Search for celebrities on Ancestry.com!Anita Virginia Hiller
Passed away in Santa Rosa Monday, July 21, 2003 with her loving family at her side. Wife of the late Jerome Hiller. Mother of Ronald H. Hiller (Pamela) of Petaluma. Grandmother of Jennifer Hiller of Oakland, Aimee Hiller of Occidental and Chris (Natalie) Hiller of Sebastopol. Sister of Sam (Tess) Proia and Angie (Joe) Gangemi. A native of Rochester, New York. Age, 83 years. Mrs. Hiller was one of the first Navy Waves to enlist during WWII where she served her country honorably. She, with her husband and son, moved to Marin County in the early 1960's where they were longtime residents of Novato until 13 years ago she moved to Sonoma County to be closer to her family. She was a very private person but enjoyed politics and investing; but what she most loved was spending time with her family. Friends and family are invited to attend Funeral Services Friday, July 25, 2003 at 2:00 PM at the ADOBE CREEK FUNERAL HOME, 331 Lakeville St., Petaluma. Private Interment will follow at Cypress Hill Memorial Park, Petaluma. The family prefers memorial contributions in her memory be made to Hospice or to the American Lung Association. CHEDA & LYONS 707-789-9000
Dennis T. O'Donnell
Passed away at home after a year's battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Pam, sons Ryan and Rory, sister Doreen McClurg, brother Doug and nieces Colleen, Amy and Elizabeth. Dennis was born in San Francisco in 1941 and graduated from Stanford University in 1963. He worked many years as a computer consultant and was recently retired from Fireman's Fund. He loved hiking and backpacking and spent many hours exploring Mt Tam, often with his sons. He was an avid reader and also enjoyed writing. His whimsical sense of humor was appreciated by all, and his warm, generous, and inspiring spirit touched many lives. He will be deeply missed. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Redwood Grove in Gerstle Park on Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 11a.m. The park is located at the corner of San Rafael Ave and Clark in San Rafael. The family prefers donations be given to your favorite charity.
Donald Joseph Orsow
Born September 26, 1922 in Niagra Falls, NY, passed away in San Rafael after a short illness on July 19, 2003. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Myrtle Orsow of San Rafael, his two sons Donald Orsow of Sonoma and Ken Orsow of Ashland, OR and his three grandsons Tyler, Michael and Andrew. He served in the Navy during WWII and was involved in 10 battles. He retired from Superior Coffee in 1985 after 39 years during which time he also sold Christmas trees in San Francisco. He also cared for the Santa Venetia Laundromat for the past 15 years. In his youth, Don was the consummate athlete and participated in many sports including baseball, basketball and football where he became an all conference player and then on to semi-pro football. He started boxing in the Navy and was undefeated. He enjoyed golfing and celebrated getting a hole in one in 1996 on the 15th hole. Don will best be remembered for his sense of humor, his generous spirit and his kind way of caring for others. Don was a friend to all and was loved by all who knew him. He will be missed and held in our hearts and loving memory. KEATON MORTUARY 1022 E Street, San Rafael (415) 453-0571
Kenneth Howard Finney
Age 59, passed away after a three-year battle with cancer on July 18, 2003. Beloved husband of Marcia Fortnoff; adored father of Kate Harper and Chase Harte Finney; cherished brother of Elissa Finney and the late Stuart Finney; and devoted brother-in-law of Steven Weisberg. Ken was born in Detroit, Michigan. He was a graduate of the University of Michigan Undergraduate and Law School. He was a practicing attorney in San Francisco for over 30 years. He was an avid sports fan, loyal to the Michigan Wolverines and the Detroit Tigers, a marathon runner and an enthusiast of history and politics. Services will be held July 22nd, 2:00 p.m., at Mt. Tamalpais Mortuary in San Rafael. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Marin or Marilyn's Fund, c/o the Marin General Hospital Foundation.
Leonard Benno Fleischman
Len passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2003. He was born in San Francisco on November 10, 1926. For the past 40 years, he resided in Marin County building upscale homes and houseboats. In the 1980's he and wife Shirley owned and operated Mira Monte Marina -- in years past a popular spot for Bar-B-Q Oysters. Still residing upon his death at Mira Monte Marina, now an RV and boat storage facility. Len was an avid "fly-fisherman" who released all his fish; a duck hunter which diminished with binoculars. He loved gardening, was a superior businessman combined with personal relationships. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Shirley; his three sons Martin, Steven and Christopher and numerous grandchildren and friends. He had a wonderful life until his heart got tired. We all miss him.
Norris G. Martin
Passed away peacefully at his home in Tiburon at age 87. He was born March 10, 1916, in Hammond, Oregon. His father was a SMaj in the Coast Artillery, and the family lived at Ft. Scott, Corregedor, and Ft. Monroe. Dad joined the Army after high school, qualified for the Coast Artillery, and graduated from the Coast Artillery School. He was stationed at Ft. Scott and Ft. Baker prior to WWII, serving on the Niles. He was a Veteran of WWII, and a specialist in radar, spending the war setting up forward radar bases on just about every God-forsaken atoll in the Pacific. After WWII, Dad returned to Ft. Baker until Korea, then participated in that action, hitting the major tourist spots (Pusan perimeter, Chosun, Iron Triangle). A tour in Germany followed, and a return to Ft. Baker, where he served in the Nike Missile Battalion until his retirement in 1962 after 28 years of service. Dad took up a second career in the Postal Service, before retiring for good to pursue his favorite pastimes of fishing, archery and bow hunting. Dad was a San Francisco State Alumnus, a member of the Marin Chapters of SIR and NARFE, as well as the Northwoods Bowmen's Association. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Miriam (his high school sweetheart), son Michael, daughter-in-law Glenda, grandsons Tristin and Kerrick, of Sonoma, son Andrew of Novato, and son Peter on assignment in Texas. The Family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of Marin. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m., August 7, 2003 at Our Savior Episcopal Church, 10 Old Mill Street, Mill Valley, CA.
Lester Anthony Roth
A resident of San Rafael for 25 years, passed away July 18, 2003. He was a graduate of Lincoln High School, San Francisco, CA and graduated from UC Berkeley with a BA in Science and a BA in Philosophy. He proudly served in the U.S. Army as a Captain and was a graduate of Officer's Candidate School. His wife of 41 years, Diane; Brother Stewart Roth of Rancho Murieta; nephew Martin (Emily) and niece Maggie Roth Woodhouse (Chris) of Berkeley survives Mr. Roth. He also loved his beautiful sailboat, "Clare de Lune" and his many friends. He loved Marin County and was involved with many and various organizations. He was a vice president of human resources for Wells Fargo Bank and the Bank of Marin. He was also director of the Marin Chamber of Commerce. His affiliations include: County of Marin Personnel Commission, Marin Coalition and board member, past president of Marin Council of Boy Scouts and SIRS past president of Branch #22; Employment Development Department, San Rafael Rotary, past Commodore of Loch Lomond Yacht Club, the American Red Cross and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. At Mr. Roth's request, no services will be held. Donations in his name may be made to American Heart Association and/or the Marin Council of Boy Scouts.
Abraham B. Selby
A resident of San Rafael passed away on July 21, 2003 at age 80. Beloved father of Alvin (and Debbie) Selby, Michelle Selby and Rick Selby; devoted grandfather of Heather, David and Brandon Selby; dear brother of Essie Veinerman; beloved partner of Maureen Hornung. Past President of the Board and active member of Golden Gate Regional Center of San Francisco. Served in the U.S. Foreign Service after WWII. Graduate of U.C. Berkeley and John Hopkins University. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 23rd at 2:00 p.m. at Eternal Home Cemetery, Colma under the direction of Sinai Memorial Chapel. Contributions to the charity of your choice preferred.
Marcel Alfred Peron
Passed away at home in Novato on July 17, 2003 at the age of 73 with his wife Shirley of 20 years by his side. Marcel is survived by his mother Julliette of France, mother-in-law Juanita Stahl of Rohnert Park, Paula Hewko and her husband Craig of Ukiah, and Grandsons Trevor, Joshwa and Miles. Marcel survived in the French Army and was a member of the Lafayette French Club. His life was spending time with his family and entertaining. Marcel loved the outdoors, fishing and his dogs. Private family services were held. Arrangements under the direction of ABBY CHAPEL OF THE REDWOODS MORTUARY (707) 584-7100 Condolences can be sent to www.abbymortuary.com (obit) or www.pressdemocrat.com. Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to Hospice of Marin.
Kathleen Rabbitt
Passed away peacefully on July 18, 2003. Born in Galway, Ireland, Kathleen was a resident of Marin for over 30 years after relocating from San Francisco. Dearly beloved wife of Henry for 52 years, cherished and much loved mother of Mike (Margaret), Brian (Paula), Anne (Neal), Steve (Patty), Kathie (David), and David (Jane). Beloved grandmother of Matt, Brian, Dewey, Steve, Emily, Madeleine Rabbitt; Pat, Joey, Dave, Chrissy Rabbitt; Danny, and Brian Blake; Julia Rabbitt; Kelly, Katie, Michelle, Conner Harvard; Megan, Patrick, Sarah Rabbitt. Great grandmother of Devin and Taylor Rabbitt, cherished sister of Rita, Peter, Nora and Annie. Preceded in death by her parents Brian and Mary Ward of Coolough, Galway and her sisters Julia, Evelyn, Mary and Biddy and her brothers John, Paddy, and Christopher. Survived by many loving nieces and nephews here and in Ireland and England. Also survived by many loving relatives and friends in her beloved Wood-Quay and Coolough, Galway, Ireland. She was employed over 10 years at Sir Francis Drake High School. A few of her many joys included her trips to Reno (She never hit the Big One!) and spending time with friends. More than anything else, she lived for her family and was a loving and wonderful wife, mother and grandmother, 'Gang-ga' will be forever remembered for the unconditional love she showered on her family. She will be forever missed by all who knew her. Family and friends are invited to attend a Vigil Service Monday July 21, 2003 at 7PM at St. Anselm's Catholic Church, corner of Shady Lane on Bolinas Road in Ross. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday July 22, 2003 at 11AM at St. Anselm's. Interment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in San Rafael. Memorial gifts to American Heart Assoc. P.O. Box 844 Santa Rosa, CA 95402 preferred. Monte's Chapel Of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo (415) 453-8440
Joan Sadlowski
Joan Frances Sadlowski passed away June 26, 2003 at The Nazareth House of San Rafael at the age of 87. A loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great- grandmother, homemaker, babysitter and caregiver, she performed all her life's roles with passion, love and care and was always there for her family. Joan was born Joan Witek in New York City in 1916. She attended a Brooklyn Polish nursery school, and after her father passed away, when she was only five years old, she helped her mother care for her younger sister and brother. In 1935, Joan marriage Sylvester Sadlowski, a Polish immigrant who had arrived in New York at age 16. Sylvester worked hard to establish his own butcher shop where Joan helped out. They had two daughters, Marilyn and Florence. After Sylvester passed away at age 53, Joan went to work at A&S Department Store in New York, became an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and babysat her granddaughters. At age 62, Joan left her brother, Stanley, and sisters, Helen and Louise, and many other generous, loving relatives to relocate to California and be near her daughter, Marilyn, and her grandchildren. She became an active member in Terra Linda and San Rafael senior citizens' groups and was once honored with the title "Senior of the Year". She helped a blind man run his gift shop located inside the Marin Civic Center and helped with secretarial work in her son-in-law's office. She enjoyed her grandchildren and loved teaching them how to play card games, including Canasta. Joan lived her last ten years at The Nazareth House of San Rafael where she moved after fracturing a hip. She called the senior home "Heaven on earth". Joan was dear and wonderful and will be missed and always loved and remembered by her family and friends. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Marilyn Swieconek and Dr. John Swieconek of San Rafael and Florence and Bill Fehrmann of Utah; her grandchildren, Susan Capella and Paul Swieconek of Petaluma, Phil Swieconek of Santa Barbara, Dr. Catherine Fehrmann-Forman of San Anselmo, Liz Barth and Annie Evans of Utah; and her great-grandchildren, Dan and Anna Carmody of Petaluma, Stephanie and Rachael Evans of Utah, Wesley Barth of Utah and Julianna and Solana Forman of San Anselmo. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Friday, July, 25, 2003 at 11 a.m. at THE NAZARETH HOUSE CHAPEL, 245 Nova Albion Way, San Rafael, CA. Final Interment will take place August 1, 2003 at the family gravesite at Saint Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, Long Island, New York. Donations in Joan's memory may be made to The Nazareth House of San Rafael, 245 Nova Albion Way, San Rafael, CA 94903.
Frances S. Johnson
Passed away unexpectedly in her sleep July 1, 2003 at her home in San Rafael. Her death came just 10 days after being joined by friends and family for a joyous celebration of her upcoming 80th birthday. She was born the only child of Hugh Smith and Margery Royce Smith on July 22, 1923 in Santa Ana, CA and attended U.C. Berkeley. In 1946 she marriage C. Russell Johnson who later became President of the Union Lumber Company in Fort Bragg, CA. They enjoyed 56 years of marriage before his passing in 2002, and raised three children in Kentfield, CA. She was a fun-loving and generous woman who enjoyed traveling, golf, needlepoint and entertaining. Her favorite places were Lake Tahoe and Maui. Her flamboyant personality will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her children: Otis Russell Johnson of Truckee, VCA, Royce Johnson of Brockway, CA and Carolyn Johnson of Sebastopo, CA. Her four grandchildren; Kahlil Al Refai, CR Johnson, Caitlin Johnson and Robin Johnson. A Memorial Celebration will be held Wednesday, August 6, 2003 at 2pm at the Meadow Club, 1001 Bolinas Rd. in Fairfax. Contributions can be made in her name to Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation, P.O. Box 797, Sebastopol, CA 95472 or Golden Gate Planned Parenthood, 815 Eddy St., San Francsico, CA 94109 Keaton's Redwood Chapel 415-897-1151
Ellen Leeser
Died peacefully after a long battle with cancer on July 17, 2003. Ellen, the wife of the late Hans Leeser, is survived by her loving sons, Ronald and Kenneth and their wives Gail Leeser and Andrea Blum; and grandchildren Samuel, Zachary, Gabriella, Rebecca, and Jacob. Born in Bingen, Germany, Ellen came to San Francisco and remained a resident for over 60 years. She loved the City especially the theater and opera. She served as a volunteer usher for many years. She enjoyed many trips abroad, discovering new places. She walked the parks and beaches of San Francisco and Marin County frequently until her recent illness. She will be missed by all those who knew and loved her. Services were held at Salem Memorial Park, Colma. The family asks that contributions be made to the Marin Cancer Project or the Holocaust Center of Northern California. SINAI MEMORIAL CHAPEL
David M. Petty
Deceased July 13, 2003
Mr. Petty served in the U.S. Air Force during WWII as a P-38 Pilot. He was discharged as a Major in 1947. He worked in Bethlehem Steel Company's So. San Francisco plant as Superintendent of Maintenance. With the closing of that plant, he came to Marin County as Plant Engineer for Fairchild. Following the closure of Fairchild, he went to work for the county as a Building Inspector and retired from that position in 1989. In 1945 he was assigned by the Air Force to assist in the first charter meeting of the United Nations in San Francisco with responsibility for West Coast security up to the Oregon border. Mr. Petty is survived by his wife, Pat, and daughter Suzanne. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 26th at 2 p.m., at Christ Presbyterian Church, 620 Del Ganado Road, in Terra Linda. The family has requested contributions be made to Christ Presbyterian Church in lieu of flowers.
Kathleen Rabbitt
Passed away peacefully on July 18, 2003. Born in Galway, Ireland, Kathleen was a resident of Marin for over 30 years after relocating from San Francisco. Dearly beloved wife of Henry for 52 years, cherished and much loved mother of Mike (Margaret), Brian (Paula), Anne (Neal), Steve (Patty), Kathie (David), and David (Jane). Beloved grandmother of Matt, Brian, Dewey, Steve, Emily, Madeleine Rabbitt; Pat, Joey, Dave, Chrissy Rabbitt; Danny, and Brian Blake; Julia Rabbitt; Kelly, Katie, Michelle, Conner Harvard; Megan, Patrick, Sarah Rabbitt. Great grandmother of Devin and Taylor Rabbitt, cherished sister of Rita, Peter, Nora and Annie. Preceded in death by her parents Brian and Mary Ward of Coolough, Galway and her sisters Julia, Evelyn, Mary and Biddy and her brothers John, Paddy, and Christopher. Survived by many loving nieces and nephews here and in Ireland and England. Also survived by many loving relatives and friends in her beloved Wood-Quay and Coolough, Galway, Ireland. She was employed over 10 years at Sir Francis Drake High School. A few of her many joys included her trips to Reno (She never hit the Big One!) and spending time with friends. More than anything else, she lived for her family and was a loving and wonderful wife, mother and grandmother, 'Gang-ga' will be forever remembered for the unconditional love she showered on her family. She will be forever missed by all who knew her. Family and friends are invited to attend a Vigil Service Monday July 21, 2003 at 7PM at St. Anselm's Catholic Church, corner of Shady Lane on Bolinas Road in Ross. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday July 22, 2003 at 11AM at St. Anselm's. Interment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in San Rafael. Memorial gifts to American Heart Assoc. P.O. Box 844 Santa Rosa, CA 95402 preferred. Monte's Chapel Of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo (415) 453-8440
