Search for celebrities on Ancestry.com!Donald Frank Wood
A distinguished professor and author, passed away on Sunday March 9, 2003 at Kaiser Hospital in San Rafael one week after his 68th birthday. He suffered a mild stroke the previous week, was recovering well and then had a cardiac arrest over the weekend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Doreen, of Larkspur, son Frank Wood of San Francisco, daughter Tamara Wood of Greenbrae, granddaughter Kayla Wood of Greenbrae, sister and brother in law Barbara and John Easter of Oak Brook, Illinois, and numerous in law brothers and sisters, and nieces and nephews in the Unite States and Canada. He was a Professor of Transportation Economics at the College of Business at San Francisco State University (SFSU) since 1970. As a ROTC student, he then served as a MP officer in the US Army. He received his BA and MA from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. A Woodrow Wilson Presidential scholar, he received his PhD in Economics from Harvard University in 1970. Prior coming to SFSU, Don worked on the Governor's staff in Wisconsin in transportation and natural resource planing, and was an honored guest at the White House Conference on Natural Beauty in 1968. Throughout his career, he consulted and appeared as an expert witness in federal and state courts. He authored numerous widely used textbooks, the most recent being the seventh edition of "Contemporary Logistics." In addition to the publication of dozens of academic papers, he was the author of the transportation economics and logistics section in the Encyclopedia Britannica. On a lighter note, Don authored over twenty-five pictorial, historical truck books, enjoyed by thousands of people worldwide. After the 9/11 tragedy, upon request, he wrote the recently released, "New York Fire Trucks," a chronological history of FDNY equipment, especially those used and lost in the World Trade Center disaster. He was a board member and active in many professional transportation organizations, the American Truck Historical Society, the Hays Antique Truck Museum, and an active member of Redwoods Presbyterian Church. Dr. Wood was a visiting professor at various universities, in Seoul, Korea, Oviedo, Spain and three separate appointments at Goteberg University in Sweden. Don, along with his wife Doreen, loved to travel together, reveling in seeing much of the world. Don's primary love was for his family always giving steady, thoughtful encouragement. He was never happier than when cooking up a storm of food for groups of friends at his home. He was a talented singer in the Redwoods Presbyterian Church choir. His colleagues unanimously agree that they will miss his great wit and brilliant mind. He was a gentleman , respectful of others, and a sensitive person. His family will dearly miss Don's strong, calm support. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service Saturday, March 22, 2003 at 3:00 PM at Redwoods Presbyterian Church, 110 Magnolia Avenue, Larkspur, CA 94939. Memorial contributions may be made to the Redwoods Presbyterian Church Music Program . RUSSELL & GOOCH FUNERAL CHAPEL Mill Valley, 415-388-1573
Dorothy K. Derre
A third generation San Franciscan, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2003 at the age of 96. She graduated from Mission High School, where she served as Vice President of the student body in 1923. Throughout her long life she was active in civic and philanthropic affairs, including the Good Shepherd Guild, Mt. St. Joseph's Orphanage, the Nova Club, the Olympic Club and Delta Theta Tau Sorority. She was a founding member of the SF Lighthouse for the Blind. She is survived by her daughter, Diane Derre Blackman, son-in-law, Richard Blackman, and three grandchildren, Cindy Burke, Brian Blackman, and Lauren Blackman. She was predeceased by her husband, Alvin F. Derre. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anselm Church, Shady Lane at Bolinas Ave., Ross on Tuesday, March 18, 2003 at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in her name to The Convent of Good Shepherd, 1310 Bacon St., San Francisco 94134, or to a charity of choice. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma, CA. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E St. San Rafael, CA 94901 415-453-5071
Elisabet (Beta) Giorgi
Passed away on March 11, 2003, in Greenbrae, CA. Aged 70 years, long time resident of Mill Valley. Born in Iceland and came to USA in 1960. Employed with Bank of America and United California Bank before spending 34 years in real estate property management in Marin County. Currently with Marchant/Chapman Realtors. Beta has been a 30 year member of the Icelandic Association. Beta enjoyed aerobics, skiing reading and swimming. Beta is survived by her loving husband Bernie who she marriage on December 19, 1966. Surviving her are five brothers and four sisters all in Iceland and many nieces and nephews. Local services pending and will be announced at a later date. Flowers gratefully declined. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E St. San Rafael, CA 94901 415-453-0571
Mary Erin (Sullivan) Jones
Mary Erin Jones was born August 9, 1917 and died March 8, 2003, in Oceanside, CA. She was sister to eight surviving brothers and sisters; aunt to 31 surviving nieces and nephews and cousin to countless Laughlin's and Sullivan's. Caring stepmother to three grown children. Devoted wife and friend to her "Buddy" Vane E. Jones, of 28 years. Cherished friend to many. She will be celebrated for her love of family and friends, religion, animals, reading, history, politics, crossword puzzles and life. Her spirit, love and laughter will live in our hearts forever. Mary, thank you for being "our Morrie". Friends and family are invited to attend the celebration of her Funeral Mass on Monday, March 17, 2003, at St. Sebastian Church, Greenbrae, at 11:00 AM. Vigil services will be held Sunday March 16, at Keaton Mortuary, San Rafael, at 4:00 PM. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street San Rafael (415) 453-0571
Betty Ann (Elizabeth) Smith, nee Kunst:
Longtime resident of Piedmont died in her home on March 12; she was 69. Born in San Francisco, she grew up in San Anselmo and was an alumna of Marin Catholic High School (class of 1952). The widow of Byron Smith of Piedmont, she is survived by her three children, Doris, John and Dianne, and her brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert and Sue, John and Evelyn, and Arnold and Consie Kunst; she also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated for her at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 2808 Lakeshore Avenue, Oakland, on Saturday, March 22, at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to either the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.
Richard Tokar
Passed away surrounded by family and friends on March 8, 2003 in San Francisco at the age of 63. He was a 27 year resident of Petaluma and native of NYC. Richard is survived by Susan, his wife of 35 years, and his son Russell. Adored uncle of Ian and Emily Seager and sister and brother-in-law Jane and John Seager. Richard loved painting, drawing, cooking and gardening. Richard's garden was featured on the Petaluma 2001 Garden Tour. Richard enjoyed the opera, classical music, traveling, and good food. He was a person of style and integrity who welcomed life's experiences and met each day with joy. Richard worked for many years at Shylock's in San Rafael and previously owned and operated Horizon Gallery in Mill Valley. He attended the Art Students League in NYC and most recently attended art classes at Santa Rosa Junior College. Richard leaves behind family and many friends who will miss his wit, artistry and love of life. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Richard's Life on Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 1:00 PM at 800 Schuman Lane, Petaluma. Memorial gifts may be made to Children's Workshop Preschool, P.O. Box 314, Petaluma, CA 94953. Arrangements by Pleasant Hills Mortuary, Sebastopol.
Pamela Mae Albert
Went to Heaven on Saturday, March 8, 2003 after suffering from Multiple Sclerosis for almost 20 years. Pam was born Pamela Mae Kerby on March 1, 1959 in San Francisco. She grew up in Terra Linda and graduated from Terra Linda High School in 1978. She lived most of her life in San Rafael, but spent a short time in State College, PA, where she celebrated the birth of her daughter, Jessica Rose Albert, in 1991. In her healthy days, Pam enjoyed a variety of activities including water skiing, snow skiing, traveling, and boogy-boarding. One of her favorite hobbies was cake decorating. She always had a special fondness for animals, especially kittens. Pam is survived by her daughter, Jessica Rose Albert, her father, Gerald Kerby, her sister, Juli Heliotes, and three brothers, Russ Kerby, Ken Kerby, and Matt Kerby. She is predeceased by her mother, Patricia Kerby. She is also survived by five nieces and five nephews. Pam was a wonderful, loving, and caring person who will be tremendously missed by all who knew her. Funeral Services will be held Monday, March 17, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Isabella's Church in Terra Linda. Visitation will be available at Keaton's Mortuary in San Rafael, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. immediately prior to the Funeral Service. The family prefers memorial contributions be made to your local chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571
Karen L. Bauer
A bright shining star has fallen from the sky. Karen Bauer born May 23, 1965 left us March 2, 2003. She was much beloved of her family, partner and friends and she brought joy into the lives of all who knew her. We will miss her.
John Byrne Jr
Passed away in San Rafael on March 12, 2003. Dear brother of Eileen Byrne O.P. of New York, Mary Hoffmann (Ross O'Sullivan) of New York and Joan Murphy (John Cullen ) of CT; also survived by 27 nieces and nephews; preceded in death by his parents John T and Katherine Byrne, his brother William Byrne, and his sister Sheila Herrfeldt. John was a graduate of Iona Prep School, Georgetown University and Columbia University Graduate School. He worked for Grace Line and Farrell Line Shipping Companies and was a Vice President of Talbot, Bird of San Francisco. A veteran of WWII, he loved reading, duck hunting and boating of any kind and he volunteered numerous hours as a docent on Angel Island. Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Friday, March 14th at 1:00 PM at St. Sebastian's, 373 Bon Air Road, Greenbrae, CA. If desired donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements under the direction of the DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY.
Mary Erin (Sullivan) Jones
Mary Erin Jones was born August 9, 1917 and died March 8, 2003, in Oceanside, CA. She was sister to eight surviving brothers and sisters; aunt to 31 surviving nieces and nephews and cousin to countless Laughlin's and Sullivan's. Devoted wife and friend to her "Buddy" Vane E. Jones, of 28 years. Cherished friend to many. She will be celebrated for her love of family and friends, religion, animals, reading, history, politics, crossword puzzles and life. Her spirit, love and laughter will live in our hearts forever. Many thank you for being "our Morrie". Friends and family are invited to attend the celebration of her Funeral Mass on Monday, March 17, 2003, at St. Sebastian Church, Greenbrae, at 11:00 AM. Vigil services will be held Sunday March 16, at Keaton Mortuary, San Rafael, at 4:00 PM. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 453-0571
Robert Maxwell Lee
Long time Marin resident, passed peacefully at home March 10, 2003. Born in San Francisco May 26, 1913, son of Alfred and Leona Lee. Beloved husband of Charlotte "Magnolia" Lee for 52 years and survived by children: Robert Lee, Jr. and Sue Fair, Parker and Kate Lee, Kathy and John Knapp, Dr. Bonnie Bull and Joe and Nannette Lindland; grandchildren: Devon, Charlotte and Whitney Lee, Kelly and Danny Knapp, Diana and Sarah Bull; nieces/ nephews: Cherie and Thom, Susan and Jack, Lee and Barbara and many grandnieces and grandnephews. Partner of San Francisco-based Lee, Swan & Co., cotton linters for over 50 years. A lover of music and art, Bob enjoyed painting, skiing, hiking, playing bass fiddle and ukulele. With nothing but a kind word for anyone, he always placed his family first. Outstanding athlete w/championship football at Lowell & Damon Schools, USF and handball at S.F. YMCA; Captain, National Guard Commandos during WWII. Served as President of: San Francisco Rotary, Ross Valley Players, Am. Cotton Linters Association, Home Owners Associations of Country Club and Greenbrae, 20/30 Club and CWRT; Director of: S.F. YMCA, Big Brothers of Marin, S.F. Boys Club, S.F. Rotary, S.F. Boy Scouts and Meadow Club; Member of the infamous Geezer Patrol of Marin and the Meadow Rascals. Memorial Service at First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael on Saturday, April 26, 2003 at 11:00 AM. Memorial contributions to: Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Sonoma, 5685 Redwood Drive, #201, Rohnert Park 94928 or Marin Council BSA, 225 W. End Ave., San Rafael, 94901. Arrangements under the direction of Abby Chapel of the Redwoods Mortuary 6250 State Farm Drive, Rohnert Park 707-584-7100
Doris Campbell McCreary
Born in Camden, New Jersey May 20, 1931, Doris died March 9th, 2003 at home in Mill Valley. Adopted by Andrew and Leota Campbell. Andrew was born in Troon, Scotland and was a golf pro. Survived by her husband James Starke, two sons, James Chism and John McCreary. Four grandchildren, Brenda & Michelle Chism and Michael and Matthew McCreary. A resident of Marin since 1974, she was employed by the Mill Valley Book Depot and True Confections. Memorial Service in Stinson Beach. In lieu of flowers donations to the Hospice of Marin or the Marin Humane Society.
Cecilia Perrin Ravizza
A Marin County resident for 70 years, Cecilia passed away at the age of 91 years on March 12, 2003. A Rosary Service in her honor will be held at Russell and Gooch Funeral Chapel in Mill Valley on Sunday, March 16th at 3:00 PM, and a Requiem Mass will take place at St. Hilary Catholic Church in Tiburon March 17th at 10:30 AM. Born November 25, 1911, in Lodi, she was the youngest daughter of Jules and Mary Ann Perrin and was preceded in death by her five brothers David, Cecil, Phillip, Paul, and Jules, Jr. and sister, Veronica. Cecilia attended primary and high school in Lodi and graduated from Dominican College in San Rafael with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Cecilia taught school for a short time before she marriage her late husband, Edward I. Ravizza on June 8, 1935. She is survived by her three sons: Edward I. Ravizza of Salt Lake City, John A. Ravizza and wife, Rebecca, of Mill Valley, and Thomas J. Ravizza and wife, Jacqueline Hagerty, of Mount Shasta, her four grandchildren: Steffan and Michael Ravizza of Mill Valley, Denise Ravizza of Berkeley, and Renee Kessler and husband, Wayne, and her two great grandchildren, Cecilia and Carter Kessler of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. She was a kind and giving person, committed to social service, a devout member of the Catholic Church, first at Star of the Sea in Sausalito and then at St. Hilary's in Tiburon. She served as president of the Marin Catholic Mothers Club & as president of Marin County Catholic Social Services. Cecilia was active in Dominican College alumni affairs & scholarship endowments. Those wishing to make a donation to Cecilia P. Ravizza's memory may direct contributions in her name to Senior Access, 65 Las Gallinas Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94903.
Shirley Shay
Died peacefully in her home on March 1, 2003. She was born in New York City on September 2, 1918 and had been a resident of Larkspur, California for the last 17 years. A devoted mother, proud grandmother, loving great-grandmother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and cousin, Shirley was divorced from Edward Stuart, now deceased, and was predeceased by her husband, Paul Shay. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Traub Stuart and son-in-law, Welton Rotz, her stepson and daughter-in-law, Steve and Rinell Shay, her ex-son-in-law, Gene Traub and his wife, Donnalee Steele. She is also survived by her grandsons and granddaughters-in-law, Dan, Elizabeth, Tom, Ginny, Mike and Melanie Traub, and Sean Shay, her great-grandchildren, Sam, Carina, Madeline, Natalie and Grace Traub, her brothers and sisters-in-law, Sylvan, Claire, Merwin and June Kessel, their children and grandchildren, as well as her brother-in-law, Bill Efros and his dear friend, Irving Feinarman, her cousins, Evelyn and Lenny Bernstein, and numerous other cousins, their children and grandchildren. Welton's daughter and son-in-law, Donnalee's children and grandchildren, and Ginny's sister and family were also members of the extended family which Shirley treasured at holiday gatherings; she loved her large family, was fascinated by its complexity, and passionately dedicated to the well-being of every member. Shirley will be remembered by all who knew her for her unique and vivid personality. She loved music and especially enjoyed Paul's ability to play the violin. She marvelled at his talent for improvising with any of the many records they enjoyed in their extensive collection. Shirley played the piano and was the first to state her talent lay in persistence and diligently practiced her small repertoire for several decades. Shirley was a writer, a reader, and a teacher of writing. She was most interested in the cultural differences and generational variations within human relationships, particularly those of her family and friends. When she was in her 70's she wrote "Older and Bolder," an award-winning column for the Pacific Sun in which she reminisced about her young life in Brooklyn and described her experiences and expressed her opinions about her more recent life in Marin County. She eventually published a collection of those articles in a book also entitled Older and Bolder. Shirley wrote and spoke with remarkable clarity, humor and candor. She remained physically healthy and mentally active until her unexpected and sudden death which occurred in early evening as she sat in her chair, reading, dozing, sleeping, and never awakening. Shirley's passing is truly the end of an era. She will be missed and remembered by so many who would have wished to say goodbye and express their deepest feelings of love, affection, and connection. A Memorial to Honor Shirley's Life is planned for a later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to Jewish Family and Children's Services, 4040 Civic Center Drive, #220, San Rafael, CA 94903. KEATON'S MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael 415-453-0571
George Washburn Ball
George Ball was a resident of Marin County for 46 years and died at home on March 8, 2003. He was born in Santa Ana, CA, in 1926, raised in Napa and graduated from high school in Washington where his father was stationed with the Marine Corps. He joined the Navy in 1943 in the V12 program in Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington (Basketball Hall of Fame). He served in the South Pacific and was the youngest Ensign in the Navy in WWII at the age of 18 and was honorably discharged at the rank of Lieutenant. He graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in 1949 where he was a member of Zeta Psi Fraternity, Beta Beta, Skull & Keys and the Cal Rugby team. He was the Northern California Rugby Commissioner in the 1950's. He graduated from Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco and was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1953. He was a trial attorney and retired as President of the law firm Low, Ball & Lynch in San Francisco after 35 years. He was President of the Northern California Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, a member of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, an organization limited to 500 attorneys worldwide, and a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers. He was an active member of the Bohemian Club, Olympic Club (and played rugby for the Club in the 1950s), World Trade Club, The Meadow Club, Tahoe Yacht Club, the Trader Brown Society, Cal Bear Backers and a generous supporter of Cal football and rugby. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Marie Ball. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lois; daughters, Leslie Knapp (husband Tom) and Susan Ball Gomez (husband Steve); and granddaughters Lindsay and Kelly Knapp. A Memorial Service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church, 14 Lagunitas Road, Ross, on Saturday, March 22nd at 2:00 p.m. Charitable contributions may be made to Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Avenue, Corte Madera, CA 94925 or the charity of your choice. Mount Tamalpais Cemetery 415-459-2500
