Francis "Frank" Charles Bailey, BHS 1955

Francis "Frank" Charles Bailey, BHS 1955

Francis "Frank" Charles Bailey of Goleta passed away peacefully at Serenity House in Santa Barbara on May 24, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by loved ones. 

Frank was born on January 22, 1938 in Burbank, California to Charles and Elinore Bailey. After graduating from Burbank High School, he attended UCSB in Goleta. Post-graduation, he joined the Army and was stationed in Germany, and later stationed back in America. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and went to Vietnam, where he led a Field Artillery Unit. Upon his return from Vietnam, Frank taught ROTC at UCSB. 

After leaving the service, Frank pursued a career in real estate and opened his own realty company, El Dorado Realty. He later worked as a bus driver trainer and taught CPR classes. Over the years Frank engaged in community activities including coaching YFL football, volunteering at The Boys and Girls Clubs, and maintaining memberships in The Optimists Club of Goleta and The Santa Barbara Elks Club, Lodge #613. 

Frank had many hobbies and interests: fishing off the Goleta Beach Pier, walking at Lake Los Carneros and Stowe Grove Park, camping, geo-caching, and playing and enjoying music. A self-taught musician, Frank played a wide variety of instruments and was always up for collaborating with fellow musicians or joining in a jam session. 

There was always a garden in his yard, which he tended with care. He enjoyed sharing his fruit and vegetable bounty with family, friends, and neighbors. Frank could lighten the mood of any room with a clever quip or a joke, and will be remembered for his often next-level funny sarcasm. He was a wizard at solving crossword puzzles. 

Frank is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janet; son, Sam (spouse Leslie); son Matt (spouse Michele); daughter Lily Rosenbaum (spouse Mitch Rosenbaum); stepdaughter Susan Moriarity (spouse Vaughn Bunch); stepdaughter Erin Moriarity; granddaughters Amanda, Kaity and Maddy; grandsons Austin, Robby, CJ and Jack Bunch; great-granddaughter Willow; great-grandson Luca, as well as extended family members, countless friends, and many international exchange students he and Janet hosted in their home through the years. Last but not least, he leaves his loyal dog and BFF, Bailey.

The family kindly requests that you share this memorial with anyone who was touched by Frank's life. We encourage you to visit his online tribute page at Legacy.com to leave a message of condolence or to share a favorite memory.

"Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

~Wm. Shakespeare

Howard (Woody) Kenneth Wood, BHS 1955

Howard Kenneth Wood (Woody), BHS 1955

On Sunday, March 20, 2016 Woody passed away in Seattle, Washington, after suffering a fatal stroke.

Woody had accepted Jesus Christ as his savior many years ago. He was originally from Chicago, Illinois, but moved to Southern California as a small boy.

Due to the untimely death of his father he was forced to begin working at a very young age. Woody graduated from Burbank High School in 1955. After graduation he began a long career as a "Grocery Man" and throughout the years he worked for several large food chains in the San Fernando Valley.

Woody was a devoted husband and a committed father who willingly took on enormous responsibility; often working seven days a week to provide for his family. He was a long-term and proud member of "Local 777." In the Grocery business, he considered himself from the old school before calculators, computers or bar scanners.

One of his pet peeves ! was beginner clerks who could not mentally count back correct change (without some outside aid or device). More than once he provided on the spot schooling. Sadly, he was forced to retire at age 50, due to disability from Neuropathy.

He and his wife Ellen moved to the Las Vegas area. After Ellen passed he eventually moved closer to his youngest son Grady and his family in Seattle, Washington. As his medical issues increased this move proved to be a blessing for both. Grady became his caregiver, guardian and friend.

Eventually their roles reversed, as often happens, and the son became the father. Much like his father, Grady took on this responsibility with respect and devotion. Upon his passing his son Grady and wife Frances were at his bedside.

Woody is survived by one sister, six children, ten grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

San Fernando Valley Sun, The (CA) - Thursday, April 14, 2016

Donald "Don" Robert Brown, BHS 1955

Donald "Don" Robert Brown, BHS 1955

Retired Burbank Police Department Lieutenant and Airport Commissioner Don Brown

Donald "Don" Robert Brown, was born September 4, 1936 in Manhattan, New York. Don moved with his family to Burbank, California in 1945. He graduated from Burbank High in 1955, Riverside College in 1962, and in the 1970s, he attended USC to receive his teaching credential in Administration of Justice, while working full time with four children.

Don started working for the Public Service Department with the City of Burbank in 1956 and was then hired by the Burbank Police Department in 1960. Don worked his way up the ranks from Patrolman, Detective, Motors, Sergeant, and finished his career with the rank of Lieutenant. Don retired from the Burbank Police Department in 2001, totaling 45 years of service for the City of Burbank.

Don worked numerous details, including Narcotics, Fraud "Bunko Unit", Gangs, and Robbery Homicide. Don's favorite assignment by far was his years working in the Traffic Bureau and being part of the Motor Squad.

After retiring Don quickly began his next career working for the Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena Airport as a Commissioner in 2001. He retired in 2024 after dedicating 23 years of additional service to "Burbank" the town he loved.Burbank.

One of Don's proudest accomplishments was being involved with the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank.

Don passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and his beloved dog Daisy. Don is survived by his children, Julie, Mike, Terrilyn (son-in-law James Walker), and Cameron. His grandchildren, Andrew, Myshella (grandson son-in-law Edgar Vela), Bryce, Cooper, and Chasen. His Great-Grandchildren: Ezekiel, Kaiden, and Everhett.

Burbank City Council will adjourn their meeting on June 24, 2025, in Memory of Don Brown

The Funeral for Don, or as he called it, my "Going Away Service," will be held as follows:

Closed Casket Viewing

Sunday, June 29, 2025, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Main Building)

Funeral Services

Monday, June 30 at 3:00 PM- Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Dr Los Angeles, CA 90068

In place of flowers the family invites you to donate to the Boys and Girls Club of Burbank and Greater East Valley. In the comments, indicate your gift is in the honor of Don Brown

MyBurbank

James Dean Lawson, BHS 1955

James Dean Lawson, BHS 1955

November 19, 1937 - April 11, 2025

Loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle, James D. Lawson, and long-time resident of Acton, California, passed on to be with his Lord on April 11, 2025.

Known as "Jim", he was born on November 19,1937 in Glendale, California to Thomas W. and Lucill C. Lawson. He graduated from Burbank High School and was a 30-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department serving the citizens of the City of Los Angeles.

He married Rebecca J. Brown on March 15, 1957, and celebrated 61 years of marriage until Rebecca's passing on July 6, 2018.

In 1988 they built their retirement home in Acton, CA and lived there 35 years where they enjoyed their retirement.

Jim enjoyed working on cars and was a stock car racer (#57) at the Saugus Speedway in Newhall California, restoring old tools and equipment as well as his dogs, donkeys and chickens. He was quite the craftsman working with wood, being able to build decks, patio coverings, sheds and great skills in being able to take something old and broken only to make it new again.

He is survived by his children; daughter Renee, son, Jim; grandsons, Nick (his wife Hannah), Ian, James and Joseph; great-grandchildren; Gwyn, Logan and Jackson; brother in-law, Paul (his wife Julie) their children and grandchildren, sister in-law June, her children and grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Becky, his parents Thomas and Lucille Lawson, his brother Thomas Lawson and brother in-law, Steven M. Brown.

He is a descendant of the Lawson and Legro's family of Los Angeles however his family lineage is traced to Demark, Alsace Lorrain France, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Boston/Cambridge, Massachusetts before the family moved to Los Angeles in the late 1800's.

Dad is and will be greatly missed but he is now dancing with his Lord.

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 16, 2025.

Robert (Bob) Escobar Jr., BHS 1955

Robert (Bob) Escobar Jr., BHS 1955

May 17, 1937 — April 10, 2025

Robert (Bob) Escobar Jr., age 87 of Gatesville, passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

Gatesville, Texas

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Scott’s Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Crosby officiating. Interment will follow at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.

Bob was born on May 17, 1937, to the late Robert Escobar Sr. and Helen Ochoa Escobar in Whittier, California. He graduated from Burbank High School in Burbank, California, before enlisting in the United States Navy in 1956. Serving as an In-Flight Avionics Maintenance Technician, Bob dedicated nearly two decades of his life to the military, a commitment he took great pride in until his retirement in August of 1975. His friends often remarked that he lived and breathed Navy, embodying the values and discipline instilled in him during his service.

On July 19, 1975, Bob married Helen Bechtohold in Northridge, California. Their union was marked by a love for adventure, as they embarked on motorcycle trips across the United States together, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. After spending many years in Northridge, they moved to Gatesville in 2001, where Bob was an avid supporter of local law enforcement, generously volunteering his time in many different capacities. Bob never met a stranger and consistently offered his help and kindness to anyone in need.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Marian Nelson, and his brother Robert “Chino” Escobar Jr. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 49 years, Helen Escobar; his stepson, Robert Logan; his grandson, Vaughan Logan; numerous cousins; and a wealth of friends who will always remember him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Attn: Development Department, 875 N Randolph St, Suite 225, Arlington, Virginia 22203; or to the Gatesville Boys and Girls Club, 2533 E. Main Street, Gatesville, Texas 76528.

Published in Scott's Funeral Home, Gatesville, Texas, April 10, 2025

Roger D. Thorson, BHS 1955

Roger D. Thorson, BHS 1955

Published in the San Francisco Examiner, San Francisco, California, Thursday, January 29, 1987

Thorson, Roger D. - January 26, 1987; beloved husband of Judith; adored father of Erika; dear son of Lloyd and the late Jeanette Thorson.

Friends may call after 10 a.m. and are invited to attend Funeral 

Services at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Chapels of VALENTE, MARINI, PERATA AND COMPANY, 4840 Mission Street. Inurnment private Holy Cross Cemetery, 333-0161 Visit his Find A Grave Memorial here.

Dennis Wayne Shimek, BHS 1955

Dennis Wayne Shimek, BHS 1955

May 9, 1937 - July 15, 2023

Sacramento, California - Dennis Wayne Shimek

Dennis was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Raymond Ramon Shimek and Alvalda Hertha Wenzel.

He moved west with his family and graduated from Burbank High School and earned an AA degree from Pasadena Community College, working as a baggage handler at the Burbank airport. He went on to earn a BS degree from UC Berkeley, as a proud member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity, and an MBA from California State University San Francisco in Labor Relations. During the summer he worked for Del Monte Company as an accountant in their fish canneries in Egegik, Alaska and for the National Labor Relations Board in San Francisco overseeing union elections.

In 1961 he married his college sweetheart, Cherie Bernardo, moved to Sacramento, and after a short stint with the California State Employees Association, he was hired away by UC Davis to begin a 42-year career with the Aggies. His title, Director of Personnel, morphed over the years and he retired as Associate Vice Chancellor, Human Relations (same job description, thousands more employees). He will be remembered as a fair but fierce and effective labor contract negotiator and champion for minority causes including the implementation of the Title IX directives. After a short retirement he answered a call from California State University, Stanislaus, to become their Vice President, Human Relations, commuting to Turlock with ease for eight years until his final retirement at age 80.

Dennis had many interests. He was a Docent for the Old Eagle Theatre and the Railroad Museum leading tours in costume and, until recently, was a jail visitation volunteer for Loaves and Fishes. He loved all kinds of music having season tickets to the San Francisco Opera & attending all central valley George Jones and Merle Haggard concerts. After retirement he took up the ukulele and spent many Saturday mornings playing and singing at the Music Café in Folsom.

He traveled the world with family and friends eventually visiting all seven continents. Closer to home he annually backpacked the Sierras, deer hunted in Northern California and fished the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota. He was a long time fitness fanatic beginning with his workouts at Gold's Gym in Los Angeles and until recently working out most every day at Del Norte Sports Club.

Throughout his life his family always came first. "He was always there for us. He was our rock." He is survived by Cherie, his sons, Steve (Guadalupe) and Dave (Lulu) his granddaughter, Elizabeth & and his step-grandsons, Jesus and Jonathan Quintero, and a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins in both Minnesota & California and his beloved dog, Mr. Boo. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Devon (Charlene).

Per his request, there will be no service. His family will spread his ashes beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, at deer camp and in the Boundary Waters.

He was one of the good guys, gone but not forgotten.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Aug. 20, 2023.

Robert Vanderweg, BHS 1955

Robert Vanderweg, BHS 1955

The Fresno Bee, Sunday, September 19, 1999

Robert “Bob” Vanderweg passed away on September 16, 1999, at the age of 61. Bob was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, on November 22, 1937, and has lived in Fresno for the past 27 years. Bob served in the United States Marine Corp., and is a graduate of California State University, Fresno. He enjoyed weightlifting, racquetball, sports events, windsurfing, and being with family and friends. Bob was a jokester, always good for a laugh. He was a Marketing Manager at Derrel’s Mini Storage for the past 12 years, where he has met many wonderful people. He really cherished the relationships with the people he worked with.

Bob is survived by his wife of 30 years, Susan Vanderweg; his daughter, Tracy Johnson; son-in-law, Gene Johnson; his mother, Barbara Vanderweg; mother-in-law, Barbara Ferguson; sister, Rita Brooks; his sister-in-law, Karen Knapp; his niece, Lindsey Souza, two grandchildren, other nieces and nephews and his loyal Great Dane, Brewzer.

The family would like to thank Doctors, Nurses, Medical Staff and friends who played a role in Bob’s battle with kidney disease and meningitis. Visitation will be held at the Chapel of the Light on Monday and Tuesday, September 20 and 21, 1999, at 10:00 A. M. to 5:00 P. M.

Funeral Services will be held at the Chapel of the Light on Wednesday, September 22, 1999, at 10:00 A. M. Remembrances may be made to the Kidney Foundation or charity of your choice.

 

Richard Lee Bourguignon, BHS 1955

Richard Lee Bourguignon, BHS 1955

Los Angeles Times, Tuesday, July 24, 2001

Richard Lee Bourguignon – Of San Pedro, passed away July 22, 2001 at the age of 64 years. He was born in Inglewood, California on May 22, 1937. He is survived by his wife Tammie; sons Todd (Kendra) and Troy; step daughters, Ann Hein, Carol Mansfield and Jill Zamudio; sisters, June Cassidy, Rita Sauer, Dorothy Byers and Susie Luman.

Visitation will be Wednesday, from 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the mortuary. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 26, 2001 at 3:00 P.P. in Green Hills Chapel with interment to follow in Green Hills Memorial Park. Green Hills Mortuary (310) 831-0311.

Michael Lawrence Pastoret, BHS 1955

Michael Lawrence Pastoret, BHS 1955

Record Searchlight, Redding, California, Thursday, August 14, 1997

Michael Pastoret, Redding, California

Services for Michael Lawrence Pastoret, 59, of Shasta Lake will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Allen and Dahl Funeral Chapel in Redding. James Allen of the chapel will officiate.

Mr. Pastoret died Monday, August 11, 1997, at Redding Medical Center. Born November 7, 1937, in Duluth, Minnesota, he moved to Shasta County in 1969. He owned and operated Aladdin Welding in Redding, and was a member of the Redding Moose Losge and Palo Cedro Golf Course.

Survivors include wife Iva; five stepchildren; and many grandchildren. Memorialcontributions may be made to the Michael Pastoret Trust Fund at the Redding Bank of Commerce, 1177 Placer Street, Redding, California, 96001.

Ronald Ray Howard, BHS 1955

Ronald Ray Howard, BHS 1955

August 1, 1937 - July 30, 2019 

A resident of Burbank, California, he was born in Hollywood and graduated from Burbank High School, class of '55. He Worked as mechanic superintendent for Hostess and Van de Kamp's bakeries, but retired from his own company, First Quality Pest Control. 

Reunited in Heaven with his wife, Nancy, he is survived by his daughters Debra (Adrian) Mongeli, Tamara (Peter) Celi, granddaughters, Caitlyn and Cristina Mongeli and his beloved cat, Jingle. Chapel and graveside service will be held on Friday, August 16th at 1:00 p.m. Pierce Brothers Valhalla, North Hollywood

Published by Los Angeles Daily News on Aug. 15, 2019.

Patrick Boyd Tobin, BHS 1955

Patrick Boyd Tobin, BHS 1955

Patrick Boyd Tobin, class of Summer 1955 passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at home, in Julesburg Colorado, under Hospice, due to Diabetes. 

He was born in Glendale, California, on November 7, 1937. The son of Alice Katherine (Boyd) and Edward Raymond Tobin. 

The family moved to Long Beach, California during the early years of World War II, as his Father worked at Douglas Aircraft assembling the Norton bomb sites. 

After the war, the family moved to Burbank to a home on San Jose. By this time Pat had two younger brothers—Michael and Dennis.

Pat attended school at Bellermine through the tenth grade. He then went to Burbank High School for eleventh and twelfth grades. While there he joined the marching band and played the snare drum. He enjoyed following the football team to their home and away games.

Upon graduation he attended Glendale College. He joined the marching band and attended the football games as well as the home Basket Ball games. Also, while at Glendale College he met his future wife, Heather Seapy, while attending a meeting of Beta Kappa.

During this time He worked for The Burbank Daily Review in the Advertising Department. He transferred to San Fernando Valley State College, which later became Cal State Northridge. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting.  Two weeks later, he and Heather were married on June 25 at St. Robert’s. 

Pat went to work at Thrifty Drug Store in Burbank as an Assistant Manager and later was transferred to their West Van Nuys store. While at the Burbank store his first son, Ronald Charles, was born. Then son, Steven John came along after he transferred to the Van Nuys store. He was shot at during a holdup of the store. Time to find a different occupation. 

He was hired  as a Bodily Injury claims representative by Farmers Insurance Group. Then came the first Watts riots and due to his accounting background, he was promoted to Fire Claims Representative. The National Guard walked him to and from the markets that Pat had to inspect. 

He then went into management as Claims Office Supervisor working in Montebello and Long Beach at the traffic circle. He started his Scouting while in Long Beach; he became a Cubmaster. Then Assistant Scoutmaster. 

He became a Professional Liability Claims (Medical Malpractice) Representative for Farmers Truck Insurance Division. During this time, His Scouting continued. He enjoyed Hiking and Backpacking. He even led a few Treks at Philmont, a National Scouting Reservation in New Mexico. 

While living in Lakewood, Pat enrolled his, Ron in Cub Scouts. Almost immediately there were openings for parental leadership in the Pack. Heather became a Den Mother and Pat, the 

Cubmaster. The family moved to the City of Orange and all five of them were involved in Scouting. Pat started a Troop, and all three sons became involved.

While in Orange County Council he was awarded the Bronze Pelican, (for Catholic Scouting), District Award of Merit, Saint George, (for Catholic Scouting) and the Silver Beaver.  

In 1995, he moved to Glendale, Arizona as he was needed there for his job. He eventually retired and his health started declining. While in AZ, he was diagnosed with Diabetes. 

Summer of 2019 Pat and Heather moved to Julesburg, Colorado. This is where he passed away.

JoAnn Louise Steele Roach, BHS 1955

JoAnn Louise Steele Roach, BHS 1955

Published in the Los Angeles Times, Sunday, December 6, 1998

JoAnn Louise Roach, cherished mother, sister and aunt, passed away November 17, 1998. Born July 26, 1937 in LaPorte, Indians, JoAnn was the eldest daughter of Jack and Louise Steele.

JoAnn was a 1955 graduate of Burbank High School and long-term resident of the Glendale/Burbank area. She was employed by General Electric for many years and was co-owner of All Metals Processing in Glendale since 1973.

JoAnn joined AA on April 18, 1980. She made many friends there and was dedicated to helping others whose lives had been adversely effected by alcohol. Through all the difficulties she faced, JoAnn maintained a sense of humor and an unwavering faith in God.

She will be missed by family and friends, including her son, Kenneth L. Barker and his fiancée, Donna Knudsen, both of Simi Valley, California; sister, Judy Sharpnak, of Washoe Valley, Nevada; and niece, Julie Levi of Oxnard, California, whom she was especially close.

Services were held November 22, 1998 in Burbank, California.

William Charles Catlin, BHS 1955

William Charles Catlin, BHS 1955 

1936 - 2020 

William (Bill) Charles Catlin February 10, 1936 - November 18, 2020 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William (Bill) Charles Catlin, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, on Wednesday, November 18, 2020, at the age of 84. Bill was born on February 10, 1936 in Burbank, California to William and Muriel (Fisher) Catlin. 

Bill graduated from Burbank High School in 1955, and entered the United States Army in June of 1956. While on an extended furlough, Bill married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Suzanne Klein. Months later, Bill's army unit was deployed for active duty leaving Fort Ord, Monterey, California to Bamberg, Germany, by way of the USNS General Nelson N. Walker Troop Ship. This voyage made history as the largest troop movement through the Panama Canal following the Korean War as part of Operation Gyroscope. Bill was honorably discharged in 1958, returning home to begin raising a family and establishing Garden Grove as their new home. He also began a new career in the concrete industry. For 38 years, he worked for Dewey and Bob's Mixed Concrete in Long Beach, CA and later Geller's Ready Mixed Concrete in Westminster, CA, before retiring in 1995. 

Before and after retirement, Bill dedicated his life to raising three sons and enhancing the community through volunteer efforts for many different service clubs within and near the city of Garden Grove. Some of Bill's volunteer efforts over those 62 years include: Volunteer worker at the Garden Grove YMCA's Christmas Tree Lot, Volunteer Coach with the Garden Grove Southwest Little League, Band Booster Vice President - Bolsa Grande High School, Elder with the First Christian Church of Garden Grove, Chairman of the Board for the Garden Grove Elks Lodge - 2006, Volunteer Usher at the Garden Grove Gem Community Theatre, Volunteer for the Acacia Adult Day Care Center, and Volunteer of the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival Board of Directors for 22 years including President in 2014. 

One notable contribution was that Bill was a gifted artist. He spent several years voluntarily painting over 20 original backdrops for the Elks Annual Inaugural Ball and other special fundraising events. Bill received many notable accolades for his service and contribution to the community. In 2007, he was named Garden Grove Man of the Year, and in 2014, with wife Sue, the Cypress Community College Americana Award, Citizen of the Year. Other honors include the Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce Silver Spoon Award, Elk of the Month, Elk Ender of the Year (Motorhome Club Award), Garden Grove Home Pride Award Hall of Fame, and was crowned the 2019 Senior King of the Garden Grove Strawberry Festival. 

Bill was a dedicated and loving husband of 64 years, wonderful father, father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather. He loved life and the people around him. His favorite things to do were spending time with his wife Suzy, traveling with friends and attending family gatherings. He took up the hobby of surfing at the age of 40 and joked that he would sit backwards on his board to scare other surfers away. 

Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Emerson Catlin, and his mother, Muriel Fisher Heald. He is survived by his wife Suzanne, his three boys, Michael (Tina), Timothy (Martha), and Patrick (Patti), his brother Charles William Catlin, seven grandchildren, Amy, Crystal (Cheno), Amanda, Bill, Nicholas, Raya, Kyan, great grandchild Elijah, and Cousins, Carol Alexander, Carla Ann Leach, and niece, Peggy McElgunn. 

Due to COVID 19, funeral services will not take place at this time. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Bill Catlin's name to Acacia Adult Day Services, 11391 Acacia Pkwy, Garden Grove, CA 92840 To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store. 

Published in Orange County Register on Nov. 25, 2020. 

Ronald Cobb, BHS 1955

Ron Cobb, ‘Back to the Future’ DeLorean Designer, Dies at 83

By Eli Countryman, Variety, September 21, 2020

Film designer and cartoonist Ron Cobb died Thursday of Lewy body dementia at the age of 83. Cobb was a significant influence on the look and aesthetics of films including “Alien,” “Star Wars” and “Back to the Future.” Cobb died on his birthday, Monday, after an illustrious career contributing to production design in Hollywood. He served as a consultant for “Back to the Future,” providing the initial designs for a DeLorean modified to travel through time, and several iconic alien species in the “Star Wars” universe.

His credits range from “Star Wars” creatures like the Gotals and Ithorians from the Mos Eisley Cantina sequence  to various different aircrafts seen across the film industry, including “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and 1978’s “Alien.” In the latter, Cobb contributed to the exterior look of the Nostromo alien ship while also designing its interior sets to bring the vision to life on screen. Designer Calum Alexander Watt paid tribute to his Semotic Standard graphics for “Alien,” which he said were “hugely influential.”

Cobb’s film career began in 1956, the year after he graduated from Burbank High School. He worked at Walt Disney Studios as an inbetweener and breakdown artist on “Sleeping Beauty.”

He later contributed special effects to “Dark Star” and served as a production designer on “Conan the Barbarian,” where he came up with the character’s armor and weapon designs, as well as architectural aspects of the set. Other major projects Cobb is credited on include the 1989 feature film “Total Recall,” “The Last Starfighter” and “Leviathan.” Cobb also served as a director, writer and cartoonist throughout his career.

In 1982, he was slated to direct “Night Skies,” a proposed sequel to “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” The project eventually got scrapped, however, with some of the material being used of Steven Spielberg’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” His directorial debut came with a 1992 Australian comedy film named “Garbo,” which follows garbage collectors and their truck, Greta.

He has writing credits for the “Shelter Skelter” episode of “The Twilight Zone” and also helped write the story for a video game in the 1990s. Four collections of Cobb’s cartoons from the 1960s and 1970s have also been published as books.

Cobb is survived by his wife, Robin Love, and son, Nicky Cobb.

Angelo Russell Brovelli, BHS 1955, Played for the RAMS

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

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

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

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

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

BHS Baseball

BHS Football

Diane Faye Schilling Richards, BHS 1955

Sun Valley Sky Diver Falls to Her Death

A 26-year-old Sun Valley sky diver plummeted to her death Sunday February 23, 1964, when her parachute and safety parachute failed to open. Miss Diane Richards of 8154 De Garmo Ave landed in a plowed field northeast of Arvin in the San Joaquin Valley after falling 3,500 feet. The chutes of three other skydivers who jumped from the plane at the same time opened safely.

Pilot Gene F. McMahon, 34, of Compton, told Kern County sheriff's investigators that Miss Richards parachute came out of the pack but failed to open. A second chute also failed to function.

The group from the Antelope Valley Parasports Center originally planned to skydive in the Lancaster area, McMahon said, but the wind was too strong. He said Miss Richards had jumped more than 20 times before.

Published in the Burbank Daily Review, Monday, February 24, 1964
-----------------------------------------------
Obituary

Burbank Daily Review, Wednesday, February 26, 1964

Diane Faye Richards

Funeral services for Diane Faye Richards, 26, will be held Thursday, at 10 am at the Fillbach Bailey Chapel. Mrs. Richards, 8154 De Garmo Ave, Sun Valley, died Sunday when her parachute failed to open during a sky diving exhibition in Kern County.

She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Bernice Schilling of Burbank, a daughter, Denise; a sister, Mrs. Karen Waid of Hollywood, her grandfather, Gus Schilling of Burbank and her grandmother, Mrs. H.L. Dean of San Diego.  Rev. Arthur W. Pelkey of Avalon Community Church, Catalina, will officiate at the services. Interment will be at Glen Haven Memorial Park.

Mrs. Richards was raised in Burbank and was graduated from Burbank High School. She was employed by Pacific Airmotive Corp. for two and a half years. She was a member of Antelope Valley Parasports Center.

Kathryn Laws Thompson, BHS 1955

Kathy Thompson 7-3-1937 to 2-4-2019

Kathryn, “Kathy” Laws Thompson was born on July 3, 1937 to Emily and Curtis Laws.  She was born and raised in Burbank, California and was a proud Burbank “Bulldog” in high school.  Kathy attended the University of California Los Angeles, (UCLA) and obtained her Elementary Education degree.  She lived and taught in Burbank until a “blind” fishing” date with John Thompson, swept her off her feet.  They were engaged within three months and married 57 years.  John was indeed the love of her life and their dedication to each other was remarkable.

Marriage to John moved Kathy to Santa Barbara, California for nearly 20 years.  They had three daughters, Susan, Diane ‘Dede” and Linda. They camped, fished, enjoyed the beaches until John’s company moved them to Salt Lake City, Utah.  Kathy never did love the snow in Utah, but she did learn to live in it.  In Utah, she was able to fulfill her dream to become a librarian.  She worked her way up and eventually became the school librarian at Edgemont Elementary school in Sandy, Utah, until she retired.

After retirement in the mid-1990’s, Kathy and John became a part of the Montrose, Colorado community.  In Colorado, they discovered all the outdoor play ground that she loved.  She and John particularly fell in love with the Grand Mesa National Forest, establishing many wonderful memories with each other, friends, and family on their various adventures to this special place. Kathy also found an amazing circle of friends through her church, the Montrose Methodist church, bridge groups, PEO, AAUW, and volunteering at the Montrose Memorial Hospital.  Her illness did not deter her from her activities until just the last months of her life.  She loved people and learning their stories and was noted to provide sage advice to her hospice providers.

Kathy died at home on February 4, 2019 with the love and support of her family, Hopewest Hospice and People Care Home Health.  She is survived by her husband, John, their daughters, Susan Thompson, Diane Hakes, Linda Long and five grandchildren, Jeremy Loeppke, Ben Hakes, Courtney Hakes, Michael Long and Matthew Long.

A celebration of life, memorial service will be held at the Montrose Methodist Church on 3/30/19 at 4:30 PM.  All who knew and loved Kathy or John are invited.

Kathy strongly supported the National MS Society, in lieu of flowers or for any memorial donations, please consider supporting their organization.

Published Crippen Funeral Home, Montrose, Colorado

Girard Charles Gilkison , BHS 1955

Girard Charles Gilkison , BHS 1955 

Girard "Jerry" Charles Gilkison Simi Valley, CA Girard "Jerry" Gilkison, 79, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 19, 2016.

 

He was known for his fun-loving personality, ability to "socialize" and his never-ending support of friends and family. He will be truly missed by everyone who was fortunate to know him. Jerry was born in Muncie, Indiana on May 6, 1937 to parents Durward and Dorothy Gilkison. He spent his childhood growing up in Muncie. He moved to Burbank with his parents in 1951. Graduated from Burbank High school.

 

Moved to Simi Valley in 1960. In 1962, at the age of 25 he married the love of his life Trudy until she went to be with the Lord in June of 2007.

 

He is survived by his son, Scott Gilkison, Daughter Sheila McKowan, son in law Sheldon McKowan, Daughter Faith Gilkison, Sister Cheryl Case, Granddaughters Lisa Stillman, Lara McKowan and Brittney Christian. And 4 Great Grandchildren. And numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Viewing is at Readon's Mortuary in Simi Valley on Thursday June 30 4-8 pm. Funeral, Oakwood Memorial Cemetery 22601 Lassen Street Chatsworth, CA on Friday July 1, 2016 at 11:00 AM. Donation can be made to Fire Family Foundation.

Ventura County Star (CA) - Thursday, June 30, 2016

Diana Gaddy Klouse, BHS 1955

Diana Gaddy Klouse, BHS 1955

RED HOOK- Diana G. Klose, 77, passed away Dec. 18, 2015, at Northern Dutchess Hospital after a brief illness, while her husband Taylor Klose, of Red Hook, kept vigil at her bedside.
Also at her bedside was a daughter by a previous marriage, Brooke Stevens, and granddaughter, Rowan Willigan, both of Red Hook.

Diana and Taylor were married for 33 years and settled in Dutchess County some 25 years ago, after living in London and Oxford, England, pursuing writing careers.
A woman of great spirit, generosity, compassion, and love of life, Diana had two other surviving children by previous marriages – Marta Hill Gray, of Orange, Va., and Jason Stevens, of Victoria, British Columbia.

Diana was a student of Spanish literature. A 1964 graduate of UCLA, she continued graduate studies in literature at U.C. Irvine (CA) and the Sorbonne in Paris. Diana was an anti-Vietnam war activist. She traveled extensively and lived in Europe, Australia, and the West Coast before marrying Taylor in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1983.

She possessed resilient courage in the face of intractable arthritis that caused her intense pain for many years. She was a breast cancer survivor.

Diana loved travel and the lively arts, spoke and read French and Spanish, and subscribed to – and was much entertained by - Paris Match, the French weekly of news, celebrities, and the arts.

She and Taylor first met and dated briefly in the 1960s at UCLA. Although they parted back then, they never forgot each other. 20 years passed before they met again – with Harvard University playing Cupid by forwarding to Taylor (RHCS '54 / Harvard '58) a letter sent to the Alumni Office by Diana - who hoped to see him once again but had no idea where – or even if – he was living. Their tale of love lost and reclaimed has touched family, friends, and complete strangers from Los Angeles, to Washington, to New York, Moscow and Red Hook.

Diana was predeceased by her parents, Carl and Geraldine Gaddy of Los Angeles.
Diana is survived by brothers, Philip Gaddy, Nahcotta, Wash; and Brian Gaddy, Los Angeles. Other survivors are stepson, Ian Klose, Sunnyvale, Calif; and five grandchildren: Brooke's Rowan, Macklin, and Galen; Jason's Hannah and Zoe.

A celebration of Diana Klose is planned for the spring. Arrangements are under the direction of Burnett & White Funeral Homes, 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, N.Y.          

Published in Daily Freeman on Jan. 25, 2016