Mary Arvella Madden, February 22, 1912~August 21, 2002
Loving mother of JoAnn (Robert) Maloney and Nancy Ricketts; cherished grandmother of seven and great grandmother to ten. Mary will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but kept alive in our hearts. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Isabella's on August 28, 2002 at 10 a.m. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Ave., Corte Madera, 94925. 

Stanley T. Pasternak
Passed away on August 22, 2002, at the age of 72 from cancer. He was a longtime resident of Tiburon and native of Cleveland, Ohio. President of Taylor Investment Co. San Francisco, a real estate firm specializing in retail leasing and hotels. A former member of Harbor Point Tennis Club and the San Francisco Rotary Club. He is survived by his wife Lynn; brother Charles of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and a niece and nephew. Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of His Life on Sunday August 25, 2002 at 4:00 PM at Peacock Gap Golf and Country Club in San Rafael where he was a member. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your favorite charity. 

Angelina Colombo
Passed away on August 21, 2002, at her home in San Rafael at the age of 96. She was born in Jackson, California and was a San Rafael resident for 75 years. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard and her son Richard D. She is survived by her son John and his wife Jean; sister Alice Jewett and brother Leo Soares. She was the loving grandmother of six grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at Mission San Rafael Arcangel on Monday, August 26, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. Entombment Mt. Olivet Cemetery, San Rafael. Memorial contributions preferred to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 94925. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571. 

Nancy Strecker Dunlap
Died peacefully at home in San Rafael August 17, 2002 in the company of her husband Philip and her two daughters, Jennifer and Kelly. She lost the final battle in a five-year fight with cancer. A former employee of Kaiser Permanente in San Rafael, Nancy worked the last five years as a volunteer in the Evidence Dept. of the Novato Police Dept. where Jennifer is a police officer. Daughter Kelly lives in Sacramento. Born in San Francisco in 1949, Nancy grew up in Daly City, graduating from Westmoor High in 1967. After attending College of San Mateo, she went to work in the data center of the former United California Bank in San Francisco, where she met her future husband, Philip with IBM. Their first daughter, Jennifer, was born in 1976 followed by Kelly in 1979. A Celebration of her Life is scheduled for Thursday, August 29 at 2 PM in the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road near Diablo Ave., Novato. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Marin Humane Society, 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato 94949. 

Angela Nicoletti-LaPlant Age 82, 9/27/19 ~ 8/22/02
Survived by husband, Arthur LaPlant, son and daughter, Robert and Laura Nicoletti. Angela had nine grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and one expected great grandson. She was a native of Turin, Italy. She came to the United States at the age of 14. She married Anthony Nicoletti and raised their two children in Marin County. After being widowed, she married Arthur LaPlant and moved to Sonoma. She was a member of the S.F. Opera and a beloved member of the Saint Sebastian's Choir in Kentfield. She will be dearly missed by all whose lives' she touched. Funeral Services are at Saint Sebastian's in Kentfield. Rosary is 7 p.m., Sunday, August 25th. Mass at 11:00 a.m., Monday, August 26th. A Gathering immediately following Mass at the Church Hall. The family is requesting flowers be sent to the church. 

Ken Cummings
Passed away August 13th, 2002. He was a resident of Larkspur for 40 years. Ken is survived by Ellie McGill, his two daughters Beverlee Watson of San Francisco, Kimberly Brooks of Tiburon and 12 grandchildren. Services are private. 

Leona Lanci Galloway
After a courageous battle with cancer, Leona Lanci Galloway passed away on August 17, 2002 at her Walnut Creek home with her two sons at her side. Leona was a loving mother and grandmother, teacher, gardening enthusiast and avid hiker with a great love for Mt. Diablo and Yosemite National Park. As a devoted member of the Sierra Club, Leona was an avid outdoors woman who combined her love of teaching with her love of the outdoors. She shared her love of nature with her family, friends and the students she taught during her many years at the Mt. Diablo School District. She was most recently Docent Coordinator at Ruth Bancroft Gardens. She helped establish the children's program with third grade classes from Valley Verde Elementary School. She adored spending time in The Garden and working as a docent. Her friends and colleagues remember her with love and appreciation. Leona was born January 22, 1928 in San Francisco. She graduated from Tamalpais High School in 1945 and attended College of Marin, U.C. Berkeley, and graduated from San Francisco State with a teaching degree. While attending college, she worked during the summers at Yosemite National Park. Her exposure to Yosemite was the start of a lifelong love of the outdoors. Last summer she completed one of her many hikes at Tuolumne Meadows and the Yosemite high-country. One of Leona's first jobs was as a director for the Campfire Girls of Marin County. She then taught biology in the Marin County School System. She started her family in Campbell, California and then moved to Walnut Creek. She was instrumental in starting a youth counseling service at Planned Parenthood of Contra Costa County and worked as a teacher at Walnut Creek Psychiatric Hospital. Leona is survived by son Anthony Misner and grandson Austin of Oakhurst, California; son John Misner, daughter-in-law Angela Astore Misner and grandsons Christopher and Michael of Atlanta, Georgia; sister Elaine Lanci; nieces Kathleen Tyson, Laurie McKenzie and Nancy Starr; and cousin Joe Lanci. Leona's body was cremated and her ashes will be scattered by her sons during a hike in the Sierra prior to her Memorial Service. The Memorial Service to honor her life will be held on Tuesday, August 27th at 11:00 a.m. at Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette. Leona's family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations in her memory be made to the Leona Galloway Education Fund, Ruth Bancroft Gardens, P.O. Box 30845, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 or to your preferred charity including your local chapter of Hospice. A tribute to Leona can be found on the web at www.ruthbancroftgardens.org. Directions to the Church can be found at www.lopc.org. 

Karel Langer
Passed away in Marin County on August 20, 2002 at the age of 72. Born in the former Czechoslovakia and a citizen of four countries, Karel was proud to share his Czech heritage with his friends and family. As a survivor of the Holocaust, he was involved with the Shoah Visual History Foundation. Karel loved his garden, cooking for friends and family, classical music and a good bottle of wine. Living in Marin meant many walks on Mt. Tamalpais with his family and dogs. Karel founded The Chair Store in San Rafael in 1972. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his daughters, Pavla, Petra, Maya and her husband, Ned Segal. Karel will be greatly missed. At his request, there will be no services. Contributions may be made in Karel's memory to: Mt. Zion Health Fund/Alan Glassberg, UCSF Cancer Center, Attn: Jan Mantle, 1600 Divisadero Street, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94115. 

Gerry Owens
Of Greenbrae passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2002 at the age of 68. Gerry was a longtime resident of Marin County where she lived for over 35 years. Born in Hawaii and raised in San Francisco, Gerry moved to Woodacre in the early 1960's where she lived with her family until moving to Greenbrae four years ago. Gerry was a tireless volunteer for many local organizations including the Girl Scouts of America, the Marin County Fair and CASA of Marin (Court Appointed Special Advocates). She was Marin County's Volunteer of the Year in 1986 and most recently worked as a hostess for the San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau for ten years. As a Girl Scout leader for nearly 20 years she will be remembered as "Yellowbird" by scouts who knew her as a vivacious, caring woman. Gerry knew no strangers and was a friend to all. Her true passions were music, singing, and dancing. She fancied herself a writer and accomplished artist. A true storyteller and life of any party, Gerry was a vibrant woman who enjoyed life to the fullest. Active in the Corvette Club, Gerry often drove her corvette across country exploring and making new friends. Gerry was the wife of retired Fairfax veterinarian Dr. Chuck Owens for over 40 years. The couple was divorced in 1998. Gerry is survived by her two daughters and two sons-in-law: Tracy Owens and Bill Foster of Vacaville, California; Lynn and Gregg Gallagher of Petaluma, California; and two grandchildren Clay and Lauren Gallagher also of Petaluma. Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service and Celebration of Gerry's Life on Wednesday, August 28th at 11 a.m. at Monte's Chapel of the Hills, 330 Red Hill Avenue, San Anselmo. Contributions may be made to the Early Learning Institute of Rohnert Park. 

Mary S. Bomberger
Passed away on August 15, 2002. She was the mother of Jennifer Bomberger and Susan O'Neal, the grandmother of Mark Snyder, Amy Snyder, Brian O'Neal and Ashley Spaulding. She dearly loved her cats, Robin, Susie and Tinkerbelle. Mary was a wonderful friend to many and will be remembered by all. Donations in her memory may be made to: Marin Humane Society, 151 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato, CA 94949. 

Herbert H. Nienstedt
Passed away on August 7, 2002, at the age of 76. Mr. Nienstedt was born in Vancouver, British Columbia and lived the past 45 years in Corte Madera with his wife, Patricia, who survives him. He died on their 53rd Wedding Anniversary. He was a graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Washington, and received his master's degree from Ohio University, Athens, Ohio. A veteran of WW II and the Korean conflict, he served as a Navy medical corpsman assigned to the Marines. He will be remembered by many in Marin County for his years of community service with the American Red Cross, County of Marin's Emergency Services Committee, and Friends of the Library. He was Executive Director of Marin Property Owners Association for ten years, and served the past 20 years as legislative analyst for the Marin Builders Exchange. At his request, no formal services are planned. Memorial gifts may be sent to the Marin Builders Exchange Scholarship Program, 110 Belvedere Street, San Rafael CA 94901, or Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera CA 94925. 

Florence Virginia Russell (Castellano)
Of San Rafael passed away peacefully on August 2, 2002, in Marin County. Formerly of Novato and San Francisco, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Cecil Wesley Russell, Battalion Chief, Ret., S.F.F.D. Born in North Adams, Massachusetts, she attended Galileo High School in San Francisco, class of 1934. Loving mother of Marilyn Helwee and Cecile Hawkins of Marin County. Florence is survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at Valley Memorial Park, 650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, at 12PM, Saturday, August 24, 2002. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity. 

Thomas A. Ackley
Tom passed away at his home in San Rafael on August 14, 2002. He was the first born of his parents, Barbara and Arthur K. "Bud" Ackley on October 1, 1955 in San Rafael, California and was a 5th generation Marinite (1853). He graduated from St. Raphael's, Marin Catholic, U.C. Berkeley where he was Phi Beta Kappa, and Boalt Hall Law School. He joined the law firm of Titchell, Maltzman, Mark & Ohleyer where he became a partner. He took a great deal of pride in serving his clients to the best of his abilities and was also generous with pro bono work. Tom pursued a number of life-long interests with a great deal of passion and focus. He enjoyed reading, pets (particularly his cat "Sid"), fine food and wine, and music with his long-time friends. Tom had a wonderful sense of humor, a zest for living, an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and showed a sincere interest in everyone that he met. Tom is survived by his parents; his sister Stephanie (Ackley) Hyde, brother-in-law Darrell and nephew Ian; as well as his brother Richard Ackley, sister-in-law Lorna and nephew Jared; and his Aunt Marty Brown and many cousins. At his request, there will be no services. His ashes will be scattered in his beloved West Marin. Donations preferred to Pets Unlimited, 2343 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94115, Attn: Zoe Smith. 563-6700. 

Robert F. Bertrand
Passed away peacefully at his home in Petaluma, August 16, 2002, at the age of 65, with his loving wife Billie R. at his side. Robert was retired from the Marin County Sheriff's Office after 28 years. Robert was a member of the Petaluma Elks Lodge. He leaves behind, his son David and his wife, Leslie, and son, John. Three cherished grandsons, Joshua, Charles and Trevor Bertrand. Robert leaves a sister, Teresa Bertrand and a brother, Edmond Bertrand. Also survived by his aunt, Doris and many family and friends. Robert will be missed by all. A Memorial Service will be held, Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 2:00 PM at the Petaluma Elks Lodge, 2105 So. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma. Contributions may be made to Robert's memory to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran Street, Petaluma, CA 94925. PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Petaluma, California. 

Florence Ellen Dwyer
Died, August 15, 2002. Her passing is mourned by many. Among them are her daughter, Brighid Meghan Dwyer of Oakland, California, her father and siblings of Chicago, Illinois; and the many members of her extended family throughout the world. She will be remembered for her poignant, vanguard artwork, and the lighthearted, mischievous way she lived her life. A Memorial Service will be held at Mills College in Oakland, Friday, August 23, 2002 at 12:30 PM. Keaton's Redwood Chapel 1801 Novato Blvd. Novato 415-897-1151 

Robert James McHenry
Passed away peacefully on August 16, 2002. He was the beloved father to Susanne Stallworth, Teri Lynn McHenry and Robert James McHenry, Jr., and long time companion to Lucille Rankin. A wonderful man who enjoyed life to the fullest. Member of the Sons in Retirement and long time golf enthusiast. He was loved by many and will be remembered by all. A Memorial Service will be held on August 26, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. at Daphne Funerals Marin, 601 Tamalpais Drive in Corte Madera, California 94925. 

Christopher Scott Nickel
Passed away in Palm Springs, California on August 17, 2002 at the age of 42. Born October 12, 1959, Chris was a longtime Marin and Sonoma resident. Husband of Tammy A. Loeffler. Father of Katja Lynn. Son of John and the late Mardiese Nickel. Grandson of Martha Bristow. Brother of Greg Nickel. Uncle of Jamie, Kyle and Mardiese Nickel. Chris is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends who loved him. Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of his Life, Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 1:30 PM at McNear's Restaurant, Petaluma. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Okizu Foundation, 16 Digital Drive, Novato, CA 94949. Arrangements under the direction of ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville Street, Petaluma, California. Inurnment will be private. CHEDA & LYONS ~ 707-789-9000 

Florence Virginia Russell (Castellano)
Of San Rafael passed away peacefully on August 2, 2002, in Marin County. Formerly of Novato and San Francisco, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Cecil Wesley Russell, Battalion Chief, Ret., S.F.F.D. Born in North Adams, Massachusetts, she attended Galileo High School in San Francisco, class of 1934. Loving mother of Marilyn Helwee and Cecile Hawkins of Marin County. Florence is survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at Valley Memorial Park, 650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, at 12PM, Saturday, August 24, 2002. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity. 

Victor H. Sawdon
A 39 year resident of Marin County, passed away at his Greenbrae home on Sunday, August 18, 2002. Vic was 73. Vic is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Lorrie; two sons Andrew and Mark; his daughter-in-law Lori Best Sawdon; and his grandson Jeff. Vic retired from Wells Fargo Bank after a 39 year career as a banking officer. Vic was an active member of the community, who gave a great deal of his time, energy and leadership. He was especially devoted to the Boy Scouts in Marin County. Vic was an Eagle Scout, Silver Beaver recipient and member of the Marin Council Executive Board. Vic was also active with St. John's Episcopal Church in Ross, SIRS Branch #22, Mission Lodge No. 169 F&AM California, Royal Arch Masons California #1, Cryptic Mason of California #2, and Knights Templar of California #1. Friends are invited to a Memorial Service at St. John's Episcopal Church, 14 Lagunitas Road, Ross on Friday, August 23rd at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to your favorite charity or Marin Council Boy Scouts of America, 225 West End Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901. Monte's Chapel of the Hills San Anselmo ~ 415-453-8440. 

Dorothy Rose Texeira
Born November 29, 1935, passed away August 17, 2002 at Kaiser Hospital in San Rafael after a short and sudden illness. Dorothy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and traveled to San Francisco to attend the San Francisco College for Women (Lone Mountain College) where she majored in primary education. While attending school, she met her husband Edmund Texeira. The couple married upon her graduation. San Rafael became her home in the early 1960's where she and her husband raised their children. She was a tireless volunteer for many organizations including Catholic Social Services and Martinelli House. All of her friends knew of her avid love of bridge. Dorothy was the beloved mother of Kelly, Sandra, Jack, Leann and Cory and the devoted grandmother to Katie, Allie, Ryan, Katherine, Mark, Allison, Nicole, Kyle and Anna. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Friends and family are invited to attend a Vigil Service on Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 7:30 PM, as well as a Funeral Mass on Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 10:00 AM. Both Services will be held at St. Raphael's Church, 1104 Fifth Avenue in San Rafael. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Vincent dePaul Society. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571. 

Marie G. Rossi-Bonfiglio
Passed away, at age 77 on August 16, 2002. She was a native of San Francisco, California and graduated from Lowell High School. She worked in the steamship industry for a major part of her life. She is survived by her loving husband James Bonfiglio, her brother Alfred N. Rossi, her sister Gloria Schlette-Moore, her sister-in-law Vera Olson and her family. She was very close to her husband's four adult children and three grandchildren. She had several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and many friends. There will be no services. If so desired contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Marin in her name. She will be truly missed by all of those who loved her. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571. 

Jim Kinser
Passed away in Tiburon at the age of 53 years on August 17, 2002. Jim Kinser was a poet, a photographer and a scholar. Hanford, to his family and friends, graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a degree in Biology and completed the master's program in Environmental Science at University of San Francisco. From his mid-twenties he struggled with schizophrenia, working when he could, but mainly writing songs and poetry. Hanford was gregarious and outgoing, introducing himself and striking up conversation with those he met. He was often seen around Tiburon with his little dachshunds in tow, first Digger and in the past few years, Matilda. They would make the rounds to the bookstore, pet store and other local shops, especially those that carried dog treats. He was kind, sensitive and had a great intuition about the needs of others. Extremely intelligent, his depth and range of knowledge was exceptional. He was especially knowledgeable about nature. He knew native wild flowers, birds, reptiles, mammals and fish. He kept a small aquarium and was proud of his many generations of guppies. He liked to cook, especially BBQ. He was devoted to his mother Eileen Kinser with whom he lived in Tiburon for the past decade. He will be missed by Eileen, his sister Alannah Kinser of Sausalito, his brother Bill Kinser, sister-in-law Wendy and his two dear nephews Quin and Kegan Kinser of Gainesville Florida as well as numerous relatives in Australia and Tennessee. Friends and Family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 3 Oakdale Avenue, Mill Valley. Interment Mt. Tamalpais Cemetery in San Rafael. Memorial gifts preferred to the Enterprises Resources Center, c/o Community Action Marin, 29 Mary Street, San Rafael, CA 94901. RUSSELL & GOOCH FUNERAL CHAPEL 270 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley 415-388-1573. 

Robert James McHenry
Passed away peacefully on August 16, 2002. He was the beloved father to Susanne Stallworth, Teri Lynn McHenry and Robert James McHenry, Jr., and long time companion to Lucille Rankin. A wonderful man who enjoyed life to the fullest. Member of the Sons in Retirement and long time golf enthusiast. He was loved by many and will be remembered by all. A Memorial Service will be held on August 26, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. at Daphne Funerals Marin, 601 Tamalpais Drive in Corte Madera, California 94925. 

Barbara Balis Dexter Lohse Scrimgeour
Of San Rafael, California passed away Tuesday, July 9, 2002. Barbara was born October 25, 1917 in Montague, CA, graduated from Woodland High School, and married John S. "Jack" Lohse of Woodland, where she lived until moving to San Rafael, CA the late 1960's. Family was her greatest source of happiness. She also had a great love of nature and especially all animals - great and small. She is survived by her husband of 33 years, William Boyer Scrimgeour Jr. of San Rafael, CA; her daughter, Elisa Karen Warford of Woodland, CA; granddaughters and grandsons-in-law, Wendy and Steve Cooper of Sacramento and Shelley and Robert Day of Woodland, CA; nine great-grandchildren, Jason and Andrew Hall, Erica and Jacklyn Roach, Adrienne, Kristina, Jennifer and Brendan Day and Cody Cooper; sister and brother-in-law, Bethel "Betsy" and Pete Cunningham of Monte Sereno, CA; stepson and stepdaughter-in-law, Tom and Anita Scrimgeour of Yuba City; sister-in-law, Barbara Scrimgeour Hamilton of Galveston, Texas; nieces, nephews and their families; and her much-adored cats, Elizabeth and Tiger Boy. She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Alla Dexter, brothers, William and Robert Dexter, sister, Marjorie Stanley, stepson, Brad Scrimgeour, and stepdaughter, Candace Glenn. There will be a private Celebration of her life held in August. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the SPCA. 

Dorothy Rose Texeira
Born November 29, 1935, passed away August 17, 2002 at Kaiser Hospital in San Rafael after a short and sudden illness. Dorothy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and traveled to San Francisco to attend the San Francisco College for Women (Lone Mountain College) where she majored in primary education. While attending school, she met her husband Edmund Texeira. The couple married upon her graduation. San Rafael became her home in the early 1960's where she and her husband raised their children. She was a tireless volunteer for many organizations including Catholic Social Services and Martinelli House. All of her friends knew of her avid love of bridge. Dorothy was the beloved mother of Kelly, Sandra, Jack, Leann and Cory and the devoted grandmother to Katie, Allie, Ryan, Katherine, Mark, Allison, Nicole, Kyle and Anna. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Friends and family are invited to attend a Vigil Service on Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 7:30 PM, as well as a Funeral Mass on Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 10:00 AM. Both Services will be held at St. Raphael's Church, 1104 Fifth Avenue in San Rafael. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Vincent dePaul Society. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571. 

Robert James McHenry,
Passed away peacefully on August 16, 2002. He was the beloved father to Susanne Stallworth, Teri Lynn McHenry and Robert James McHenry, Jr., and long time companion to Lucille Rankin. A wonderful man who enjoyed life to the fullest. Member of the Sons in Retirement and long time golf enthusiast. He was loved by many and will be remembered by all. Memorial Service will be held on August 26, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. at Daphne Funerals Marin, 601 Tamalpais Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925-1632. 

Thomas M. Dever
Passed away on August 11, 2002. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Patricia. He was the much admired father of John and Bob, the adored father-in-law of Chrissie, the doting grandfather of Noelle and Sophie, and a beloved friend to “The Group” as well as countless others. Tom is also survived by his dear sisters, Joan Sackett and Jane Ferris, and their families. Born June 3, 1935, to Hazen and Leone Dever, Tom spent his youth in Detroit, Michigan. He attended MacKenzie High School and the University of Michigan. After serving in the Army, he moved to San Francisco, where he began a long career in the elevator industry. His work took him and his family to Arizona and Hawaii, before returning to the Bay Area. Tom lived in Kentfield for 22 years until 1997, when he took early retirement in Petaluma to pursue his favorite pastimes: golf, woodworking and grandfathering. He was a Big Sir for the Sons in Retirement, a devoted member of Serenity House and co-founder of the Absolutely No Reason golf tournament. Friends are encouraged to contact the family for details on the Celebration of Life, scheduled for early September. Those who wish to make contributions may make donations to the American Heart Association. 

Brandy Engel Died peacefully at home, surrounded by loving family and friends on July 27,2002 at age 57 after many years of illness. Beloved wife of Lewis Engel and loving mother of Nick Engel. A Memorial Celebration will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 7, at the Marin Art and Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross, California. 

William (Wild Bill) McMahon,
Of San Rafael passed away on Sunday, August 11, 2002 at his home. He was eighty years old. He was born September 12, 1921 in San Francisco and grew up in Fairfax, California. After serving with the Marines in World War II, Bill married Violet Monte and moved to Belmont, California. He owned a dry cleaning business in the area for thirty years. He returned to San Rafael for his retirement and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He was an active member of the Marin Rod and Gun Club. Bill was a storyteller-extraordinaire and the life of every party. He will be greatly missed by his children, Susan Cable of New York, Rich McMahon of Stockton, CA and Roger McMahon of San Mateo, CA and his six grandchildren. 

John Richard Michaels
Age 71, formerly of Mill Valley, died August 1, 2002 at his coastal home in Oriental, NC after a long illness. Memorial services will be held on September 17 at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD where Michaels graduated in 1954. Born May 8, 1931 in Chicago, IL, Michaels was a Naval officer, an engineer, a carpenter, a cat lover, and a devoted father. He married and raised two children in Marin County and retired from Pacific Gas & Electric as an analyst in San Francisco. He started a home improvement business, Homebody Inc., and later moved to the North Carolina coast to be near his children. He is survived by a son, Jason J. Michaels of Charlotte, NC; a daughter, Nicole Barnes of Gastonia, NC; two brothers, Donald B. Michaels of New Bern, NC and Richard W. Michaels of Lakeville, PA; and ex-wife Colleen Lancaster of Sheepscombe, England. Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity or any charity that helps cats. 

In Memoriam
ROBERT and AUGUSTA RIELLA
Joint Interment Services will be held for Robert Edward Riella and Augusta Marie Riella on August 31, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Marie was born August 11, 1913 in West Plains, Missouri. She retired from Marin General Hospital in 1970 as a Registered Nurse. She predeceased her beloved spouse of 55 years on May 1, 1997. Robert was born February 4, 1916 in San Rafael, California of a pioneer family. He was past president of the Native Sons of the Golden West Mt. Tamalpais Parlor #64 and past president of the Tamal Tribe Improved Order of Red Men #288. On March 1, 1978, he retired from the Marin Municipal Water District as a Meter Department Foreman. He died on July 9, 2002 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Both are survived by their son Robert V. Riella and daughter-in-law Carol L. Riella of Las Vegas, Nevada, and numerous nieces and nephews of the Bay Area. 

Thomas M. Dever
Passed away on August 11, 2002. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Patricia. He was the much admired father of John and Bob, the adored father-in-law of Chrissie, the doting grandfather of Noelle and Sophie, and a beloved friend to “The Group” as well as countless others. Tom is also survived by his dear sisters, Joan Sackett and Jane Ferris, and their families. Born June 3, 1935, to Hazen and Leone Dever, Tom spent his youth in Detroit, Michigan. He attended MacKenzie High School and the University of Michigan. After serving in the Army, he moved to San Francisco, where he began a long career in the elevator industry. His work took him and his family to Arizona and Hawaii, before returning to the Bay Area. Tom lived in Kentfield for 22 years until 1997, when he took early retirement in Petaluma to pursue his favorite pastimes: golf, woodworking and grandfathering. He was a Big Sir for the Sons in Retirement, a devoted member of Serenity House and co-founder of the Absolutely No Reason golf tournament. Friends are encouraged to contact the family for details on the Celebration of Life, scheduled for early September. Those who wish to make contributions may make donations to the American Heart Association. 

Ellouise Elizabeth Gabel
Born December 19, 1914, passed away August 10, 2002 at Smith Ranch Care Center in San Rafael. Ellouise was born in Oklahoma and trained as a nurse at Emmanuel College in Oregon qualifying in 1937. After completing her training, she traveled to work at Queens Medical Center in Hawaii where she met her husband Frank Gabel, Sr. who was a printer with the Army. Ellouise survived the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. Corte Madera became her home in the early 1950's where she and her husband started a printing business -- Gabel's Litho -- which they ran for more than 30 years. She was an active member of the Presidio Yacht Club and a tireless volunteer for the Red Cross at both Letterman and Travis military hospitals. Ellouise was the beloved mother of Eugenia, Paula, Frank Jr., Mark and Michael, and the devoted grandmother of Brian, Matthew, Christopher, Emily, and Alvero. She touched the lives of all who knew her and will be sadly missed. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick's Church, 114 King Street in Larkspur. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Ellouise Gabel to either of the following charities: Marin General Hospital Volunteers or Hanna Boys Center. RUSSELL & GOOCH FUNERAL CHAPEL 270 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley 415-388-1573. 

Kenneth D. Ritchie
A Seattle native and Fairfax resident for 63 years, died early Sunday morning after a long illness. He was 88 years old, and was preceded in death by his wife, Loretto, and his brothers Stanton and Leslie (Bette) Ritchie. Dearly beloved father of Edward Ritchie (Merle) of Danville and Patricia Pearson of Fairfax. Beloved grandfather of Sharon, James (Sarah) and Brian (Sherry), Timothy, Stephannie (Gil), Suzanne, and great- grandchildren Ashley, Charles, Caitlin, Andrew, Jacqueline, Kenneth, William, Samantha, Casey and Jamie, step-great grandfather of Rudie, Jordan, Erica and Ryan; beloved uncle of Robert Ritchie, Lesley Muller (Bruce), Marie Wright and the late Lorraine Calhoun and Gloria Ritchie. Youngest child of Robert James and Mary Anne Ritchie, Kenneth spent part of his early childhood in Hawaii before moving to Australia, where he spent a happy childhood in the company of his godmother, Any Yen, in the rural outback town of Adaminaby, New South Wales. He also attended Christian Brothers' High School and the Sydney Conservatory of Music. Arriving in San Francisco in 1928, he worked for Lachman Brothers and Standard Oil and attended University of San Francisco Law School. During the Second World War, Ken worked first as a timekeeper at Marinship in Sausalito, then as manager of the post- exchange at Hamilton Air Force Base. In 1945, Ken became a salesman/driver for Wonder Bread, serving markets in southern Marin until his retirement in 1975. He was a member of the Teamsters' Union, Local 484. Kenneth Ritchie served as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus San Rafael Council 1292, and was also District Deputy and Faithful Navigator of Archbishop Hanna General Assembly, Fourth Degree. He was a member of St. Rita's Parish in Fairfax for 63 years. In his retirement, Ken enjoyed cooking, reading and gardening, and traveled extensively throughout Europe and Australia. Friends may call on Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Keaton's Mortuary, 5th and E Streets, San Rafael, with Rosary to be said at 3:00 p.m. at the Mortuary. Funeral Services will be held Monday at St. Rita's Church in Fairfax at 11:00 a.m., with Entombment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in San Rafael. The family requests that donations be sent to Sara's Garden (Sara O'Hara Goosby), c/o Humboldt Botanical Gardens, P.O. Box 4914, Arcata, CA 95518. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571. 

Kevin Scott Noah
Died in a tragic accident in San Francisco on August 13, 2002. Born in Inglewood, CA, he was a current resident of Cotati, age 42 years. Following graduation from Novato High in 1978, Kevin began construction work as a carpenter working for many years for various companies throughout Marin County, including TriCor. Most recently, Kevin was employed by Shimmick Obayashi performing earthquake retrofitting on the Golden Gate Bridge. Kevin enjoyed fishing, hiking in the Sierras and loved the great adventure of the outdoors. Kevin's greatest passion was motocross racing, a sport he shared with his three boys. Kevin is survived by his father, Nathan Noah of Novato; mother, Sandra Noah of Cotati; and sons Brian and Nathan of Rohnert Park and Colt of Cotati. Other survivors include brother, Mark Noah of Novato, and sisters Marsha Noah of Bakersfield and Trish Martin, her husband Rob and daughters Christina and Sherri of Petaluma. Kevin is also survived by Cammie Noah and nieces and nephews, Mikaela and Cameron McAtasney, Jana and Casey Healy. He was dearly loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and coworkers. Friends are invited to attend the Funeral Liturgy, Saturday, August 17, 2002 at 11:00 AM at St. James Church, 125 Sonoma Mt. Pkwy., Petaluma. Arrangements under the direction of ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville Street, Petaluma, CA. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations may be made on behalf of Kevin's children to Bank of Marin, 799 Baywood Drive, Petaluma, CA 94954. Interment, Calvary Cemetery, Petaluma. CHEDA & LYONS ~ 707-789-9000. 

Alfons Fritz Skilandat
Alfons Fritz Skilandat was a professional hair stylist for over 40 years who owned and operated Alfons of San Francisco. Alfons died after a difficult battle with multiple myeloma (bone cancer) on August 10, 2002. He was 63 years old. Alfons was born in Koenigsberg, Germany on April 3, 1939 and lived in Kentfield with his wife and daughter. Alfons was dedicated and enthusiastic to his family, health and profession which made him happy and extremely successful. Alfons' positive attitude was an inspiration and will be sorely missed. Alfons loved cycling, swimming and talking to all his friends. He cycled 48 miles from Kentfield to San Francisco four to five times a week, attended all the annual Napa Valley Bike Centuries and his last bicycling adventure was the San Francisco to Los Angeles Aids Ride in 1999. He is survived by his wife, Manuelle, daughter, Brigitte, son, Ronald, sister, Helene Neumaier, and brothers, Burkhard, Roland, Hans and Harald Skilandat of Germany. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 1:00 p.m. at Sjomannskirken San Francisco, 2554 Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA 94109-1232, 415-775-6566 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an Education Fund for Brigitte: A. Skilandat Memorial Fund/Brigitte Skilandat Education Account, ComericA Bank, 275 Battery Street, Suite 1100, San Francisco, CA 94111, Attention: Norma 415-954-5073.