Miscellaneous Marin County, California Obituaries

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Lester Anthony Bricca, June 14, 1917-September 30, 2001
Died in Cary, North Carolina in the loving presence of family and church. A 47-year resident of Ross, Lester was born in San Francisco to Peter and Elizabeth Bricca; educated at St. Ignatius High School, the University of Santa Clara (class of 1939), and Hastings Law School. He served his country faithfully in the Army Air Corps (1942-1945). In 1943, he married Dyllis Jo Heitkotter, who stood by his side even to the very last moments of his life. He had moved to North Carolina recently to be closer to his children and grandchildren. Wine was his living and his passion; he operated Montebello Winery, a family-owned business, and spent many years at House of Sobel, finishing his career as Vice-President in the Wine Division. After retirement he was a buyers’ consultant for Wine Warehouse. Lester will be remembered for his generosity, his joy in living, and his understanding that the pleasure of hospitality and the table is a foretaste of the great banquet prepared for us by God at the last day. Memorial Services were held at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Cary, North Carolina; and at Church of the Holy Family (Episcopal), in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Lester is survived by his loving and devoted family: wife, Dyllis Jo Bricca, son Tony Bricca, daughters Kathy Briggs, Suzanne Rupsa, and Leslie Frauenfelder; sons-in-law John Rupsa and David Frauenfelder; grandchildren Nicole and Ashleigh Briggs, Kelly Jo Bricca, and Will and Kate Frauenfelder. He is preceded in death by his brother Richard, and by his daughter-in-law, Lynn, and grandson Steven. A memorial mass will be said for Lester at St. Anselm’s Catholic Church, San Anselmo, on Friday, November 2 at 10 A.M. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Steven Bricca Memorial Education Fund, checks payable to Tony Bricca, c/o Dyllis Jo Bricca, 300 Kildaire Woods Drive, Apartment 129, Cary, NC 27511. 

John Henry Crevani, October 30, 1916 - October 18, 2001
Born in San Francisco, former resident of San Francisco, Marin County and retired to Red Bluff. Beloved husband for 62 years of Helen Crevani, father of Richard Crevani of Alameda, Julianne Tatman of Red Bluff, and Linda Deschenes of Petaluma. Grandfather of Michael Crevani, Seth and Beth Tatman, Sean and Keri Gormley and Sara Deschenes. Great-grandfather of Anekaila Crevani, and brother of Anne Denegri. He was a food manufacturer; produce manager and a partner in the Sunset Scavengers, a past member of the Tehama County Sanitation Board and a member of the United Ancient Order of the Druids of California and P.N.G.A. of California and Nevada. Rosary will be held on Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Red Bluff. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Red Bluff. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart School, 2255 Monroe, Red Bluff, CA 96080, to the Druids Scholarship Fund, 610B San Pablo Ave., Pinole, CA 94564 or the Passages Adult Resource Center, P.O. Box 202, Red Bluff, CA 96021, or your favorite charity. Arrangements are being handled by Hoyt-Cole Chapel of the Flowers in Red Bluff, California. 

Lynn Ellen Kirby, A Resident of Novato
Passed away October 19, 2001 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Loving daughter of Eilene Craig of Novato. Loving sister of Kerry Vandermeer of Oakland, Kent Kirby of Novato and Scott Kirby of Santa Rosa. Also survived by many cousins, nephews and nieces. Lynn was born June 23, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan and moved to Marin County in 1962. She attended Terra Linda High School and College of Marin. She was a happy person who loved everyone. She will be deeply missed. Lynn especially doted over her nieces and nephews. She was a big fan of the Three Stooges, she loved to laugh. She was a volunteer for the Salvation Army and the Marin Humane Society. Lynn loved all animals, but her passion was with cats and birds. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Novato. Private family services were held. Private interment Cypress Hill Memorial Park, Petaluma, California. The family prefers memorial contributions in her memory be made to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 94925 or to Presbyterian Church of Novato, 710 Wilson Avenue, Novato, CA 94945. Arrangements by ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville Street, Petaluma. CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000. 

Ruth Dasha Goldie Levy
Died at age 20 in Isla Vista, Santa Barbara County, California on February 23rd, 2001. Precious daughter of Shary Levy and Arthur Levy and Mauri Schwartz. Loving sister of Bert Levy. Devoted granddaughter of Anne Ziegman and June Levy and the late Dr. Aaron Ziegman, Albert Levy and Ruth Levy. An adored niece and cousin. A dear friend to many. She is missed by all who knew her. Ruthie was a student at Santa Barbara City College. She was a 1999 graduate of Terra Linda High School in San Rafael and a 1995 graduate of Brandeis-Hillel Day School, Marin Campus. She belonged to Congregation Kol Shofar in Tiburon and also Congregation Rodef Sholom in San Rafael where she had her Bat Mitzvah. She did volunteer work for the shelter at the Mill Street Center in San Rafael and for The House at San Quentin where she helped with child care. Friends are invited to attend Ruthie's return home and burial service which will take place on Tuesday, October 30th at 1:30 p.m. at Home of Eternity Cemetery, 5000 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. Arrangements by SINAI MEMORIAL CHAPEL in San Francisco. 

Jessie Myers
Died in Petaluma on October 6, 2001 at the age of 89 of acute leukemia. She was born in Montreal and came to Detroit in 1919, where she helped support the family as a teenage by giving piano lessons during the Depression. Trained as a classical pianist, she preferred accompanying choral groups and playing for happy hours and sing-alongs. She is survived by daughters, Janet Russell of Penngrove and Sally Voorheis of Albuquerque, and a son, Ronald Myers of Miami. She was laid to rest near her parents in Michigan. 

Ralph Charlton O'Neill
Our beloved father, husband and friend, died peacefully at home in San Francisco on Thursday, October 18, 2001. He was a creative man with an adventurous spirit who lived a full and wonderful life. Born in Detroit, Michigan in 1930, he was a graduate of Wayne State University, served in the U.S. Army, then came to California to continue his studies at Stanford University. He spent a year in Turkey as Administrator of Schools for the children of U.S. servicemen serving in the area. He studied sculpture in St. Ives, England, and at the International Summer Academy for Fine Arts in Salzburg, Austria. He was a school psychologist in Marin County for many years, and had a private psychology practice in Sonoma County. His talent as a marble sculptor enabled him to greatly enrich the lives of those around him. His sculpture is on display in Novato, San Francisco, and St. Ives, and is also held in various private collections. He has received numerous awards and commissions, beginning in 1968. The most recent commission, awarded in 1998, is an abstract marble figure on display in the courtyard of Calvary Presbyterian Church in San Francisco. He is survived by his wife Kathryn, his daughter and son-in-law, Nancy O'Neill and Scott Shepardson; his son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Granya O'Neill and their five children, Emma, Eilis, Brenna, Aidan and Declan; his stepson and step-daughter-in-law, John McGuire and Nancy Caton; and his step daughter, Debra McGuire, as well as a multitude of loving friends and family members. He will be missed by each one of us, and he will live on in our hearts. Family and friends are invited to a memorial service to be held on Saturday, October 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Calvary Presbyterian Church, 2515 Fillmore, San Francisco. Donations may be made to the California Alpine Club, P.O. Box 2180, Mill Valley, CA 94942. 

Rodric L. Robinson
Beloved husband, father, friend and counselor died at his home in Bel Marin Keys on October 19, 2001. A Marin resident for over 50 years, he was born to Roderic Robinson and Maude Sutphen Robinson in Aurora, Illinois on August 28, 1924. He attended Dartmouth College for three years before being commissioned a Lt. jg in the U.S. Navy and serving in the Pacific during WWII after which he returned to receive an MBA and law degree from the University of Chicago. He was a successful attorney in private practice in San Francisco and later in Marin for 52 years. He had a huge heart and often found himself representing clients pro bono. He was politically very active in California and Marin and served on the Mill Valley City Council in the 60's. He was extremely proud of spearheading the Mill Valley draft opposing the war in Vietnam. He also helped to found the Merrydale School, the first school in Marin to assist children with special needs. Outside his passion for law, he was a true lover of sports, a 49er faithful, holding season tickets for over 40 years. Rod will long be remembered as a good and just man, his selflessness, undying love and support of family and friends, his warmth, wit and generous counsel. He will be profoundly missed by his wife Suzanne, sons Kevin Robinson, Rob Robinson, Sean (Shannon) Wickersham and Eric Wickersham; daughters, Anne Robinson, Jennifer Colombini, Elizabeth (Dave) Grube, Wendy (Harvey) Johnston, Shelley (Greg) Lindgren; grandchildren Angela Perez, Nick Ali and Hannah Colombini, Trevor Robinson, Delaney and Madelaine Johnston, Katie and Kendall Grube and Blake Wickersham; and great-grandson Cheyenne Perez. A Memorial Mass and Service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at St. Anthonys Church in Novato. 

Lester Anthony Bricca, June 14, 1917-September 30, 2001
Died in Cary, North Carolina in the loving presence of family and church. A 47-year resident of Ross, Lester was born in San Francisco to Peter and Elizabeth Bricca; educated at St. Ignatius High School, the University of Santa Clara (class of 1939), and Hastings Law School. He served his country faithfully in the Army Air Corps (1942-1945). In 1943, he married Dyllis Jo Heitkotter, who stood by his side even to the very last moments of his life. He had moved to North Carolina recently to be closer to his children and grandchildren. Wine was his living and his passion; he operated Montebello Winery, a family-owned business, and spent many years at House of Sobel, finishing his career as Vice-President in the Wine Division. After retirement he was a buyers’ consultant for Wine Warehouse. Lester will be remembered for his generosity, his joy in living, and his understanding that the pleasure of hospitality and the table is a foretaste of the great banquet prepared for us by God at the last day. Memorial Services were held at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Cary, North Carolina; and at Church of the Holy Family (Episcopal), in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Lester is survived by his loving and devoted family: wife, Dyllis Jo Bricca, son Tony Bricca, daughters Kathy Briggs, Suzanne Rupsa, and Leslie Frauenfelder; sons-in-law John Rupsa and David Frauenfelder; grandchildren Nicole and Ashleigh Briggs, Kelly Jo Bricca, and Will and Kate Frauenfelder. He is preceded in death by his brother Richard, and by his daughter-in-law, Lynn, and grandson Steven. A memorial mass will be said for Lester at St. Anselm’s Catholic Church, San Anselmo, on Friday, November 2 at 10 A.M. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Steven Bricca Memorial Education Fund, checks payable to Tony Bricca, c/o Dyllis Jo Bricca, 300 Kildaire Woods Drive, Apartment 129, Cary NC 27511. 

Gregory Sanchez Cespedes
Aged 75, passed away Monday, October 8, 2001, after a long illness. He was born in Aguana, Guam on this day in 1925. He arrived with his family to the United States in 1930 to Norfolk,Virginia. Greg served in World War II from 1944-1946 as a radioman in the U.S. Navy onboard the USS. Biloxi and USS. Picket. After graduating from Cal Berkeley in 1952 with a degree in Landscape Architecture, Greg moved to San Diego, California where he operated his own Landscape Architect firm. In 1971 he relocated to Marin County, settling in Greenbrae, California. He was employed through the years by Cagwin and Dorward Landscaping. Greg will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his children: Greg, Kim, Travis and Siobhan, four grandchildren: Selah, Milo, Cort and Jahmalik, his brother Samuel Cespedes, sister Cynthia Gray, step-mother Pat Cespedes and step-sister Vinnie Cespedes. Cremation service's were performed by Keaton's Mortuary. Cremation service's were performed by Keaton's Mortuary. A Memorial Service will be held at Saint Sebastian Church in Greenbrae for early November. For memorial service information please call 415-453-4091. 

Constance Mary Hyde Hayes
Kind and loving Connie Hayes, passed away on October 15, 2001. Connie was a native of San Francisco born the 22nd day of August 1922 and a resident of Marin County for 36 years. Connie graduated from Commerce High. She worked for Standard Oil Co. in San Francisco and ARAMCO in New York. She later worked in the travel business, and the law office of Harold R. Hayes in San Rafael. Connie loved animals dedicating herself as volunteer Puppy Tester at Guide Dogs for the Blind for ten years. Connie married twice. Her first husband was Edward J. Hyde, an Engineer with Standard Oil Co. Her second husband was Harold R. Hayes, a longtime Marin Attorney. Connie will rest at peace with Harold at the San Francisco National Cemetery at the Presidio. At her request, there will be no funeral service. Connie is survived by her stepchildren, Martha Haldimann of Sierre, Switzerland; Judy Hyde of San Francisco; Heidi Belden of Cottonwood; and Karen Karlow of Tomales; three stepgrandchildren, Brooke Belden and Loui and Casey Karlow; Godchild, Susan Moitoza; Aunt, Marie Russe and Cousin, Joan Reynolds of Ventura. She was a Lady Elk with the San Rafael Elks Club and a member of the San Rafael Goldenaires. Memorial Contributions may be made to The Humane Society, Cancer Society or Hospice of Marin. 

Philip Betette
Born in Rochester, New York in 1913. He attended Rochester University for 2 years. He was a retired Major after serving in the Army. He was in the Calvary. He served with General Patton for almost a year during WWII. He was General Crittenberger's aide all through WWII following him through North Africa and Italy. Philip was in the liquor business and was the national sales manager for McKesson's and Robbins, vice president for Van Munching, vice president for the wine division with Schenley and owned a distributorship with Schenley products. He was also a representative for Cutty Sark and a consultant for Southern Wine and Spirits. Philip lived in Italy, Mexico, New York, and last lived in Pontevedra, Florida. His wife, Victoria Carrillo, predeceased him 20 years ago. He is survived by his two sons, Philip and August and daughter, Nina. He has six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. His three brothers also survive him: Vince of New York, Robert and Albert of Marin County. He will be laid to rest with the Carrillo Family in Montreal. In his 88 years he lived a rich and full life. He will be greatly missed. 

Lester Anthony Bricca, June 14, 1917-September 30, 2001
Died in Cary, North Carolina in the loving presence of family and church. A 47-year resident of Ross, Lester was born in San Francisco to Peter and Elizabeth Bricca; educated at St. Ignatius High School, the University of Santa Clara (class of 1939), and Hastings Law School. He served his country faithfully in the Army Air Corps (1942-1945). In 1943, he married Dyllis Jo Heitkotter, who stood by his side even to the very last moments of his life. He had moved to North Carolina recently to be closer to his children and grandchildren. Wine was his living and his passion; he operated Montebello Winery, a family-owned business, and spent many years at House of Sobel, finishing his career as Vice-President in the Wine Division. After retirement he was a buyers’ consultant for Wine Warehouse. Lester will be remembered for his generosity, his joy in living, and his understanding that the pleasure of hospitality and the table is a foretaste of the great banquet prepared for us by God at the last day. Memorial Services were held at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Cary, North Carolina; and at Church of the Holy Family (Episcopal), in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Lester is survived by his loving and devoted family: wife, Dyllis Jo Bricca, son Tony Bricca, daughters Kathy Briggs, Suzanne Rupsa, and Leslie Frauenfelder; sons-in-law John Rupsa and David Frauenfelder; grandchildren Nicole and Ashleigh Briggs, Kelly Jo Bricca, and Will and Kate Frauenfelder. He is preceded in death by his brother Richard, and by his daughter-in-law, Lynn, and grandson Steven. A memorial mass will be said for Lester at St. Anselm’s Catholic Church, San Anselmo, on Friday, November 2 at 10 A.M. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Steven Bricca Memorial Education Fund, checks payable to Tony Bricca, c/o Dyllis Jo Bricca, 300 Kildaire Woods Drive, Apartment 129, Cary NC 27511. 

Evelyn Elizabeth Byard
Died October 18, 2001 in San Rafael, California. Beloved mother of Anne Byard. Born in New York City on July 7, 1912, raised in Tuxedo Park, New York. Married Lt. Col. Warrington F. Byard on November 27, 1935. Lived in NYC and moved to Briarcliff Manor, New York for 20 years and then to Kentfield, California in 1968. Evelyn is survived by one daughter, Anne Byard-Morris and two grandchildren, Brooke Sterling Peterson and Summer Shaye Richards. Evelyn was active in the Adaptive Physical Education Program at College of Marin and a member of St. John's Church in Ross. 

Lotte Murphy
A longtime Marin resident, born in Frankfurt, Germany, was very special to many persons. She passed away earlier this year in a nursing home, but no obituary notice was published. Were you a customer of Lotte's Rings and Things jewelry store in Tiburon? Or one of her day-care kids, now grown, with families of your own, but who kept in touch through the years? Whatever our relationship with Lotte, we miss her loving, gracious, generous, elegant self, and wish her spirit peace and joy. Helga, Karen, Ruth and Betty. Submitted by Betty Franklin. 

Leonard Henry Smith
Passed away on October 18, 2001, in San Rafael, at the age of 84. Born September 21, 1917 in Saratoga, California, he spent most of his life as a California resident. He lived with his wife Irene in San Rafael. Leonard was a pastor in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Northern California. He was the son of a California pastor and began his ministry in his college years. In his retirement he devoted much of his time to mission trips including Mexico, Korea, Guatemala, Chile, and Jamaica. At the time of his death, he was an active member of the Marin Covenant Church in San Rafael, where he served on the Missions Committee. In addition to his professional career, Leonard was a constant volunteer for Christian ministries. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying all kinds of fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. His other hobbies included making and playing musical instruments, computer, and travel. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Irene Anderson Smith of Ferndale, California. He is also survived by his two daughters and their husbands, Shera and Rick Melick, Jr. of Mill Valley, California, and Corinne and Bob Gier of Darby, Montana; his three grandchildren and their spouses: Rick and Joy Melick of Greenbrae, California; Krisiti and Michael Ent of San Pablo, California, and Karen and Darren Draeger of Mill Valley, California. The Smiths also have four great grandchildren, Richard and Nathan Melick of Greenbrae, and Anna and Michael David Ent, of San Pablo. Leonard was the son of Lloyd and Emma Bielstein Smith. He had two brothers, now deceased, Lloyd and Ivan. He was devoted and exemplary husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His greatest pleasure was time spent with his family. The family is requesting that memorials be sent to the Missions Program of Marin Covenant Church, 195 No. Redwood DR., San Rafael, CA 94903 (415/479-1360) Funeral services and internment will be at Valley Memorial Park, 650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, CA (415/897-9609), Monday, October 22, at 1:30 p.m. Arrangements are by the Chapel of the Hills Mortuary. 

Kenneth William Tardy
Age 62, a prominent San Francisco Interior Architect and Space Planner for 30 years, passed away on October 18, 2001. Ken earned his BArch at the Univ. of Illinois and moved to San Francisco in 1962. He worked for prestigious firms like Henry Hill, Anshen & Allen, Welton-Beckett, Callister & Payne and was a VP at Gensler & Assoc. before leaving to form Spilsted-Tardy. Two years later, he founded Tardy & Associates, Architects, Inc. which eventually had a staff of over 50 people and was highly respected in San Francisco and throughout the architectural community. Among his hundreds of projects were the interiors of the B of A, Transamerican Pyramid, 50 California, The Icehouse, and Embarcadero Center. Ken was among the original innovators in defining and perfecting Space Planning. Many of his projects were published and he was often cited in the book "From the Ground Up", the intimate story of the construction of Rincon Center, Ken's last project. He traveled the world collecting ethnographic artifacts and moved to Phoenix and Albuquerque after retiring but returned to Marin County last year. Survivors are his wife Angel, daughter Jessica Tardy-Canty (Steve Canty) and grandsons Mike and Chris; son Brad Tardy (Jill Benton) and grandchildren Morgan and Austen; son Steve Tardy (Angela Stella); brother William Anthony (Bill) Tardy (Cathie Dunlevy), nephew Carson, nieces Ann and Darcy Tardy. Graveside Services will be at 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Tamalpais Cemetery, 2500 5th Ave., San Rafael, 459-2500. 

Sydney Yukiye Noda Bartell
Passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, October 10, 2001 at her Los Altos home. She was 57 years old. Born in Denver, Colorado on August 19, 1944, Sydney grew up in California's central valley and graduated from Turlock High School. She attended the San Jose Hospital School of Nursing and was certified by the State of California as an R.N. She lived a short time in Florida before returning to the San Jose area where she lived for the past twenty years. She is survived by brothers Eric Noda and his wife Charlotte Lewis Noda of Novato, California and Bruce Noda of Corte Madera, Calif. She was preceded in death by her parents Jack and Grace Noda of Turlock, Calif. Sydney was also loved and will be greatly missed by her devoted friends. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at Spangler Mortuary in Los Altos 650-948-6619. Donations preferred to Humane Society of Santa Clara Valley. 

Lorraine E. Goepp
Died quietly in her home on Thursday, October 18, 2001, at the age of 79 after a long illness. Lorraine was the loving wife and partner of Arthur A. Goepp, Jr. who went ahead in 1994. Lorraine was born in 1922 in San Francisco. She was raised in San Francisco and attended St. Cecilia's, St. Roses High School and Dominican College. Lorraine is survived by her two sons, Arthur A. Goepp, III and E. F. (Ned) Goepp, four grandsons-Edward, Daniel, Kenneth and Nicholas, and two brothers-Hon. E. Warren McGuire and T.V. McGuire. In addition to being a loving wife, mother and good friend, she was active in the community contributing her time to Nazareth House, St. Sebastians Church, and the Alumni Association of Dominican College. She also worked with her husband, Art in the management of Crown Glass. Lorraine enjoyed traveling and playing bridge. In recent years Lorraine spent many a long weekend with " the girls" playing cards. The Funeral will be a private family service. A Memorial Service and celebration of Lorraine's life will be held on Tuesday October 23, 2001 at St. Sebastian Church, 373 Bon Air Road. Greenbrae at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers it was Lorraine's wish that memorial donations be made in her name to the Development Fund at Marin Catholic High School, 675 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield, CA 94904 Monte's Chapel of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo 415-453-8440 

Joseph Wayne Corbelli
Died in Santa Rosa, California on Saturday, October 13, 2001 at age 46 years. Beloved son of the late Frank and Ruth Corbelli. Loving brother of Frank Corbelli, Jr. of Petaluma, Brad Corbelli of Connecticut, Mark Corbelli of Pacifica, Barbara Cavasso of Rohnert Park, Bill Corbelli of Alabama and Judy Craig of San Ramon. Also survived by his beloved bird, "Barney". Friends and family are invited to attend the Memorial Service Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 7 p.m. at the ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville Street, Petaluma. CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000 

Margaret Brown Hendry
Age 89 of Mill Valley, passed away October 15, 2001. Loving mother-in-law of Nina Hannegan of Florida. Grandmother of Karen Propper, Becky-Taylor Hannegan and Colleen Skinner all of Florida, and great grandmother of five. A native of Orange City, California, Margaret was a very talented artist and a world traveler. Private family services are being held on Friday, October 19, 2001. Memorial gifts may be made to Marin Support Services for Elders, 1005 A Street, San Rafael, CA 94901. Russell & Gooch Funeral Chapel 270 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley 415-388-1573 

John D. Howard
Passed away peacefully on October 17, 2001 after a short illness, at the age of 56. John was born and raised in the greater Boston area. He came to the Bay area and worked as an executive in finance and investments. For the past twenty years John was Executive Vice President for Gelsar Investments. John was a loving father and husband. He is survived by his wife Pam and son Kevin; mother Rose and father John of West Peabody, MA; sisters Ann, Pat and Margaret, brother Dan, sister in-law Coni Saracino and many other relatives and friends. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, October 22, 2001, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Raphael's Church on Fifth Street in San Rafael, California. The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the American Cancer Society in the area of research. Keaton's Mortuary 1022 E Street San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 453-0571. 

Hyette Glenn Paul
Passed away October 14, 2001 at home in San Rafael. Known by all who met him as "Jug" or "Paul", he was born August 10, 1930 in San Francisco. He lived the majority of his life in San Rafael and was married for 49 years to his beloved wife, Mary. He is survived by his sons, Ray and Ron with five grandchildren; his brother, Ernest; two sisters, Grace and Eleanor; and many nieces and nephews. Following Hyette's wishes, private Interment Services will be held at Mount Tamalpais Cemetery in San Rafael. The family requests donations be made to the Marin Hospice or the charity of your choice in lieu of cards and flowers. 

Stefan Paul Ponek, Jr.
Passed away suddenly of heart failure on October 15, 2001 at his home in Greenbrae, California. He is survived by his beloved partner, Margaret Lochran; his sister, Susan Way of Vermont; his two children, Kristin Ponek of Southern California and Seth Ponek of Sebastopol, California; his grandchildren Kyle, Gabriella and Landon Ponek, all of Sebastopol. Stefan was a long time radio personality, known well for his work at KSAN in the 60's and other popular stations in the San Francisco Bay Area. He was a general contractor and an antique radio enthusiast. Most recently, Stefan was a senior broadcast technician at S. F. City College. Stefan lived his life one day at a time. He will be greatly missed by a large fellowship of friends and family. Friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service on Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 11 a.m. at Monte's Chapel of the Hills, 330 Redhill Avenue, San Anselmo, California. A Vigil/Prayer Service will be held Friday, October 19, 2001 at 6 p.m. at Monte's Chapel of the Hills. Visitation will be at the funeral home Friday between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Inurnment private. Memorial gifts to Ritter House, 16 Ritter Street, San Rafael, CA 94901 preferred. Monte's Chapel of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo 415-453-8440. 

James Van Buskirk
Died peacefully at home on September 26, 2001. A celebration of Jim's life will be held on Saturday, October 20th at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church in Ross. A private family interment was held on October 7th. Donations in Jim's memory may be made to the Rotary Club of Ross Valley, P.O. Box 415, San Anselmo, CA 94979-0415. 

Margaret Macleod Freschl
Born August 17, 1924, died on October 13, 2001 at the age of 77. Margaret died peacefully in her sleep at the home of her son in Walnut Creek. Margaret lived in Mill Valley for the last 30 years and was active in the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour. Her hobbies included singing, reading, brush painting, and discussing current events. Margaret is survived by her husband of 54 years, John C. Freschl; her brother William Macleod, her sisters Helen and Cathy Macleod; her four sons, John A., Charles M., Robert L. and Stephen T. Freschl; daughters-in-law Raquel, Melba, and Noelle; and grandchildren Jeffrey, Marie, Julie, Carl, and Guille. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 20, at 4:30 p.m. at the Church of Our Saviour, 10 Old Mill Street, Mill Valley. Donations may be made to the American Red Cross. 

Mary Joan Martin McColpin
A resident of Middletown, California died October 14, 2001 at the age of 80. Mrs. McColpin was born December 12, 1920 in Buffalo, New York. She was the devoted and loving wife of Maj. Gen. (Ret. USAF) Carroll W. "Red" McColpin, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage. Mrs. McColpin lived with her husband in their home in Novato, California where she enjoyed and loved her friends and family, her numerous community and volunteer activities, and watching her grandchildren grow. A lengthy illness brought her to live in Middletown in 1997. Mrs. McColpin is survived by her devoted husband "Red" McColpin of Novato, her daughters and their husbands Patricia and Daniel Giacomini of Middletown, and Carol and Timothy Wall of Rohnert Park; sister Shirley A. Martin of Orchard Park; New York; brother John L. (Eunice) Martin of Boynton Beach, Florida; granddaughters Caitlin and Shannon Wall; grandsons Brian Wall, and Nicholas and Michael Glacomini; and numerous family and friends across the United States and Canada. A rosary and prayer vigil will be held Wednesday October 17 at 5:30 p.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Novato, with a Memorial Service to be held there on Thursday, October 18th at 11:00 a.m. Donations in Joan's memory can be made to your local Alzheimers Association chapter or Hospice Services of Lake County. 

Loretta Isabelle Murlin
Passed away on October 12, 2001 in San Rafael. The youngest of six children born to Annie Millerick and Joseph Fredericks in San Francisco on August 2, 1911, Loretta grew up in a loving and lively family. She attended schools taught by Notre Dame nuns and in high school sometimes commuted from school to the family summer home in San Anselmo via ferry and train. She took her vows as a Notre Dame de Namur sister in 1930 and spent 45 years teaching in Catholic schools from Santa Barbara to Seattle. She was so loved by her students and teaching associates that many kept contact with her over the years. Loretta was called to a different life when she left the convent and subsequently married. She spent 20 adventure filled years living in Tucson, Arizona and traveling across the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska. She also traveled into Canada and Mexico. And, when in her 70's, Loretta traveled by herself to Africa. Loretta spent the last six years of her life at Nazareth House, San Rafael, in order to be close to her many relatives and friends. Her love of tennis -- and other sports -- was well known by family and friends. She was especially proud of her relationships with the younger generation. Loretta will be missed by all for her lively humor, love of sports, and interest in all those around her. Loretta was preceded in death by all of her brothers and sisters and by her devoted husbands, George Thomas and Bill Murlin. She leaves behind her two stepsons, George Thomas (and wife, Sue) and Bill Thomas (and wife, Colleen), and six step-grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her nieces, Nancy Lundblad (John) of ElCerrito, Lois Grimes of Concord, Leah Forbes (Cecil) of San Francisco, Claire Villa (John) of Novato, and Helen Sitchler (Carl) of San Rafael. And her nephews, Laurence Thompson (Mary) of Danville, and Leonard Thompson (Bernadette) of San Francisco. She will also be missed by numerous great nieces and great nephews, her former teaching associates and past pupils, especially her dear pupil and friend, Maryknoll Missioner Arthur Wille of Los Altos and Africa. A joyous Memorial Mass will be celebrated at the Nazareth House Chapel on November 17th at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment private. Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma. Donations may be sent to: Nazareth House, 245 Nova Albion Way, San Rafael, 94903 or to Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, 14800 Bohlman Road, Saratoga, 95070. KEATON'S MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael, CA 415-453-0571. 

Robert (Bob) Vyenielo
Passed away at home on October 11, 2001 surrounded by his family following a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's. Bob was born and grew up in Petaluma, graduated from Petaluma High School, attended the University of San Francisco and served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the South Pacific during World War II. Bob spent 32 years as an active member of the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 115, working first as a meat cutter at many markets throughout Sonoma County, then serving as Union Representative, President and Secretary-Treasurer of Local 115. Bob's dedication to Local 115 continued into his retirement. Bob's commitment to family and community included coaching youth baseball leagues in Petaluma, umpiring high school baseball and league softball, and instructing local youth in boxing and kick boxing. Bob was one of the original promoters of the Wristwrestling Championship in Petaluma, was an enthusiastic huntsman, fisherman, athlete and artist. Bob earned a black belt in Tang Soo Do martial arts, enjoyed traveling with his wife and family, and was a creative and inventive craftsman. His family cherishes fond memories of days spent fishing, playing cards, diving for abalone and family gatherings. Bob shared, with them, his passion for life, laughter, nature and friends. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Vicki, children Patty, Bob, Teri and Lynnette (Looper), their mother Dorothy, 19 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, caretaker and friend Asinate Vosailagi; and brothers Marty and Lee. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Martin and Carm. Friends and family are invited to a gathering in honor of Bob at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 19, 2001 at the Luther Burbank Center, Highway 101 at River Road, Santa Rosa. At the family's request, memorial contributions are preferred. Contributions may be made in his honor to the Parkinson's Action Network, 300 North Lee, Alexandria, VA 22314. Arrangements under the care of the DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES.


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