Rose Duncan
Retired teacher
COARSEGOLD - Rose Roxie Duncan, 77, a retired school teacher, died at her home in Yosemite Lakes Park on June 13 [1999]. Services will be held on Saturday [June 19] at the Little Church on the Hill in Oakhurst at 10 a.m. followed by burial at the Oakhill Cemetery. Mrs. Duncan was born on September 3, 1921 in Durango, Colorado. She lived in Simi Valley for 35 years before moving to Coarsegold two years ago. She taught in elementary and junior high schools for the Simi Valley Unified School District. She taught home economics in junior high as well as adult educaton classes. Her family was her delight. She was a major influence in the raising of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, espeacially her rose garden. She was politically active in the Republican Party and a listed contributor to the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley. She enjoyed traveling to visit family and friends in Germany, the United Kingdon, Australia, Canada, Colorado and Alaska. She also enjoyed a U.S. Bicentennial trip to historic New England, spending the Bicentennial Fourth of July in Washington D.C. Her most recent trip was taken in Colorado visiting Bob and Thelma Bannon with whom she was very close. She was preceeded in death by her parents George and Roxie Shreck Blackmore of Bayfield, Colorado. She is survived by her daughters, Karen Carrick (husband, Ken), Coarsegold; Sharon Pearson (husband, Bryan), Los Osos; and son, Donald Duncan (wife, Billie Ann), Lancaster. She leaves sisters Barbara Bannon and Thelma Bannon (husband, Bob), of Cedaredge, Colorado. She was the sister of the late Elsie Grubbs. She also leaves a brother Archie Blackmore, Delta, Colorado. Preceding her in death were her brothers, Earl Blackmore, Bernus Blackmore, Carl Blackmore and Harlan Blackmore. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Steven Carrick (wife, Rosanna), Coarsegold; Jim Duncan (wife, Susan), Lancaster; Sherie Fontes ( husband, James), Fresno; Melissa Ross (husband, Stewart), Santa Clarita; and Doug Pearson, Morro Bay. She was also the grandmother of the late Rebecca Duncan. Mrs. Duncan was the great grandmother of Andrew Carrick, Coarsegold; Jimmy, Jessica and Griffin Duncan, all of Lancaster; Zachary and David Martin, both of Fresno. She was anticipating the birth of her seventh great grandchild in December. Remembrances: Hines Hospice in lieu of flowers.

Wayne L. Todd
Retired military, lawman
NORTH FORK - Wayne L. Todd, 79, who for many years served his country and then his community, died at home on Thursday [26 May 1999 ]. A memorial service was held Tuesday, followed by burial at the Clovis Cemetery. Mr. Todd was born in Fresno on April 7, 1920. He was a 1938 graduate of Fresno Technical High School. He served 30 years with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Army and the Navy, retiring from the Navy in 1975. His duty assignments covered World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Mr. Todd and his wife, Elva, built their home in North Fork and that became their residence following his retirement from the Navy. He joined the Madera County Sheriff’s Department as a transportation officer in 1975. He was appointed constable of what was then the Sierra Judicial District in 1976 and was later elected to that post (since replaced by the office of marshal). He retired again in 1991, but continued as a part-time deputy under his successor. Mr. Todd was appointed to represent Mountain Area-District 5 on the county Planning Commission in 1993, serving through last December. He was a Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite and the Techran Shine as well as a member of Rotary International. Mr. Todd and his wife of 58 years, Elva, were charter members of the Oakhurst Lutheran Church. In addition to his wife, Mr. Todd is survived by daughters Jeanette Noel (husband Charles); Elizabeth Todd and Rebecca Nersesian (husband Armen); and son Matthew. He was the brother of Marge Harwood and Jimmy Todd and is also survived by seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Remembrances: Oakhurst Lutheran Church, Navy Relief or Shriner’s Hospital.

Lawrence Bjorklund
Pastor
BASS LAKE - Dr. Lawrence Bjorklund, 59, pastor at Little Church in the Pines for 11 years, died Monday [10 May 1999] while on an outing at Yosemite National Park. A memorial service will be held on Sunday [May 16], starting at 2 p.m. and following the regular services and a luncheon. There will be a viewing at the church on Saturday [May 15] between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dr. Bjorklund had been a pastor since 1963 and came to the Little Church in the Pines in August 1988.

Herbert Ridenour
Pizza store owner
OAKHURST - Herbert Leo Ridenour, 63, an Oakhurst resident for 21 years who owned a Pizza Factory outlet at Dos Palos, died at a hospital there on May 9. Services will be held Friday [May 14, 1999], starting at 11:30 a.m. at the Living Way Church along School Road [427], Oakhurst. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery. Mr. Ridenour was born in Oklahoma on October 13, 1935. He worked for Pacific Bell in the Los Angeles and Fresno areas for 30 years before retiring and then taking on the pizza business. Mr. Ridenour was the husband of Sue Ridenour. He was the father of David of Bass Lake and Eric of Clovis. Mr. Ridenour was the son of Delila Ridenour of Coarsegold and the brother of Ed Ridenour of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Five grandchildren also survive. Remembrances: Spectrum Ministries, Inc., in care of Sierra Funeral Chapel.

Dennis Dykstra
Retired telephone technician
OAKHURST - Dennis Charles Dykstra, 61, a resident here for nine years, died at a Fresno hospital on October 4 [1999]. Services were held Tuesday at Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church. Burial followed at Oakhill Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mr. Dykstra was born in Rock Valley, Iowa, on December 31, 1938. He retired as a switching technician at the Garden Grove office of Pacific Bell after a 34-year career with that company. He came to Oakhurst in 1990. Mr. Dykstra enjoyed gardening, his dog, Rex, and studying God’s word. He served others whatever the need and especially enjoyed working with children and especially had a heart for disadvantaged children. He was active in Evangelism Explosion and served as an AWANA leader and game director through the Evangelical Free Church in Oakhurst. He coached Pop Warner and Little League teams, many of them reaching championships, before retiring to Oakhurst. Mr. Dykstra was the husband of Cheryle Dykstra of Oakhurst. He was the father of Brenda Dykstra, Coarsegold; Donna Dykstra (husband Norman Cox), Cayucos; Brian Dykstra (wife Susan), Simi Valley; Lenny Dykstra (wife Terri), Thousand Oaks; Johna Dykstra-Ruz (husband Danyel Ruz), Templeton; and Kevin Dykstra (wife Michelle), Corona. He was the son of Charles and Alice Dykstra of Oakhurst. Also, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

David Nagel
Educator
CANYON COUNTRY - David Barton Nagel, 49, died in Castaic on September 26 [1999]. He was the son of Bart and Marcia Nagel of Oakhurst and the brother of Dr. Mark Nagel, D.V.M., also of Oakhurst. Services were held at Chatsworth on September 30, led by his brother-in-law, Pastor David Chapman, and attended by more than 400 people he had touched in his lifetime. He was born in Santa Barbara on October 24, 1950. He left a wonderful legacy in the Los Angeles City Schools where he taught 24 years at San Fernando Middle School. Mr. Nagel was the driving force behind the development of the technology lab curriculum that is now in place in 30 Los Angeles schools and is used extensively throughout California. David was three times named “technology teacher of the year” in the Los Angeles district. In addition to his family in Oakhurst, Mr. Nagel leaves his wife of 23 years, Patricia Nagel; and daughters Katie and Audra. Also, he was the brother of Bonnie Chapman of Kirkland, Washington, and is survived by 11 nieces and nephews. He was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and uncle and will be missed - but he is at peace now and the family will be reunited one day.

Patrick Carney
Retired
NORTH FORK - Patrick Edward Carney, 70, died February 7 [2001] at a Fresno hospital. Services were held last week at the North Fork Cemetery, under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel of Oakhurst. Mr. Carney was born in Minnesota on January 10, 1931. He was a member of the Madera Elks Lodge. Mr. Carney was the husband of Ruth R. Carney of North Fork and the father of Stephen Carney of North Fork; Walter Carney of San Jose; and Colleen Benelli of Sandy, Oregon. He was the brother of Shirley Reilly of Oceanside. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Remembrances: Madera Elks.

Jo Devendorf
Homemaker
OAKHURST - Jo Brown Devendorf, 93, died at a Clovis hospital on February 16 [2001]. There will be no services. Arrangements were handled by Cremation Society of Central California in Fresno. A homemaker whose home was in Oakhurst, Mrs. Devendorf had resided in Madera County for 30 years. She was born in Kansas on September 28, 1907. Mrs. Devendorf was the wife of George Devendorf of Oakhurst. Also surviving are four children.

Virgil Kuns
Retired Air Force officer
OAKHURST - A gathering of friends for the celebration of the life of the late Virgil Kuns has been moved to the Positive Living Center, 49269 Golden Oak Drive, on Saturday [February 24], from noon to 4 p.m. The service was changed from the Community Church of Oakhurst because of a Sunday fire. Mr. Kuns, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force, died on January 27 [2001]. He had resided in Oakhurst for 12 years.

Mary Waterman
Community activist
OAKHURST - Mary A. Waterman, 72, died on Valentine’s Day, February 14. A memorial service will be held Thursday [February 22], starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion. Food and fellowship will follow. Mrs. Waterman was a former member of several service organizations, including Soroptimists of the Sierras, Sierra-Oakhurst Lady Lions and the Coarsegold Grandmothers Club. She was also involved with the Oakhurst Community Center and the former Sierra Mountaineer Days in the past. She was also an avid supporter of the Sierra Women’s Softball League, where her daughter and many of her friends participated. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Caruthers. Mrs. Waterman is survived by loved ones including her only daughter, Alice Waterman of Oakhurst. She was the sister of Patsy Watkins (husband Hank) of Clovis; Audrey White of Caruthers; and Dennis Christian of Texas. Also surviving are her nephews Steven Watkins (wife Rhonda), Walter White (wife Diana), Henry Watkins Jr. (wife Lori), William White and Jeff Watkins; and by nieces Jolynn Powell (husband Wayne) and Beth Ferguson. Also, cousin Don Crisp (wife Beth) and numerous friends throughout the Mountain Area.

Don Ward
Self-employed
COARSEGOLD - Don A. Ward, 66, died at his home here on February 15. A memorial service was held Tuesday, followed by burial at Oakhill Cemetery in Oakhurst. Mr. Ward was born in Iowa on April 10, 1934. He served for four years with the U.S. Navy. Mr. Ward leaves his wife, Dee, of Coarsegold. He was the father of Matthew Ward of Fresno, Maria Livesay of Mira Loma, and Marlaina Winterbottam of Santa Cruz. Also surviving are eight grandchildren.

Virgil Kuns
Retired Air Force officer
OAKHURST - A gathering of friends for the celebration of the life of the late Virgil Kuns has been moved to the Positive Living Center, 49269 Golden Oak Drive, on Saturday [February 24], from noon to 4 p.m.

Charley Dykstra
Retired
OAKHURST - Charles (Magee) Dykstra, 91, a resident here for four years, died in Fresno on February 25. Services will be Thursday March 1], 10 a.m., at Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mr. Dykstra was born and raised in Rock Valley, Iowa, and came to Bellflower, where he retired for 54 years. He worked at a lumber yard before retiring. The Dykstras came to Oakhurst in 1997. Mr. Dykstra and his wife, Alice, were married for 66 years. Mr. Dykstra is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Cheryl Dukstra of Oakhurst. He was preceded in death by his son Dennis on October 4, 2000. He was the grandfather of Brenda Dykstra, Coarsegold; Danna Dykstra-dog (husband Norm), Cayucos; Johna Dykstra-Ruz (husband Danyel), Templeton; Drian Dykstra (wife Sue), Simi Valley; Lenny Dykstra (wife Terri), Thousand Oaks; and Kevin Dykstra (wife Michele), Corona. Also surviving are his 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Garrett and John, and sisters Deana, Johanna, Jessie and Jessica; and by his parents Charley and Artje. Remembrances: Oakhurst Evangelical Free Building fund, Post Office Box 1476, Oakhurst 93644.

Kalfus W. Patterson, M.D.
Retired physician
OAKHURST - Kalfus Wilton Patterson, 79, a retired medical doctor who had resided here for 13 years, died at home on February 8. Services will be held at San Joaquin National Cemetery at Santa Nella on Friday, March 23, at 2 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel of Oakhurst. Dr. Patterson was born in California on July 23, 1921. He served with the U.S. Army. Dr. Patterson is survived by his wife, Allene Patterson of Oakhurst and by children Joan Hass, Fresno; Barbara Carmen, Santa Clara; Sally Remine, Reseda; and Charles Patterson, Visalia. Also surviving are two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Noreen Ross
Retired waitress
OAKHURST - Noreen M. Ross, 87, a resident here for six years, died at a Clovis Convalescent home on February 21. A memorial service was conducted on Sunday at the Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mrs. Ross was born in Connecticut on June 19, 1913. She was a retired waitress. Mrs. Ross was the mother of Carol Ross of Oakhurst; Donna Marie Ross of Vas Vegas; Noreen Scotto of New Jersey; and Barbara Paccione of New York. She was the sister of Dermott Haggerty of Connecticut. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Ruth Sebring
Longtime resident
OAKHURST - Ruth Ella Sebring, 78, a longtime resident here, died February 22 in Casper, Wyoming, following a lengthy illness. She was born in Oklahoma on December 9, 1922. Mrs. Sebring was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Oakhurst and was a volunteer with Dorcus for several years. She leaves her son Les Sebring (wife Pat) of Oakhurst; grandson, Rick Sebring of Winnetka; granddaughter, Peggy Palmer of Chatsworth; two brothers and four sisters.

Madelon Stubbe
Retired insurance claims
YOSEMITE LAKES PARK - Madelon Lorraine Stubbe, 68, died on February 14. A memorial service was held Saturday at Yosemite Lakes Community Church. Arrangements were handled by Tinkler Funeral chapel & Crematory of Fresno. Mrs. Stubbe was born in Maywood on November 21, 1932. She worked as a claims manager for New York Life insurance Company for 26 years and retired 21 years ago, moving to Yosemite Lakes Park. She was the mother of Russell Maurice of Fresno and the sister of Virginia Adams of Clatskanie, Oregon; Donna Skeen of Las Vegas; and Margo Rodriguez of Lake Havasu City, Arizona; and by her adopted family, the Standridges. Remembrances: American Cancer Society, 2222 West Shaw, Fresno 93711.

‘Piazon’ Temple
Retired
NORTH FORK - Lloyd C. (Piazon) Temple, 81, a resident here for 54 years, died on February 3. There will be no funeral but a memorial service will be held later. Arrangements are under the direction of the Neptune Society. Mr. Temple was born in Circleville, Ohio, on February 10, 1920. He was employed by American Forest Products of North Fork, then worked at the Madera County transfer station in North Fork. He also owned his own septic service for a few years nd worked for the U.S. Forest Service under the Older Americans program until retiring because of illness. His friendly ways and his sense of humor will be missed. Mr. Temple leaves his wife, Ethel; son, Douglas Temple of North Fork; and daughter, Terry Temple Black of Chicago.

Mary L. Williams
Retired chinchilla farmer
OAKHURST - Mary L. Williams, 91, a resident here for 47 years, died in Clovis on February 22. A memorial service will be held Saturday [March 3], starting at 11 a.m. at the Community Church of Oakhurst. Mrs. Williams was born in Italy on September 20, 1909. She came to Patterson, where she graduated from high school in 1928. She later attended Modesto Junior College. She and Divy Williams were married in 1039 and they came to Oakhurst in 1954 to raise chinchillas under the name DeMary Fur Farm. Mrs. Williams was also active in community organizations including the Grandmothers Club, Mountain Community Women, Lady Lions and the Golden Chain Theatre. Mr. and Mrs. Williams once served as grand marshals for Sierra Mountaineer Days. They were charter members of Community Church of Oakhurst. Mrs. Williams was also an avid bridge player and enjoyed playing with her friends. Mr. Williams died in 1991; they had been married for 60 years. She is survived by sons Martin Williams of Oakhurst and Gerald Williams of Peddle Beach. Also surviving are six granddaughters and five great-grandchildren and her niece, Diane Livingstone, of Florida. Remembrances: Community Church of Oakhurst or the charity of choice.

James Greene
State park superintendent
COARSEGOLD - James Howard Greene, 68, who lived in the Mountain Area for almost eight years, died on February 26 in Fresno. A celebration of his life will be held in Oakhurst at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church, 39696 Highway 41, on Saturday [March 10], at 1 p.m. Mr. Greene was born on February 28, 1932, in Visalia on the Allen Oak Ranch. His parents, now deceased, were Anna Marie Wilson Green and James Franklin Green. He attended Visalia schools. Mr. Greene proudly served in the U.S Air Force during the Korean conflict as a radio operator. He graduated from College of the Sequoias and then from Humboldt State University with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management. He worked for the state Department of Parks and Recreation for 27 years. Locations varied from Humboldt Redwoods in the north to Silverwood Lake in the south. He ended his park career at San Luis Reservoir in 1986 as park superintendent. During his park career, he took great pride in working according to procedure. After his retirement, he greatly enjoyed living in the foothills where he could watch wild animals from his windows. He also enjoyed woodworking, coffee shop camaraderie, his retired Air Force group, the Mountain Amateur Radio Club and his family. Mr. Greene is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joyce Grant Greene. He leaves his daughters Deborah Greene Sanchez (husband Mark) of Sacramento and Belinda Childers (husband Russ) of Fair Oaks. He also leaves two grandsons, Austin and Morgan Childers, who were a constant source of joy to him. He was a brother to Ada Masia (husband Mike), Redding and Mexico; and Alan Green, San Francisco. His brother, Harold, preceded him in death. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. Remembrances: Camp Green Meadows at the Jack L. Boyd Outdoor School, Fish Camp, 93623.

Aaron L. Jones
Underwriting manager
BASS LAKE - Aaron (Al) L. Jones, 85, a 25-year resident of Bass Lake, died on February 19. Services will be held on Friday [March 9] at 2 p.m. with an honor guard ceremony at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine. Mr. Jones was born in Dekalb, Missouri, on December 3, 1915. He attended Missouri University and the University of Southern California. He served in the Army Air Corps from December 19, 1942, to November 8, 1945. He was a sergeant in the 10th Weather Squadron. He served overseas in India for 24 months as a weather observer, and worked behind enemy lines plotting weather on maps and sent out information in code to higher headquarters. He compiled top-secret weather information used by weather forecasters to determine time of bombing raids. He also worked in the United States in military intelligence on confidential investigations. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal and the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon. Mr. Jones worked for the Canadian Indemnity Company in Los Angeles for 35 years. In 1969 he served as president of the Casualty Insurance Association of Southern California. He also served on the Insurance Underwriters Association of the Pacific Southern California Educational Committee. He was a national underwriting manager when he retired in 1980. Mr. Jones enjoyed photography and traveling, whether to other countries or in his RV in North America. He was an avid sports fan. Mr. Jones leaves his wife Sharon and daughters Suzanne McIntosh of San Jose, and Patricia Baer, Scotts Valley. He also leaves sons Ronald Jones, Placentia, and Scott McBeth, Scotts Valley. Mr. Jones was brother to Bill Jones, Carlsbad, and Jack Jones, Anaheim Hills. He is also survived by grandchildren Zachary and Kendall Jones; Brian and Jeni Baer; Alyse, Jonathan and Austin McIntosh; Amanda McBeth; and Heather, Aaron, Shannon, and Timothy McBeth.

Elizabeth A. Rihn
Artist
AHWAHNEE - Elizabeth A. Rihn, 68, a resident here for the past five years, died on February 25. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 17, at 2 p.m. at the Oakhurst Branch Library. Mrs. Rihn was born on April 24, 1932, in Pasadena where she lived for more than 50 years. She resided in Eastern Madera County for the past 16 years. She was a talented artist, producing oil paintings of jungle scenes, portraits, and much more. In addition, she designed two residences for her family. She loved color and had a beautiful garden full of flowers. Mrs. Rihn is survived by Bill, her husband of nearly 49 years. She was the mother to Jennifer Rihn (husband Grover Sams); and Dennis Rihn (wife Cathy Watkins). She is survived by her sister Margaret Rouse and brother-in-law, Everett Rouse. She was grandmother to Joe and Nick Rihn.

Kerry Walker
Ambulance service volunteer
AHWAHNEE - Kerry Walker, died on March 2, which was her 63rd birthday. Graveside services will be held on Thursday [March 8] at 10 a.m. at the Oakhill Cemetery in Oakhurst. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mrs. Walker was a native of Los Angeles, where she grew up in South Gate and then moved to Huntington Beach when she married Robert Walker 46 years ago. While a resident of Huntington Beach, she worked with the Junior Chamber of Commerce. She and Mr. Walker moved to Ahwahnee in 1977 where she helped operate the family ranch. She was very active with Sierra Ambulance Service, serving on the board of directors for four or five years. After she retired from the board, she continued her involvement with the ambulance service. She was also active in the Ahwahnee Volunteer Fire Department. Mrs. Walker is survived by her husband, Robert. She also leaves her daughter, Sherry Walker of Ahwahnee, and two sons, Curtiss Walker, Oakhurst, and Darryll Walker, Fresno. She was a sister to Carl Stephenson, Riverside, and Michael Stephenson, Redondo Beach. She also leaves five grandchildren, Michele, Brian, Kelli, Laura and Anthony. Remembrances: Sierra Ambulance Service in Mrs. Walker’s memory.

Lotus Wallace
Homemaker
NORTH FORK - Lotus G. Wallace, 74, a homemaker who had resided here all of her life, died at home on March 24. Services were held Thursday morning at the North Fork Cemetery. Mrs. Wallace was born in Madera on April 19, 1926. She was the mother of Martin Wallace and Gena Hopkins of North Fork, and Otis Wallace of Fresno. Also surviving are six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Ada Wenham
Retired drug store owner
OAKHURST - Ada Marie Wenham died here on March 24. Private graveside married April 12,1927. In 1928 the Wenhams sold the Owens Valley Drug Store and moved to Merced, where they bought the Merced Drug Company. They moved to Le Grand in 1934 and bought the Le Grand Drug, being part of that community for 12 years. The Wenhams read in 1946 that the North Fork community was seeking a physician, so they drove to North Fork and decided to move to the community and built the first drug store. It was in the Jack Griffin Hardware building, using 25 feet of space there. They had their store until 1962, when they purchased a lot next to the hardware store and built their own store. The Wenhams were involved in the activities of North Fork, including the Boy Scouts, Boosters, Loggers Jamboree and the North Fork Town Hall. They also participated in square dancing. The Wenhams were often seen heading to Fresno on Saturday nights to attend the Bulldog football games at Ratcliff Stadium, or heading to San Francisco to see the 49ers play football. Mrs. Wenham belonged to the Merced and Chowchilla Rebecca lodges and was a 50-year member of that organization. Mr. Wenham belonged to the Elks lodges in Bishop and Merced. After Mr. Wenham died on November 30, 1973, Mrs. Wenham continued to run the drug store in North Fork, selling after a couple of years to Greg Winslow. Mrs. Wenham continued to be involved in the Red Buds, Farm Bureau, Boosters and Loggers Jamboree. In 1975, she and Hollis Best were grand marshals. She helped with the efforts to establish the Town Hall. She also got together with a group of widows once a month, calling themselves the “Golden Girls,” for a social dinner. She was a great bridge player, and continued to play until last Christmas. Mrs. Wenham continued driving a car until she was 91. And she lived alone in her home in North Fork until she sold it in 2000 and moved in with her daughter, Beverly, and son-in-law, Robert. In September she moved into Oakhurst Board and Care, where she resided until her death. Mrs. Wenham is survived by her daughter Beverly VickRoy (husband Robert), Oakhurst; and son George E. Wenham (wife Marie) of Visalia. She had one grandson, George E. O’Brien (wife Jamie), and one great-granddaughter, Colleen, all of Fresno. She was the sister of Betty Frew of Alameda and aunt of Bettie Lea Kempster, Alameda; and Robert Linscott (wife Pat), Olympia, Washington. Remembrances: Madera Hospice, Post Office Box 1325, Madera 93639; Alzheimer’s Foundation of Central California, 6335 North Fresno Street, Fresno 93710; or the Fresno Feline Foundation, in memory of “Hillary,” Ada’s beloved cat.

Katholene Hollis
Homemaker
AHWAHNEE - Katholene Olene Hollis, 82, died on March 26 in Fresno. She was born on June 6, 1918, in Burke Bernette, Texas. She had lived in Ahwahnee for 49 years after moving from Brentwood. She and her husband, Newt, brought their young family to the mountains to give them a better way of life. The family dealt with many tragedies including losing their first mountain home in the Harlow Fire of 1961. Mrs. Hollis enjoyed gardening, cooking and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Newt Hollis, son Bob Hollis and grandson Bobby Hollis. She is survived by her children Rita Hollis, Ahwahnee; Terry Smith, Dallas, Texas; and Carol Pierson, Wildomar. Mrs. Hollis was grandmother to Bret and Wendy Didrickson, Ahwahnee; Debbie and Mark Williams, Bass Lake; Jannéa Webster, Atlanta, Georgia; and April Hollis, Oregon. She also leaves great-grandchildren Dustin, Billy and Dena Didrickson of Ahwahnee.

Polly Codde
Pharmacy clerk
COARSEGOLD - Polly Lanphier Codde, 93, died on March 26. Graveside services were held in Lafayettte. Mrs. Codde was born December 21, 1907, in Umtali, Southern Rhodesia, in South Africa. She had been clerk for L & S Pharmacy. Mrs. Codde leaves her daughters Joyce Dahlin (husband Stan) and Joan Mascaro (husband Bruce). She also leaves stepsons Clark Codde (wife Noreen) and Larry Codde (wife Goya). She was the grandmother to Stanley III Dahlin (wife Debra); James Dahlin (wife Kim); Sabrina LeFevre (husband Mark); Douglas Dahlin (wife Valorie); Stephen Dahlin (wife Ilsook); Denise Forston (husband Scott); and Monica Mascaro. Mrs. Codde was also the stepgrandmother to Conchita Woltersdorf (husband Scott); Gregory Codde (wife Tina); Christopher Codde (wife Vickie); Melissa Codde and Jennifer Codde. She is survived by her brother Arthur Snashall (wife Effie), and her sisters Phyllis Boehmer and Hazel Burt. Mrs. Codde left 45 great-grandchildren.

Ruth Inman
Homemaker
NORTH FORK - Ruth Valentine Dennis Inman, who celebrated her 101st birthday earlier this year, died on April 13 in Fresno. Services were held Thursday. Burial was in the North Fork Cemetery. Mrs. Inman was born on February 14, 1900, in Carthage, Missouri, where she grew up. Just as she had been a Valentine baby, so also she was a Valentine bride when she married Roy Edgar Inman on February 14, 1925. They had four children. Her youngest, Dennis, died as a child in a drowning accident. She spent most of her adult life in Colorado and California. She lived in Southern California for almost 60 years before moving to North Fork four years ago to live with her daughter Rosemary. Mrs. Inman was a widow for more than 40 years. Her interests centered around her home. She loved her garden and could often be found greeting her neighbors from there. The nurture of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was always a top priority. Her love of animals was displayed in the care of her cats and other cats that stopped by for her attention. In recent years a favorite pastime was watching the deer and birds that came to feed in the backyard. Mrs. Inman was also an amateur painter. She is survived by her children Bill Inman (wife June), Rosemary Curry (husband Herb), and Dolores Macomber (husband Perry). She also leaves her grandchildren Maureen Walling (husband Steve), Michael Inman (wife Claire), Patrick Inman, and Kathleen Pierce (husband Mark). Mrs. Inman was great-grandmother to Jessica Knotts, Moody Knotts, Price Walling, Justin Curry, Jordan Curry, Alexandra Pierce, and Michael Pierce.

Irene Meisner
Storage manager
OAKHURST - Irene O. Meisner, 65, a mini-storage manager who resided here for 13 years, died in Fresno on April 14. Services will be held Friday [April 20], 10 a.m., at Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church. Burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery. Mrs. Meisner was born in Geneva, New York, on October 20, 1935. In addition to her work, Mrs. Meisner enjoyed her hobbies of crocheting, canning and gardening. She especially enjoyed working with developmentally disadvantaged children and served as a foster parent. She also served as a 4-H leader during the time she resided in Brockport, New York. Mrs. Meisner leaves her husband, Richard Meisner, of Oakhurst. She was the mother of David Jessmer Sr., Wyatt Jessmer, Michael Jessmer and Edward Jessmer of New York, and the stepmother of Richard Meisner Jr. of Michigan. Also surviving are her sisters, Carol Smith of Kent, New York; and Marilyn Tatner of Rochester, New York; and her brother, Albert (Butch) Lockwood, of Rochester. Fourteen grandchildren also survive.

Emily Simonsen
Retired bookkeeper
AHWAHNEE - Private services have been held for Emily F. Simonsen, a retired bookkeeper who died at a Clovis hospital on April 13. A March 4, 1919, native of Fresno, Mrs. Simonson had resided here for 18 years. She was the grandmother of Rhonda Elam of Ahwahnee and Denna Jensen of Las Vegas. She was the sister of Eugene Marple of Salinas.

Donavon Olds
Retired from Forest Service
OAKHURST - Donavon Stanton Olds, retired from the U.S. Forest Service, died at his home here on April 16. He was 86. Services will be held Monday [April 23], 11 a.m., at Oakhill Cemetery. Mr. Olds was born in Minnesota on November 30, 1914. He had resided in Oakhurst for 23 years. He was the husband of Constance Olds of Oakhurst and the father of Peggy Arellanes, Fresno; Deanna Berry, LaHabra; Judy Baker, Lynnwood; Bob Grooms, Healdsburg; Jim Grooms, Gilroy; and Hugh Olds, Covina. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Doris Phelps
Retired librarian
OAKHURST - Doris R. Phelps, 97, a retired librarian, died at her home here on April 16. Private services have been held with burial in Urbana, Ohio. Mrs. Phelps was born in Michigan on February 1, 1904. Mrs. Phelps was the widow of Harold Shaeffer Reynolds and Ralph Phelps. She was the mother of Joan R. Brumley, Coarsegold; Jane R. Lindberg, Senatobia, Mississippi; and Jerry R. Freland, Edmonds, Washington. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. Remembrances: Yosemite Lakes Community Church.

Cecelia Holbrook Mosher
Retired
OAKHURST - Cecelia Holbrook Mosher, retired owner of an insurance agency and an answering service here, died on April 23. A memorial service will be held Friday [April 27], 2 p.m., at Oakhurst Lutheran Church. She was born on April 23, 1921. Mrs. Mosher was raised in Rio Vista and was a 1939 graduate of Rio Vista High School. She was owner of Cee Holbrook Insurance in Oakhurst from 1972-77 and also owned Central Sierra Communications - the first answering service in the community. She continued with her insurance business until about 1980, when she had surgery for lung cancer. Mrs. Mosher also obtained her real estate sales license and worked at that profession in the Mountain Area until about 1990, when her husband became very ill and she took a year off to care for him. With her late husband, L.C. (Lucky) Holbrook, she also worked as a campground ranger for two years at The Forks Campground, where they met many new friends. She also worked in the senior program with the U.S. Forest Service. Mrs. Mosher was active during the 1960s-’80s in Lady Lions of Oakhurst, Soroptimists International of the Sierras and the Eastern Madera County Chamber of Commerce (during the 1970s). Earlier, during the 1950s, she was a member of Rebekahs in Los Angeles. She and her late husband were leaders in Golden Valley Girl Scouts in 1956-65. She was camp committee chairman for the building of Camp El-O-Win, 1959-61. Mrs. Mosher is survived by her beloved husband, Olin Mosher Sr. She was the mother of Judy Luthy of Oakhurst and Joyce Elder and Larry Holbrook of Fresno. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren and three step-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. She also leaves her beloved dog, “Baby” and cat, “Junior,” and her many friends. She was predeceased by her spouse of 49 years, L.C. (Lucky) Holbrook, and by her grandson, Kenny Holbrook. Remembrances: Alzheimer’s Society of Central California, or the America Cancer Society.

Raymond Parker
Retired
COARSEGOLD - Raymond C. Parker, 77, a resident here since 1984, died on April 27. Services will be held Thursday [May 3], 11 a.m., at Yosemite Lakes Community Church in Yosemite Lakes Park. Burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery in Oakhurst. Visitation will be held at Sierra Funeral Chapel on Wednesday [May 2], from 4 to 7 p.m. Mr. Parker worked for the Los Angeles Times Mirror press and retired in 1984 after 42 years. He then moved to Coarsegold. Mr. Parker was an active supporter of the Coarsegold Community Center and of the Yosemite Lakes Community Church. He was a veteran of World War II, serving as a paratrooper in France. Mr. Parker was a loving husband, son, father, grandfather and friend. His great passion was playing golf. Mr. Parker is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Helen; his mother, Ione Squillace of Oakhurst; and by his daughters, Mary Gwen Reyes (husband, Antonio), Fresno; and Barbara Ann Jesberg, Modesto. Also surviving are grandsons Darin Jesberg and Christopher Jesberg, Modesto; Devin McOsker (wife Leslie), Fresno; and Gary McOsker, Chico; and great-grandchildren Nicholaus and Britanie McOsker, Fresno. A niece, a nephew and many friends also survive. Remembrances: Hinds Hospice, Madera; the American Cancer Society.

Olin Bray, M.D.
Retired physician
OAKHURST - Olin Doane Bray, M.D., a resident here since 1991, died on May 5 at age 93. Services will be held on Thursday [May 10], starting at 1 p.m. at the Oakhurst Seventh-day Adventist Church, 50690 Crane Valley Road [426]. He was born in College View, Nebraska, on August 28, 1907. He was a graduate nurse before he studied at Loma Linda University to become a physician, receiving his M.D. degree in 1936. He had a medical practice in Pasadena for 54 years, serving three and four generations of families. He was married to Helen Estelle Simpson for 63 years, until her death in 1992. She was also a physician. Dr. Bray was a practicing member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for his entire life and was a strong proponent for Christian education. Dr. Bray is survived by his son, Donald O. Bray, D.D.S., of Oakhurst; and his daughter, Nellie Kimbrough, Upland. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Remembrances: Oakhurst SDA Elementary School Fund, 50690 Crane Valley Road [426], Oakhurst 93644.

Nancy M. Lane
Retired teacher
YOSEMITE LAKES PARK - Services will be held on Friday [May 11] for Nancy M. Lane, 74, who died May 3 of injuries suffered in a traffic collision. The service will be held at Our Lady of the Sierra Catholic Church in Oakhurst. Burial will be at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel of Oakhurst. Mrs. Lane was born in San Francisco on August 6, 1926. She was a school teacher in Walnut Creek for 30 years before retiring. Mrs. Lane was the mother of Greg Lane, Coarsegold; Susan Potts, San Diego; and Richard Lane, Stoughton, Wisconsin. Also surviving are five grandchildren.

Doris Gimblin
Legal secretary
MARIPOSA - Doris June Gimblin, 61, and a resident here for the past 36 years, died on May 5. Services will be held Saturday [May 12], at 3 p.m. at the Mariposa Lutheran Church at 4469 Highway 49 South. A reception will follow. Mrs. Gimblin was born on January 6, 1940, during a blizzard on a dairy farm in Neosho, Missouri. She graduated from Merced High School in 1958 where she was the high school mascot at sporting events and was elected Senior Sweetheart by her classmates. Her husband of 40 years, Richard S. Gimblin, attended the same high school. They were married on December 20, 1960. Mrs. Gimblin volunteered time helping the Mariposa High School cheerleading squad and gave performances as one of the dancers of the infamous Dancing Damsels for the Soroptimists fund-raisers. She cooked meals and baked cakes for families, friends and neighbors for special events or “just because.” She was past Noble Grand of the Rebecca Lodge in Mariposa, deputy probation officer for Mariposa County, and legal secretary, office manager and notary public for her husband’s law practice. She enjoyed homemaking, reading, puzzles, crocheting, gardening, playing bridge, cooking, family, friends and neighbors. Mrs. Gimblin is survived by her loving husband, Richard S. Gimblin and her daughter Michelle Russell, Mariposa. She was the sister to Richard Regert, Oakhurst; David Regert, Merced; Claudia Vest, Sacramento; and Linda Ford, Medford, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Gwen Regert, Oakhurst. Remembrances: Mariposa Lutheran Church in Doris J. Gimblin’s memory or to the Mariposa Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Mary Meredith
Homemaker
OAKHURST - Mary Jean Meredith, 82, died on May 3 at her home. Graveside services will be held on Friday [May 11], at 2 p.m. at the Oakhill Cemetery in Oakhurst. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel of Oakhurst. Mrs. Meredith was born in Canada on July 8, 1918. She had lived in Oakhurst for the past 20 years. She was the mother of Larry Meredith of North Fork and Wayne Meredith of Dunsmuir. She leaves her sisters Vi Ringle of Washington and Winnie Grieve of Canada. She also leaves brothers Howard Smith, Gordon Smith and Allen Smith, all of Canada. Mrs. Meredith is survived by four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Louis Balsamo
Painting contractor
NEVADA CITY - Louis William Balsamo, 87, a former resident of Bass Lake, died on May 3. He was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, on June 7, 1913. He always wanted to be in the construction business. After working for an electrical contractor for a year and a half he went to work as a doorman at a theater in 1928. He was then offered a job in the art department working with sign and set painters. In 1934 he was asked to paint some of the movie houses, lobbies and marquis for Public Theater, the parent company for Paramount Theaters. In 1935 he became a painting contractor, painting Howard Johnson restaurants and signs. Mr. Balsamo entered the U.S. Navy in 1940 where he became a chief warrant officer attached to the Seabees. After reporting for duty at Port Hueneme in Oxnard, he was in charge of camouflage and communications and building maintenance. He married his wife, Ann, in 1945, and they settled in Ventura. They had three children, Luann, Lynnette and Louis Jr. Mr. Balsamo became one of the leading painting contractors in Ventura County where he opened two Dutch Boy Paint stores. He had the contract to restore the murals in the San Buenaventura Mission in Ventura in 1957. He received a national award in Painters Magazine for his work in researching the techniques used to create the colorful murals. In 1953, Mr. Balsamo bought 97 acres of land at Bass Lake and subdivided it into 108 lots, creating Bass Lake Heights. He and his family settled there. He also opened the Village Builder Supply Hardware store, a coin-operated laundry, and bought the Holiday Village Motel and Restaurant. He his family moved to Hawaii in 1969 where he painted scenery on the sets of the television series, “Hawaii 5-0.” After a year they returned to Bass Lake Heights. They later moved to Nevada City. Mr. Balsamo was a dedicated Lions Club member and a devout Catholic. Remembrances: Nevada City Lions Club, Sight Project, hospice or cancer research.

‘Piazon’ Temple
Retired
NORTH FORK - A memorial service will be held for Lloyd C. (Piazon) Temple on Saturday, May 26, at the Scout Building in North Fork at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be served. Mr. Temple died on February 3 of this year.

Chuck Hess
Retired police officer
CLOVIS - Chuck Hess, loving son, brother, husband and father, died May 11 at the age of 54. Services will be held Sunday [May 20], 3 p.m. at Sierra Lutheran Church, 32410 Rock Hill Lane, Auberry. Mr. Hess was born in Fresno on August 18, 1946, grew up in Fresno and was a resident of Clovis. He joined the Fresno Police Department in 1968 and served for a time as a school resource officer and as a member of the special weapons assault team (SWAT). He was a sergeant when he retired early due to injuries. After retirement, Mr. Hess became a saddle-maker, and for the past year had been serving as a U.S. marshal at the federal courthouse in Fresno. He was an avid outdoorsman who shared his love of nature with his family and friends. Mr. Hess was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for many years, and was a devout Christian who shared his faith with all. His friendship reached far and wide and touched the hearts of many. Mr. Hess is survived by his wife, Judy; sons Dan, Matthew, Jake, and Tanner; and stepdaughters Molly and Jackie Myers. He was the son of Ann Kludt and stepson of Scott Kludt. Also surviving are his sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl and Flint Tompkins of Coarsegold. He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Hess. Remembrances: Fresno Rescue Mission.

Stephen Styhl
Former resident
SALINAS - Stephen Anthony Styhl, 27, a former resident of North Fork, died on May 13. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 1, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, North Fork Road [200], starting at 11:30 a.m. Mr. Styhl was born on December 8, 1973. He is survived by his companion, Raylene Walker of Prunedale, and by sons Zachary Styhl, North Fork; Anthony and Ray Coleman; and Nathan of Prunedale; and daughters Beth Ann and Sarbina Styhl of Prunedale. He was the son of Roger and Sherry Riley of Salinas and the brother of Roger Riley, San Jose; Johnpaul Riley, El Cerrito; and Michael and Richard Riley and Cheryl, all of Salinas. An account for Mr. Styhl’s children has been established at Washington Mutual Savings, 425 South Main Street, Salinas 93901; account number 3884676980.

‘Pat’ Michael
Retired CDF firefighter
MARIPOSA - Glenn (Pat) Michael, 62, who retired last year as assistant chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, died here on May 28. A memorial service will be held Saturday [June 2], starting at 10 a.m. at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds. Mariposa Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Michael was born in Los Angeles on June 6, 1939. A firefighter with CDF for 41 years, he had resided in Mariposa for 22 years. “Pat” loved his family and friends. He was a dedicated firefighter and his experience will be missed. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time outdoors. He leaves his companion, Jenny Benning of Catheys Valley; son, Chris Michael of Mariposa; and daughter, Anne-Marie Fox of Petaluma. Also surviving are his sisters, Mary O’Quinn of Coalinga, and Micki Fleming of Redding; and three grandchildren. Remembrances: Mountain Bear Fan Club, care of 40033 John West Road, Oakhurst 93644.

Sone Squillace
Retired telephone operator
OAKHURST - Sone Elizabeth Squillace, 97, a retired Pacific Bell telephone operator, died at her Oakhurst home on May 27. Graveside services will be held Friday [June 1], starting at 11 a.m. at Oakhill Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mrs. Squillace was born in Illinois on February 22, 1904. She is survived by her daughters-in-law, Helen Parker of Coarsegold and Lou Parker of San Diego. Also surviving are grandchildren Mary Gwen Reyes, Barbara Ann Jesberg, Debbie Bagaeu and Steve Parker; and by great-grandchildren Darin Jesberg, Christopher Jesberg, Devin McOsker and Gary McOsker; and great-great-grandchildren Nicholaus McOsker and Britanie McOsker.

Alva McElhany
Electrical contractor
ALAMOGORDO, New Mexico - Former Ahwahnee resident Alva R. McElhany, 91, died here on May 3. Memorial services will be conducted Saturday, June 23, starting at 2:30 p.m., at the Oakhurst Seventh-day Church. Mr. McElhany was born January 5, 1910 in Sacramento, the eldest of four siblings, all of whom preceded him in death. The McElhanys were early Californians and early Seventh-day Adventists. Alva’s father was employed by Glendale Adventist Hospital. His uncle, J. Lanar McElhany, served as general conference president from 1936-50, the longest-serving GC president. One cousin, Hampton Pool, was coach of the Los Angeles Rams. Alva assumed the support of his family at an early age which took him to numberous places in California and Nevada in different lines of employment. He built homes for the family, drove road graders and installed pumps in California, worked in the mines in Nevada, and homesteaded 640 acres in California. Mr. McElhany served on the school board in Galt and was a candidate for county supervisor. He served his church as sound technician, deacon and elder. Through the years he helped build churches in Galt, Oroville and Oakhurst. He met Ella Mae Robertson in San Antonio at a general conference, where he had volunteered to design, build and install an air conditioning system. They were married there on June 18, 1960, and then located in Los Angeles where he was head electrician at White Memorial Medical Center. He was a member of the White Memorial SDA Church and served as head sound technician. He built his home in Monterey Park, near the hospital. He retired in 1975, moving to Ahwahnee, where he built another home. After Mrs. McElhany retired in 1980, Mr. McElhany volunteered to go to Mwami Adventist Hosptial in Zambia, Africa. His assignment there was to bring the preventive electric system up to code, install electricity in the homes on Faculty Row, and train a national to be an electrician in three months. Mrs. McElhany was a Seventh-day Adventist all of his life - 91 years. Survivors include his wife, Ella Mae McElhany, at the family home; stepson Earl Robertson [wife Mary], of Alamogordo; step-grandchildren Ted Robertson, New York City; Kevin Robertson [wife Lynn], Washington, D.C.; and Dale Robertson, Tucson. Also surviving are two nieces and a nephew.

Hughlen Watkins
Former resident
COARSEGOLD - Hughlen Cliff Watkins, 45, a former employee at Bio-Tech, died at a Modesto hospital on June 2. A private memorial service will be held. Arrangements are under the directions of Evins Funeral Home at Modesto. Mr. Watkins was born in Bakersfield. He is survived by his wife, Melinda Watkins of Lodi and children Jason Cliff Watkins, Sonora; Raymond Chad Watkins, Lake Tahoe; and Cory Ann Kraus, Mesa, Arizona. He was the son of Annette Ruby Watkins, Coarsegold, and the brother of Brandon Watkins, Coarsegold; and Cynthia Overfield, Sonora. Also surviving are two grandchildren.

Jacqueline Forrester
Water company official
OAKHURST - Jacqueline Marie Forrester, 51, died June 1 at a Fresno hospital. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, June 23, starting at 6 p.m. at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church Amphitheater, 39696 Highway 41. Mrs. Forrester was born July 7, 1949, in Madera, where she attended school through the sixth grade. Her family moved to Galveston, Texas, and she attended school there until moving to Alhambra, where she graduated in 1967. She married during her first year of college and later completed correspondence courses in business and accounting, followed by additional college courses. Jacque’s career included positions of responsibility as business manager of a Los Angeles realty company, accounting supervisor for The Forum in Los Angeles; and financial officer for Arciero Winery in Paso Robles. At the time of her death she was co-owner, with husband Roger, and chief financial officer and office manager of Hillview Water Company. In her youth she participated in many activities including Lassie League Baseball, synchronized swimming teams, Campfire Girls, and she played the clarinet and piano. Jacque loved all God’s creations. She enjoyed outdoors work and recreation, hiking, skiing, swimming and gardening. Hobbies included acrylic and oil painting, and woodworking crafts. Mrs. Forrester participated in the ministries of her church as deaconess and youth leader. She was especially concerned for the needs of others and demonstrated God’s love by placing the needs of others before her own. Jacque frequently and cheerfully volunteered for many charitable projects. Survivors in addition to her husband include son Jason Thornton, San Diego; daughter, Kimberly Bennett, Paso Robles; her parents, Larry and Margaret Poindexter, Oakhurst; and sister Judy Gonsett, Fallbrook. Her extended family includes stepdaughter Heather Dunn and grandson Jason Dunn, Madera; stepdaughter Lauren Shelby, Half Moon Bay; Brandi and Tammi Nilmeier, San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay; and stepson Larry Nilmeier Jr., Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.

Rex Miller
Retired telephone employee
AHWAHNEE - Rex Glenn Miller, 77, died at his home here on June 6. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 22, starting at 2 p.m., at the Elks Lodge in Oakhurst. Mr. Miller was born in California on November 21, 1923. He served in the U.S. Navy. Mr. Miller, who formerly resided in Porterville and Bakersfield, worked for Pacific Telephone Company for 36 years before his retirement in 1983. He was the husband of Opal Bernice Miller of Ahwahnee and the father of Suzan Vander Linden [husband, Kent]. Also surviving are two grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Remembrances: Friends of Hospice, 5189 Hospital Road, Mariposa 95338.

Dana Richards
Former resident
SEVIERVILLE, Tennessee - Dana V. Richards, 83, a former Oakhurst resident, died here on June 9 following a long illness. A memorial service was held in Sevierville. Mrs. Richards received her bachelor of arts degree in home economics and a bachelor of social administration from the University of Illinois in 1941. She and her husband, Red, lived in Oakhurst from 1979-95. Throughout her life, Mrs. Richards had been active in churches, volunteer work, and especially the Sierra Historic Sites Association in Oakhurst, where she chaired several committees at the Fresno Flats Historical Park. She was an active member of the Community Church of Oakhurst. Most recently, she was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Sevierville. Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Russell (Red) Richards of Sevierville; son Roger Richards [wife, Phyllis], Knoxville, Tennessee; daughter Lecie Holt [husband, Jeff], Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Also, brothers Richard and Phillip Derrough and their wives, of Florida; one grandson in Oak Ridge, two granddaughters and a great-grandson in Montana, and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Her son, Stephen, predeceased her in 1958. Remembrances: Sierra Historic Sites Association, Oakhurst.

Paul G. Hansen
Retired pastor
OAKHURST - The Rev. Paul G. Hansen, 86, a founder of the Manna House programs in Oakhurst and Mariposa, died May 27. Mr. Hansen was ordained in 1939 and retired in 1979 as pastor of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Fresno, there he had served since 1978. He went on to to serve congregations in Oakhurst and Mariposa after his retirement, completing more than 60 years in the ministry. He served for 30 years as an Army chaplain, including during World War II, and in the Army reserves. His ministry included St. Paul, Ogden, Utah; Our Savior, Evanston, Wyoming; St. John’s, Denver; and a hospital chaplaincy in Denver. He was part-time professor of sociology at the University of Denver for 20 years, also teaching at California State University, Fresno and Fresno City College. For 10 years, he was director of Family Life Studies for the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, and is the author of numerous books, pamphlets and articles on the family. He was married for 61 years to Darlene (nee Werner), who devoted her life to caring for their family and assisting Paul in church administration. Together they organized eight new mission churches and started Manna House in Oakhurst and Mariposa. Mrs. Hansen died on November 2, 2000, at age 80. Surviving are their children, Karen Ballard, Debbie Cifranic, Elaine Crowder, Jim Hansen and Judy Myers. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. The Hansens were preceded in death by sons Stephen and John, and granddaughter Ashley Abbott. Remembrances: Mariposa Lutheran Church, Post Office Box 615, Mariposa 95338.

Rex Miller
Retired telephone employee
AHWAHNEE - A memorial service for Rex Glenn Miller, 77, will be held on Friday [June 22], starting at 2 p.m., at the Elks Lodge in Oakhurst. Mr. Miller was a member of Telephone Pioneers of America, Yosemite Western Artists, the Oakhurst Elks Lodge and the Ahwahnee Golf Course and Country Club. Remembrances: Friends of Hospice, 5189 Hospital Road, Mariposa 95338.

Nadine Hail
Homemaker
OAKHURST - Nadine Eleanor Hail, 68, died in Oakhurst on June 22. A private memorial will be held at her daughter’s home in Oakhurst. Mrs. Hail was born in Los Angeles on January 28, 1933. She had lived in Oakhurst for the past nine years. She was a volunteer with the Ahwahnee Fire Department. She enjoyed her family, friends and mountain life. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Hail and sister-in-law Arlene Hartman, both of Oakhurst. She is also survived by son Craig Hail (wife, Doris) of Lake Tahoe; and daughter Dawn Rozzen (husband, Mike) of Austin, Texas. Mrs. Hail was grandmother to Dustin Hail of Oakhurst and Nicole and John Rozzen of Austin, Texas. Mrs. Hail was preceded in death by her brother Robert Hartman of Pasadena. Families are encouraged to provide information for obituaries. Details: 683-4464

‘Kate’ Marshall
Midway Market clerk
OAKHURST - Kathryn (Kate) Marshall, 82, died in Fresno on June 23. A memorial service was held Wednesday at Oakhill Cemetery. Mrs. Marshall was born in Fresno on November 13, 1918. After moving to Oakhurst in 1953, she and her husband, Dean, built the home they had lived in since 1955. Mr. Marshall died in 1993. Mrs. Marshall retired in 1980 after working for years as a clerk at the Midway Market in Oakhurst. This loving mother was a friend to all who knew her. She was the mother of Steve Marshall (wife, Nancy), San Jose; and Gary Marshall (wife, Kay), Tulare. Also surviving are grandchildren Stacie, Joseph, Geoff, Jill and Michael; and two great-grandchildren. She was the sister of Viola Parker of Reedley and Dorothy Evans of Dinuba.

Walter Schnyder
Area resident
OAKHURST - Walter Schnyder, 84, died in Madera on June 25. Private services were conducted by Sierra Funeral Chapel. Mr. Schnyder was born December 23, 1916, in Long Island, New York. He had been a resident of Oakhurst for more than 20 years. Mr. Schnyder is survived by his wife, Sonja Schnyder of Oakhurst, and by his brother, George Mair, Dana Point.

Cora White
Retired cotton rancher
OAKHURST - Cora Whitacre White, 90, longtime Kern County rancher, died in Oakhurst on June 23. Services were held Wednesday at the North Kern Cemetery at Delano. Born in Snyder, Texas, she came to McFarland in 1929 with her husband, C.D. White, and parents Nute and Stella Whitacre, along with other Texas relatives. Mrs. White was very active in the McFarland community, including the McFarland Women’s Club, and especially the Church of the Brethren. She traveled extensively with her husband in activities with the State Farm Bureau and other organizations. In 1962, along with other Kern County cotton ranchers, the Whites participated in a cooperative program in Australia, purchasing property and developing cotton ranches in New South Wales. They resided in the town of Wee Waa on a part-time basis until 1978. Mr. White died in 1983; their son, Clark, in 1971, and grandson Jon Mel Rider in 1985. Mrs. White moved to Delano in 1980 and later to Brea to live near daughter Shalois and her husband, Jack. She came to Oakhurst in 1999 to live with her son Harold White and his wife, Betty Jean. Also surviving are Mrs. White’s daughter-in-law, Roma White of Bakersfield, and 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

George Weeth
OAKHURST - George Evan Weeth, 66, a resident here for nine years, died at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Palo Alto on June 23. Services were held Sunday at the VA hospital chapel in Palo Alto. Mr. Weeth was born in Hanford on August 28, 1934, the son of Waldo and Wilma Weeth. He served with the U.S. Air Force for three years. Mr. Weeth was a retired San Francisco County agricultural commissioner. He resided there for 13 years. Mr. Weeth was a member of the Elks Lodge, National Field Archery Association and served as a director of United Security Bank in Oakhurst. He loved to travel and scuba dive. Before his health became a problem, he was an avid archer. Mr. Weeth was the husband of Patricia Bray-Weeth of Redwood City and the father of Ray Weeth of Phoenix. He was the brother of Wally Weeth of La Conner, Washington. Also surviving are two stepsons and three grandchildren.

Thomas Lewis Chronister
Auto parts dealer
NIPINNAWASEE - Thomas Lewis Chronister died on July 3 in a Fresno hospital following a brief illness, with his family at his side. He was 74. Memorial services will be held at Sierra Funeral Chapel, 49269 Crane Valley Road [426] on Thursday [July 12], 10 a.m., and later in Ventura County. Born June 18, 1927 in Hennepin, Oklahoma, Mr. Chronister moved with his parents, Vernon Knox and Lillie Glenn (Jones), to Oxnard at the age of 5. He resided in Ventura county for the next 60 years. He graduated from Oxnard High School in 1945 and served with the U.S. Army in the Korean War. His life work was in the auto parts services and sales business. He owned several of his own parts businesses (including Purple Wagon Auto Parts in Oak View) and worked for some of Ventura County’s largest auto dealerships as their parts and/or service manager. He retired as the outside parts salesman for Baron Industries of Oxnard in 1993, the same year he retired and moved to the mountains outside of Oakhurst. Mr. Chronister was a long-time member and past president of the Oak View Lions Club. He was named the honorary mayor of Oak View in 1968. He was an accomplished craftsman and “tinkerer,” spending countless hours in his wood shop. Mr. Chronister is survived by his wife of 34 years, Pauline; sons Tom Chronister of Camarillo and Jeff Taggart of Anchorage, Alaska; daughters Karen Taggart of Oxnard and Jackie Marcus of Phoenix. He was the grandfather of Neesa Quolas, Nicholas and Christopher Chronister, Aubrey and Marcella Powell of Camarillo, and Tony Quolas of Glendale, Arizona; and is also survived by two great-grandchildren.

Dennis Durand
Carpenter, painter
COARSEGOLD - Dennis Allan Durand of Coarsegold died on July 6. A memorial service will be held on Saturday [July 14], 4 p.m., at the Oakhurst Mobile Estates Community Center, 39678 Fresno Flats Road [425-B], just past the Oakhurst Community Center, for any and all who wish to say goodbye to a wonderful friend. A potluck will follow. Mr. Durand was a carpenter, a painter and an adventurer of life. He is survived by his wife, or as he would say, his “bride,” Rita Atchison Durand. He is also survived by daughters Tammy, Amber Durand, Shannon Jackson, Brandi Durand, Paul Bragdon and Tracy Taylor. He was the grandfather of April, Autumn and Mitchell Bragdon and Trent Jackson and Joshua; and the great-grandfather of Brook Lynn Bragdon. He was the son of Edna and Allen Durand and the brother of Kenny, Robert, and Linda. Remembrances: Post Office Box 1628, Coarsegold 93614.

‘Chuck’ French
Retired fire captain
OAKHURST - Charles (Chuck) Ronald French, 66, a retired captain for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, died at a Clovis hospital on July 3. A memorial service will be held Saturday [July 14], 2 p.m., at Mountain Christian Center. Mr. French was born in Missouri on July 31, 1933. He served in the U.S. Navy before joining CDF. Mr. French was the husband of Janeen French of Oakhurst and the father of Cynthia Reese, Oakhurst; Randy French, Sanger; Patrick French, Pismo Beach; and David French, Trinidad. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Remembrances: Oakhurst Volunteer Fire Department, Station 12.

‘Scooby’ Pomona
Area resident
NORTH FORK - Lucinda Ann (Scooby) Pomona, 33, a resident here all of her life, died in Fresno on July 1. Services were held on Friday, followed by burial at the Pomona Cemetery in North Fork. Mrs. Pomona was born in Fresno. She was the daughter of Cathy Hansen of North Fork and the sister of Willie Hudson, North Fork; Ferlin Ray Hudson, Fresno; and Leland Smith, San Jose; and Bradley Smith and Gerald Smith, South Dakota.

Linda Wolpin
Former resident
WOODLAND HILLS - Linda Wolpin, 49, died of cancer at a hospital here on July 2. Memorial services are pending. Mrs. Wolpin was born in Los Angeles on July 11, 1951. She had resided at Ahwahnee for 10 years and was employed at Tenaya Lodge. She was an accomplished horsewoman, an avocation that began when she was 5 years old. She also loved the mountains. Ms. Wolpin was the mother of Corey Lazzeroni of Oakhurst and the stepmother of Mark Lazzeroni of Fresno. She was the daughter of Grace Patricia Wolpin of Agoura Hills and the sister of Patricia O’Byrne, Agoura Hills; and Michael Wolpin, Moorpark; and Stephen Wolpin, Cota de Casa. She was the niece of Peggy Alberter, Oakhurst. Also surviving are two nieces, four nephews and her grandchild.

‘Dick’ Fries
Retired
OAKHURST - Richard V. (Dick) Fries, 70, a resident here for 10 years, died on October 8. Memorial services will be held at the Sierra Funeral Chapel in Oakhurst on Friday [July 13], at 2 p.m. Mr. Fries was born on October 8, 1930 in Fresno to Augustus (Gus) and Dorris Fries. He worked in the transportation/trailer business for more than 40 years, both in Fresno and the Bay Area. He retired from Southern Pacific in 1990. He and his wife, Shirley, moved to Oakhurst in 1991 from Hayward. Mr. Fries enjoyed camping, boating and fishing with his family in the natural beauty of his home state. He was active with Boy Scout Troop 819 in Hayward with his sons, reading outdoor adventures and fund-raising. Mr. Fries is survived by his wife, Shirley, and children Barbara Ballard, Doug and Mike. He also leaves a sister, Dorothy Nilmier. He was grandfather to Toni, Mike, Julia and Grace and great-grandfather to Justin.

Bea Kral
Homemaker
WISHON - Beulah Fay (Bea) Kral, 86, died on June 21 at a Fresno hospice. Memorial services will be held at the Sierra Senior Center in Oakhurst on Sunday, July 29, at 1 p.m. Mrs. Kral was born on October 14, 1915 in Cay Center, Nebraska. She lived in Wishon for 24 years after moving from Paradise. She was past matron of the Paradise Chapter of the Eastern Star. She was also a member of the White Shrine and of senior centers. She sang with the Sierra Senior Singers in Oakhurst and received several volunteer awards. She liked to knit and crochet. Mrs. Kral leaves her husband, George A. Kral, to whom she was married for 64 years. She was the mother of Jerry W., North Fork; James L. Arroyo Grande; and George Jr., Loveland, Colorado. She was the sister to Robert Tate, Paradise. Mrs. Kral leaves nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Sharon Parker
Homemaker
PONDEROSA BASIN - Sharon (Sherri) Lee Parker died on July 6. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at the Ponderosa Basin Chapel, north of Oakhurst, on Friday [July 13] at 2 p.m. She was a long time resident of Lemoore, where she and her husband William (Buff) Green Parker III, raised their four sons. She was very active in community events and parent groups at Meadow Lane and P.W. Engvall Elementary schools. Mrs. Parker spent her retirement years doing what she loved most, loving and caring for her 10 grandchildren. She is survived by her sons William Parker (wife Wendy) and Joshua Parker (wife Kristi), all of Fresno; Mathew Parker (wife Michelle) of Lemoore; and Micah Parker (wife Lewanna) of Clovis. She is also survived by her sister Linda Silva and her closest cousins Judy Garret and Betty Huff, as well as her loving Ponderosa Basin family. She was grandmother to 10 grandchildren. Remembrances: Ponderosa Basin Chapel at 5611 Creel Road, Mariposa.