Sharon Kay Woodward Sexton, BHS 1969

Sharon Kay Woodward Sexton, BHS 1969

Sharon Kay Sexton, age 71 of Franklin, TN went home to be with the Lord on Monday, June 18, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Sharon was born in Burbank, CA on September 7, 1951, daughter of the late Harold & Ester Woodward.

Class of 1969, Burbank High School (California). She went to school in Burbank, California and Idaho. She married Michael S. "Steve" Sexton on December 19, 1992 in Chatsworth, California. While she worked for various companies and as an entrepreneur, she loved working with animals and worked in the Veterinarian field for many years. She was passionate about her many animals and was a proud Navy Spouse. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Ester Woodward and her brothers Harold (Woody) Woodward and Richard Woodward.

Survivors include her husband Steve Sexton, Sister-in-Law Debbie Woodward, and numerous nieces and nephews. She left her beloved dogs Ember and Brady in the care of her husband Steve.

A celebration of Sharon's life will be conducted in the near future Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (scottcares.org) or the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (billygraham.org).

Williamson Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Services

3009 Columbia Avenue

Franklin, TN 37064

Tel: (615) 794-2289

Natalie Smith Banta, BHS 1969

Natalie Smith Banta, BHS 1969

July 24, 1951 Burbank, Calif. ~ June 19, 2021 

Henderson, Nevada

Natalie Smith Banta passed away on June 19, 2021 at the home of her son, Nathan, in Henderson, Nevada. She had been receiving hospice care for melanoma cancer which had metastasized. Natalie's passing was five weeks before her 70th birthday.

Natalie Smith was born at St. Joseph Hospital in Burbank. She grew up in the 700 block of Hampton Rd. in Burbank, and attended Thomas Jefferson Elementary, John Muir Junior High, and her first year of high school at BHS before she left after her sophomore year in 1967. She was part of the BHS '69 class her sophomore year. In recent years Natalie divided her time between her homes in Salmon, Idaho and Henderson, Nevada.

Natalie was widowed. She is survived by five children, Nathan Woodward, Heidi Woodward Osborne, Breana Rue, Chris Banta, and Julia Banta Locke. Natalie also leaves 12 or 13 grandchildren. Natalie's older brother, Christopher Smith, passed away in early 2021 in Salmon, Idaho due to a heart attack. He was 70. He was Natalie's only sibling. Their parents are both deceased.

Natalie Smith and Krenn Wilkinson were neighbors as girls on Hampton Rd. in Burbank, and have remained life-long close friends. The second photo is the two of them in recent years during happy times. Krenn Scott

 By Alan Landros June 20, 2021

Debra Jean Baumgartner May, BHS 1969

Debra Jean Baumgartner May, BHS 1969

Debi (Baumgartner) May went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 8, 2021. 

Debbie was born on December 12, 1950 in Glendale, California. She graduated from Burbank High School in 1969 before coming to Denton, Texas in 1970. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Millie Baumgartner, and her brother, Rev. John D. Baumgarnter. 

She is survived by her husband of Michael, as well as four children and their spouses, David (Terah) of Irving, Rebecca (Jared) of Denton, Jennifer (Brandon) of Denton, and Melissa (Matt) of Denton; nine grandchildren – Nicholas, Mackenzie & Karleigh Johnson, Nathan & Sarah St. John, William & Ashley Fowler, Marcus Tolson, Marley Basham; and one great-grandson, Jesse Johnson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 15 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Mulkey-Bowles-Montgomery funeral home, 705 N. Locust St. Funeral service will Thursday, September 16 at 10 a.m. at Central Baptist Church, 2221 N. Carroll Blvd.

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.

Carol Jane De Hart King, BHS 1969

Carol Jane DeHart-King, BHS 1969

March 9, 1951 Los Angeles Co, CA - September 14, 2021 San Luis Obispo Co, CA

With great sorrow, I share the passing of my dear twin sister, Carol. The nasty C took an angel, if one believes in earthly ones. All the attributes she possessed during her healthy years, never disappeared during her year long ordeal; serving and caring for others, her selflessness, courage, discipline and kindness all while maintaining her fun sense of humor as she dished out hearty laughs to my silly jokes. She loved people and many loved her in return. She was a loving mother to Eric and Lindsay, and a caring and loving wife to her husband, David King. 

Carol dearly loved her brother Dean. She was Auntie Carol, loved by her nieces and nephews who will surely miss her. Carol loved all living creatures, especially her cats and dogs. We send our love and gratitude to Lindsay for all of the tender loving care she delivered to Carol 24/7 and to her husband Greg for his solid support. 

To all of Carol’s friends, thank you for your phone calls, visits, concern, kindness, and support. She was so appreciative. Karen has lost a best friend, and I a best twin. Knowing that Carol no longer suffers is the best remedy for our deep pain. She left us all with the best gifts ever, wonderful memories of a beautiful and truly special woman. 

Plans are pending to celebrate Carol’s life.

Sandra Lee Herzog Frankel, BHS 1969

Sandra Lee Herzog Frankel, BHS 1969

October 31, 1951 – January 30, 1997

Los Angeles Times, Saturday, February 1, 1997

Sandra Lee Herzog Frankel, 45, Burbank, Administrative Judicial Secretary for Los Angeles Superior Court. 

Kiefer and Eyerick Mortuary, Glendale, handling the arrangements. No other details at this time. May she rest in peace!

John Henry Niers, BHS 1969

John Henry Niers, BHS 1969

SEPTEMBER 26, 1951 – AUGUST 16, 2023

IN THE CARE OF - Weerts Funeral Home

John H. Niers, 71, of Davenport, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at Genesis East Medical Center. Per his request cremation rites have been accorded. Following the cremation he will be inurned at the Muscatine Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials in John’s name may be made to the Humane Society of Scott County.

John was born on September 26, 1951 in the Netherlands to John and Bernadina Niers. John and his family immigrated to the United States in 1956. He was a 1969 graduate of Burbank High School. Following high school, he enlisted with the United States Army and served for six years. John married Carolyn Metcalfe on April 27, 1974 in Burbank, California. Shortly after their two children were born John and Carolyn moved to Davenport. John became an official United State Citizen in the early 1980’s. While in Davenport, John worked as a Medical Assistant at St. Luke’s Hospital in the Pathology Department. He later went on to work at Vera French as Administrative Staff and retired from Vera French after 27 years in June of 2014. John also enjoyed driving limos for Luxury Limousines. He enjoyed watching movies, going on vacation with his family, and spending time with his pets. John was an excellent joke teller and his jokes will be greatly missed.

Those left to honor his memory are his wife of 49 years, Carolyn; children Caryn (Ed) Wright and Bryan (Lori) Niers; and his grandson Dylan Niers. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings Harry, Hetty, and Marion.

Dale Alan Criscione, BHS 1969

Dale Alan Criscione, BHS 1969

Los Angeles Times, Friday, June 26, 1987

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Cerebral Palsy Pre-nursey, 7630 Gloria Ave., Van Nuys, California, 91405. Services 3 p.m., Saturday, June 27, 1987 at Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn, Hollywood Hills, California. 

Robert J.M, Cross, BHS 1969

Robert "Bob" Cross
January 22, 1951 - October 11, 2012

Robert (Bob) J.M. Cross, 61, of Flagstaff, AZ died peacefully at home on October 11th, 2012 of a T Cell Lymphoma. He was born on January 22, 1951 in Los Angeles, CA to William Earnest Cross and Ethel Mae Cross. 

Bob was the 4th of 6 children. He grew up in the greater Los Angeles area. He was married in September 1973 to Jane Cross. The family moved to Flagstaff in 1977. He was employed by W.L. Gore for 22 yrs and the last 13 was employed by Walgreens DC. 

Bob was an avid hiker & backpacker. One of his major accomplishments was hiking all of the 14k-ers in the San Juan Range, CO. There was also countless backpacking trips in the Grand Canyon. Reading American History was another love of his. Bob's commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ was the most important part of his life.

He is survived by wife Jane, daughter Heidi Kenney (Omar), granddaughters Kaya & Luna, son Steve (Leah), grandson Jezreel, granddaughter Zuriella, son Joshua (Mary), mother Ethel Cross, brother Bill Cross (Cindy), sister Barbara Vincent (Mike), sister Wanda Ratliff (Doug), and brother Frank Cross.

He is preceded in death by his father William and his brother and best friend, George Cross.

A memorial service will take place Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 3pm at Christ Church of Flagstaff, 3475 East Soliere Ave. 86004. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Northland Hospice, as they took wonderful care of Bob and Jane though this process: Northland Hospic, PO Box 997, Flagstaff, Arizona 86002.

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.

Mark DeWitt Williamson, BHS 1969

Mark DeWitt Williamson, BHS 1969

July 9, 1951, Born in St. Louis, MO - September 1, 2018

Resided in St. Charles, MO

Mark DeWitt Williamson, Sr., of Saint Charles, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, September 1, 2018 at the age of 67. Beloved son of Marvin DeWitt Williamson and the late Agnes M. Williamson; devoted father of Kerri Williamson, Mark (Becky) Williamson, Jr., Ashley Williamson, and Christopher Williamson; proud grandfather of Aniyah Williamson-Curry, Aiden Williamson, Charlie Williamson, Mason Minardi, Desirae Giddens, Arabella Giddens, and Jeremiah Williamson; loving brother of Maryjo (Ron) Bass; and treasured uncle of Brandi Bass, Tyler Bass, and Jake Bass. He is also survived by his former wife, Patti Williamson and many extended family members.

Mark was a lover of all music. In his free time, he enjoyed reading and collecting memorabilia, especially from The Beatles. Mark was a DeMolay Mason. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family. Mark was loved by many and will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mark’s honor to the American Diabetes Association.

Visitation: Baue Funeral & Memorial Center, 3950 West Clay, 63301, Saturday September 8, 2018 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Service: Baue Funeral & Memorial Center, 3950 West Clay, 63301, Saturday September 8, 2018 4:00 pm. Interment: St. Charles Memorial Gardens, Saturday September 8, 2018

Published by the Baue Funeral-Crematory-Cemetery

Mark passed away from complications from diabetes.

Larry Alan Ehrlich, BHS 1969

Larry Alan Ehrlich, BHS 1969
JUNE 9, 1951 – JANUARY 22, 2020

IN THE CARE OF - Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park & Mortuary
Costa Mesa, CA
714-540-5554

It was posted on Facebook that Larry Alan Ehrlich, BHS 1969 passed away on January 22, 2020. Larry graduated from Burbank High School in 1969 and he was a member of the track team, enjoyed surfing, writing poetry and music,

This is from a Go Fund Me page for Larry's son Kolby

On Jan 22, 2020, our 7 year old cousin Kolby lost his father Larry suddenly and unexpectedly. Larry was a single father raising Kolby. Larry and Kolby were attached at the hip. Larry devoted all his time to Kolby. He gave him all that he had to give right down to taking him upstairs for bed with his last breath. Although Larry did not have much in finances to leave behind for Kolby, Larry gave him the most important thing...Love the greatest of all things.

Larry will be missed dearly.

Kolby is a smart young boy, advanced for his age and has a very bright future ahead of him largely due to Larry's constant involvement.

If you would like to contribute to this fund for Kolby it will be used to help with some of Kolby's immediate needs and for his future.

Lastly, we thank God our Father in Heaven who loves his child Kolby and who is always watching over him. For those of us here on Earth who love Kolby we will also watch over him and we will watch how God will take this heartbreaking situation and make it something good because God is good.

We thank you for your consideration to donate. May you and your families be blessed.

Eric and Michelle Johnson

Robert (Bob) J.M. Cross, BHS 1969

Robert "Bob" Cross

January 22, 1951 - October 11, 2012

Robert (Bob) J.M. Cross, 61, of Flagstaff, AZ died peacefully at home on October 11th, 2012 of a T Cell Lymphoma. He was born on January 22, 1951 in Los Angeles, CA to William Earnest Cross and Ethel Mae Cross. Bob was the 4th of 6 children. He grew up in the greater Los Angeles area. He was married in September 1973 to Jane Cross. 

The family moved to Flagstaff in 1977. He was employed by W.L. Gore for 22yrs and the last 13 was employed by Walgreens DC. Bob was an avid hiker & backpacker. One of his major accomplishments was hiking all of the 14k-ers in the San Juan Range, CO. There was also countless backpacking trips in the Grand Canyon. Reading American History was another love of his. Bob's commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ was the most important part of his life.

He is survived by wife Jane, daughter Heidi Kenney (Omar), granddaughters Kaya & Luna, son Steve (Leah), grandson Jezreel, granddaughter Zuriella, son Joshua (Mary), mother Ethel Cross, brother Bill Cross (Cindy), sister Barbara Vincent (Mike), sister Wanda Ratliff (Doug), and brother Frank Cross. He is preceded in death by his father William and his brother and best friend, George Cross.

A memorial service will take place Thursday, October 18, 2012 at 3pm at Christ Church of Flagstaff, 3475 East Soliere Ave. 86004. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Northland Hospice, as they took wonderful care of Bob and Jane though this process: Northland Hospic, PO Box 997, Flagstaff, Arizona 86002.

Norvel Owens Mortuary, Flagstaff, Arizona,

Michael Gonzalez, BHS 1969

From Michael Gonzalez's son, Luke

"It is with great sorrow and regret that I announce the passing of my dad earlier this morning January 12, 2020. He fought the courageous fight against the unrelenting and vicious force of cancer yet ultimately succumbed.

Though his end was not defined by this struggle.

The definition of his life was marked by countless stories and examples of inspiration, perseverance, and love. Many lives of his friends and family were graced by his presence, even those who never had the opportunity to meet him in person, as his friendship spanned through various cities and countries around the world.

Thank you immensely for everyone who kept him in their thoughts and hearts and please take solace in knowing that his pain is no more and that his legacy will continue in those that he helped and loved.

We will keep everyone updated on any future services.

Suzanne Virginia Decker Victoreen, BHS 1969

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

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

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

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

Patricia Moore Cervenka, BHS 1969

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

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

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

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

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

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


Celebration of Life will be held:

Saturday 12/21/19 at 11am

Grace Baptist Church

22833 Copper Hill Drive

Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Nancy Bennett Collins, BHS 1969

This was posted on Facebook by her sister as follows: "Heartbroken to lose my big sister, Nancy (Bennett) Collins BHS class of 1969. She is survived by two sisters, a son and daughter and her husband Martin Collins. No other details at this time.

Lois Jeanne Norton Mertens, BHS 1969

Lois Jeanne Mertens, born October 3, 1951 in Burbank, California, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 in her home. It was an unexpected loss because Lois was only 67 years old. She lived with Donald Mertens, her husband of 35 years, in Laguna Niguel, California. She was born to Darrell and Joan Norton (passed) and had one sibling, Don Norton (passed).

Lois lived in Burbank until she met her first husband, Joe English, and then moved to Miami, Florida. They had three children, Kim, Joe, and Jason which she loved dearly. After her divorce, Lois and the children moved back to California to live with her brother, Don, and his family. Lois later settled in Glendale, California to start her life as a single mother, working very hard to provide for her children. She always made time to give lots of love and care to her kids.

Eventually she met Don Mertens in “Parents without Partners” (PWP) in 1983 and this is where her life truly became an adventure. Don and Lois became very socially active building many great memories for themselves and their children. This included lots of camping and water ski trips with other PWP families where many good times were had. Lois became very athletic and joined competitive volleyball and softball teams with Don. Later in life with an “empty nest”, they went on trips all over the world. Lois’ favorite was Hawaii (several times) with Italy a close second.

Lois is survived by all three of her children all of whom she was super close to. Her oldest child, Kim Silvera, lives in Manhattan Beach, California and has two children named Jacob and Jessie along with her husband, Alby Silvera. Lois’ son, Joe English, lives in Parker, Colorado and has two children named Kaylynn and Mackayla along with his wife, Jennifer. Lois’ youngest son, Jason English, lives in Westchester, California. Being married to Don, Lois gained two children. The older is Jeff Mertens who lives in Sacramento, California and has a daughter named Jeneva along with his wife, Jennifer. The younger is Jill Desruisseau who lives in St. Augustine, Florida and has three children named Zachery, Cameron, and Morgan along with her husband, Steve.

Don and Lois created many great memories for all of their five children and eight grandchildren and were always involved in their lives. Lois also loved and spoiled her three dogs, Tahoe (black lab), Nakita (chocolate lab), and her current dog, Whitney (yellow lab).

Lois became an Executive Secretary at KPMG before retiring in 2000. She then did volunteer work at a local hospital. She was very involved with AA meetings and made many friends there in Laguna Niguel.

Lois was a beautiful person inside and out. She was supportive and kind and made friends very easily with her free spirit. Most people who knew Lois would say she was silly and fun and would always make them laugh. Her kids called her the “crazy lady” because of her usually funny comments and actions. She always had lots of energy until the last months of her life when her health was failing. Despite this she stayed positive and made the most out of every day. Lois was an awesome mother and grandmother, as well as an incredible wife. There’s nothing she wouldn’t do for her family and friends. She will be missed by all who knew her.

There will be two separate “Celebration of Life” open houses for Lois as follows:
• Saturday, July 27th from 12-6 at Kim’s house in Manhattan Beach, CA.
• Saturday, August 24th from 12-6 at Don’s house in Laguna Niguel, CA.
Family and friends are invited to come to either one. Please contact Kim or Don for details.

Cemetery Details
Miramar National Cemetery
5795 Nobel Drive
San Diego, CA, 92122

Steve Gary Kubelka, BHS 1969

Steve Kubelka 

April 23,1951-January 22,1990 

Steve left this world on Jan. 22 to join his lover, Charlie Weaver, who had passed away only seven weeks earlier. Steve bravely participated in the S.F. General Compound Q study last year in the hope that he could make a difference in the AIDS epidemic. That treatment failed to make a difference in Steve’s own life expectancy, though. Steve died of an AIDS-related illness with his mother at his side at Eisenhower Medical Center in Palm Springs. 

Steve was a longtime resident of San Francisco. He had just moved himself and his lover to Palm Springs in October. His hope was that he could extend both their lives in the more tranquil surroundings of the desert. 

Steve is survived by his parents, Bob and Pat of Burbank, his brothers, Bob Jr. and Mike, and the many friends he had in San Francisco. 

Steve devoted his life to Charlie. He constantly strived to better their lives. After Charlie was disabled by the effects of Compound Q, Steve was not satisfied to trust Charlie’s care to healthcare professionals. He made Charlie’s care and rehabilitation his full time job. 

Steve was also the best of friends. He was a great listener who was never judgmental. He was there to share the fun times and he was always supportive during the bad times. Steve was an avid collector of dance music and spent many hours mixing music and composing tapes for his friends’ enjoyment. He was greatly loved and is already sorely missed. 

A memorial of Steve’s life will be held during March. For information, please call 558-9037. Donations may be made in Steve’s name to the Shanti Project or the S.F. General AIDS Ward, Volunteer Program.

Randall Charles Unch, BHS 1969

Published in the Daily Review, Burbank, California, Monday, July 12, 1971
Fiery Sports Car Crash Kills 2 Burbank Men 

Two men burned to death Sunday when their small sports car went out of control, flipped over and burst into flames on Forest Lawn Drive one mile west of Zoo Drive. The victims were so badly burned they were first unidentifiable, a Los Angeles Police Department spokesman said.  

The victims were finally identified as Randy Unch, 20, of 1823 Karen, Burbank and his roommate, Charles Tabor, 35, formerly of Mercer, Colorado. A lighter found at the scene led to the identification by a brother of Unch, Daniel Unch of Burbank. Unch is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Joseph Unch, of 1830 Karen, Burbank. The parents are on vacation and have not yet been notified of their son's death. Police are attempting to locate them in Oregon.

A witness to the crash told officers that the car ran off the roadway, skidded and overturned. The motorist said he heard screams, and as he was attempting to help the two victims the car burst into flames. 

Police said the car skidded 207 feet on the roadway. They speculated that the car was traveling too fast for the curving roadway. The accident occurred at 5 am. Due to extensive damage to the car, police said they were unable to check the brakes.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Obituary, Burbank Daily Review, Burbank, California, Tuesday, July 13, 1971

R.C. Unch

Rosary for Randall Charles Unch will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Valley Funeral Home, 2121 W. Burbank Blvd. 

Requiem Mass for Mr. Unch will be celebrated at 9 a.m. Thursday at Saint Francis Xavier Church with interment at San Fernando Mission Cemetery.  Mr. Unch, who made his home at 1830 Karen, died Sunday in an automobile accident at the age of 20. A 1969 graduate of Burbank High School, he was a former member of Explorer Scouts post 217. He was a native of California. 

Mr. Unch is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Unch; a sister, Jacqueline; and two brothers, Kenneth and Darrell, all of Burbank.