was also a life long San Francisco Giants fan and spent many years coaching his grandson and other youth at Encino Little League. All who knew him appreciated his love and knowledge of the game and his passion to teach.

Stephen is survived his ex-wife Jacqueline Forrest, wife Mary Forrest, three children: Steve, Mathew & Dawnmarie (Layne), 2 stepchildren, Ryan and Shannon, four Grandchildren, four great grandchildren, his mother June, brother Mike, sister Carolyn (Charlie) and three nephews.

Stephen was preceded in death by his father Gene, Uncle Grant, & grandsons Gregory & Brantley.

There will be a graveside service on August 4th and a memorial service to celebrate his life on August 5, 2017 at 2 pm at the Emmanuel Evangelical Free Church. 438 E Harvard. Rd. Burbank California.

 

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Diana Lynn DeAngelis, BHS 1968

Diana Lynn DeAngelis, BHS 1968

Published in the Albany Democrat-Herald, Albany, Oregon, Wednesday, August 29, 2001 

Diana DeAngelis, April 17, 1950 - August 23, 2001

Diana Lynn DeAngelis, 51, of Jefferson died Thursday at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eugene.

She was born in Prescott, Arizona, the daughter of Robert and Margaret Zeleznok DeAngelis. She grew up in the New York/New Jersey area and in Burbank, California, where she graduated from Burbank High School in 1968.

Ms. DeAngelis moved to Oregon in the late 1970's, living in the Salem area and in Jefferson. She worked for the Albany General Hospital Foundation. A member of the Russian Orthodox religion, Ms. DeAngelis belonged to the St. Anne Orthodox Church in Albany.

Surviving are daughter, Teri Lynn Durham of Boulder, Colorado; father Robert DeAngelis of Riverside, California; sister Linda Clemente of Covina, California.

A memorial service will be at 6 p.m. Thursday at St. Anne Orthodox Church, 2309 N.W. Scenic Drive, Albany. Ms. DeAngelis funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the church. The Rev. Stephen Soot will officiate.

A private burial service will be at Jefferson Cemetery. Fisher Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Wayne Gordon McCreith, BHS 1971

Wayne Gordon McCreith, BHS 1971

Wayne Gordon McCreith, 52, died April 14, 2005, of natural causes at the Lake District Long-Term Care Facility in Lakeview.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday in the Lakeview Ministries Church with the Reverends Mike and Donna Newcombe officiating. Inurnment will be at Lakeview I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Desert Rose Funeral Chapel, Lakeview, is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. McCreith was born January 13, 1953, in Saskatchewan, Canada, to Gordon and Delores McCreith. He was raised in Burbank, California, where he graduated from high school. When he was 17 years old, he had brain surgery for brain cancer.

He was trained to be a plumber and electrician and worked mostly in hardware stores, completing his career with Lumberman's in Lakeview. He married Sandra Robinson in 1978, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1988. He then married Deborah Sipp in Lakeview on June 20, 1998.

Mr. McCreith was an accomplished pianist and an active member of Lakeview Ministries Church, including involvement with the Worship Team. He had an extensive collection of key chains.

Among his survivors are his wife Deborah McCreith of Lakeview; daughter, Chantal McCreith of Ventura, California; brothers and sisters-in-law Gary and Joanne McCreith of Lakeview and Randy and Joanie McCreith of Newport; brother Brad McCreith of San Marcos, California; mother Delores McCreith of San Marcos; stepchildren John Forga and Travis Sipp of Lakeview; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Catherine.

Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society, 2350 Oakmont Way, No. 200, Eugene, OR, 97401-6108, or the charity of the donor's choice.