William Harold French
Of Sebastopol/San Rafael died Sunday, December 1, 2002. He was 81. Bill, to his friends, was born July 28, 1921 in Des Moines, Iowa to William Thomas French and Lillian Nisser. Bill moved from Dallas, Texas with his family to San Francisco in 1927. In 1937, at the tender age of 16, Bill joined the United States Army at Fort Monterey California. The Monterey Post was the home of the distinguished 11th Cavalry, and it is here that Bill developed his uncanny ability to "communicate" with horses, a training technique currently known as natural horsemanship, and his expertise as a horseman. Within a few months after Pearl Harbor, Bill's battalion became mechanized and he then served as a highly decorated tank commander in the famous 11th Tank Battalion of General Patton's Third Army. While on patrol in the Arden Valley of France, Bill was severely wounded by a German sniper. Due to the severity of the wounds he was sent back to Letterman Hospital at the Presidio in San Francisco where he was shortly discharged. After the war Bill joined the San Francisco Fire Department and was assigned to 4 Truck 8 Engine where he served for over 25 years. In 1961, along with his wife Renie and daughters Jeanie and Vickie, Bill moved to San Geronimo to found San Geronimo Valley Stables, later to be known as the French Ranch Development, and French's Hitching Post, an English and Western riding apparel store in San Rafael. His love of horses lasted his entire life and will live on through his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. Bill was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. His friends knew him as an assertive, confident, but yet very private man. One of his favorite quotes was from Teddy Roosevelt:
Far better it is
To dare mighty things
Then to take rank with
Those poor, timid spirits
Who know neither
Victory nor defeat.
He will be greatly missed by those who survive him, his sister Joy French-Black of Hawaii, his daughter Jeanie M. O'Neill, son-in-law John Stephen O'Neill, granddaughter Victoria Alexzandra O'Neill, and numerous nieces and nephews. A Memorial Celebration of His Life will be held at Chapel of the Hills, 330 Red Hill Avenue, San Anselmo, CA on Tuesday, December 10th at 11 a.m. The family prefers memorial contributions to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, 1390 Market Street, Suite 1200, San Francisco, CA 94102-5306. Please mark donations: "For Research Only". Monte’s Chapel of the Hills Family Owned & Operated 330 Redhill Avenue, San Anselmo (415) 453-8440 

Kenyon Lee Rayner, 1931 ~ 2002
Passed away suddenly and unexpectedly from a heart attack on November 18, 2002 while traveling in Cancun, Mexico. Daughter of Richard and Martha Reid, she was born September 26, 1931 in San Francisco. She graduated from Everett Junior High and Mission High School in San Francisco. She attended the University of California at Santa Barbara and Berkeley. She was married to Arno Rayner for 42 years. She is survived by her three children Eric Rayner of Novato, Jill Templeton of Los Gatos and Neal Rayner of Ross, her daughters-in-law Karen and Amy Rayner, her son-in-law John Templeton, three grandchildren, Michelle, Scott and Kevin, and her dogs Taffeta and Paddington. Beyond her immediate family she counted so many people as dear friends. You know who you are. Her passions included traveling, folk dancing, volunteering & swimming. She approached life with a sense of adventure and playfulness, yet was always available to help anyone in need. She wished to be remembered for always making every effort. A Celebration of Her Life will take place in January. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. 

Bambina Bottarini
Born December 3, 1898 in Nerviano, Italy, lived in three centuries, passed away on December 4, 2002, in San Rafael, California, at 104 years of age. She immigrated from Tornavento, Italy in 1921. She was the wife of the late Guido Bottarini, who died in 1946. She is survived by her son Richard Bottarini (Velma) and daughter Gladys Franzini (Henry) of San Rafael. Grandmother of Rick Bottarini (Karen) of Danville, Bonnie Kaufman (Robert) of San Anselmo, Mike Franzini (Kim) of Cotati and Don Franzini of Rohnert Park. Great-Grandmother of Nicholas Bottarini, Amelia Kaufman, Nicolas Franzini, Isabella Franzini and Sophia Franzini; her sister-in-law Severina Perroni of Tornavento, Italy, as well as many nieces and nephews in California and Italy. Predeceased by her sisters Carolina Cerutti of San Rafael, Cesira Rescaldani and Irene Rescaldani of Italy and brothers Angelo Rescaldani and Carlo Rescaldani of Italy. She worked at the Carmel Hotel in San Rafael for many years and retired in 1960. She was a member of Sons of Italy, Marvelous Marin Lodge. She enjoyed working in her garden, knitting, crocheting, and was a great Italian cook. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday at Mission San Rafael Arcangel. Vigil will be Friday, 7 p.m. at the Mortuary. Burial private, on Monday, December 9th at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 94925, or to your favorite charity. KEATON'S MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571 

Leonard Doden
Born May 3rd, 1926, he moved to California in 1957. Len was a Maintenance Engineer for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his wife Maiza Doden and left behind three children, Mary Doden, Carol Doden and Scott Doden, granddaughter Vickie Metcalf and daughter-in-law Kendall Doden. Len enjoyed long nature walks and loved animals. He also enjoyed his garden and spent countless hours working in his yard and vegetable garden. His spirit will be loved and missed by all. Mount Tamalpais Mortuary & Cemetery 2500 5th Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 

Madeline A. Merschrod
Madeline Merschrod was born June 26, 1916 in New York City. She passed away at home in Point Reyes Station, CA on November 29, 2002. She was an active member of West Marin Seniors, the Inverness Garden Club and the Pt. Reyes Community Presbyterian Church. Madeline also volunteered in many community activities and projects. A Memorial Service was held at the Presbyterian Church on December 2, 2002. Madeline is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lee and Ciro Giammona, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews both here and in New York. The family asks that memorial donations be sent to: Point Reyes Presbyterian Church, P.O Box 487, Pt. Reyes Sta. CA 94956, West Marin Seniors, P.O. Box 791, Pt. Reyes Sta., CA 94956 or Inverness Garden Club Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 724, Inverness, CA 94937. 

Walter Carl Voigt
Born April 13, 1918 on the family farm four miles south of Ceres, California. Passed away peacefully on November 28, 2002 in Greenbrae, California. Walt was a descendant of a pioneer California family and served with the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II. Walt and his wife Virginia moved to Marin County from San Francisco in 1950 and raised their family in Corte Madera. He was a Past Master of Mission Lodge #169 F&AM, San Francisco and was also the owner of Johnson Hardware in downtown San Rafael for many years. Walt is survived by his wife of 52 years, Virginia, son Alan R. Voigt, Alan's companion Cecilia Zamora, daughter Micelle V. and son-in-law Robert G. Kafka. Walt also leaves two grandchildren Jessica L. and Lucas R. Kafka, a sister Lucille V. Blauert, a sister-in-law, Patricia J. Seaman, and numerous nieces and nephews. Honoring his wishes, there will be no services. Memorials may be made to The Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2425 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95817. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571 

Richard W. Benz
Surrounded by his family, lifelong Marin County resident, Richard "Ranger" Benz, passed away in his home on Friday, the 22nd of November, 2002. He was 65. Born at Ross Hospital in 1937, Ranger lived for a brief time in San Rafael, before moving to Larkspur as a young boy. Living across the street from the Fire Chief, Ranger's father, Walter, was quickly recruited into the ranks of the volunteer fire department. This association lead Ranger to a career with the Larkspur Fire Department, from which he retired as a Captain in 1989. Following his retirement Ranger remained a member of the volunteer fire department, resulting in a combined service to the citizens of Larkspur of over 40 years. One of the many duties Ranger performed for the fire department, was the maintenance of the fire alarm boxes, which used to dot the city. This alarm system included the fire whistle, which can still be heard every day at noon and five. Many children in Larkspur, including Ranger's, knew it was time to head home for dinner when they heard the five o'clock whistle blow. Roger enjoyed gardening, relaxing in Hawaii, and he especially enjoyed the company of his grandchildren. Ranger is survived by his mother Phyllis, his wife Terrysue, his children Becky, Brenda, Ronald, Roger, and Amber, and his grandchildren Hilary, Melanie, David, Kimberly, Devin, Charlie, and Arianna. No services will be held, at Ranger's request. The family requests that memorial donations be made in his name to your favorite charity. 

Claire Berlowe
Passed away November 27, 2002 in Burbank, CA at age 81. She was born October 25, 1923 in Chicago and was a retired Bookkeeper. Claire is survived by her daughter Judith Berlow-Levitan, son Howard Berlowe (Janice) and grandchildren Kori and Robert Levitan. Funeral Services were held on December 1, 2002. 

Douglas Allen Craig
Born January 12, 1927 and passed away November 16, 2002. He was the loving father of Lisa Wade of Brookline, MA, Forrest Craig of San Anselmo, and Susan Corby of Daly City. Douglas was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania. During his youth, Douglas experienced the attack on Pearl Harbor with his father Col. Melvin Craig stationed in Honolulu. He moved to California where his father was stationed at the Presidio. He served in the Armed Forces of the United States as a Technician fifth grade Headquarters Battalion Continental Base Section, Bad Nauhiem, Germany. He was awarded the Victory Medal World War II. He met his loving wife Frances, at the College of Marin and became a pressman at the Independent Journal in San Rafael. Douglas owned and operated Andrews Printing Company in San Rafael until he retired in 1980. Douglas was active in the Marin Masonic Lodge, Marin Council Boy Scouts of America, Marin Shrine Club, the Jesters Club, Novato Independent Elders, and the Marin High Twelve Club. He enjoyed short wave radios and loved spending time with his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Douglas is survived by his brother-in-law Maj. General George Holm, niece Kay and nephews Bill and Jack of Salt Lake City, Utah. A private Masonic Service was held with family at Chapel of the Hills in San Anselmo November 23, 2002. In lieu of flowers, family requests contributions to Marin Advocates for Children in San Rafael or to Shriner's Hospital. Monte's Chapel of the Hills Family Owned & Operated 330 Red Hill Avenue San Anselmo, CA 94960 

Timothy Arthur Kjellgren
Died Saturday, November 30, 2002 after a courageous battle with lung disease. Loving husband of Susan Kjellgren of Novato, CA. Cherished son of Anthony and Elizabeth Kjellgren of Novato, CA. Adored brother of Elizabeth Brook and her husband Jeff of Dixon, CA, Amy Kjellgren of Novato, CA, and Andrew Kjellgren and his wife Michelle of Athens, GA. Loving uncle of Mallory Brook, Sage Kjellgren, and River Kjellgren. Loving nephew of Susan Custer of Rockford, IL. Loving son-in-law of Harriet Hawley of Yorba Linda, CA. Adored brother-in-law of Ellen Bobchin and her husband Craig of Placentia, CA. Also survived by numerous cousins in Rockford, IL and Los Angeles, CA. A native of Grand Rapids, MI, Timothy spent his early years in Rockford, IL. In 1966, he moved to Novato, and later to Petaluma in 1983. He graduated from San Marin High School and attended College of Marin. For the past 27 years, he worked as a system's analyst at Fireman's Fund. On March 8, 1997 he married Susan Hawley in Yorba Linda, CA. He was 46. Friends and family are invited to attend a Funeral Service, Wednesday, December 4, 2002 (today) at 11:00 AM at the Church of Christ, 370 Sonoma Mountain Parkway, Petaluma, CA. A Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 3, 2002 at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue and Keokuk Street, Petaluma, CA. Interment at Valley Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, P.O. Box 1746, Santa Rosa, CA 95402. 

Else Luebben
Widow of Alfred Luebben, beloved mother of Monika Luebben Ruggiero and Detlef Luebben, grandmother of Michael and Anthony Luebben, Jason, Jeff, Mark and Annie Ruggiero and mother-in-law to Carol Ann Luebben and Rick Ruggiero, and sister to her older brother Karl Hartmann and many nieces and nephews, died unexpectedly November 27, 2002. Mrs. Luebben was born April 13, 1929 in West Germany. She immigrated to San Francisco with her husband and two children in 1957. She went to night school and took classes in English and American history and proudly became an American citizen in 1962. Mrs. Leubben worked for the San Francisco Unified School District as a cook manager for several schools. She devoted herself to her children and grandchildren after retiring in 1991. A Memorial Service will be held on December 7, 2002 at 11:00 AM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 1180 Midway Blvd., Novato. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Cancer Society. 

James Michael Saich, USN-R TAR, Ret.
Jim Saich, age 58, passed away at his Cotati home on November 13, 2002 with his loving wife, Geri at his side. He is survived by his son Jim, grandson Ethan, brother John, stepson Donald, daughter-in-law Sheila, sister-in-law Andrea, nephews Joshua, Jeffrey, Robert and Anthony, niece Cara, and his mother-in-law Bea. Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service on December 8, 2002 at 4:00 PM at Indian Valley Golf Club, Novato, CA. Please call 415-892-2832 if attending the Service. PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue and Keokuk Street, Petaluma, California. 

Louis Charles Wright
Louis C. Wright, 69, of Novato, California, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2002 with his family by his side. Lou is survived by his loving wife, Gail Patricia Friend, of 49 years. His two sons and daughters and nine grandchildren, his business partner of over 30 years, Susan Hourigan and her husband and son. Calling hours are Friday from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, Manchester, Connecticut. The Funeral Service will begin on Saturday at 9:15 AM St. James Church, Main Street, Manchester, Connecticut with Burial in St. James Cemetery, Manchester, Connecticut. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Meriden Executive Park, 538 Preston Avenue, Meriden, CT 06450-1004. 

Marilyn Cunningham
Born February 1, 1928, passed away December 1, 2002 in San Rafael. Marilyn was proud to be from Two Harbors, Minn. She attended Hamlin University where she received her degree in Social Work. She worked in Germany from 1953-56 in The Special Services through the Department of State. It was there that she met her husband Dale. They returned to the United States and lived for a time in San Francisco before moving to Marin where she resided for the past 40 years -- first in Mill Valley and then in Blackpoint (Novato). She retired from the Marin County Office of Social Services after dedicating 30 years as a Social Worker. She loved the outdoors, gardening, reading and traveling. She was adventurous and always ready to seek out new experiences in her work after retirement with FEMA, travels across the country and day trips to explore whatever struck her interest. Marilyn leaves behind her beloved husband of 46 years, Dale; her three sons, Pat, Roger and Jim; stepdaughter Diana; daughters-in-law Shellie, Kim and Barbara. She found joy in her grandchildren Kyle, Kara, Matt, Ronnie, Jenna and Madeline. Her family and many dear friends will miss her. Her battle with ALS was faced with her characteristic positive spirit. Friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Her Life at Valley Memorial Park on Friday, December 6th at 11:00 a.m. Donations may be made to the ALS Association, 27001 Agora Road, Suite 150, Calabasas Hills, CA 91301. 

June A. Geary, June 14, 1920 ~ November 23, 2002
June passed away very peacefully at her home. She will be missed by her many friends and loved ones. June loved to travel and meet new people. She was preceded in death by her parents Fred and Lulu Knock, her brother and sister Gerald Knock and Georgian Rolff. She is survived by her nieces and nephews Richard Rolff, Nancy Anderson, Linda McHale, Janet Reis and Jim Knock. Interment will be private. For those wishing to contribute in her memory, consider Marin Hospice or Marin Humane Society. 

Jacob Max Greenwald
Son of Ellen Blustein and Alan Greenwald MD and brother of Ariel Greenwald died after a three year battle with cancer. His will to live and sense of humor kept him alive against insurmountable odds. Large communities of people were brought together as a result of Jacob’s courageous struggle with his disease. Jacob enjoyed outdoor activities, skiing and rock climbing. He had a keen knowledge of military arms, enjoyed watching Comedy Central and reading. During his illness he continued his education with home tutoring and was chosen “Student of the Week” by the Marin Independent Journal in January 2002 for The Marin School in Mill Valley. Jacob was constantly surrounded by friends and family whom he entertained with his pointed and articulate sense of humor to the the end. He was attended by his three faithful cats: Benjamin Franklin, Sosha, and Betsey Ross. Jacob is survived by his grandparents Jeff and Eunice Blustein of Santa Rosa, Shirley and Saul Greenwald of Indiana, Pennsylvania; his uncles Peter Blustein of Woodacre and Park Blustein of Petaluma. The Funeral Service will be held at Congregation Kol Shofar, 215 Blackfield Drive, Tiburon, CA, 415-388-1818 at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 3, 2002. The Mortuary and Cemetery are Mount Tamalpais, San Rafael 415-459-2500. In lieu of flowers please send contributions to the Pediatric Oncology Research Fund, c/o Katherine Matthay MD, UCSF, P.O. Box 0106, San Francisco, CA 94143. 

Helen King
A 35 year resident of San Rafael, died peacefully at Sea on November 24th, 2002 at Kailua, Kona, Hawaii while she and her husband were on a cruise of the Islands. She was born in Olyphant, Pennsylvania. As a youth, she studied violin and played in a community symphony orchestra. Following graduation from high school, she entered the Nursing Program at Scranton State Hospital, and became a Registered Nurse. She enlisted in the Army Nurse Corp in 1943 and was assigned to the Hospital Ship Emily H. Weder. She saw action in the European Theatre in Italy, Corsica, and Southern France. Following redeployment to the Far East, she participated in the campaigns at New Guinea, and in the liberation of the Phillipines. The ship and crew received a meritorious citation. Her abiding interests in life were her Church contributions and her membership in the 50 Plus Club. She was a Charter Member of AARP Chapter 4139M and a Life Member of Tamalpais Post 72, VFW. She served as a member of the Board of Directors of Marin Chapter 400 National Association of Retired Federal Employees and was a staunch supporter of the Marin County Alzheimer's Association. She is survived by her husband Raymond, her son Noel and his wife Betty of San Luis Obispo, her daughter Karen and her husband Joe of Sacramento, her daughter Lauri and her husband Tim of South Bend, Indiana, and her son Lowell and his wife Pam of Vacaville. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and two stepchildren A Vigil will be held December 4th, 7:30 p.m. at St. Isabella’s Church and Services will be held at St. Isabella's Church in Terra Linda at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 5th, 2002. 

Helene Lebow
Helene Lebow was born October 24, 1920, in San Francisco to Dagmar and Irving Bock. She was a third generation San Franciscan and lived in Marin County for 55 years. She was the wife of Arthur M. Lebow, an early Marin County attorney who died in 1992 after 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a family cabin in the Sierra Nevada mountains and spent many memorable times there. She attended Washington High School in San Francisco and later earned a B.A. in Art History at the University of California, Berkeley in 1942. She received a teaching credential from San Francisco State College and taught reading and study skills for more than 20 years with the Dewitt Reading Clinic at the Dominican and San Domenico campuses. Within the community, Helene was active in the Sunny Hills Guild, the Marin Art and Garden Center, Hospice of Marin; and as a devoted lover of animals, she volunteered for the Adoptions Program at the Marin Humane Society. Having overcome breast cancer herself at the age of 38, she counseled others facing similar challenges. She died November 29, 2002, at the age of 82, in San Rafael. Helene was the mother of Carole d’Alessio and her husband Jon, of Ross, and the grandmother of Bradley and Matthew d’Alessio. 

Robert A. Moody
Born December 18, 1914 in Columbus, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, December 1, 2002 at the age of 87. Robert was a graduate of Ohio State University with a degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Robert worked for 39 years with the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Disease Eradication and Meat Inspection. Robert retired as Area Supervisor in Salem, Oregon. Robert was in WWII, four years in the South West Pacific Area, U.S. Army Vet. Corps. He was a member of St. Vincent Parish and 50+Club, also a member of SIRS, and Retired Officers and Federal Veterinarians. Mr. Moody is survived by Ruth Ritter Moody, his wife; Wayne R. Moody, son, Long Beach, CA; Terry W. Moody, son, Germantown, MD; Shirley M. Mills, daughter, Great Falls, MT; Sally K. Scholderer, daughter, Dunedin, Florida; Barbara A. Miller, daughter, Longmont, Colorado; and Helen Sandusky, sister, Columbus, Ohio. Friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday, December 4th from 7 to 9 p.m. at Keaton Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, December 5th at 11 AM in St. Isabella Church, San Rafael. Interment to follow in Mt. Tamalpais Cemetery, San Rafael. Should friends desire, donations to the Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 94925 would be appreciated. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571 

Mathilda (Tillie) Johanna Niehoff
A resident of Marin County for 43 years passed away November 16th, 2002 at The Redwoods in Mill Valley at age 92. She was born July 31, 1910 in Kadoka, South Dakota. Her parents, a sister and brother preceded her in death. She is survived by six nieces/nephews, 18 great grandnieces/nephews, and 29 great great grandnieces/nephews. She was a member of the Golden Age Club at Peace Lutheran Church in Mill Valley. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, December 7th, 2002 at 2:00 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 205 Tennessee Valley Road in Mill Valley. The family prefers donations to the Memorial Fund of Peace Lutheran Church in lieu of flowers. 

Francis Olmsted
Passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 28, 2002 in Petaluma, CA at the age of 89. He was born in Cheshire, England, the son of Alexander H. Olmsted and Marie J. DeConinck. He graduated from The Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, CT in 1930 and from Yale University in 1934; and then spent his long, successful career in the chemicals industry with Shell Oil, National Distillers, Cabot Corporation and Essex Chemicals, before retiring in 1983 at the age of 70. Prior to moving to San Anselmo, CA in 1978, he was a longtime resident of Englewood, NJ and Wellesley, MA. He was the beloved husband of the late Robin Taylor Olmsted and the late Jacqueline Loranger Olmsted; the beloved father of Bernard Denison Olmsted of Napa, CA, Marianne Loranger Olmsted of New York City, and Margaret Frances Olmsted of Venice, CA; and the beloved grandfather of Sarah Olmsted Poage of Sherman Oaks, CA, Jennifer Winslow Olmsted of Sunnyvale, CA, and Jack Olmsted Fairley of Venice, CA. His life was celebrated at a private family gathering in Napa on Thanksgiving Day. Donations in his name may be made to The Alzheimer's Association, 919 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1100, Chicago, IL 60611-1676, 1-800-272-3900. Arrangements by ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, Petaluma, California. CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000 

Sonya Starbird
Passed away on November 19, 2002 at Marin General Hospital. She is survived by two loving daughters: Summer Marie and Callie Michele, as well as a sister Sandra, nephew Richard and niece Sierra. Sonya was a beautiful woman who achieved so many of her goals, even though there were obstacles along the way, they never kept her from fulfilling her dreams. Her warm smile cured any sadness that lingered in people and her hugs seemed to lift a fallen spirit. She was a sweet and caring person who found the best in even the worst of people. She was so full of life and love that it radiated from her. Just her smiles seemed to brighten the darkest of days, bringing light to the hearts of those she met. Words cannot express how much she will be missed by all those who were blessed to have known her. She will forever be in our hearts to hold with the memories of her to keep us strong. What seems to us a sunset.....is a sunrise in another land. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 

Ronald Francis Crowe
Passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 25, 2002 at the age of 64 years. Beloved husband of Sandra Jewell of Novato. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Marjorie Crowe, his brother, Richard Crowe and his sister, Barbara Fontana. He was a beloved husband, son in law, brother in law, uncle, and cousin. He will be greatly missed by his co workers at the County of Marin Public Works Dept. where he worked as a civil engineer for 28 years. Ron was born in San Francisco on Septerber 2, 1938. After completing high school, he served the U.S. Navy and later graduated from San Jose State University. He was an avid 49er and Giants fan. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and working on his computer. Friends are invited to join the family in a Celebration of Ron's Life on Saturday, December 7, 2002 at 11:00 AM at St. Rita's Church Hall in Fairfax, CA. Arrangements are being made through Monte's Chapel of the Hills in San Anselmo at 415-453-8440. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society. 

Marian B. (Peg) Patterson, August 11, 1916 ~ November 10, 2002
Born to Vera J. and Wilson G. Byerhoff in Illinois, Peg passed away very peacefully while reading the Sunday paper at home at age 86. She was born in Illinois, raised in Ft. Dodge, Iowa later attending Iowa State Teacher's College (now, University of Northern Iowa). She began teaching elementary school in 1935 and arrived in Harlan, Iowa in 1937 to teach 2nd grade when it was forbidden to be married and be a teacher. She met and secretly married Floyd (Pat) Patterson in 1941, prior to WW II, just before he entered the Army and went to Northern Africa. They moved to SF, CA. following the war and settled in San Rafael (Glenwood) in 1960. Professionally, Peg worked during various periods -- Gaines & Co, Bell's Interiors, and Fireman's Fund. But most all, Peg was a great wife, an unconditional/non-judgmental mom and friend to many. She is predeceased by her husband Pat, a brother Wilson (Bud) Byerhoff, and niece Bev Folger. She is survived by a sister Jean Gaines (Ariz), sister-in-law Arlene Sunderland (Iowa), numerous nieces/nephews and an incredible set of friends and amazing neighbors who will deeply miss her. Her best friend and son, Steve Patterson, of San Rafael, also survives her. Peg loved the game of bridge, her many bridge groups, gardening, politics, professional sports, golf, reading, crossword puzzles, her home, cooking, sewing and was mentally engaged until her very last day. Most people will remember her fun laugh, her wonderful humor and positive ways to view the world. She gave much of herself and sought little in return. A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday December 7th, 4:00 p.m. at the home of her son, Steve: 323 Bayview Street, San Rafael, 415-453-6541. All of her friends and neighbors are welcome. For those wishing to contribute in her memory, consider the ALS Association (Lou Gehrig's disease), 27001 Agoura Rd. Suite 150, Calabasas Hill, CA 91301. 

Ronald Francis Crowe
Passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 25, 2002 at the age of 64 years. Beloved husband of Sandra Jewell of Novato. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Marjorie Crowe, his brother, Richard Crowe and his sister, Barbara Fontana. He was a beloved husband, son in law, brother in law, uncle, and cousin. He will be greatly missed by his co workers at the County of Marin Public Works Dept. where he worked as a civil engineer for 28 years. Ron was born in San Francisco on Septerber 2, 1938. After completing high school, he served the U.S. Navy and later graduated from San Jose State University. He was an avid 49er and Giants fan. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and working on his computer. Friends are invited to join the family in a Celebration of Ron's Life on Saturday, December 7, 2002 at 11:00 AM at St. Rita's Church Hall in Fairfax, CA. Arrangements are being made through Monte's Chapel of the Hills in San Anselmo at 415-453-8440. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society. 

Carolyn Virginia King
Of Mill Valley, CA, passed away suddenly Monday, November 18, 2002 from a heart attack. She was born in Mounds, Illinois and grew up in East Peoria, Ill where she graduated valedictorian in 1953 from East Peoria Community High School. She attended the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana where she met her husband, Dr. Moufied Moussa, a world renowned entomologist. An independent thinker and cosmopolitan world traveler, she lived in Cairo, Egypt; Bangkok, Thailand; Washington, DC; and San Francisco. She taught English at the American University in Cairo and graduated from San Francisco State University with a B.A. in Nutrition. Carolyn had a generous and loving heart, and she loved a good joke. She valued and enjoyed her relationships with her family and friends. She was predeceased by her mother, Margaret Lucille King, a music teacher in the East Peoria school system. She is survived by her 98 year old father George Y. King in Peoria, Arizona, a teacher at E.P.C.H.S. for 29 years; her brothers Carl Robert (Bob) King in Tower Hill, Illinois and Paul King in Vallejo, CA; her daughters Nahata Deena in Sonoma, CA and Susan Moussa in Gainesville, Florida; son Terry Moussa in Petaluma, CA; two granddaughters Danielle Moussa, a student at Humboldt State University in CA and Grace Moussa in Petaluma, CA; and former husband Moufied in Gainesville, Florida. Outdoor Memorial Services were held in the courtyard of her home in Mill Valley. Funeral arrangements were arranged by Adobe Creek Funeral Home of Petaluma, CA. 

Brenn Joel Morgan, July 21, 1915 ~ November 3, 2002
Joel was one of nine children born to Solomon Fried and Pauline Newman Fried in Brooklyn, NY. Joel worked as a Supervisor in the U.S. Postal Service in Buffalo, NY for 35 years before retiring to Northern California with his wife, Evelyn Farber Morgan in 1970. He received numerous awards for distinguished service and instruction in the USPS and was recognized for his relentless and successful efforts in the service of racial equity, fairness, and integration at the Buffalo Post Office. Joel loved chess, history, and language with an unmatched passion. He was strong in his convictions and was known for tireless debates on philosophy and politics. He is survived by his siblings Manny and Gerald, sons Robert and Nelson, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His wife, Evelyn Morgan, passed away in March of this year. Please send condolences to Ben Morgan, 601 M Avenue, La Grande, OR 97850. 

Leslie "Les" A. Southwick
Passed away on November 28, 2002 from a heart disease at the age of 84. He was an 11th generation American with his ancestors arriving in what is now Massachusetts in 1627. Although his family resided in Bowling Green, Ohio, Les was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where his mother journeyed to give birth to all of her children in the same hospital with the same doctor. The family had two residences. During the week, they lived in town and on the weekend the family lived and worked on the family farm. Les graduated from Bowling Green State University. He served in World War II as a first sergeant in both the European and Pacific Theaters. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and serviced General Patton's tanks. Les moved to San Francisco in 1951 and Marin County in 1956. He married his wife Dolores in 1956. They lived in Mill Valley briefly then moved to Terra Linda and resided there for 32 years before moving to Oakmont in Santa Rosa, CA in 1988. Les worked in the automotive parts business for 3o years and was the original owner of San Anselmos Auto Parts from 1958 to 1974. He was a golf enthusiast, a member of Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Rohnert Park Kut Ups, the Gadabouts and the SIRS Chapter 77. He took great pride in his family and will be remembered for his unceasing wit and sense of humor. We will all miss his jokes and laughter. Les is survived by one daughter and son in law: Jenay and Kevin Cottrell of Novato, CA; two sons and daughters in law: Michael and Marianne Southwick of Lewisville, TX and Mitchell and Soni Southwick of Sacramento, CA; and five grandchildren, Sean, Cassandra and Kenneth Cottrel of Novato and Stephanie and Ryan Southwick of Lewisville. He also leaves two sisters Helen Hepfinger of Bowling Green, Ohio and Twila Allen of Mentor, Ohio, a niece and several nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service on Wednesday, December 4, 2002 at 11:00 AM at LAFFERTY & COLONIAL CHAPEL, 4321 Sonoma Hwy, Santa Rosa. Private interment Santa Rosa Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the COLONIAL CHAPEL from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM on Tuesday December 3, 2002. Donations may be made to the American Heart Assn or United Cerebral Palsy of the North Bay or Hospice of Marin. 

Lydia C. Theisen
Mrs. Lydia Theisen, 85 of Larkspur, widow of Conrad, died at Rafael Convalescent Wednesday morning, November 27, 2002. Formerly Lydia Englund, she was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin on December 23, 1916, the first of four children born to Ernest and Lena Englund. After completing high school in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Lydia became a Beautician. In 1940 she married Conrad Theisen. She came to California with her husband during World War II. Following the war they moved to San Francisco and in 1952 moved to Marin County. They lived for a period in Corte Madera and then the remainder of their lives in Larkspur. In addition to raising their one son, Lydia enjoyed gardening and a wide variety of reading. Conrad, her husband of 61 years passed away in 2001. She is survived by their son Ron Theisen and his wife Alice of Novato; her three grandchildren, Scott and Kelly Theisen of Novato and Eric Theisen and his wife Lori of Winter Springs, Florida; and a great grandson, Jack Conrad Theisen. Graveside service on December 5, 2002 at 11:00 AM, Mount Tamalpais Cemetery.