Helga Preisman Sitkin, Former BHS Teacher

Helga Preisman Sitkin, Former BHS Teacher

July 16, 1920 – August 18, 2021

The Los Angeles Time, Los Angeles, California, Sunday, August 29, 2021

Helga (101) was born in Cleveland, Ohio. Died in West Hollywood, California. Graduated from Flora Stone Mather College, Western Reserve University, in Cleveland in 1941. Pursued the career she wanted as Continuity Director of radio station WHK, and later, radio-television director of the Marcus Advertising Agency. Worked in New York City from 1945 to 1947 as a script writer and publicist. 

Moved to Los Angeles in 1953, married, had three children. Became active in community affairs; PTA President, Los Feliz Elementary School; United Crusade Chairman, Hollywood Council; Cheerful Helpers for Handicapped Children; Los Angeles Free Clinic in Hollywood.  Continued her education at Cal State, L.A., earning a lifetime secondary teaching credential, an M.A. in Special Education, and a Marriage, Family and Child Counselor’s License. 

Helga taught English from 1969 to 1992 at Burbank High School and Monterey Continuation School in Burbank. After retirement from the school system, she taught ESL at ORT from 1997 to 2009. She was an instructor at the General Studies Department at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and later, its Faculty Coordinator for Instructor Training and Development. Since 1987, Helga hosted and produced a weekly interview show for the American Radio Network.

She is survived by her son, James Sitkin (Lafayette, CA), son Alan Sitkin (London, UK), daughter Susan Geraghty (Summerville, SC), their spouses Sue, Verna, and Brendan, and grandchildren, Lea, Daniel, Rachel, Lena, Nicole, Eva, and Michael.

Instead of flowers, please consider a contribution to a charity of your choice in Helga’s name.

Vicki Ann Bencheck, BHS 1964

Vicki Ann Bencheck, BHS 1964

Los Angeles Times, Thursday, September 29, 1997

Vicki Ann Bencheck, 51, Glendale, California, registered nurse. Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale. Note: No other details at this time. May she rest in peace!

Raymond E. Pyne, BHS 1959

Raymond E. Pyne, BHS 1959

Record Searchlight, Saturday, July 6, 2013

Raymond Pyne, 72, of Cottonwood, California died Thursday at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, California. Arrangements are pending at Allen and Dahl Funeral Chapel in Redding.

Timothy John Staley, BHS 1962

Timothy John Staley, BHS 1962

The Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, California

Wednesday, January 23, 1991   

Timothy John Staley beloved husband of Karen; loving father of Kristen and Tania; dearest son-in-law of Edythe Wachsman; grandson of Lee Baker; nephew of Doris Wakeman. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. 

Services to be held Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. at Temple Beth Hillel, 12326 Riverside Drive, North Hollywood. Glasband-Willen Mortuary, North Hollywood, directors.

George Martin Brake, BHS 1963

George Martin Brake, BHS 1963 

Published in the Daily News Journal, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, October 9, 1997

Graveside services for George Martin Brake, 52, of Hogan Drive, who died Tuesday, October 7, 1997, at home of a heart attack, are set for 11 a.m. Friday in Evergreen Cemetery.

His parents were the late Warren Reed Brake and Lorraine Leona Caulfield Brake.

He is survived by his wife, Karen l. Bunting Brake of Murfreesboro; two sons, Charles Allen Brake, David Ian Brake, both of Nashville; stepson, Michael Shane Bragg of Wartrace; two daughters, Janne Marie Root of Madison, Bonnie Jean McDonald of Manchester; stepdaughter, Cathryn Boles of Manchester; two brothers, Jon Brake of California, Edward Brake of Washington; and five grandchildren.

A native of California and a member of the Christian Gospel temple of Goodlettsville, he had lived here the past four years. He was an independent truck driver.

 

Robert (Bob) Williams, BHS 1956

Robert (Bob) Williams, BHS 1956

January 19, 1938 – April 17, 2020

Bob was born January 19, 1938 in Santa Monica, passed away April 17, 2020. He grew up in Burbank, California with one brother. He was a loving father to a son and two daughters from a previous marriage. He lived many places, but mainly in Texas and California. Bob reconnected with Mardi through Classmates.com as both had grown up in Burbank, living in the same neighborhood and having gone to the church and schools during their early years. 

One of Mardi’s fondest memories is having a lemonade stand, which Bob would drive by on his Cushman scooter. Mardi asked him why he never stopped to by lemonade. Bob replied, “Because you didn’t sell beer.” 

They married and moved to Texas, where Bob owned a 4 acre ranch with fruit trees and vegetable gardens. Mardi mowed the huge yard with her John Deere, a birthday gift from Bob. They moved to San Clemente in 2012. Bob was an active man with many hobbies, including scuba diving, boating, hunting, skiing, crabbing, fishing, RVing, bike riding, poker, and rock tumbling. His greetings, charm, and love of living big, will be his legacy. Rest in peace, Bob!

(From Mardi Brockway Williams “56, wife)

Walter George Holland, BHS 1943

Walter George Holland, BHS 1943

Walter George Holland, passed to glory on December 7, 2019 at age 94. After graduating from Burbank High School, he answered his country’s call to serve by joining the United States Navy. Trained as a Navy pilot, he flew an Sb2C Helldiver off the USS Antietam on an extended Pacific tour at the end of WWII.

In 1947, he attended UCLA. He married my mother, Velma Regan (BHS 45) in 1951 and raised 3 children in Twentynine Palms, California, where he began his 25-year career teaching high school history, geography, and driver’s ed. Walt later became Athletic Director and Vice Principal before retiring from education and becoming a real estate agent for Sunshine Realty. 

My parents enjoyed 68 wonderful years together, traveling the USA and Canada in their fifth wheel trailer, visiting their 3 children, 7 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather, and will be greatly missed. Submitted by Barbara Uyeda, daughter for the Senior Bulldogs Newsletter.

 

John William (Jack) Moorman, BHS 1945

John William (Jack) Moorman, BHS 1945

Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, California, Wednesday, November 15, 1995

John W. (Jack) Moorman long time Burbank resident passed away Thursday, November 9, 1995 of cancer.

He was born in Burbank on December 28, 1926. He attended Burbank schools and was a star football player, track, and was active in all school activities. He enlisted in the Air Force after high school. After he was discharged he attended USC, Occidental College and Cal State Northridge. He was employed at Lockheed for 40 years.

Jack was preceded in death by his son, Scott Moorman and his brother, Dick Moorman.

In addition to his daughter Julie, Jack is survived by three grandchildren, Garret Moorman, Nassi, Shannon Moorman and Devin Moorman.

Viewing will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday evening at Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills. A funeral is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday the 17th of November at the Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills.

 Donations may be made in Jack Moorman’s name to the Cancer Society. A scholarship fund is also being arranged for Burbank High School in Jack’s name. Forest Lawn Mortuary Directors.

 

JoAnne Marvelle Byrant, BHS 1948

JoAnne Marvelle Byrant, BHS 1948

Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, California, Sunday, June 9, 201

JoAnne Marvelle Byrant, aged 83, passed away peacefully May 21, 2013. Born in Carbondale, Tulsa, Oklahoma, February 24, 1930, she was the only child of EstherMarie Barnes and Tony Watson Byrant.

As a young girl JoAnne’s family moved to Texas where they lived in Galveston and Texas City. Finally settling in California, she went to school in Eagle Rock and Burbank. She attended Burbank High School where she participated in journalism and graduated in 1948.  JoAnne loved her horse, Diamond, and as a teenager enjoyed riding the area around home on Hollywood Way. She worked as a soda jerk at Albin’s Drug Store, and later worked as a telephone operator at Lockheed, CBS, and Pacific Telephone.

Retiring to Bishop, California, and later to Saint George, Utah, she enjoyed reading and keeping up with current events.

Her legacy includes daughters; Marie Traulsen (Tom), Bobbi-Jo Nelsen (Jeff), and Linda Pagenkopp (Brian), grandchildren Ron, Mark, Drew, Derek, Kelsea, Angela, Lisa, and Bobby; great- grandchildren, Ethan, Justin, Scotty, Amiah, Danika, Flannery, Jesenia, Tanner, Bryce, and Kaden. She was preceded in death by grandchild Kevin and great-grandson, Dallas. Private services were held in Saint George, Utah

Irene Fenn Herman, BHS 1925

Irene Fenn Herman, BHS 1925

Burbank Daily Evening Review, Burbank, California, Wednesday, February 29, 1928

Mrs. Irene Fenn Herman, wife of Henry Herman, passed away at 2:30 o’clock yesterday afternoon at Glendale hospital.

Besides her husband and infant daughter, Irene Mae, born Sunday afternoon, the deceased leaves her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Fenn, 818 East Tenth Street, this city, and two brothers, Lloyd and Hugh Fenn, of the same address.

The funeral will be held at the Little Church of the Flowers in the Forest Lawn cemetery at Glendale Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock with A. C. Fillbach in charge. The interment will be in Forest Lawn cemetery.

Mrs. Herman was born at Salem, Iowa, April 9, 1906, and had lived in Burbank for the past five years. She was a graduate of the Burbank high school in class of 1925. She was married to Mr. Herman October 7, 1926. She was a member of the local chapter of Eastern Star.

NOTE: Newspaper listed her burial at Forest Lawn, but she is buried at Glen Haven.

Suzan Cecilia Heppes Kelly, BHS 1967

Suzan Cecilia Heppes Kelly, BHS 1967

Los Angeles Times, Thursday, April 27, 2000

Suzan C. Kelly, 51, of Ventura, house cleaner. Guardian Memorial Funeral Directors and Crematory, Oxnard, California.

__________________

Suzan was born on April 6, 1949 in Los Angeles County, California, the daughter of Bernhardt Heppes and Cecelia Piha. Suzan graduated from Burbank High School in 1967. Suzan married Douglas R. Kelly on November 29, 1969 in Los Angeles County, California. She passed away on April 21, 2000 in Ventura County, California. She was a resident of Oxnard.  We were told that Suzan died as a result of an automobile accident. May she rest in peace.

Merrilyn Sue Robinson Spilman, BHS 1961

Merrilyn Sue Robinson Spilman, BHS 1961

Ukiah Daily Journal, Ukiah, California, Monday, October 14, 1974

R.V. woman succumbs to rifle wound

Merrilyn Sue Spilman, 31, died at 10:45 last night in a Ukiah hospital, about 12 hours after she shot herself in the head with a .22 caliber rifle. Mrs. Spilman was found late yesterday morning in the kitchen of the family home in Redwood Valley by her husband, Jack Lee Spilman. She was rushed to the hospital by Ukiah Ambulance Service.

There was no note found but it is believed that Mrs. Spilman was despondent as the result of a recent accident in which she was seriously injured.

In addition to her husband, two children survive. Funeral services for Mrs. Spilman, a native of Lubbock, Texas, are pending at Eversole Mortuary. 

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Ukiah Daily Journal, Ukiah, California, Tuesday, October 15, 1974

Wednesday services for Mrs. Spilman

Funeral services will be held tomorrow morning at 10 at Eversole Mortuary for Merrilyn Sue Spilman. The 31-year-old Texas native died Sunday in a Ukiah hospital. She had lived in Redwood Valley for the past nine years.

She is survived by her husband Jack, and by two children, Tammy Marie and Stacey Sue, all of Redwood Valley; by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Robinson of Lake Isabella, California; by a sister, Mrs. Norma Wolfbauer of Northridge and a brother, Gary L. Robinson of Lake Isabella.

Officiating at services will be the Rev. Ken Hewitt. Burial will be in Ukiah Cemetery.

 

Jack Robert Lewis, BHS 1942

Jack Robert Lewis, BHS 1942

Valley Times Today, North Hollywood, California, Thursday, March 8, 1962

Burbank Pilot Dies As Plane Crashes Saugus Power Line

Services are pending today for a Burbank pilot killed when his World War II trainer struck a power line and crashed Wednesday March 7, 1962. Sheriff’s officials said Jack Robert Lewis, 38, 530 Jamestown Road, Burbank, was apparently buzzing the home of a fellow worker five miles northwest of Saugus when the accident occurred.

LEWIS, a supervisor at General Controls Company, Glendale, had taken off earlier in the single-engine plane from Whiteman Airpark in Pacoima. Lewis apparently buzzed low over the home of Andrew Jepson, 45, in San Francisquito Canyon, and had engine trouble as he changed the pitch of the props of the old trainer. The plane plunged into a hillside where it burst into flames. 

JEPSON, a machine maintenance repairman, said the plane crashed about 200 yards from his home. He ran to the house of Mrs. Kay E. Hansen, 27602 Santa Clarita Road, and she called the fire and sheriff’s departments. Lewis leaves his wife, Maurine, 40, and a daughter, Robin, 15. 

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Press-Telegram, Long Beach, California, Thursday, March 8, 1962

Pilot Buzzes Friend’s Home, Dies in Crash

SAUGUS – The pilot of a World War II training plane was killed Wednesday when the plane’s engine failed as he swooped low over the home of a friend in San Francisquito Canyon. 

According to sheriff’s deputies, Jack Robert Lewis, 38, Burbank, crashed into a hillside after diving through a 220,000-volt power line.

Edward Alexander Scheibel, BHS 1960

Edward Alexander Scheibel, BHS 1960

Ventura County Star-Free Press, Saturday, July 26, 1986

Services for Edward Alexander Scheibel, 44, Simi Valley, will be at 3 p.m. Monday at Friend of Peace Lutheran Church, Thousand Oaks, with the Rev. Peter Berg officiating. 

Mr. Scheibel died Thursday in a Simi Valley hospital after a long illness. He was born April 9, 1942, in Sun Valley, and had lived in the county eight years, coming from Tujunga. He was an insurance agent at First Interstate Bancard Company, Simi Valley. He was a member of Friends of Peace Lutheran.

Mr. Scheibel is survived by wife Judy; daughters, Tina Scheibel and Katie Scheibel, both of Simi Valley; father, Edward Scheibel of Cove, Arkansas; brother Kevin of Tecachapi; and sisters Silver Morris of Jenks, Oklahoma, and Crystal Thompson of Glendale.

Friends may call from 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Reardon, Simi Valley Mortuary.

Brian James Church, BHS 1983

Brian James Church, BHS 1983

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Metcalf Mortuary - St. George on Oct. 22, 2024.

St. George, Utah – Brian James Church, 59, passed away October 17, 2024. He was born on December 28, 1964, in Apple Valley, California to Raymond and Martha Church.

A visitation will be held in St. George, Utah on Thursday, October 24, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary located at 288 West St. George Blvd.

Graveside services will be held in Provo, Utah on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the Provo City Cemetery, 610 South State Street.

William ''Bill'' Austin, BHS 1966

Junior Photo

William ''Bill'' Austin, BHS 1966

August 19, 1948 — August 5, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Austin, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. Born on August 19, 1948, in Oklahoma, William tragically left us on August 5, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 75.

William pursued a career as a Fleet Manager in the construction industry having worked for Ready-Mix retiring in 2008. He dedicated his life to his work, always striving for excellence and leaving a lasting impact on all those he encountered.

William is survived by his loving spouse, Shelia Austin, who meant the world to him. Together, they shared a bond that will continue to live on in our hearts. They started their family with the birth of son, Jay Austin and later welcomed son, David. He and Shelia also expanded their hearts with Bill's daughter from a prior marriage, Tammy Lynn Austin.

Bill loved to water ski, and was a licensed pilot loving to fly, rebuild classic cars, go to the NASCAR races, and raced his own cars at the Speedway. He and Shelia loved to dance to County music. He loved his grandchildren and spending time with them: Alexis, Briana, Hunter and Madison.

In honor of William's memory, a series of ceremonies and services have been planned. The family with receive friends and family at 3:00 PM at Davis Funeral Home, 6200 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119 with funeral services following at 4 PM.

He will be laid to rest at Davis Memorial Park.

We invite all friends and family to join us in honoring William's life and legacy at these services. Your presence and support would mean the world to us during this difficult time.

May William Austin rest in eternal peace as we cherish the memories and the love he shared with all of us.

Published by the Davis Funeral Homes

Richard Edward Bedigan, BHS 1968

Richard Edward Bedigan, BHS 1968

Teacher Gets Probation in Drug Case

BY JON STEINMAN, Los Angeles Times

DEC. 19, 1997 

A Burbank high school teacher who admitted to repeated use of cocaine in school, while claiming his drug habit did not violate professional ethics, was sentenced to probation, officials said Thursday.

Los Angeles County Municipal Judge Rand Rubin conditionally sentenced Richard Bedigan, 47, to probation--an outcome that could lead to any criminal record for the Burroughs High School science teacher being expunged. Bedigan, who was the junior varsity girls tennis coach, was ordered to complete a two-year drug counseling and testing program.

Neither Rubin nor Bedigan could be reached for comment.

Bedigan has been on unpaid leave from his job since his arrest in October after he was observed taking cocaine in his Burroughs High classroom after his students had gone to lunch.

Bedigan admitted to regular use of cocaine on school grounds, according to court documents.

“He [Bedigan] does not feel that he ever violated the spirit of his profession,” according to the probation report prepared by Walter Kelly, the Los Angeles County probation officer who handled Bedigan’s case. “This writer strongly disagrees and would have grave concerns if this defendant returned to being a teacher.”

Prosecutors said probation is the normal sentence for first offenders.

“If he fails the program, if he tests positive for drug use, if he blows it at all, he’s looking at three years in prison,” said Craig Mitchell, deputy district attorney assigned to the case.

School officials said they will seek to fire Bedigan, a seven-year veteran of the Burbank Unified School District.

Mitchell called the outcome pretty standard, because Bedigan had no priors.

The city’s education code stipulates that drug use is a dismissible offense, said Bob Fraser, district director of personnel, explaining the district’s decision to begin the termination process.

A Burbank resident and 1968 Burbank High School alum, Bedigan has maintained his silence since his arrest and has kept the shades drawn at his home, a block away from Burbank High.

Edward Bedigan, Richard’s father, served as assistant superintendent of the Burbank school district for 10 years until his retirement in 1973. He died of cancer in 1992. The elder Bedigan began his career as an educator in the same high school where his son was arrested.

Bedigan’s guilty plea is the latest in a series of personnel problems faced by the Burbank school district in the last three years.

NOTE: Richard ended up turning his life around and was clean, It is not an easy task to do and very few drug users succeed. Richard's family can be very proud of him. But because using drugs did take a toll on Richard's body and later caused other health issues which led to his death. May he rest in peace.

Mark Timothy Ross, BHS 1964

 

Mark Timothy Ross, BHS 1964

January 6, 1947 — September 22, 2024

Highland, Utah

Mark Timothy Ross, 77, of Highland, Utah passed away on September 22, 2024. He was born on January 6, 1947 to Mark Bell Ross and Leah Rae Johnson Ross, in Burbank, California. He is the brother to Janice Vick, Karen (Mark) Mitchell, Mariane (the late Dave) Armstrong, the late Jeff (Annette) Ross.

Tim served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in France. He married Helen Marie Stanworth on June 12, 1970 in the Los Angeles Temple. He attended BYU for 4 years in pre-med and then St Louis University Medical School. He played in the NFL for the St Louis Cardinals #82 wide receiver.

They moved to Orange County in 1976 to practice family medicine for 13 years. He and Marie moved to Utah in 1988 and Tim practiced medicine until he was 60 years old. They were temple workers for 5 years together. He was bishop on campus at BYU for 5 years as well.

Together they had 7 children, Jason Ross, Jennifer (Joel) Farrar, Brian (Stacia) Ross, Aaron Ross, Ethan (Jessica) Ross, Logan (Erica) Ross, and Sarah (Justin) Wilde. He has 19 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Tim loved Harley Davidson motorcycle rides, Lake Powell, the beach, hunting, fishing and all sports. He enjoyed attending all of his grandkids sporting activities and dance events. 

He loved his family. They were everything to him. His sweet wife Marie was his angel.

Tim is preceded in death by Timmy Ross, Leah Ross, Tara Voll, Jenna Ross, Austin Fullmer, Brooklyn Larsen, Kenna Bangerter, Jackson Farrar, Chanel Ross, Jeneca Walker, Alyssa Ross, Jacob Ross, Tatum Ross, Haven Ross, Devan Atticus Ross, Tommy Bangerter, Velzy Bangerter, Rome Calvert, and Oakley Walker.

Graveside Services will be on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in the Elsinore Cemetery at 3:30 p.m.

Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com

Dena Long Stetson, BHS 1994

Dena Long Stetson, BHS 1994

On July 8th, 2024 my sister Dena Long (Stetson) was found unresponsive in her car in Boulder City. Our family is left shattered and grief-stricken. Dena struggled with her demons, but unfortunately, she never got the help she desperately needed. In light of this tragedy, 

I’m reaching out to our community to help raise funds for her funeral expenses. Any donation, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and help us give Dena the proper goodbye she deserves.

Brett Christopher Shapen, BHS 1989

Brett Christopher Shapen, BHS 1989

March 21, 1971 – April 12, 2023

In the care of Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park & Mortuary

Brett Christopher Shapen, age 52, of Temecula, California passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023. Brett was born in California. He grew up in Burbank with his younger brother Brian and parents Leon and Patricia Shapen. Brett was a 1989 graduate of Burbank High School.

A funeral service for Brett will be held Monday, May 8, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at St Vincent Ferrer Church, 27931 Murrieta Road, Menifee, CA 92585. A committal service will occur Thursday, June 8, 2023 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Miller Jones Menifee Memorial Park and Mortuary, 26770 Murrieta Rd., Menifee, CA 92585.

Jean Leona Ruliffson Nelson, BHS 1935

Jean Leona Ruliffson Nelson, BHS 1935

Ventura County Star, Ventura, California, Sunday, August 25, 2002

Jean Leona Nelson, 86, of Ventura passed away Friday, August 23, 2002. Jean known to many as “Grandma Jean,” passed away after a long illness of liver disease. Prior to that she was a cancer survivor. Jean spent her final days in bed under the loving care of her “angel,” Hilda Hernandez. 

Jean was born July 17, 1916 in North Dakota. She enjoyed camping and surf fishing with family and friends. She was the creator of the “Pebble People by Jean,” made from the pebbles she and her husband would collect from the beaches near her home in Northern San Diego, Leucadia, California. The “Pebble People” were sold in gift shops throughout California. Her other hobbies included knitting, gardening, cooking and her grandchildren. She met her husband while working in a bakery in Glendale. They were married on August 17, 1935, at the Wilshire Wedding Chapel in Beverly Hills. She graduated from Burbank High School in Burbank. Jean was the loving wife of Vernon Herbert “Scotty” Nelson, who preceded her in death on January 28, 1996, at the age of 83. 

Jean is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Victoria Nelson, of Ventera, and Barry and Nancy Nelson, of Oviedo, Florida. She was a proud grandmother of Lori Nelson, Hilda Hernandez, Darin Nelson (ex-wife Bertal), Derik Nelson, Rick and Paula Nelson, all of Ventura, Mando Nelson, Sedona, Arizona, Robert Nelson, of Las Vegas, Nevada, Florean and Rodney Nelson, of Anaheim. She was a great-grandmother to Zachary, Haylie, Devin, and Brittney Nelson and Gracie Yarz of Ventura, Ashley Nelson of San Francisco, Nicole Nelson, of Dinuba, California, Ronnie Ann and Ameam Nelson, of Sedona, Arizona. She is also survived by her sister, Marie Wirgler, of Hemet, California; and brother, Allen Ruliffson, of Arizona.

Jean was a loving mother, sister, grandmother and friend. She was an extraordinary and brave woman. She was always happy and genuinely cared about everyone she knew. Grandma Jean will always be loved, remembered and missed by all who knew her. We love you.

A service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 25, at Charles Carroll Funeral Home, 15 Tidema Drive, Ventura. 

Mark Wolff, BHS 1945

Mark Wolff, BHS 1945

Mark Wolff, passed away on July 17, 2022 shortly after celebrating his 95th birthday with his family and friends. He leaves his wife Barbara, three children, Lyn, Dean, and Thad, and his brother, Berny (Bud). 

He served in the Navy during WWII and joined the Los Angeles police force where he served for 20 years, of which he said, “It was just a slice of life and we sometimes saw the sadder side of it,” 

He then became the Moorpark College Police Supervisor for 15 years, serving with professionalism, humor, and friendship. 

Submitted by Berny Wolff, brother, Senior Bulldogs

James Allen Mackie, BHS 1962

James Allen Mackie, BHS 1962

Ventura County Star-Free Press, Ventura, California, Tuesday, November 5, 1985

Services for James Allen Mackie, 41, Simi Valley, will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday at the United Methodist Church, Simi Valley, with Dr. Frank M. Witman officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of the Reardon Simi Valley Mortuary.

Mr. Mackie died Saturday at a Simi Valley hospital after a brief illness. He was born April 8, 1944, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and was a three-year county resident coming from Santa Monica. 

Mr. Mackie was a deputy probation officer for the county of Los Angeles at the Mira Loma Youth Camp. He was a graduate of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, and received his master’s degree from Arizona State University in Tempe. He was a director of the New Horizons Workshop in Sepulveda and was instrumental in introducing legislation in Sacramento to require flashing lights on privately operated buses.

He is survived by his wife Katalin; daughters, Jenifer and Veronica Mackie of Simi Valley; parents Paul and Gerry Mackie of Westlake Village; brother Jack Mackie of Sunland; and sister Jeanne Raudman of Redding. The family requests that donations be sent to the Ventura chapter of the American Cancer Society.

Donald Lawrence Haller, BHS 1944

Donald Lawrence Haller, BHS 1944 

North County Blade – Citizen, Solana Beach, California, Saturday, February 15, 2003

CARLDBAD – Donald L. Haller, 76, died peacefully Monday, February 10, 2003, of cancer, in his home with his wife, son, daughter-in-law and granddaughters present. Born May 22, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, he retired in 1995 from Hughes Space and Communicators in El Segundo.  

Don was born in Detroit, Michigan to Charles and Goldie Haller and resided near Flint, Michigan, until the age twelve. He then moved with his parents to New Mexico, where they set up a trading post on the Continental Divide near Gallup. He attended school there with the Navajo tribe and then later moved to Burbank, California, where he attended high school.

After graduating six months early, he enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the destroyer USS Meade D0602, as a sonarman third class. During his service he earned the American Area Campaign Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the World War II Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in June 1946.

He had several jobs in the years following the war and most recently worked for Hughes Corporation in El Segundo, California, in the Space and Communications division. He was a technician in the high bay building satellites. He retired in 1995 to his home in Newbury Park, California, where he had lived since 1973.

 He was a member of King of Glory Lutheran Church in Newbury Park, California, since 1975 and most recently attended services as his health allowed at Calvary Lutheran Church in Solana Beach, California.

Don is survived by his wife of 54 years, June Haller; son Jeff Haller; aunt Sylvia Whitcomb; daughter-in-law Eileen Haller; and granddaughters Brenna and Tessa Haller.

There will be a memorial service for Don today, February 25, 2003, at 2 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 424 Via de La Valle in Solana Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in memory of Donald L. Haller to the City of Hope, Attn: Central Processing, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010.

Warren Ray Wyatt, BHS 1964

Warren Ray Wyatt, BHS 1964

April 8, 1946 – August 2, 2017

Abilene Reporter News, Abilene, Texas, Thursday, August 3, 2017

Warren Ray Wyatt, Hawley, Texas, age 71, passed away Wednesday, August 2, 2017. Services are pending with Girdner Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas. 

Buried in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery, Abilene, Texas.  Warren’s Find A Grave Memorial

Bruce Lynn Ludwig, BHS 1958

Bruce Lynn Ludwig, BHS 1958

We recently received information of the passing of Bruce Lynn Ludwig BHS 1958.

Bruce was born on October 26, 1940 and passed away on October 25, 2023. He was 

born in Lennox, South Dakota to Marguerite (Marge) and Lloyd (Jack) Ludwig. His family moved to Burbank the Summer before Bruce's Senior Year in High School.

Bruce graduated from Cal State University (CSUN) and began his career in institutional and fiduciary real estate. Bruce had a successful career in the financial, real estate and investment world. He was on the executive boards of many companies and even started his own companies.

His true passion was for bringing people together through philanthropy and his personal life. He spent much time in Kenya and Egypt. He led countless trips there for friends and was extremely invested in learning about the ancient history, cultures, conservation and environment there. He supported the Amboseli Trust for Elephants. He served on many trusteeships for a host of universities, institutes, societies, other trusts and foundations in these regions.

Bruce and his wife Carol, published 5 books about The Churches of Egypt, the History and Religious Heritage of old Cairo and the Child Jesus in Egypt.

In the last few years, Bruce's happiest place was in McCall, Idaho and again, he was very involved in supporting the arts, helping to develop the Pondersa Center and supporting St. Luke's Hospital. 

He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Carolyn Wierman Ludwig (BHS '60), daughters Pamela Hearn, Charla Thompson, grandchildren Henry and Margaret Thompson and his brother Don Ludwig BHS 64 and sister-in-law Debbie Ludwig.

Our condolences go out to the entire Ludwig Family

 

Mario Trotta, BHS 1951

Mario Trotta, BHS 1951

March 11, 1933 - July 14, 2024

Mario Trotta was born in Dearborn, Michigan on March 11, 1933 to Antonio & Concetta Trotta .

He is survived by his wife Lana and  five children, Rick Trotta (Kerry), John Trotta (Yvonne), Dorene (Trotta) Finch (Lonny), Gary Trotta (Sharon) & Steve Trotta (Kate) who he had with his first wife Jackie. He also had 15 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

Mario lived in Dearborn, Michigan until 1947. He eventually helped in the family market until the family moved to Burbank, CA. He graduated Burbank High School in 1951 and then shortly thereafter enlisted in the U.S. Navy. During that time, he married Jacquoline Cook. After Boot Camp he attended Aviation Structural Mechanic "A" school. After completing "A" school he spent time training in Texas and Oklahoma. After his training was complete, he was stationed at Atsugi Naval Air Station, Japan for the duration of his enlistment. Jackie and son Rick joined him in Japan and his second son John was "made in Japan". After his discharge from the Navy, he had a few different jobs...a milkman for a short time, then found work at Weber Aircraft and Zero Manufacturing. In the early to mid-sixties, he moved into construction as a carpenter setting patio doors. He stayed in construction as a contractor until the mid-nineties. In 1978 he fell in love with Lana Thornton, and they were married in September of that year. She brought him much joy and happiness for the next 46 years.

He spent his retirement time going to estate and garage sales. Some of his grandchildren have fun memories of going to sales with him. He went from buying and refurbishing old sewing machines and pump organs to clocks. Clocks became his passion/obsession. He could work miracles with clocks in dire need of part replacement. He often said there was a story for every clock that he owned. He made several long-time good friends during his estate sale visits, often times trading treasures they had found. He also restored a 1946 Chevy Pick-up from the ground up to factory original. There wasn't much that he couldn't fix, repair or refurbish.  Mario loved his family and loved bragging about their successes in life. He could tell you in detail, even at 91, memories of his own childhood while growing up in Dearborn and Burbank. He loved to reminisce about the family market in Dearborn.

We will always carry his memory in our hearts.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers for our Dad we are asking that a donation be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.

Click on the below link and it will take you to his memorial page there. Thank you for your donations to this worthy cause.

https://communityfundraising.woundedwarriorproject.org/campaign/Mario-Trotta-Memorial

SERVICES

Funeral Service

Thursday, August 01, 2024

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Mission Hills Catholic Mortuary

11160 Stranwood Ave

Mission Hills, CA 91345

Get Directions on Google Maps

Graveside Service

Thursday, August 01, 2024

12:00 PM - 12:30 PM

San Fernando Mission Cemeteries and Mission Hills Catholic Mortuary

11160 Stranwood Ave

Mission Hills, CA 91345

Lauretta Ross Entwistle Slike, BHS 1964

Lauretta Ross Entwistle Slike, BHS 1964

April 27, 1946 Los Angeles County, CA- March 20, 2024, Chula Vista, CA

Sad to report the death of Loretta/Lauretta Slike on March 20, 2024 in Chula Vista, California. She was married to Clifford A. Slike. She was the daughter of Milton and Geraldine Entwistle. She was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, California.

From her son: It's with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of my beloved mother, Lauretta Slike. Her vibrant spirit soared with grace and love, touching countless lives along the way. While she may be gone, her light shines on in our memories and hearts forever. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a good mom, I’m eternally grateful that I had a great one.

The funeral will be on Friday April 5th, 5pm at the Old North Church, Forest Lawn, Hollywood hills

Leonard Alex Engelman, BHS 1959

Leonard Engelman Dies: Emmy Nominated, Lifetime Achievement Award-Winning Makeup Artist Was 83

By Bruce Haring

August 3, 2024 

Makeup artist Leonard Engelman

Leonard Engelman, who lobbied the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to install a makeup branch and served as its first governor when they did so, died Thursday at 88 in Northridge Hospital Medical Center.

His death was confirmed by the Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles, but no cause has been given.

Engelman worked on such films as Rocky IV, The Princess Diaries, Batman & Robin and How the Grinch Stole Christmas and did Cher’s makeup for more than 30 years.

He also served as an Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences VP and board member for many years.

Born in Burbank, he was the son of a Hollywood makeup artist. Engelman graduated from Burbank High School, and received his first film credit on Alfred Hitchcock’s Topaz (1969).

Engelman received Emmy nominations in 1972 for an episode of Night Gallery and in 2001 for the miniseries Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. He was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Hollywood Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists Guild in 2017.

Working as Cher’s personal makeup artist, Engelman was with her on photo shoots and her films Moonstruck (1987), Suspect (1987), The Witches of Eastwick (1987), Mermaids (1990), Faithful (1996), Tea With Mussolini (1999) and Burlesque (2010).

Engelman also handled makeup for Sylvester Stallone on Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), Rocky IV (1985) and Cobra (1986).

His other clients included Debra Winger and Meg Ryan.

Engelman was part of the Cinema Makeup School in Los Angeles and was a member of Local 706 of the makeup and hairstylists guild for more than five decades.

Survivors include his wife, Esther Engelman, children, Steven, Kimberly, Anna and Jennifer, and six grandchildren.

Makeup artist Leonard Engelman, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, speaks onstage at the 2017 Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild Awards at The Novo by Microsoft

Awards & Nominations

2 Nominations

OUTSTANDING MAKEUP FOR A MINISERIES, MOVIE OR A SPECIAL - 2001

Nominee

Leonard Engelman, Key Makeup Artist for "Jackie"

Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis

CBS

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKEUP - 1972

Nominee

Leonard Engelman

Rod Serling's Night Gallery

NBC

James Grasse, BHS 1967

James "Jim" Grasse, BHS 1967

January 4, 1949 - June 30, 2024

Lifelong Rental Industry Participant Jim Grasse Dies

July 7, 2024, Story and photo Michael Roth

Grasse was a regular participant in rental industry events, most recently as regional sales manager for Broce Brooms, and was regularly seen at the American Rental Association, California Rental Association and other shows.

Jim Grasse, a widely known figure who has worked in the rental industry in a variety of capacities, has died. According to his son, John, Grasse died from an aggressive form of dementia. He was 75 years old.

Grasse was a regular participant in rental industry events, most recently as regional sales manager for Broce Brooms, and was regularly seen at the American Rental Association, California Rental Association and other shows. Grasse’s father, Bill Grasse, was a co-founder of RER magazine and contributed a column, RenTopics, for more than 40 years, focusing on technical issues. Bill Grasse, who died in 2008, also played a major role in the expansion of Acme Rents, one of the rental industry’s earliest and fastest-growing consolidating rental companies.

Jim Grasse worked for several different rental companies and manufacturers, and played a leading role in the international growth of Caterpillar’s Cat Rental Stores in the position of Caterpillar global allied products program manager. Jim’s brother Larry, a decades-long veteran of the rental industry, was Western regional sales and new store opening manager for Volvo Rents, among other positions. His brother Ron also served in various capacities in the rental industry, including as CCE sales manager for Wagner Rents. His sister-in-law Vivian Grasse was regional safety manager for United Rentals, among other roles. Jim’s mother Ellie Grasse was also a goodwill ambassador for the rental industry.

Jim Grasse also worked as an executive with Acme Rents, Always Rentals and Volvo Rents. Grasse grew up and lived most of his life in Burbank, Calif.

 RER will share more information about Jim’s life, survivors, and funeral or celebration of life as it becomes available.

Vickie Christina Rybak, BHS 1987

Vickie Christina Rybak, BHS 1987 

1968- 2011

Vickie C. Rybak, 42, a resident of Zephyr Cove, passed away October 24, 2011. Vickie was born November 10, 1968 to George and Donna Rybak in Glendale, California. Vickie was the previous owner of Round Hill Video in Zephyr Cove and also went to school for and became a Certified Cosmetologist. Vickie was educated in hotel and restaurant management and worked for several years in supervisory positions for Woodland Hills Hilton in California. She loved the Tahoe area and always looked forward to the first snowfall, she was an excellent skier and enjoyed fishing with her father. Vickie was proud to be an American from Czech background in Prague. Vickie loved serious classic music by Dvorak’s “A New Symphony” and Smetana’s “My Country.”

Tahoe Times, October 2011

Stanley Raymond Payne, BHS 1959

Stanley Raymond Payne, BHS 1959

Published in the Fort Collins Coloradoan, Fort Collins, Colorado

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Stanley Raymond Payne, 68, of Fort Collins, died on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at home with his wife, Shirley and daughter, Debra. Stanley was born on Shabbat, March 15, 1941, in Burbank, California to William Franklin Payne and Estella B. Payne. He graduated from Burbank High School and attended UCLA for three years. He became a plumber and opened his own shop, Payne and Mechanical and Plumbing Company, in Fontana, California. At the time of his death he was retired from Local 3 Plumbers Union in Denver.

Stanley died on Shabbat during the Feast of Tabernacles, (Known in Hebrew as Sukkot). He had a passion lasting over 50 years for learning and following in the footsteps of the Messiah, and a gift for sharing both his passion and knowledge. He shared his knowledge and heart with many people from California to Israel and all points in between. Stanley had the gift of drawing people into his life and as a result he has many “adopted” children and extended family who will miss him greatly.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley; daughters, Debra (Scott) Saddlemire, Lisa (Paul) Carney; son, Todd Payne; stepchildren, Melanie Pimentel, Scott Pimentel and John Hamers; brothers, Bob Payne and Tom Payne and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and two brothers.

A private memorial service was held in the home for close friends and extended family.

Arthur Lee Fall, BHS 1941

Arthur Lee Fall, BHS 1941

Coeur d’ Alene Press, Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, Friday, January 11, 1991

Art L. Fall, 67, Coeur d’ Alene, died at his home Wednesday, January 9, 1991.

He was born February 17, 1923, in Gallup, New Mexico, to Howard and Gladys (Graham) Fall. He was raised and graduated from high school in Burbank, California. He served with the U. S. Navy during World War II. After his discharge, he became an excavating contractor in the Los Angeles area. He married Sue Welch on October 3, 1952, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and they moved to Coeur d’ Alene wherehe continued his career as a contractor and developer. In 1959 he built the Kidd Island cabins, a resort at Kidd Island Bay that he and his wife owned and operated for 17 years. For the past several years he worked on energy conservation heating systems.

He traditionally used the initials E.N. after his name, designating he was an energy nut.

He was the first president of North Idaho Building Contractors Associations, was a charter member of Homeowner Warranty Program of Idaho and the Kidd Island Bay Development Corp. and a member of Inland Northwest Energy Efficient Builders Association.

Survivors include his wife, Sue, at home; daughters, Diane Fall and Cindy Fall of Post Falls, Carol Ruyl, Susan Loper and Sandy Ward of Coeur d’ Allene, brother Wally Fall of Reseda, California, and 10 grandchildren.

Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Christ the King Lutheran Church with Rev. Ray Connor officiating. Yates Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. The family prefers memorials to Christ the King Lutheran Church. 

Lorretta Christoffersen Bolton, BHS 1965

Lorretta Christoffersen Bolton, BHS 1965

Burbank Leader Newspaper, July 2005

Lorretta Christoffersen Bolton died July 18, 2005 in Painesville, Ohio. She was 58.

Lorretta was born in Glendale and lived in Burbank for 28 years. She attended Burbank schools graduating from Burbank High School with the class of 1965. She went on to graduate with a B.A. from Cal State LA. Lorretta has lived in Ohio for the past 30 years where she worked as a preschool teacher and as a sales associate for Kaufmann’s Department Store.

Lorretta is survived by her husband of 32 years, John; her daughters, Robyn Bolton of Boston, MA and Diana Bolton of Seattle, WA; her mother, Esther Christoffersen of Burbank; her father, Robert Christoffersen of Carlsbad, CA; and her sisters, Dawn (Ed) Cooper of Covina, CA and Karen John Capellaro) Christoffersen of Burbank. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Advent Lutheran Children’s Playground Fund, 7985 Munson Road, Mentor, Ohio 44060.

Nellie Ruth Ehrhart Pierce, BHS 1924

Nellie Ruth Ehrhart Pierce, BHS 1924

The Modesto Bee, Modesto, California, Sunday, November 24, 1996

Nellie R. Pierce, September 21, 1906 – November 22, 1996

Nellie Ruth Pierce, 90, of Patterson died Friday at Del Puerto Hospital. Mrs. Pierce was a native of Blachly, Oregon. She lived in Patterson one year. She had retired after a career as a licensed vocational nurse.

She is survived by her children, David Martin of Pleasanton and Edward Martin of Parsons, Tennessee; and five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Private services, Hillview Funeral Chapel, Patterson, in charge of arrangements

Robert James Childress, BHS 1969

Robert James Childress, BHS 1969

Great Fall Tribune, Great Falls, Montana, Friday, May 22, 1987

Principal who resigned found dead at his home 

THOMPSON FALLS – The principal of the Thompson Falls Elementary School was found dead at his home earlier this week, and authorities say he may have died accidentally after deciding not to go through with a suicide attempt.

Bob Childress, in his 30s, was found dead on the floor of his garage Monday morning by Superintendent of Schools Gene Ostwald after Childress failed to report to work, according to Sanders County Coroner Mark Denke.

Denke said the garage door was closed and a key was found in the ignition of Childress pickup, but the engine was not running, apparently having run out of gas. Results of an autopsy performed this week are not complete, and the exact cause of death has not been determined, he said.

Denke said he suspected Childress died either from carbon monoxide poisoning or possibly from injuries received in a fall inside the garage. Childress apparently got out of the cab of his pickup, fell and hit his head on a faucet fixture, got up again, and then fell backwards onto the concrete floor, the coroner said.

Denke said it’s possible that Childress intended to commit suicide, but changed his mind as he was being overcome by carbon monoxide and was trying to get out of the truck when he fell. Childress had been principal at the school for three years, and last week submitted his resignation.