LYONS
Rosemary Lyons died in Petaluma, Calif. January 12, 2001. Loving mother of Michael D. Lyons of San Francisco, Veronica Romero of San Mateo, Richard B. Lyons of San Francisco, Rita Ruiz of Petaluma, Georgina Lyons of San Francisco, Charles E. ?Charlie? Lyons of Petaluma and Stephen Lyons of Redwood City. Loving grandmother of 9 and loving great-grandmother of 2. Loving sister of Joseph Swinderman of Coos Bay, Oregon, Alice Piper of Pocatello, Idaho, Joyce Oddi of New York, Ruth Swinderman of So. San Francisco and the late George Swinderman, Gloria Stivers and Pauline Cunningham. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. A native of Butte, Montana. Aged 82 years. A member of St. James Catholic Church of Petaluma, C.L.A.S. and Y.L.I. Mrs. Lyons graduated from Healds Business College in San Francisco. She was married at St. Bridget?s Catholic Church in San Francisco. She worked for 25 years in retail sales at the Emporium in San Francisco and retired in 1985. Mrs. Lyons has lived in Petaluma for the past 7 years and volunteered her time at Sacks Thrift Avenue. She has been in ill health since December 2000. Friends are invited to attend the Funeral Services, Thursday, January 18, 2001 at 10:30 A.M. from the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue and Keokuk Street, Petaluma, thence to St. James Catholic Church, 125 Sonoma Mountain Blvd., where at 11:00 A.M., a Funeral Mass will be celebrated. A Vigil Service will be held Wednesday evening, at 7:00 P.M., at the mortuary. A Y.L.I. and C.L.A.S. service will be held Wednesday afternoon, at 3:30 P.M., at the mortuary. Those who prefer may contribute to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma, Calif. 94952 in memory of Rosemary Lyons. Friends may call at the mortuary, on Wednesday, after 10:00 A.M. passed away on January 12, 2001, at a local convalescent home, after a lengthy illness. Dr. Lee was born in Roseville, Illinois, October 23, 1919. Attended school in Denver, Colorado and graduated from Roseville High School in 1938. Graduated from Humbolt State University in 1942, with a BA Degree in Education, Special Credential in Physical Education. Earned eleven major letters at Humbolt State, and the second athlete to be voted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Spent five years active duty as a Naval Aviator, and retired as a Lt. Commander in the Naval Reserve. Graduated from Northern Illinois College of Optometry cum laude in 1948. He practiced Optometry in Petaluma for forty-five years until his retirement. He was a member of the A.O.A., C.O.A., past-president of the Petaluma Chamber of Commerce, Petaluma Eagles, Petaluma Athletic Booster Club, and numerous fraternal organizations. Dr. Lee is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Lois Lee for 25 years. His children: Lani Clark of Arizona, Rona Griffin of San Luis Obispo, Calif., and his son, William H. Lee of Petaluma. Stepchildren: Sharon Adams of Escondido, Calif., Steven Terrill of Folsom, Calif. and Elizabeth Stott of Utah. Also survived by 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Howard Lee. There will be a visitation at PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Ave. and Keokuk St., Petaluma, Petaluma, on Friday January 19, 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.; the family will be available for visitation from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. There will also be a viewing at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 745 N. Webster St., Petaluma, on Saturday, January 20, from 11:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M., with the funeral service commencing at 1:00 P.M. passed away Dec. 30, 2000 in Petaluma, Calif. Wife of the late Herman Robert Jones. She leaves behind two sisters; Betty Johnson and her husband, Carl, Larry Wortham and her husband, Chuck; and a sister-in-law, Ruth Wheeler. Aunt of Karen Curtiss, Mike Curtiss, Heidi Curtiss, Larry Curtiss, Cindy Wells, Ron Tracy, Jan Staples, Linda King and Tiffan Wortham. Aged 86 years. Graveside Services were held on January 11, 2001 at Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno, Calif. Under the direction of PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Keokuk Street & Magnolia Avenue, Petaluma.

CRAWFORD
Marguerite Crawford passed away at her residence in Petaluma, Calif. Friday, February 16, 2001. Loving mother of John W. Davis of Louisiana. Adored grandmother of Keith Davis of Louisiana. Loving sister of Nell McKool, Daniel Simpson and Emma Jean Patterson. Ms. Crawford owned a beauty salon in Petaluma for many years. She was a Petaluma resident for 45 years. Aged 76 years. No services will be held locally. passed away in Santa Rosa, Calif. February 22, 2001. Loving wife of the late Joseph Lane. Beloved mother of the late Joseph Lane. She was pre-deceased by 3 sisters and 1 brother. She is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews. A member of the Beck-Wipner family, a pioneer Petaluma family. Dora was a member of various Kazoo Bands and musical & singing groups in the area. Aged 91 years. Friends are invited to attend Memorial Services, Saturday, March 3, 2001 at 11:00 A.M. at ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville St., Petaluma. The family prefers memorial contributions to be made to Home Health Plus Hospice, 825 Sonoma Avenue, Santa Rosa, Calif. 95401. Inurnment, Cypress Hill Memorial Park, Petaluma.
CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000

NELSON
James McKenzie Nelson died in Petaluma, Calif., February 20, 2001. Loving and devoted spouse of Lorrie Moreci of Petaluma. Dear brother of Nancy Brown and Susan Nelson. Dear uncle of McKenzie and Elizabeth Brown, and Robert J. McKenzie. A native of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Aged 56 years. Friends were invited to attend Funeral Services, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2001 at 9:00 A.M. at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 35 Liberty St., Petaluma, where friends will be invited to speak. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, Petaluma, Calif. Inurnment will be private.
CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000

CLEMENTINO
Mary Frances Clementino A 54 year resident of Marin County passed away in San Rafael, Calif. Wednesday, February 21, 2001 surrounded by her loving family. She was 73 years of age. Born in Honey Grove, Texas and reared and educated in Northwest Texas, Mrs. Clementino came to San Francisco during W.W.II and in the 1940s moved to Marin County. In 1998 she retired to Cloverdale. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker. Mrs. Clementino was an avid outdoorswoman and was a member of the Novato Horsemans Association and the Marin County Sheriffs posse. She was also a member of womens bowling leagues in Novato and Petaluma. Her death was preceded by that of her husband, Fernando Clementino; by her son, Gary Clementino; and by her brother, Dale Milford. She is survived by her children, Michael Clementino and his wife, Barbara of Sonoma, Nancy Paris-Gardella and her husband, David of Novato, and Connie Heizer and her husband, David of Petaluma; her grandchildren, Lauren and Brian Clementino and Vanessa, Katharine, Matthew and Madelyn Heizer; her sister, Annie Smith of Texas and her cousin, Sidney Burrell. Friends are invited to attend Memorial Services Friday, March 2, 2001 at 11:00 A.M., at St. James Catholic Church, 125 Sonoma Mtn. Parkway, Petaluma. The family prefers memorial contributions in her memory be made to the Marin Humane Society, 171 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Novato, Calif. 94949 or to the U.C. Davis Center for Veterinary Medicine, 1 Sheilds Avenue, Davis, Calif. 95616. Funeral arrangements under the direction of ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville St., Petaluma.
CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000

KING
Josephine A. King died on February 22, 2001. Josie King, 18 month old daughter of Sorrel and tony King of Baltimore, Maryland. A Memorial Service was held on February 24th at 3 P.M., at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Ruxton, Maryland. A private passed away on February 16, 2001 at her home in Petaluma, Calif. Aged 84 years. Devoted wife, of 58 years, to the late Arthur W. Baker, a local real estate broker. Beloved mother of Winton Baker of Petaluma and David Baker of Alexandria, Virginia. Loving sister of Betty Lewandowski of Sun City, Arizona, Louise Blackwell of Fernandina Beach, Florida, the late Jessie Swift of Sun City, Arizona, and the late Andrew Willison of Santa Rosa. Loving sister-in-law of Dr. Edward Baker of Modesto, Calif. Walter Baker of Fort Bidwell, Calif., and Evelyn Karsevar of Upland, Calif. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Born and raised in Tacoma, Wash., she graduated from Stadium High School and attended the University of Puget Sound. She married Arthur Baker and moved to Petaluma in 1939. Mrs. Baker had extensive office skills, including bookkeeping, and worked at various times for different businesses in Tacoma and Petaluma. She also worked in the personnel department at Mare Island Naval Shipyard to help the war effort. Devoted mother and homemaker, she was a Den Mother for Cub Scouts and taught Sunday school. She was a talented organist who played at various local churches and other public gatherings. Member of the former Petaluma Organ Club. An expert knitter, she established her own business making custom designed knit hats, Baker Originals. Member of Soroptimists, a service organization for women in business. She loved flowers and enjoyed working in her garden. Member of the Petaluma Garden Club. No public services are planned. Private died at his home in Petaluma, Calif., on February 24, 2001, surrounded by his family. Devoted husband of Bobbie Sue Behrs. Loving father of Tom Behrs and his wife, Janis and John Behrs and his wife, Donna, all of Petaluma, Calif. Grandfather of Jonathan, Tim, Scott, Ken, and Michelle Behrs. Loving great-grandfather of Raymond and Doug West. Brother of Helen Gonsalves and Betty Olsson. Survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Mr. Behrs was a lifelong resident of Petaluma. Born and raised in Petaluma, he attended Waugh School on Old Adobe Road. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Medicorp as a Technician 4th grade from 1943 to 1946. He met a very special lady named Bobbie Sue Steele at the Poultry Producers and on September 26, 1946, they were married in Petaluma. Mr. Behrs owned and operated the Steel Bear Deli on Old Redwood Highway, with the help of his sons, for the last 24 years. He was an avid San Francisco 49ers and Giants fan. He enjoyed watching his grandsons play little league baseball and basketball. Mr. Behrs was a member of the Laborers Union #291. Anyone that had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Behrs knew that he loved to ?talk about the weather?. He was 79 years old. Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Friday, March 2, 2001 at 3:00 P.M., at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue and Keokuk Street, Petaluma. The family prefers memorial contributions be made to the Petaluma Valley Little League, Petaluma American Little League, the National League or to a favorite charity.

HOLMES
Dorothy Holmes Longtime Petaluma resident Dorothy Holmes died peacefully the evening of February 21, 2001, with her children at her side. She was 81. Born Dorothy Isabella Gamble on September 24, 1919 in Redlands, Calif., Dot lived a long, rich, and fullfilled life. She was raised in Pasadena, Calif., where she graduated from Pasadena City College and was first runner-up in the 1936 Rose Bowl Queen competition. She married Colin Holmes in 1938, and after his military service in WWII the two settled in Petaluma in 1946, where they raised four children and spent much of the following five decades. Dorothys outside interests included extensive work on behalf of charities and service groups, including the March of Dimes, the Daughters of the Mayflower, the Walk for Heart Fund, and hospital volunteer work. She had a passion for golf as a longtime member of the Petaluma Golf and Country Club, a sure hand for card-playing, and a lifelong love of dancing. Friends remarked that she had a keen sense of humor and a smile that could light up a room. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Colin, in 1992. She is survived by her daughters, Lynn Imm of Petaluma and Barbara Holmes Burkhard of Santa Rosa; sons, Craig Holmes of Carmel Valley and Mitchell Holmes of Branson, Missouri; grandsons, Greg Imm of Petaluma, Kevin Imm of Santa Rosa, and Ryan Holmes of Branson, Missouri; granddaughter, Blaire Holmes of Branson, Mo.; and great-grandsons, Colin and Cade Imm of Santa Rosa. Her relations by marriage include daughter-in-law, Jennifer Holme of Branson, Missouri; sons-in-law, Gary Imm of Petaluma, and Timothy Burkhard of Santa Rosa; and granddaughter-in-law, Mary Imm of Santa Rosa. The family suggests that donations in Dorothys memory may be made to the Petaluma Peoples Services Center.

Edna Pacheco
Dairy rancher
Edna M. Pacheco, a homemaker and former dairy rancher, died March 31, 2001. She was 80. Born in Oakville, Mrs. Pacheco was reared and educated in the Napa Valley. On July 18, 1954, she married William M. Pacheco in Napa. The couple lived in Napa until 1962, when they moved, first to Sears Point and then, in 1969, to Petaluma, where they operated a dairy. A member of St. Vincent de Paul parish and the Petaluma Holy Ghost Society, Mrs. Pacheco enjoyed spending time with her family and sewing. She was the wife of William Pacheco of Petaluma, mother of Dan Pacheco of Modesto, Margaret Baker of Novato, Jim Pacheco of Petaluma and Maryann Pacheco of Martinez, and the grandmother of six. She is also survived by siblings Mary Luiz and Marguerite Bertolucci of Napa, Ray Luiz of Lodi, and many nieces and nephews. A Vigil Service was held April 3 at St. Vincent de Paul Church. A Funeral Mass will be said at 10:30 a.m. this morning, also at the church. Burial will be at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to a favorite charity.

Donna McKinney
Nanny
Donna Joan McKinney died Sunday, March 30, 2003 at Sonoma Healthcare Center in Sonoma. Born in 1932 in Chandlerville, Ill., she married Ralph "Pete" McKinney in Alton, Ill. in 1951. In 1984 the couple moved to Petaluma, where she worked as a certified nanny. She was also an Avon representative in Illinois and in Petaluma. Mrs. McKinney loved working with children and dreamed of opening a professional nanny school in Petaluma. A member of the College Avenue Presbyterian Church in Upper Alton, Ill. and the First Presbyterian Church in Petaluma, she made many friends in the Jolly Over 50s church group. She also had a number of good friends at Essa's Restaurant, where she enjoyed lunching. Mrs. McKinney is survived by her sons, Brian McKinney of Edwardsville, Ill. and Kevin McKinney of Milton, Fla.; three grandchildren and brothers K. Wayne Cook of Godfrey, Ill. and Bruce Cook of Crawfordsville, Fla. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 13, at the First Presbyterian Church, 939 B St. Contributions in her memory may be made to First Presbyterian Church Health Ministry, 939 B St., Petaluma 94952. Arrangements were by Adobe Creek Funeral Home.

Aaron Gallagher
Artist, drummer, mechanic
Aaron David White Gallagher of Petaluma, died Friday, April 4, 2003, in San Rafael of complications from cystic fibrosis. He was 20. He was born Aug. 6, 1982, in San Francisco to Margo White. The natural son of David Creighton, who predeceased him, he was adopted and raised by Dennis Gallagher, a longtime Mill Valley firefighter, who died two years ago. He spent his early years in Marin, but primarily grew up in Petaluma attending McNear Elementary School and Valley Oaks High School. An artist, drummer and renowned lover of barbecue, Aaron was also a mechanic, rebuilding a classic Cadillac from the wheels up. He was a train enthusiast as well, and enjoyed attending model railroad events and exhibits. "Aaron had many lifelong friends in Petaluma -- Amanda Mastrup, Joe Ramey, Simon Feltman, Jason Vasquez and Jim Raby," said his mother, Margo Gallagher. "They were the most amazing people I've ever known ... they drove him to the hospital in the middle of the night. They were loyal to him to the end." He was loved, his family said, for his loyal companionship, creativity, tremendous humor and incredible courage. "Though he suffered from C.F. his entire life, he never complained, never expressed nor showed self-pity. The quality of his character can be measured by the many good people who were his devoted friends." In addition to his mother, he is survived by two brothers, James and Daniel of Petaluma, and two half-sisters, Leah Hassett of Modesto and Sarah Kirley of Vallejo. He is also lovingly remembered by his many aunts, uncles and cousins. Private services will be held at a future date. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Cystic Fibrosis Research International, 560 San Antonio Road, No. 103, Palo Alto 93406, or The Carousel Fund, 17 Buckeye Court, Petaluma 94952).

Albert William "Bill" Foster
Former pastor, Petaluma United Methodist Church
Albert William "Bill" Foster, 92, of Sun City West, Ariz., died of heart failure at his home, March 27, 2003. Born in Calvert, Texas, he graduated from Asbury College with a degree in mathematics in 1939. While in college, he met his future wife, Eileen Kanuckel. The couple were married Sept. 1, 1939. Mr. Foster later earned his bachelor of divinity degree and began pastoring in Hubbel, Ky. During World War II, he was a chaplain on board the troop ship USS Panther. Following his discharge, he was appointed associate pastor of the Petaluma Methodist Church. While here, he earned his Th.M. degree, then served in Escalon and Patterson. In 1964, he returned to Petaluma, and remained with the church until his retirement in 1976. The couple lived first in Mount Hermon, then Allyn, Wash. Following his wife's 1992 death after developing Alzheimer's disease, Mr. Foster moved to Sun City West where he enjoyed sunshine and golf. He is survived by his children, Beth Johnson of Bozeman, Mont., Patty Cloyd of Seattle, Phil Foster of Santa Rosa and Dani Guilford of Olympia, Wash. Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m. April 17 at Shepherd of the Hills Methodist Church in Sun City West. Contributions may be made to Redwood Christian Park, 15000 Two Bar Road, Boulder Creek, Calif., 95006.

Charles Kilian
Career Army officer, insurance adjuster
Charles Jacob "Chuck" Kilian, a man of inner strength and courage, with a terrific sense of humor and deep love of his country, someone who knew no strangers, lost his battle with cancer March 23, 2001 and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A resident of Petaluma from 1972 to 1983, Mr. Kilian was born in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho on May 18, 1922 where he developed his love of nature, hunting, fishing and water sports. He joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and while stationed in England met his future wife, Joan Dixon. They were married in September, 1947. He briefly returned to civilian life in 1946, but was called back into service during the Korean War and stayed on to make a career of the U.S. Army, retiring after 26 years in August 1968. During his time in the service he was actively involved in "Hands Across the Ocean" building relationships between Europeans and Americans. He was awarded the key to the city of Darmstadt, Germany in 1964 and a meritorious award from the United States for his outstanding performance. Because of his deep love of children Mr. Kilian briefly worked at the San Rafael Military Academy as the assistant commandant after retiring. He then started a new career with Kemper Insurance as an automobile adjuster. Following his retirement from Kemper, he was able to fulfill his dream of building a log home above Oroville Lake. He continued to work on different parts of his home, make silver jewelry and latch hook rugs, as well as traveling throughout the United States where he and his wife continued their love of square and round dancing and rockhounding. He is survived by his wife, Joan Kilian, children Michele Jones of Sebastopol, Charles J. Kilian Jr. of Montgomery, Ala., Mary Anne Elwood of Santa Rosa, William Kilian of Petaluma, and Karen Kilian of Novato, four grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, sister and brother Geraldine Wilsey and Donald Kilian, both of Bayview, Idaho, and several nephews and nieces. Memorial service will be held at Oroville Memorial Cemetery, Oroville, at 2 p.m., April 6. Contributions may be sent to Sutter VNA and Hospice, 1110 N. Dutton Ave., Santa Rosa 95401.

Mark West
Pianist, oboist
Mark T. West, son of Drs. James and Gilly West of Petaluma, has died accidentally at the age of 42. Mr. West was born and raised in Petaluma. He graduated from Petaluma High School and from The Athenian School in Danville. A pianist and oboist, he won a contest for composing "Down Sonoma Mountain Road" and performed his piano sonata in Hollywood. For 30 years, Mr. West was associated with Alcoholics Anonymous in Petaluma and Eureka. Most recently he was affiliated with Humboldt Recovery Center in Eureka and worked as a volunteer there and at the Eureka Art Gallery. Any donations in memory of Mark West may be addressed to the Humboldt Recovery Center of Eureka, Calif., 95501, attention Joel McDonough. A private memorial service was held. Mr. West is survived by his parents, Jim and Gilly West of Penngrove; sisters, Lyn Giammona of Point Reyes, Beth W. Miller of Salinas/Monterey, Candace West of Santa Cruz and brother Josh West of Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa, along with a large, extended family.

Timothy Barlow
Printer
Timothy Barlow of Petaluma died Sunday afternoon at Sutter-Solano Medical Center in Fairfield from injuries suffered in a crash at Sears Point Raceway. He was 55. Sears Point spokesman John Cardinale said officials displayed warning flags after Mr. Barlow's Formula Vee stalled, but the other drivers in the race did not have enough time to react to avoid crashing into Barlow's car. He was flown to the medical center immediately. None of the other drivers involved in the accident were seriously hurt, Cardinale said. Born in Leicester, England, Mr. Barlow was 7 when he and his family emigrated to Toronto. They later moved to Novato, where his father set up a small print shop. Mr. Barlow worked at the family shop during high school - almost missing his graduation because he was printing his class' graduation program. He met his future wife, Diane Dillman of San Rafael, in 1969 and courted her in his prized gold 1969 Dodge truck. They were married two years later, but delayed their honeymoon - a trip to the Indianapolis 500 - until his work schedule could accommodate it. In 1979, having outgrown the Novato shop, a bigger printing plant was built on First Street in Petaluma. In 1992, they moved again, this time to an ever larger shop in Cotati. Mr. Barlow had a passion for automobiles, his wife said, and loved the total concentration of racing. When they attended Reno's noted car jamboree, Hot August Nights, in his restored 1957 yellow Thumderbird, he insisted on a hotel room on the street so he could admire the other cars. He was as passionate about his home and family. A meticulous woodworker, he spent 30 years working on the family home, a westside country farmhouse, and was deeply involved with his children, son Shane and daughter Shawna. "I just can't think of anything bad about my dad," Shawna Barlow said. "Everything about him was so positive. He didn't know how to be negative. There were no problems, only solutions." In addition to his wife and children, Mr. Barlow is survived by his parents, Leslie and Josephine Barlow of Novato. A memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. Sept. 1 at the Barlow home on King Road. The family prefers donations to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma 94952.

Mary Edna Wilson
Real estate agent, gardener
A member of the pioneer Purrington family and a third generation Californian, Mary Edna Wilson died July 19, 2002 in Santa Rosa. She was 87. A long-time Petaluma resident, Mrs. Wilson was July 10, 1915 in Mt. Olivet. She was prominent in local real estate circles, working for Petaluma Realty (now Century 21) and Larry Parks Realty. An avid gardener and an accredited flower show judge, her Eighth Street home was remembered as a garden showplace. Mrs. Wilson was also an active member of the Petaluma Garden Club; Morning Star Chapter, Order of Eastern Star and an antique collector. Mrs. Wilson is survived by her daughters Nancy McNamee of Granite Bay and Martha Howell of Healdsburg, seven grandchildren and one great-grandson, and sister Josephine Platt of Lucerne. She was predeceased by her husband, J. Earl Wilson, daughter Pamela Wilson and sister Barbara Purrington. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 at the United Methodist Church, Fifth and D streets. Donations in Mrs. Wilson's name may be made to Shriner's Hospitals for Children, 2425 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento 95817.

Joel Ferrera
General contractor
Joel Thomas Ferrera, who was a third-generation general contractor, died at his Petaluma home Jan. 7, 2005, of pancreatic cancer. Born in Vallejo, he grew up in Petaluma, attending St. Vincent de Paul elementary and high schools. A graduate of Hogan High School in Vallejo, he followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and became a general contractor. A member of the carpenter's union, Mr. Ferrera built custom homes on the Tiburon peninsula. He is survived by his sons Jimmy and Jeffrey Ferrera; brothers Michael and John Ferrera; sister Jeanne Swindall and many other relatives and friends. An Irish wake will be held for Mr. Ferrera on Thursday, Jan. 13, in Penngrove. For details, call 763-1650. Burial will be private, with arrangements by Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma, 94952.

Mary Frates
Hunter, camper, traveler
Mary A. Frates, born and raised in Valley Ford, died recently in her Redwood City home at the age of 90. The daughter of a schoolteacher and dairy farmer, she was a 1931 graduate of Tomales High School. In 1936, she married Anthony Frates. The couple moved to Redwood City in 1940. They enjoyed traveling, camping and hunting. Mrs. Frates was a member of the 2nd Amendment Foundation and the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms. She is survived by sisters-in-law Helen Byrne of Santa Rosa and Nell Hilderbrandt of Petaluma, five nieces and nephews and two cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, and brother Edwin Byrne. Services have been held. died May 20, 2003 after a courageous struggle with cancer and complications. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at home with her husband, Chris, at her side. A Petaluma resident for 25 years, Edy was a familiar figure around town, promoting events and filming them with her video camera. Edy was involved with Petaluma's public access television from its earliest days a decade ago. She produced and hosted community affairs programs including "Speak Out" and "Talk of the Town." She produced video documentaries on local events such as Petaluma's Poetry Walk, skateboard park opening, wristwrestling tournament, "Hearts of the World" art exhibit, museum lectures, music and dance performances and public meetings. She enjoyed giving exposure to artists, musicians and writers through video and public access television and was an advocate for youth. She was in the process of editing a movie, "Women of Wanted Men," based on poems by Arthur and Kit Knight. She had won a fourth-place national award from the Hometown Film Festival Media Alliance for a documentary on the making of the movie. She organized an Earth Day celebration 10 years ago and was a judge for the Butter and Egg Days Parade the last few years. She enjoyed singing, playing the flute, bellydancing, traveling, painting, films, concerts, good friends and sipping a chai latte at one of her favorite downtown coffee cafes. She had been a member of Toastmasters, the Lakeville Yacht Club and Petaluma Community Access. "Edy was a model of courage, strength and fortitude throughout this medical ordeal," said her husband. "She was always positive and never complained. She had a beautiful spirit, a strong will, a love of life, an infectious laugh, a quest for adventure and travel, a flair for color and style and a generous nature." Willi Haye, a childhood friend, said, "There is a Dutch word that describes Edy's attributes of dealing with everything with such spirit. It is flink. And if there is one word that was always used in our family to describe her it was lief (loving) and flink. My parents did not use that word lightly but it was always used for Edy." "She was a kaleidoscope of color and love," said her close friend Julie Machado. "She was always there for me and my family." "Edy had this sparkling smile and twinkle in her eyes," said Diane Sims, her cousin-in-law. "She had a great sense of fun, adventure and beauty. She danced with her life. She skipped with her love of life." "We will miss her energy and skills so generously given to the community," said David Keller, former city councilman. Edy was born Jan. 23, 1952 in Rijen, a small town in the Netherlands. Her parents and two older brothers were born in Indonesia and immigrated to the Netherlands in 1950 to escape the aftermath of World War II. In 1961, the family immigrated to the United States and settled in Monrovia in Southern California. Edy graduated from Monrovia High School in 1970, then earned an A.A. degree at Citrus College in 1972. After college, she lived in Europe from 1972 to 1977, first in Holland, then in Switzerland, France and England. She returned to the United States in 1977 and attained U.S. citizenship in 1985. She worked for Sola Optical in Petaluma, first as an accounting clerk, then as senior accounts receivable clerk, for more than 20 years. Since 1999 she was a cost accountant at RS Technical Services, a video pipeline inspection company in Petaluma. Edy traveled extensively. Among the countries she visited were Kenya, Greece, Belgium, Nepal, Hong Kong, Russia, Curacao and the Dominican Republic. Edy is survived by her husband, Chris Samson of Petaluma, who she married in 1997; her brothers Robert Wynhamer of Santa Rosa and Frank Wynhamer of Fremont; nieces and nephews, in-laws and a large extended family of friends. A celebration of Edy's life is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31. Friends who wish to attend are asked to call Julie at 763-2047, Diane at 763-8037 or Erica and Paul at 765-2939 to RSVP and for further details. Donations in the memory of Edy Samson may be made to the Carousel Fund, 17 Buckeye Court, Petaluma 94952. The Carousel Fund is a Petaluma non-profit organization dedicated to helping families of children with life-threatening illnesses.

Victor Avilla
Landscaper
Petaluma resident Victor M. Avilla died suddenly at his home, Sept. 8, 2004, at the age of 63. Born and brought up in Marin County, he graduated from Marin Catholic High School, and worked for a number of years as a landscaper for the city of Belvedere. He moved with his parents to Petaluma 18 years ago. Mr. Avilla was predeceased by his parents, Victor and Mary Avilla. He is survived by several cousins. At his request, there were no services. Private inurnment was at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements were by Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory. Memorials are preferred to the Petaluma Animal Shelter, 840 Hopper St., Petaluma, 94952.

John F. Brown
Lt. Col., U.S. Air Force
John F. Brown, past president and life member of the Petaluma Host Lions Club, died May 30, 2003 at his Petaluma home. A native of Oakland, he was 84. A member of the Petaluma community for 30 years, Mr. Brown was a graduate of Oakland High School. He attended the University of California, Berkeley and graduated from the University of the Philippines. As a retired lieutenant colonel with the United States Air Force, Mr. Brown received numerous medals and the Air Force Commendation. During World War II he was a prisoner of war in Poland. After his retirement from the military, Mr. Brown worked for Crocker National Bank in Marin County and later in several Petaluma real estate offices. An avid sports fan, Mr. Brown was an original member of the Petaluma Coffee Cuppers. He was proud of his association with the Woodacre Improvement Club and Little League and Pony League coaching positions in Marin County. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Loise Brown; children Linda Martin and Patti Prichard of Petaluma, and John F. Brown Jr. of Alameda; grandfather of 12 and great-grandfather of four. The brother of Winifred Haag of Carmel, Robert Brown of Oakdale and the late William Brown and Doris Neslund, he is also survived by many nephews and nieces. Services have been held, followed by died March 13, 2004, at the age of 94. A native of Gravetty, Ark., she loved crossword puzzles, reading and sewing. Mrs. Donahoo is survived by her children, Jean Nunes of Novato, Keith Donahoo of Petaluma, Joann Wence of Greenfield and Frank Donahoo of Orangevale, 11 grandchildren, 14 great-granhchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. An open house celebration of her life will be held at 1 p.m. March 20 at 923 I St. Arrangements were by Adobe Creek Funeral Home.

Agnes D. Durando
Native Petaluman
Agnes D. Durando, 86, died March 21, 2004 in Petaluma. The daughter of the late Felix and Ellie Durando, Ms. Durando worked for 56 years in several local pharmacies, and developed many friendships as a result. Born and raised here, she was considered a knowledgeable community historian. Sister of the late Joseph Durando and Peter Durando, she is survived by many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. March 24, and on Thursday morning. A funeral liturgy will be held at 2 p.m. March 25 at the mortuary, Magnolia Avenue and Keokuk Street. died Sunday, Sept. 19, 2004 at the age of 83. Born and brought up in Petaluma, Mrs. Emery worked for many years as a secretary at Kresky Manufacturing, then later at Kresky Sign Co., before retiring in 1979. Active for over 50 years with the Young Ladies Institute (YLI), she was an avid Giants and 49ers fan, and enjoyed her motor home. Mrs. Emery was a former president and secretary of the Top of the Bay SAMS RV group. She leaves her children, John Emery of Petaluma and Diane Hole of Penngrove, five grandchildren, and four step-grandchildren. Mrs. Emery was predeceased by her husband, John Lane Emery, and siblings Marie Petersen and Edward Kimberk. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. A vigil service takes place at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 22, at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory, followed the next day with an 11 a.m. funeral Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 35 Liberty St. died June 25, 2003, at a local hospital, following a short illness. He was 91. Proud to have lived in Petaluma his entire life, Mr. Giacomini attended St. Vincent schools, and was an Eagle Scout. Later, he was Scoutmaster for Troop 7 for many years. In 1927, he began working for Tomasini Hardware as a plumber, and worked there until 1945. He also worked at a number of local ranches. In 1945, he moved to Adobe Road and ran a dairy there until retiring in 1976. Mr. Giacomini was devoted to his church, first St. Vincent's Parish, later St. James Parish. A past president of the Father's Club, he was active selling Christmas trees and starting bingo games. A founding member of St. James, he turned the first shovel of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony and, later, started the St. James bingo games. He was also a member of the Italian Catholic Federation No. 127, Knights of Columbus and was the oldest member of the Petaluma Council No. 9, Y.M.I. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed these activities with his brothers, sons and nephews. Mr. Giacomini was the husband of the late Elizabeth Giacomini, father of Thomas Giacomini of Eureka, Cathy Giovando of Petaluma, Joan Lagle of Sacramento and the late Jon Giacomini. He is survived by siblings Esther Gambonini of Petaluma, Toby Giacomini of Point Reyes Station, Vivian Cetani of San Jose and Ralph Giacomini of Olema; eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by brothers Joseph Giacomini and Waldo Giacomini. Services have been held, with burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. The family prefers memorials to the St. James Church building fund, 125 Sonoma Mountain Parkway, Petaluma 94954, or a favorite charity. Arrangements were by Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory.

Alma Gibby
Laundry worker, homemaker
Alma A. Gibby, 86, a much-loved member of the Petaluma community and a parishioner of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, died Dec. 22, 2003. A native of Valley Ford, Mrs. Gibby graduated from Petaluma High School in 1935. She went to work ironing clothes at Starlight Laundry. In 1939, she married Clyde Gibby. While her husband served in World War II, she worked at Lace House Linen. Mrs. Gibby became a full-time homemaker when her sons Gary and Richard were born. Her husband worked for the Petaluma Fire Department and managed the Elks Lodge, and she had a well-deserved reputation for hospitality and good food. She was disabled by a stroke in 1974, and in ill health the past several years. In addition to her husband and sons, Mrs. Gibby is survived by four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, brother Alfred Lafranchi and a number of other relatives. Services have been held. died June 16, 2003 in Monrovia, Calif. Born in Omsk, Siberia, Russia in 1916, Mr. Isaak and his family immigrated under the duress of the Russian Revolution to Harbin, Manchuria (China) in 1919, joining the expatriate German Mennonite community there. His father, a physician, re-established in Harbin the hospital confiscated by the Bolsheviks in Omsk. Mr. Isaak immigrated to the United States in 1932, attending Reedley Junior College, then entering the University of California at Berkeley at 17 and graduating with a B.A. in English literature at 19. He went on to receive his master's degree there and joined the faculty as an instructor in English literature. During his graduate studies he wrote film reviews for the San Francisco Examiner and cultivated his lifelong interest in thoroughbred racing, which resulted in the publication of the anthology "Of Horses and Men," a compilation of thoroughbred short stories by such authors as Faulkner and Turgenev, which he edited. He also published articles on thoroughbred breeding in the Thoroughbred Record and wrote poetry all his life. In 1952 he resigned from the Berkeley faculty, announcing to his family that he was "sick of the adolescent mind," and moved to Petaluma to raise chickens. This unsuccessful venture resulted in his entering a second career as a waiter at the Green Mill Inn and subsequently maitre'd at the Blue Boar Inn in San Francisco, a position in which he continued for some 20 years. He also returned to teaching English literature on the faculty of UC Davis, where he also headed the University of California's system-wide Subject A committee addressing deficiencies in the English curriculum of incoming freshman, finally retiring in 1983. In 1988 he married his childhood friend Rita Stehr, who survives him. He is also survived by five children, Natalie Knott of Martinez, Anne Isaak of New York City, Thomas Isaak of Petaluma, Molly Asghar of Petaluma and William Isaak of Petaluma and four grandchildren. Services will be held in Monrovia on June 20.

Thelmer "Tim" Langie
Former manager, Rex Hardware
Thelmer "Tim" Langie, a Petaluma resident for almost 60 years, died Dec. 2, 2003. He was 87. A native of Mayfield, Minn., he had lived in Petaluma since 1945. Manager of Rex Hardware, he retired in 1981. Mr. Langie was a member of the Petaluma Elks Lodge, American Legion and SIRS, and an avid golfer. He was the husband of the late Joan Langie and Josephine Mazza Langie. He is survived by his daughter, Kim Smith, stepson Jerry Mazza, and many nieces and nephews. Services have been held, with inurnment at Cypress Hill Memorial Park. The family prefers memorials to a favorite charity.

Obituaries dated October 20, 2001:

Horace Henris, Owner, Henris Roofing
Thomas J. Lavezzoli, Police officer
Ursula Butler, Sonoma County resident
Myra Cade, Sonoma County resident
Helen Gabriel, Teacher
E. Dean Harms, Long-time resident
Zoe Jacobsen, Mother of three, manager of kitchen at Christian retreat farm

Obituaries dated December 1, 2001:

Dick Lieb, Well-known architectural planner, community volunteer dies of heart failure; memorial service to be held Saturday
Joseph Lawrence Martucci, IRS executive, golfer
Viola Slichter, Longtime Petaluma resident