Bret Matta, BHS 1980

Bret Matta, BHS 1980

February 25, 1962 — November 25, 2025

Bret Matta, 63, born on February 25, 1962, in Burbank, California, passed away November 25, 2025.

Born in Burbank, California, Bret Matta entered the world as a fighter—less than four pounds, alongside his twin brother, Bart. That early resilience carried through his entire life. As a teenager, he proudly lived up to his nickname “Mr. Excitement” —always at the heart of the day’s craziest story. He was well-known for his boundless energy, confidence, and the way he dove—literally—into everything he did, especially baseball. He was a standout player, willing to sacrifice his body for the out.

He built an honorable 40-year career in aerospace manufacturing, rising to become President of STADCO in Los Angeles. He led with dedication, humility, and genuine care for the people he worked with. He believed deeply in treating everyone with respect, and he developed close, meaningful relationships across every level of the company.

He was a die-hard Steelers fan from birth, and he carried that passion like fuel—arguing play calls, celebrating wins a little too loudly, and turning every game day into a show. In his twenties, he and his twin shared a boat and spent many days fishing and tearing across the water. He loved to explore new places, go to the beach, and being outdoors. He loved to crack jokes and always welcomed the kind of chaos that made each day with him unforgettable.

What defined him most, though, was his connection to people. He cared deeply and sincerely about everyone around him; His humor, timing, wit, and presence made people feel seen and welcomed. He was approachable, goofy, and always himself.

Above all else, he was a devoted husband and loving father. He planned with care, supported without hesitation, and showed up in every way that mattered, always. Whether it was attending his son’s football practices, answering his daughter’s late-night calls, or organizing family trips down to the cent, he was fully invested in the people he loved most. His devotion extended to every member of his family, including his childhood dog, Barney; his late cat, Goody; his beloved Riley; and his two loyal companions, Hampton and Gnocchi.

He is survived by his loving wife, Penny Matta; his son, Garrett Matta; his daughter, Rachel Matta; his older brothers, Bill and Bud Matta; his twin brother, Bart Matta; and all those who loved him.

He’ll be missed in this world, even as he’s welcomed into the next.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16

Service Schedule

Funeral Service of Bret Matta

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

12:30 - 1:30 pm (Pacific time)

Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills - Church of the Hills

6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Chris Ann Hogeland, BHS 1980

Chris Ann Hogeland, BHS 1980

September 7, 1962 - September 24, 2023

From Facebook

Dearest Friends and Family, it is with profound sadness that we let you know that the inimitable, ever-loving, kind, wise, gentle, creative, talented, funny, Chris/Christie Hogeland died unexpectedly (and without suffering) early on Sunday September 24th after a food (including a delicious shrimp/lime/cilantro salad Chris made) and fun filled evening with several good friends.

Chris was an art lover and enjoyed painting and art shows.

There will be a memorial art show in her honor to occur in the months ahead; details to be posted here. Donations to the Marfan Foundation https://marfan.org or to Housing Matters https://housingmatterssc.org are welcome. 

May she continue to reap in her afterlife all the love and goodness she sowed in this life…Peace Out. 

Frank Edward Forlano, BHS 1980

Frank Edward Forlano, BHS 1980

January 27, 1962 - June 30, 2025 

Frank was born on January 27, 1962 in Los Angeles County, California. The son of Louis Francis Forlano and Alice Bergman Forlano.

Frank grew up in Burbank, California and graduated from Burbank High School in 1980.

Sadly Frank passed away on June 30, 2025 in Palm Springs, California according to his sister Christine Forlane. She posted on facebook that her brother lived on and off down here in the desert with stints in Lake Tahoe, Puerto Rico, San Diego and Sacramento. He loved music and had a band at his community clubhouse. He loved to argue, watch Book TV and was basically a character. 

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Francis and Alice Bergman Forlano. Survived by his brother, Peter Forlano and sister Christine Forlano. May he rest in peace.

Mendi Shirley Enochs Leggett, BHS 1980

Mendi Shirley Enochs Leggett, BHS 1980

May 11, 1962 - April 6, 2025

Posted on facebook by Susan Pena MacCaskey...

Heartbreaking News - Mendi Enochs Leggett of Burbank High Class of 1980 passed away in a car accident in Texas a few days ago. The condition of her husband Danny, who attended JBHS, is currently unknown. Mindi is survived by her older sister Eddy Enochs and brother Dale. Her parents were the owners of Enochs Muffler. My sincerest condolences to her family, prayers and healing thoughts for Danny Leggett.

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Austin experienced a devastating crash on Lost Creek Boulevard, resulting in one fatality and two critical injuries. The incident highlights ongoing road safety issues in the city, marking the 23rd fatal crash of 2025. As the community mourns the loss, attention turns to the importance of vigilant driving and road safety awareness.

In a sobering turn of events, the city of Austin was rocked by a devastating crash this past Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred at around 2:35 p.m. on Lost Creek Boulevard, specifically in the 1100 block near the intersection with Loop 360. In a situation that no one wants to face, one life was tragically lost while two others sustained critical injuries.

The person who lost their life in this heart-wrenching incident was identified as 63-year-old Mendi Leggett. Despite the best efforts of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), who rushed to the scene and attempted life-saving measures, Leggett was pronounced dead at the spot. It’s a painful reminder of how quickly things can change and how precious life truly is.

Meanwhile, two other adults who were in the same vehicle as Leggett were transported to St. David’s South Austin Medical Center. Fortunately, after receiving immediate medical attention, their injuries were later deemed non-life-threatening. While they remain in recovery, their situation highlights the unpredictable nature of road safety.

Details of the Crash

The crash involved two vehicles, with Leggett and the two injured individuals in one vehicle, while the other vehicle’s driver and passenger emerged unscathed. It’s reassuring to know that the driver of the second vehicle cooperated fully with investigators and was confirmed not to be impaired at the time of the crash. Nonetheless, the community is left reeling from the emotional toll of the day.

Impact on Traffic and Safety

As a result of the incident, southbound Loop 360 faced shutdown for several hours, causing disruption for drivers in the area. The highway was reopened later that evening, but the impact of such tragic events echoes far beyond just traffic flow. It invites a greater conversation about road safety and the importance of vigilance while driving.

Christopher J. Bettencourt, BHS 1980

Christopher J. Bettencourt, BHS 1980

Christopher J. Bettencourt was born on November 17, 1962 and he passed away in Los Angeles County, California on August 10, 2007. According to a facebook post awhile back a classmate said that Chris choked on a piece of food. Chris's official cause of death from the Los Angeles County Medicial Examiner was listed as an accident at his residence due to Aspiration of Food Bolus. Christopher was just 44 years old. Gone too soon. May he rest in peace.

Lisa Marie Kadley Gisler, BHS 1980

Lisa Marie Kadley Gisler, BHS 1980

Published in the Statesman Journal, Salem, Oregon on July 29, 1991

Liasa Marie Gisler, May 28, 1962 - July 20, 1991

IRVINE, California - Lisa Marie Gisler, 29, died July 20, 1991. She was born in California and graduated from from the University of Southern California with a master's degree in business administration. She was director of acquisitions for a development corporation.

She married Thomas Gisler, formerly of Aumsville, on June 9, 1990, in Hollywood, California.

Survivors include her husband; parents, Charles and Eileen Kadley of Newport Beach, California; and sister, Kristen Kadley Murray of Washington, D.C. 

Services were held Thursday in Irvine, California.. Contributins may be made to a memorial fund at South Coast Community Church, 5120 Bonita Canyon Drive, Irvine, California, 92715.

 

Martha "Marta" Talavera, BHS 1980

Martha "Marta" Talaverda. BHS 1980

On January 7, 2020, Elsie Franchini-Estes posted this photo and sad note...

‎Last night my precious, loving, goodhearted, and God devoted aunt, Marta Talavera class of 1980. She fought until her last breath. If you ever had the privilege of meeting her you know she made a difference in your life for the positive. 

She raised 4 beautiful children who will pass on her legacy. Aunt Marta you were taken too young but boy did you leave your beautiful imprint on this earth. I thank God for choosing me to be your first niece. I will still be talking to you every day. I love you more than you know. Have fun with Abuela and keep dancing!!! 

Terry Neil Pruett, BHS 1980

Terry Neil Pruett, BHS 1980

Terry Neil Pruett was born on October 12, 1962 in Tennessee and passed away on March 18, 1991. He was married on February 19, 1983 in Clark County, Nevada to Deborah May Youngs. According to his brother Terry died of a drug overdose. Terry was a loving husband, father, brother and son. As a child growing up Terry enjoyed playing the drums.

One of Terry's classmates remember Terry was a really kind and funny guy. Another classmate remembered him as a sweetheart  Everyone in the Class of 80 loved him! No other details at this time.

Terry Neil Pruett was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Hollywood Hills, California. May he rest in peace! Terry is loved and missed by all who knew him.

Janet Lee Blum, BHS 1980

Tampa Bay Times, Tampa, Florida, Wednesday, May 11, 1988

VAN CRASHES INTO CAR, KILLING WOMAN

Clearwater- One woman was killed and another was injured Tuesday afternoon in an accident on U.S. 19 near an entrance to the Countryside Village Shopping Center.

Janet Blum, 26, of 1955 Hastings Drive in Clearwater was a passenger in a small car that was hit broadside by a van on U.S. 19, police said. She was taken by helicopter to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg where she died shortly after arriving, according to a hospital spokeswoman.

Clearwater police Sgt. Ken Donagan gave this account of the 4:20 p.m. accident:
A 1975 Dodge van driven by Joseph M. Nowokunski, 44, of 370 N Westwinds Drive in Palm Harbor, was northbound on U.S. 19, apparently traveling in the far right safety lane, Donagan said. A 1984 Honda Civic driven by Stacy Kirker, 20, of 2407 Azalea Drive W in New Port Richey was turning left into the shopping center when it was struck broadside by the van, Donagan said. 

"It didn't appear (the van) was intending to turn here (at the shopping center entrance)," Donagan said, "If you are traveling in the right turn lane, you are required by law to turn. She probably thought he'd be turning." Ms. Kirker was taken to Morton Plan Hospital, where she was in good condition Tuesday night. Nowokunski was not hurt.
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The Tampa Tribune, Tampa, Florida, Friday, May 13, 1988

POLICE CONTINUE ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION
Clearwater- Police were continuing their investigation Thursday into a two-car accident that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old Clearwater woman. Janet Blum was pronounced dead at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg shortly after the Tuesday afternoon accident near the entrance to Countryside Village Shopping Center on U.S. 19. Blum a passenger in the car, was transported to Bayfront aboard the Bayflite ambulance helicopter.
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The Tampa Bay Tribune, Tampa, Florida, Saturday, May 14, 1988

DRIVER FACES CHARGES IN CONNECTION WITH ACCIDENT
Clearwater- A 44-year-old Palm Harbor man was charged with careless driving Friday in connection with the fatal accident Tuesday, police said.

Joseph M. Nowokunski, 370 N. Westwinds Dr., was charged in the accident that claimed the life of 26-year-old Clearwater resident Janet Blum of 1955 Hastings Dr., said police Lt. Jack Dowling. 
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Tampa Bay Times, St. Petersburg, Florida, May 14, 1988

Janet Lee Blum, 26, of Clearwater, died Tuesday (May 10, 1988) at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, Florida, of injuries suffered in an automobile accident. She came here several months ago from California. She was a secretary at an air-conditioning company. 

Survivors include her mother and stepfather, Valerie and Brian Delmastro, and a sister, Donna Fligg, all of California; and her maternal grandmother, Ruby Parker of England. Wilder and Fuss Funeral Home, Clearwater handled the arrangements.

David Karl Humble, BHS 1980

David Karl Humble, BHS 1980

Burbank Daily Review, Monday, March 15, 1982

Motorcyclist dies, Passenger injured

Burbank - A Burbank man is dead and his teenaged passenger is scheduled for surgery this morning after his motorcycle hit a car making a turn Sunday. Tammy Hansen, 16, was listed in serious condition at Saint Joseph's Medical Center hospital authorities said.

Killed in the accident was David Karl Humble, 20, of Burbank. Humble was pronounced dead shortly before midnight of multiple internal injuries at Burbank Community Hospital. Humble with Hansen as passenger was driving his motorcycle down Glenoaks Boulevard at a high rate of speed, witnesses told police. Meanwhile Harriet Ramona Phillips, 52, of Burbank was turning into a driveway near Myers Street when Humble hit her broadside, according to reports.

The motorcycle lodged under the center of Phillip's vehicle, police said. Phillip's was uninjured. Hansen sustained a fractured left wrist, a broken Jaw, numerous cuts and abrasions, loss of teeth and contusions, according to report. Traffic officers are investigating the accident. 

Donald De Forest Warren, Jr., BHS 1980

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

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

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

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

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

Hopson-Anspach Family Mortuary, Lamont, Directors

Douglas Craig Ward, BHS 1980

Douglas Craig Ward, Burbank High Class of 1980  
June 14, 1961 to March 12, 2019

Posted on Facebook

Douglas Craig Ward, passed away at City of Hope, Duarte, CA. March 12, 2019 from Stage four melanoma cancer diagnosed in January gone in two months at 57 years old after finding late in life love, only a year and a half prior. Life cut way too short. He was an awesome human being, friend, co worker and an incredible musician. He worked at IKEA for almost 26 years. No other details at this time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekYJE16bMwY&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR3Mbwukq1IfuBjAyyt-Kkr-nfpTNBg2QNQaPbaGI0mPu8D3dwFKtv9ocoE

Pamela Jean Ardizzone Stacy, BHS 1980

Pamela Jean Ardizzone Stacy
April 12, 1962 - May 1, 2015

Tehachapi News, May 8, 2015

Pamela is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Scott; her mother, Dorothy and sisters, Dana and Jodean (Jim); her loving fur babies Reagan Jean and Shelby Anne Kelcee and many family and friends. Thank you to the Petrolock family.

Services were held May 9, 2015 at Halley Olsen Murphy Funerals and Cremations, 44831 N. Cedar Ave., Lancaster. Donations can be made in Pamela's name to The Seeing Eye Dog Foundation.
To Our Loved One

 

Life has happiness, joy and sorrow
But never promises about tomorrow
your smile, laugh and loving touch
A happiness you gave no one can touch
Life is unfair when it takes anyone
These words you will hear flowing
from every tongue
We all sit and ask ourselves why
But deep inside we know even the
good must die.
It is Hard to let go of the ones we love
We must remember they are with God above
You have now taken your place with the best
Our loving God and Eternal rest.

Cynthia Laureen Martens Catlin, BHS 1980

Cynthia Laureen Martens Catlin, BHS 1980
September 7, 1963 - April 22, 2011

Cynthia Laureen Martens Catlin passed away on April 22, 2011 Good Friday after a struggle with Lung Cancer. She was 47.

Celebration of her life will be at 10579 Art St.Shadow Hills, CaliforniaSaturday, 4-30-11 at 3pm. I lieu of flowers please send donations to Montgomery County Food Bankwww.MontgomeryCountyFoodBank.com

Brian Douglas Duffield, BHS 1980

Brian Douglas Duffield, BHS 1980

Brian Douglas Duffield, an avid musician, runner, hiker and bicyclist who worked in UCLA’s Graduate Division, died on Dec. 28, 2010 from plasma cell leukemia. He was 48.

Duffield joined the Graduate Division in 2006, where he worked in the Office of the Vice Chancellor and Dean. In 2008, he joined the division's Office of Admissions/Student & Academic Affairs. Among his contributions, he played a role in implementing a new online application for graduate admissions and assisted with a comprehensive departmental program review process in conjunction with the Graduate Council and Academic Senate. Previous to joining UCLA, he worked in the music industry and for Fox Sports. He was pursuing an M.B.A. from Cal State Northridge at the time of his death.

A Los Angeles native, Duffield possessed a lifelong passion for music. He earned a B.A. in music industry studies from Cal State Northridge and studied at the Music Institute in Hollywood. A drummer, he played with several local bands. He also helped UCLA’s Friends of Jazz stage “A Great Day in L.A.” a 2008 gathering of more than 250 jazz artists, vocalists, composers and arrangers on the 50th anniversary of Art Kane's legendary photograph, “A Great Day in Harlem 1958.”

He also enjoyed sports and the outdoors as a hiker, bicyclist and runner, completing two Los Angeles Marathons, in 2006 and 2008. Duffield is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and two sons, Ian and Noah.

Derek Winters, BHS 1980

Derek Winters, BHS 1980

Derek Winters

JUNE 14, 1961 - AUGUST 19, 2010

Derek Winters passed away on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at his home in Burbank. He was married for 21 years to Sandi Winters.

He is survived by his wife, Sandi Winters; son Walter (Veronika Esquivel-Winters) Winters; grandchild; Cody Winters; sister, Lori (Jack Brochu) Hughes-Brochu; father, Kenneth Winters; and numerous extended family members and friends. Born in Los Angeles, California on June 14, 1961,

Derek was a Garage Attendant for LAPD for 26 years. He will be remembered for his warm and giving personality, always willing to welcome guests to his home. Derek will also be remembered for the uncanny ability to use his wit at the perfect moment.

Memorial services, Wednesday, August 25, 2010, 1:00 p.m., at Valley Funeral Home, 2121 W. Burbank Blvd., Burbank. VALLEY FUNERAL HOME WWW.ValleyFuneralHomeBurbank.com Burbank (818) 845-3766

Published in Los Angeles Daily News from August 24 to August 25, 2010

David (Dave) Lee Shurman, BHS 1980

David (Dave) Lee Shurman, BHS 1980

Former GCC football staff member dies

August 20, 2005 , Glendale News Press, Charles Rich

Dave Shurman, who recorded game film for the Glendale CommunityCollege football team for 11 years, died Wednesday at his Van Nuys home. He was 43.

Shurman had been suffering from a kidney ailment, family members said. Shurman, who graduated from Burbank High in 1980 before briefly attending Glendale College, filmed most of Glendale College's football contests from 1986 to 1997.

Born Aug. 16, 1962, in Los Angeles, Shurman managed the Burbank High baseball and boys' basketball teams from 1977-80. Shurman earned a spot on the Glendale College football program's staff, videotaping team practices and home and road contests. Under Glendale College football coaches Jim Sartoris and John Cicuto, Shurman's talents helped the coaching staff break down film in a timely fashion. "He was a true warrior who just amazed me," said Cicuto, who has coached the Vaquero program since 1989. "He's a special person in my life, and he overcame so much with a bad kidney and he did so in a valiant way.

"Dave never wanted anybody to feel sorry for him. "He had a tremendous amount of pride in his work for us." Cicuto said Shurman's work proved to be invaluable in allowing the Vaqueros to make the necessary adjustments for upcoming games. "His work was critical for us," Cicuto said. "He'd come in on a Sunday morning and view it, and then he'd ask my opinion on the filming.
"Another time, I was teaching a basketball class at night, and he came in and challenged the basketball players to a free-throw shooting contest. "I was just thinking about him because usually he would call me to get in to the college."

Peter Stone, Shurman's first cousin, said Shurman attended numerous sporting events around Los Angeles. Stone said Shurman attended many Los Angeles Dodgers games and enjoyed visiting Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. "He loved to go to the race track," said Stone, a Burbank resident. "He really loved basketball, and wasn't afraid of anything concerning his health."

Nicole Peterson, Shurman's younger sister, said Shurman was an ideal brother. "He was very witty," said Peterson, who played softball and basketball at Burbank High. "It was about what he could do for people. He went above and beyond the duties of a brother. "He had a lot of health problems and took it in stride, but he couldn't participate in any sports after his health had declined the past few years."

Survivors include his wife, Maribel Shurman of Van Nuys; his father, Clifford Shurman of Roseville; his mother, Barbara Bailey of Valencia; four sisters, Nicole Peterson of Stevenson Ranch, Carolyn Perez of Whittier and Sandy Villagran and Cheryl Owens of Sacramento; one brother, Chris Horn of Redmond, Ore.; four nieces and three nephews.

Peterson said public services for Shurman will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park, 10621 Victory Blvd., North Hollywood.

Terry Volland, BHS 1980

From the Daily News of Los Angeles (CA) - Saturday, October 13, 2007

TERRY VOLLAND, BHS 1980

Terry died suddenly on Saturday, October 6, 2007. He was born on October 16, 1961 in Crookston, Minnesota, and moved to Burbank with his family in 1966. He was preceded in death by his brother, Scott. Terry is survived by his children, Matthew and Krysta, and their mother Cindy; his father, Loren; his mother, Jan; and brother, Michael.

Terry grew up in Burbank, graduating from Burbank High School in 1980. He and Cindy Clark, also a graduate of Burbank High School, were married on May 16, 1992, and were blessed with two wonderful children. He was active in many sports, with a particular love of surfing, golfing and motorcycle riding. He was employed as a union plumber for many years, and most recently in the construction field. Terry had a knack for being able to build or fix just about anything, and his innovative ideas w ere much appreciated by everyone. Terry enjoyed the camaraderie of many friends and was loved by all. He will be sorely missed.

A Memorial Service will be held at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 133 N. Fifth Street in Burbank, on Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to an account established for the benefit of Matthew and Krysta. The account, which is in their names, is at the Burbank Community Federal Credit Union, 3000 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, 91505.

NOTE: Cause of death Asphyxia/Drowned/Accident according to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner.