The Sacramento Bee news obituaries
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Alice Haas, a church volunteer who founded a living Nativity display that became a cherished Christmas tradition in a Rancho Cordova neighborhood, died March, 27, 2013, at 68. Read her story here. -
William "Bill" Scott, an innovative lawman who was Placer County's longest-serving sheriff, died March 27, 2013, at 88. Read his story here.
Patrick Russell Tatro, a Sacramento businessman who modeled values for young people as a dynamic leader in church and civic groups, died March 19, 2013, at 58. Read his story here.
Wayne Boulding, a retired school superintendent who was a leader on the Sacramento City College basketball team that won the 1946 national championship, died March 26, 2013, at 86. Read his story here.
Vernon "Lou" Hlubek, a Navy veteran who hunted enemy submarines from blimps and served on a military operation in Antarctica, died March 24, 2013, at 89. Read his story here.
Kathryn C. Lee, a matriarch and businesswoman who opened doors to opportunities for African Americans as a co-founder of the Sacramento Observer newspaper, died March 25, 2013, at 77. Read her story here.
Joyce "Joy" Haessler, a colorful woman who found adventure and celebrated community life as a newspaper reporter, died March 21, 2013, at 76. Read her story here.
Sheila Boltz, a social worker and trailblazer in the psychiatric community who advocated dignity and respect for people with mental illness, died March 15, 2013, at 70. Read her story here.
Michael G. Carr, a veteran West Sacramento firefighter who was honored for rushing to help a shooting victim without regard for his own safety, died March 16, 2103, at 66. Read his story here.
Johannes "John" Bos, a Sacramento resident who survived the Holocaust while in hiding like Anne Frank and other Jews in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands during World War II, died March 7, 2013, at 88. Read his story here.
Kathleen Navarra, a dedicated Sacramento County prosecutor who faced criminals and stage 4 cancer with strength, tenacity and poise, died March, 22, 2013, at 31. Read her story here.
Terry Dyer, who investigated high-profile murders as a Sacramento County sheriff's deputy and later as a private detective, died March 17, 2013, at 78. Read his story here.
Nicholas C. Petris, who served in the California Legislature for 37 years, representing Oakland and other East Bay communities, died March 20, 2013 at 90. Read his story here.
Mary Lou Canady, a homemaker who devoted herself to helping others as a Girl Scout leader and the mother of a homicide victim, died March 8, 2013, at 81. Read her story here.
Ed Watson, a Northern California auto racing pioneer who built and owned cars that carried top racers to victory, died March 4, 2013, at 77. Read his story here.
William "Bill" Kahl Jr., an Air Force veteran and active retiree who fought to protect seniors in care homes as a volunteer ombudsman, died Feb. 26, 2103, at 89. Read his story here.
Earl Sasser, a visionary businessman who transformed vacant land under an elevated Sacramento freeway into prime storage space and built a popular water amusement park at Cal Expo, died March 9, 2013, at 83. Read his story here.
Walter Eugene McAdams, a veteran Sacramento police officer who in 1968 was critically wounded in a wild midday shootout downtown with two brothers, died March 2, 2103, at 85. Read his story here.
Robert C. Cooley, an educator who began working in Roseville schools as a janitor and became a devoted science teacher for generations of students, died Feb. 27, 2013, at 77. Read his story here.
Nicole Ix, a restaurant owner who infused the popular Cafe Soleil in downtown Sacramento with a sunny disposition that turned customers into friends, died Feb. 16, 2013, at 46. Read her story here.
Frank Beyer, a modest accountant who helped unravel Ponzi schemes and bring down drug cartels as a U.S. Treasury investigator, died Feb. 21, 2013, at 78. Read his story here.
Wayne Maeda and Lorrie Toohey-Maeda, were married scholars who collaborated to tell the story of Japanese Americans in Sacramento and the Delta. He died Feb. 27, 2013, at 65, and she died March 2, 2013, at 64. Read their story here.
Russell Kletzing, a former state water resources official who was a forceful voice for social justice as a leader of organizations for blind people, died Feb. 18, 2013, at 87. Read his story here.
Steven Earl Robinson, founder and volunteer executive director of the Mountain Meadows Conservancy, died Feb. 16, 2013 at 66. Read his story here.
Dr. Martyn Rosa, a dentist and sports fan who cared for the teeth of San Francisco 49ers as well as generations of Sacramento families, died Feb. 26, 2013, at 73. Read his story here.
Cathy J. Runnels, a Folsom Cordova school district administrator who was a vocal advocate for cancer screenings and treatment, died Feb. 20, 2103, at 58. Read her story here.
William J. "Bill" Enos, a Sacramento baseball figure who was a standout player at Rio Americano High School, died Feb. 22, 2013, at 44. Read his story here.
William "Wes" Freeman, a lifelong Lincoln resident who helped establish the town's archive museum, died Feb. 7, 2013, at 90. Read his story here.
The Rev. Colin Macdonald, a Catholic priest who led a fast-growing Roseville parish and oversaw construction of one of the biggest churches in the Sacramento Diocese, died Feb. 22, 2013, at 75. Read his story here.
Jack Wallace, a military veteran who served Roseville as a civic advocate, neighborhood leader and teacher, died Feb. 18, 2013, at 82. Read his story here.
Irving Goldberg, a retiree who shared his lifelong love of trains as a trip narrator aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr, died Feb. 3, 2013, at 85. Read his story here.
George W. Porter, an American patriot who fought for his country in World War II while battling racism at home as a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, died Feb. 9, 2013, at 91. Read his story here.
Chester W. True, a former Sacramento housing official and amateur genealogist who uncovered a direct family link to a notorious episode in Colonial American history, died Feb. 7, 2103, at 77. Read his story here.
Harry E. Hogan, a law-enforcement pioneer who became the highest-ranking African American police officer in Sacramento, died Feb. 17, 2013, at 74. Read his story here.
Tom Y. Fujimoto, who served his country as an Army translator and preserved his cultural heritage as a leader in Japanese American groups, died Feb. 11, 2013, at 87. Read his story here.
Pat Derby, who co-founded the Performing Animal Welfare Society and created a world-renowned sanctuary for retired circus and movie animals, died Feb. 15, 2013, at 69. Read her story here.
Cliff Haskell, a visionary firefighter who founded the Firefighters Burn Institute and led a successful drive to open a top burn treatment center in Sacramento, died Feb. 11, 2013, at 81. Read his story here.
Dr. Richard Barsaleau, a veterinarian and noted equestrian who championed care for horses as a competitive rider, teacher and poet, died Feb. 13, 2013, at 87. Read his story here.
William "Bill" Carnazzo, a top lawyer at Sacramento City Hall who was a noted fly fisherman, died Jan. 15, 2013, at 71. Read his story here.
The Rev. Demetrius T. Dogias, who shepherded a growing flock in Northern California as pastor of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Sacramento, died Feb. 4, 2013, at 73. Read his story here.
Michelle Walker, a former professional dancer who championed the arts in everyday life and all communities as an influential Sacramento arts administrator, died Jan. 29, 2013, at 53. Read her story here.
Dr. Jerry Kaneko, a longtime Davis resident who bridged town and gown as a City Council member and noted veterinary professor, died Jan. 18, 2013, at 88. Read his story here.
Shpritz Anthony, a beloved member of the theater community for who was a former general manager of the Sacramento Theater Company, died Jan. 5, 2013, at 47. Read his story here.
Marilyn Hilliard Geraty, 83, a Sacramento philanthropist and educator who championed education and development programs for children, died Jan. 26, 2013, at 83. Read her story here.
Sister Maryanne Beeler, a Sacramento native who worked various jobs before answering a call at age 36 to be a Catholic nun, died Jan. 19, 2013, at 60. Read her story here.
Judith C. Kelleher, a former Sacramento nurse who was a visionary leader in the practice of emergency nursing, died Jan. 24, 2013, at 89. Read her story here.
Donald D. Ingoglia, former chief executive officer of a major food distribution business in West Sacramento, died Jan. 23, 2013, at 73. Read his story here.
Lewis Allen, an Air Force veteran and career civil servant who raised money for college scholarships, died Jan. 23, 2013, at 78. Read his story here.
The Rev. Elwyn Gibbs, who ministered to a tough Sacramento neighborhood as a pastor and community activist, died Jan. 18 following health problems from falls and various ailments, his family said. He was 76. Read his story here.
Jan High, an educator and pioneer in women's sports who coached top teams at Sacramento City College, died Jan. 9 of cancer, her family said. She was 76. Read her story here.
Henry R. Agonia, a career administrator who oversaw California state parks, died Jan. 18 of leukemia, his family said. He was 70. Read his story here.
Paul J. Lunardi, a veteran Roseville political figure who was the city's youngest mayor at 32 and represented Placer County in the California Legislature, died Jan. 11, 2013, at 91. Read his story here.
Dr. Philip E.S. Palmer, a noted UC Davis radiologist who influenced improvements in medical imaging in developing countries, died Jan. 3, 2013, at 91. Read his story here.
Jessica Lum, a journalist who combined multimedia skills with enthusiasm for telling stories to report news and share her personal struggle with cancer on Facebook, died Jan. 13, 2013, at 25. Read her story here.
Mamie Jennings, a longtime Sacramento resident and activist matriarch in the Del Paso Heights community, died Dec. 27, 2012, at 92. Read her story here.
Bill Griffith, a wildlife biologist and paddling enthusiast who competed in every Eppie's Great Race since 1976, died Dec. 27, 2012, at 85. Read his story here.
Dr. Carl E. Drake Sr., a Depression-era postal worker who persevered with hard work and higher education to become a trailblazing Sacramento psychiatrist, died Dec. 27. 2012, at 99. Read his story here.
Elizabeth "Libby" Parr, an artist and businesswoman who volunteered her talents to raise money for AIDS organizations, died Jan. 5, 2013, at 71. Read her story here.
R. Brian Kidney, a former chief clerk of the California Assembly who was an international expert on parliamentary procedures, died Dec. 22, 2012, at 82. Read his story here.
Dr. Edward P. Melia, a pediatrician who helped launch major statewide programs to improve the health and welfare of mothers, infants and children, died Dec. 23, 2012, at 73. Read his story here.
John P. Quimby Sr., a former state legislator who went on to spend three decades as a lobbyist, died Dec. 23, 2012, at 77. Read his story here.
Elmer F. Herr, a self-taught chemist who led efforts to combat nuisance odors at Sacramento's wastewater treatment plant, died Dec. 13, 2012, at 92. Read his story here.
Robert "Bob" Linck, a veteran teacher and coach at Sacramento High School who was a California State Fair seasonal worker for about 60 years, died Nov. 21, 2012. He was 90. Read his story here.
Dr. Fumio Matsumura, a noted UC Davis scientist who studied how agricultural chemicals affect human health, died Dec. 6, 2012. He was 78. Read his story here.
Jessie Heinzman, a longtime Democratic activist and retired education consultant, died Dec. 14, 2012. She was 97. Read her story here.
Judith Waegell, a Sacramento County ranching family matriarch who made classical music as a professional cellist, died Dec. 7, 2012. She was 74. Read her story here.
Kay K. Fukushima, a Sacramento businessman who met world leaders and promoted local service projects as past president of the International Association of Lions Clubs, died Nov. 30, 2012. He was 75. Read his story here.
Richard A. "Dick" Price, a retired Sacramento sheriff's captain and firearms expert who was active in the sport of single action shooting, died Nov. 28, 2012. He was 73. Read his story here.
Jeannette Powell, a reclusive philanthropist, supporter of the arts and member of the governing board of University of the Pacific, died Dec. 2, 2012. She was 80. Read her story here.
Roy McKnight, who pedaled his bicycle daily for 18 years to a midtown Sacramento elementary school where he tended to cracked windows and leaky faucets and boys and girls who counted him as a friend, died Nov. 30, 2012. He was 62. Read his story here.
Jennifer Garza, a journalist with boundless curiosity about life and deep faith in God who found her calling as a features and religion reporter for The Bee, died Dec. 10, 2012. She was 50. Read her story here.
Kathy Carlisle, an accomplished photographer and art teacher at St. Francis High School in Sacramento, died Dec. 8, 2012. She was 52. Read her story here.
Barbara Alby, a self-described welfare mom and domestic violence victim who became a state assemblywoman and longtime force in Republican politics, died Dec. 9, 2012. She was 66. Read her story here.
Morton L. Friedman, whose drive and vision as a lawyer, businessman and philanthropist shaped the culture in Sacramento from law and medicine to the arts and retailing, died Dec. 5, 2012. He was 80. Read his story here.
John W. "Jack" Stockman, a longtime Sacramento State business professor and international management expert who was a leader in community service groups, died Nov. 22, 2012, at 71. Read his story here.
Miles Treaster, a colorful business owner who was a leader in the interior design industry, died Nov. 9, 2012, at 74. Read his story here.
Ruth Pearson Long, a teacher and arts maven who co-founded a Carmichael school that introduced children to dance, poetry, music and painting, died Nov. 8, 2012, at 93. Read her story here.
Henry G. "Hank" Jennings, a newspaperman who spent more than 30 years as a wire editor and copy editor at The Bee, died Nov. 17, 2012, at 85. Read his story here.
Creighton Sanders, a fixture on Sacramento television for more than 30 years as a sportscaster with KXTV Channel 10 and KCRA Channel 3, died Nov. 25, 2012, at 85. Read his story here.
Irving H. Perluss, a retired Sacramento judge who handled controversial cases on segregation and the teaching of evolution in schools, died Nov. 25, 2012, at 97. Read his story here.
Michael Kahl, a former Washington official and influential lobbyist who cofounded a leading public affairs firm in Sacramento, died Nov. 18, 2012, at 71. Read his story here.
Emily Matlack-Hodges, an El Dorado Hills resident and Special Olympics athlete who was an international ambassador for people with intellectual disabilities, died Nov. 16, 2012, at 31. Read her story here.
Ivey Adell Lambert, a retired teacher and Republican Party activist who called Sacramento's Curtis Park neighborhood home for almost a century, died Nov. 15, 2012, at 96. Read her story here.
James G. "Jim" Van Maren, a fourth-generation Citrus Heights resident who was a longtime agriculture industry lobbyist, died Nov. 12, 2012, at 84. Read his story here
Tim Howe, a lobbyist and political consultant who was a top aide to Democratic lawmakers, died Nov. 9, 2012, at 66. Read his story here.
John R. Lewis, a retired Sacramento Superior Court judge who was a former professor at McGeorge School of Law, died Nov. 2, 2012, at 77. Read his story here
Clinton S. King Jr., an engineering executive whose family included Northern California pioneers, died Nov. 2, 2012, at 84. Read his story here.
William H. Cook, a contractor and developer who built theaters, churches, shopping centers and other Sacramento area landmarks, died Nov. 4, 2012, at 90. Read his story here.
Edna Comerchero, a virtuoso flutist who performed professionally and taught students who became world-class performers, died Oct. 25, 2012, at 80. Read her story here.
Jack C. Crose, a retired lobbyist and former aide to state Assembly Speaker Jesse Unruh who accompanied Robert F. Kennedy during the 1968 Democratic primary campaign, died Oct. 25, 2012, at 88. Read his story here.
Nick Trujillo, a popular communications professor and leading scholar on culture, sports and media at California State University, Sacramento, died Oct. 29, 2012, at 56. Read his story here.
David Blicker, a non-profit agency leader who for more than 40 years championed the poor, the oppressed and the marginalized from across the globe, died Oct. 26, 2012, at 73. Read his story here.
Larry Price Craig, a Herald activist, unofficial mayor and Good Samaritan who founded the town's free Christmas Eve breakfast, died Oct. 13, 2012, at 70. Read his story here.
Larry Welden, a prominent Sacramento artist and teacher who painted Northern California landscapes in ethereal watercolors, died Oct. 25, 2012, at 90. Read his story here.
Martin L. Anderson, an avid outdoorsman whose strength and courage helped him endure after a fateful tragedy left his lower body paralyzed, died Oct. 14, 2012, at 79. Read his story here.
Arnie Godmintz, a die-hard Democratic activist who devoted his life to fighting for progressive causes, died Oct. 4, 2012, at 82. Read his story here.
Dian E. Self, a historian and author who was a noted professor at American River College, died Oct. 13, 2012, at 58. Read her story here.
Servando "Joe" Velarde, a career Air Force officer, social activist and noted fencing coach who broke down racial barriers in sports, died Sept. 26, 2012, at 89. Read his story here.
Bruce Nolan Crabtree, a mountain of a man whose large white beard had scores of children around the holidays convinced he was Santa Claus, died Oct. 4, 2012, at 64. Read his story here.
Albert D. Maita, a veteran state worker who climbed the ranks to an executive position at the California Department of Motor Vehicles, died Oct. 11, 2012, at 83. Read his story here.
Eleazar Ochoa Rodriguez, a popular vendor known as "Ed the flower guy" at Sacramento County farmers markets, died Sept. 29, 2012, at 49. Read his story here.
Warren Holloway, a travel gear retailer and old-school newspaperman who reported the crime beat for many years at The Bee, died Oct. 9, 2012, at 93. Read his story here.
The Rev. Willie P. Cooke, an influential Sacramento minister who was a former pastor of historic Shiloh Baptist Church, died Sept. 23, 2012, at 94. Read his story here.
Beder Clifton, a veteran Sacramento police detective whose tenaciousness and investigative skills led to arrests in major drug cases, died Sept. 20, 2012, at 74. Read his story here.
George Kammerer, a veteran Air Force pilot who gave flying lessons to famed test aviator William J. "Pete" Knight and flew pop musicians on tour, died Sept. 24, 2012 at 89. Read his story here.
Eugene Okada, a humble businessman whose family owned and operated a landmark Japanese gift shop in Sacramento for about a century, died Sept. 21, 2012 at 93. Read his story here.
Richard A. Flynn, a former pilot who advocated for recreational opportunities for disabled people, died Oct. 3, 2012, at 73. Read his story here.
Brandon Larnell Brown, a former Sacramento resident who played college football this fall in Kansas, died Sept. 22, 2012, at 26. Read his story here.
Mabel A. Adams, a former secretary who was an influential and beloved administrator in the federal public defender's office in Sacramento for many years, died Oct. 1, 2012, at 78. Read her story here.
Joe Ramsey, a prominent Sacramento lawyer who served as a longtime advocate and leader of the Humane Society of the United States, died Sept. 24, 2012, at 75. Read his story here.
Claude J. Farinha, a retired civilian Air Force executive who saved taxpayers millions of dollars as a logistics expert at McClellan Air Force Base, died Sept. 18, 2012, at 87. Read his story here.
Richard W. Harris, an influential UC Davis arboriculturist who pioneered methods for maintaining healthy urban forests, died Sept. 16, 2012, at 92. Read his story here.
Bruce Ashwill, a real estate executive and entrepreneur who built two leading commercial property firms in California, died Sept. 16, 2012, at 76. Read his story here.
Thomas Mamula, a caregiver who was an Air Force medic in the Vietnam War and a registered nurse in Sacramento, died Sept. 12, 2012, at 76. Read his story here.
Clyde Ingalsbe, a 26-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol who made many friends in the community as a traffic officer in south Sacramento and Elk Grove, died Sept. 11, 2012, at 83. Read his story here.
Benjamin C. "Chris" Renn, a retired colonel and health care administrator who led the 652nd Medical Group at McClellan Air Force Base, died Aug. 26, 2012, at 70. Read his story here.
Peter J. Rossi, a construction industry executive who built a following singing music from Italian opera to contemporary classics at public events, died Sept. 8, 2012l at 72. Read his story here.
Perla Warren, a noted choral conductor and former music teacher at American River College, died July 29, 2012, at 76. Read her story here.
Myron Piper, a retired history teacher who was recognized nationally for his innovative approach to bringing the past to life for young people, died Sept. 8, 2012, at 63. Read his story here.
Gene Joseph Albaugh, a former top Nevada County official who was an administrator for many Northern California cities and counties, died Sept. 2, 2012, at 79. Read his story here.
Vivinee Price, who overcame discrimination against African Americans in California as a public servant and businesswoman, died Aug. 29, 2012, at 99. Read her story here.
Frank S. Zolin, a former director of the California Department of Motor Vehicles, died Aug. 21, 2012, at 79. Read his story here.
Diane Catherine Grieco, a Galt volunteer who inspired an outpouring of help in the tightknit community after a recurrence of cancer, died Aug. 22, 2012, at 41. Read her story here.
Mel Ah-Yun, the owner of Swiss Buda, a south Sacramento watering hole where he was a friendly presence for half a century, died Aug. 24, 2012, at 75. Read his story here.
Marilou Lords, a Sacramento restaurateur who co-owned and ran the Broiler Steakhouse, died Aug. 23, 2012, at 67. Read her story here.
Joshua David Ruff, a former El Dorado Hills track star who was an assistant coach at Oak Ridge High School, died Aug. 22, 2012, at 22. Read his story here.
Simon Chan, a plant scientist who made breakthroughs in his chosen field at a young age, died Aug. 22, 2012, at 38. Read his story here.
Dean Owen O'Brien, a longtime North Highlands activist who served on boards of local fire districts, died Aug. 17, 2012, at 79. Read his story here.
Emogene Marjorie Turtle, who taught music in Sacramento after an exciting but demanding career as an opera singer, died Aug. 13, 2012, at 90. Read her story here.
Floradell Louise Ogle, a retired nurse who was active in North Highlands community groups, died July 24, 2012, at 88. Read her story here.
Violet M. Herron, a former fashion model who owned and operated an Arden Arcade optometry business for 28 years, died July 27, 2012, at 87. Read her story here.
Tom Friery, the man who oversaw the city of Sacramento's investment and financing operations for nearly three decades, died Aug. 19, 2012, at 69. Read his story here.
Wilma "Lea" Langley, a longtime teacher and student publications adviser in the former Grant Union High School District, died Aug. 3, 2012, at 79. Read her story here.
Gary Susumu Imamoto, a longtime Newcastle resident who overcame hardships and wartime internment with quiet dignity and determination, died Aug. 9, 2012, at 93. Read his story here.
Thomas H. Clayton, a Sacramento lawyer who served as a legal adviser to seven California governors, died July 30, 2012, at 85. Read his story here.
Richard Cragun, a professional dancer who left his native Sacramento at 16 to win international acclaim as one of the leading male ballet stars of the 20th century, died Aug. 6, 2012, at 67. Read his story here.
Frank Duane Albert, a motor sports veteran who was a mainstay at Northern California sprint car races, died July 23, 2012, at 69. Read his story here.
Robert M. Watson, a longtime physician who also performed locally as a top-notch jazz pianist, died July 23, 2012, at 76. Read his story here.
Edward A. Veit, a criminal justice consultant and former California corrections official who was an advocate for the parole system, died July 22, 2012, at 87. Read his story here.
Willis Braxton Bonner, a former high school dropout who rose to be a captain in the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department, died July 15, 2012, at 79. Read his story here.
Claire Eichinger, a nurse and trailblazing administrator who devoted herself to patients and her profession for more than 50 years, died July 21, 2012, at 76. Read her story here.
Linda Louise Arnold, a former professional dancer who helped start and teach the children's performing arts program at Chautauqua Playhouse for more than 25 years, died July 14, 2012, at 71. Read her story here.
David Michael Howard, political director for the California Association of Realtors, died July 21, 2012, at 64. Read his story here.
Manuel LaForm, a hardworking but humble activist in Sacramento's Gardenland neighborhood, died July 23, 2012, at 88. Read his story here.
Bill Douglas Arnold, a longtime Davis Realtor and business leader, died July 26, 2012, at 89. Read his story here.
Carol Doersch, a dynamic community volunteer who was a leader in efforts to sustain and save the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, died July 18, 2012, at 80. Read her story here.
Shai Wun Yee Wong, a Sacramento matriarch who immigrated from China as a picture bride and went on to raise a family of business, education and health care professionals, died July 16, 2012, at 100. Read her story here.
Dennis N. Freelove, a military veteran who fought the war on drugs as a dedicated California narcotics enforcement agent for 30 years, died July 11, 2012, at 67. Read his story here.
Wilma Krebs, a pioneering Sacramento State economics professor who was an outspoken advocate for university faculty and retirees, died July 10, 2012, at 91. Read her story here.
Norma-Lee, a western swing artist who twice served as honorary mayor of Rio Linda/Elverta, died June 29, 2012, at 58. Read her story here.
Louis J. Blodgett, a rancher and grower whose Christmas tree farm in Sloughhouse was a popular holiday destination for families for many years, died June 30, 2012, at 86. Read his story here.
Pyron G. "Duke" McMillen, a Northern California auto racing pioneer who built sprint cars for many winning drivers, died July 4, 2012, at 72. Read his story here.
Auntine Burney, a longtime Sacramento resident and Del Paso Heights community organizer, died July 1, 2012, at 86. Read her story here.
Norman Frederick Haard, a retired UC Davis food biochemist who found expression of his faith and science as a noted expert on fish, died June 29, 2012, at 70. Read his story here.
Chih-Yi Wang, an immigrant who founded a leading community group to promote Chinese culture in the Sacramento region, died June 30, 2012, at 90. Read his story here.
Leondas V. Wright Sr., a retired Air Force master sergeant who reached out to service members as a leader in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, died June 16, 2012, at 83. Read his story here.
John G. Ranlett, a distinguished economist who was a longtime professor at California State University, Sacramento, Sacramento, died June 23, 2012, at 83. Read his story here.
Antoinette Egan, a retired teacher and history scholar who was a descendant of early Spanish settlers in California, died June 17, 2012, at 101. Read her story here.
Gordon Styler, a veteran broadcaster who was a disc jockey at KZAP during the heyday of free-form rock radio in Sacramento, died June 18, 2012, at 65. Read his story here.
Jeff Lustig, a noted California studies scholar who taught government and was a faculty leader at California State University, Sacramento, died June 14, 2012, at 69. Read his story here.
Marya Welch, a pioneering professor and leader in collegiate sports who established women's athletics at the University of California, Davis, died June 24, 2012, at 95. Read her story here.
The Rev. Linda Snyder, former pastor of Florin United Methodist Church in Sacramento, died June 2, 2012, at 62. Read her story here.
Jacqueline "Jackie" Duncan, a volunteer and former journalist who edited The Bee's society pages, died May 31, 2012, at 85. Read her story here.
Dr. Michael H. Robbins, a prominent Sacramento physician who was chief of surgery at Mercy General Hospital in Sacramento, died June 7, 2012, at 60. Read his story here.
Ernest "Ernie" Magri, a motorcycle buff and World War II hero who helped liberate Germany's largest prisoner-of-war camp, died May 31, 2012, at 99. Read his story here.
The Rev. Eddie Phillips, a Baptist minister for more than 60 years who founded and led churches in Sacramento and Reno, died June 9, 2012, at 93. Read his story here.
Henry "Hank" Kusaba, a retired Sacramento postal carrier who delivered mail with a personal touch, died June 4, 2012, at 94. Read his story here.
Eugene "Gene" Gordon, a furniture industry executive who brought La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries to Northern California, died June 16, 2012, at 85. Read his story here.
Vincent Bezdecheck, an artist and longtime leader in efforts to preserve and revitalize midtown Sacramento, died May 30, 2012, at 63. Read his story here.
Ernest Lee Black, a longtime Sacramento resident and general contractor who built many homes in the Del Paso Heights neighborhood, died June 2, 2012, at 88. Read his story here.
Jim Sabraw, a prominent Sacramento marketing guru who served on the boards of business and nonprofit groups, died May 21, 2012, at 74. Read his story here.
Thomas F. Fox, a Sacramento music minister who was the eldest child of iconic film and TV star Dale Evans, died May 16, 2012 at 84. Read his story here.
Nereida Skelton, a talented and hardworking teacher in Sacramento for 33 years, died June 1, 2012, at 68. Read her story here.
Velma L. Stokley Flournoy, a Sacramento activist who helped raise and award thousands of dollars in scholarships as founder of a pageant for African American women, died May 30, 2012, at 87. Read her story here.
Fred G. Schwarz, a business executive who manufactured high-quality parts for vital industrial products – from artificial hearts to space rockets – died May 24, 2012, at 81. Read his story here.
Joe Benvenuti, a prominent developer and visionary entrepreneur who helped bring the Sacramento Kings to town and built Arco Arena and downtown landmarks, died May 30, 2012, at age 91. Read his story here.
Ray Torres, a virtuoso drummer who backed up R&B legends with a signature style that influenced many musicians, died May, 2012, at age 68. Read his story here.
Teresa "Terri" Collentine, a retired sergeant and 27-year veteran of the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department, died May 20, 2012, at age 48. Read his story here.
Albert S. Walton, a longtime real estate broker and leader in West Sacramento business and civic groups, died May 11, 2011, at age 94. Read his story here.
Manuel R. Ferrales, a political trailblazer who served eight years as the first Latino on the Sacramento City Council, died April 19, 2012, at age 80. Read his story here.
Kenneth L. Hake, a retired Sacramento Superior Court judge, died April 25, 2012, at age 71. Read his story here.
Jim Hutchinson, a retired University of California, Davis, engineering professor who co-founded a Yolo County group that helps elderly residents and their caregivers, died April 26, 2012, at age 79. Read his story here.
George "Jorge" Anthony Knott, a former Navy flight officer who spent 21 years as a physics and physical science professor at Cosumnes River College, died April 29, 2012, at age 56. Read his story here.
Louise A. Perez, an education advocate who led a community-based organization and served on a contentious Sacramento City school board, died May 8, 2012, at age 65. Read her story here.
Ross Davidson, a retired Air Force colonel and combat veteran who was a longtime Carmichael civic booster and leader, died May 5, 2012, at age 91. Read his story here.
Shirley Ann Vaughn-Merchant, well known in the Sacramento community for her work mentoring at-risk African American women, died April 30, 2012, at age 65. Read her story here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/05/06/4469232/obituary-shirley-ann-vaughn-merchant.html#storylink=cpy
John T. Nickens Jr., a retired engineer who played the clarinet in community bands for nine decades, died April 25, 2012, at age 99. Read his story here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/05/04/4465168/obituary-john-nickens-jr-99-lifelong.html#storylink=cpy
Henry "Bud" Smith, a retired Sacramento County sheriff's deputy who served in an early community-oriented policing program, died April 27, 2012, at age 68. Read his story here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/05/03/4461919/obituary-retired-sheriffs-deputy.html#storylink=cpy
Bill Pierce, a retired college librarian and well-known master gardener who answered hundreds of horticulture questions in The Bee's Home & Garden section, died April 26, 2012, at age 80. Read his story here.
Cynthia Dall, a Sacramento singer and musician who was a favorite of the indie-rock underground scene, died April 5, 2012, at age 41. Read her story here.
Nick Thompson, a former truck driver who lobbied at the Capitol for the California Trucking Association, died April 18, 2012, at age 51. Read his story here.
William B. "Bill" Staiger, a former trade group leader for the California livestock and agriculture industries, died April 13, 2012, at age 91. Read his story here.
Dr. Edward K. Ishii, who served generations of Sacramento patients as a dentist for more than 60 years, died April 10, 2012, at age 87. Read his story here.
George Lionakis, a prominent Sacramento architect who was an influential leader in the building industry, died April 13, 2012, at age 87. Read his story here.
Dr. E. Richard Brown, a nationally recognized public health expert who compiled survey data that have helped shape California and national policy on health care, died April 20, 2012, at age 70. Read his story here.
Ed Bent, a veteran firefighter who was a leader in establishing modern training and standards for California firefighters, died March 27, 2012, at age 94. Read his story here.
Leon A. Woods Jr., a Sacramento resident who broke racial barriers as a pioneering African American championship player in college tennis, died April 10, 2012, at age 86. Read his story here.
Dorothy Sue Noland, an educator who was the first woman to lead the Los Rios Community College District teachers union, died April 6, 2012, at age 97. Read her story here.
Paul E. Zinner, a former UC Davis political science professor who was a leading scholar on the Cold War and its aftermath, died March 17, 2012, at age 90. Read his story here.
William L. Musladin, a retired Air Force veteran of three wars who led Planned Parenthood in Sacramento, died March 24, 2012, at age 94. Read his story here.
Rex Babin, a Sacramento Bee political cartoonist whose sharp observations touched people by stirring them to anger and outrage and making them laugh and think, died March 30, 2012, at age 49. Read his story here.
Edward Towe, a former Montana banker whose unrivaled collection of classic Ford cars and trucks became the centerpiece of a major Sacramento automobile museum, died March 13, 2012, at age 97. Read his story here.
Don Saner, a retired insurance executive and Sacramento sports figure who played baseball for the Cleveland Indians organization, died March 18, 2012, at age 78. Read his story here.
Della Davidson, a UC Davis dance professor and innovative choreographer who merged body movements with narrative elements to tell multimedia stories onstage, died March 13, 2012, at age 60. Read her story here.
Newton Steve Ekpo, a civic volunteer and pioneering leader in Sacramento's Nigerian community, died Feb. 26, 2012, at age 60. Read his story here.
The Rev. James E. Straukamp, a retired California State University, Sacramento, history professor who preached social justice as a Catholic priest before joining the Episcopal Church, died March 4, 2012, at age 84. Read his story here.
Eva Rutland, a noted Sacramento author who wrote about her hopes and fears as an African American mother raising children amid racial discrimination in post-war California, died March 15 2012, at age 95. Read her story here.
Steve Schofer, a veteran musician who played bass for Mick Martin and the Blues Rockers, died Feb. 27, 2012, at age 64. Read his story here.
Thomas M. Bolton Jr., right, former president and chief executive officer of Merchants National Bank of Sacramento, died Feb. 22, 2012, at age 91. Read his story here.
The Rev. Glen D. Cole, an influential pastor and forceful advocate for traditional values who built the Capital Christian Center into the first megachurch in the Sacramento region, died Feb. 14, 2012, at age 78. Read his story here.
Tom Chinn, a veteran Sacramento political figure and Asian community leader who served on the City Council from 1983 to 1992, died Jan. 21, 2012, at age 85. Read his story here.
Kenneth Potter, an internationally renowned artist in Fair Oaks who was a leading exponent of the California Style of watercolor painting, died Dec. 27, 2011, at age 85. Read his story here.
Norma Jean Hamlin, a tenacious Orangevale activist who led a 13-year battle to preserve a scenic wilderness area overlooking Lake Natoma, died Dec. 10, 2011, at age 82. Read her story here.
Karen Engelen Schulke, a Granite Bay resident who was a leader in the Northern California grocery industry, died Dec. 17, 2011, at age 73. Read her story here.
Georgana Elliott, a firm believer in healthy living and a pioneering businesswoman who co-founded one of the first natural foods stores in Sacramento almost 60 years ago, died Nov. 19, 2011, at age 92. Read her story here.
George J. Caselli, a humble hero who belatedly received the French Legion of Honor award for his service in the Army Air Corps during World War II, died Nov. 9, 2011, at age 96. Read his story here.
Willard James Green Sr., an internationally renowned rocket builder who was a top aerospace engineer at Aerojet for 28 years, died Oct. 29, 2011, at age 78. Read his story here.
Edward Rivera, a noted Sacramento painter and leader in the Chicano art movement who was a police officer for almost 30 years, died Oct. 31, 2011, at age 68. Read his story here.
The Rev. Marcia Engblom, rector of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Fair Oaks, died Oct. 28, 2011, at age 57. Read her story here.
Wendell W. Echols, a humble Grant Union High School janitor who was a revered community leader and mentor in Del Paso Heights, died Oct. 20, 2011, at age 85. Read his story here.
Robb Deignan, an avid cyclist and former state Senate staff member who spent more than two decades working in state government, died Oct. 15, 2011, at age 65. Read his story here.
Bill C. Maynard, a World War II hero who landed in Normandy on D-Day as one of the Army paratroopers portrayed in the book and TV show "Band of Brothers," died Sept. 23, 2011, at age 89. Read his story here.
Anthony Nick Ivanovich, a disabled Sacramento resident who defined himself by his many abilities as a public servant, volunteer, hobbyist and family man, died Oct. 1, 2011, at age 88. Read his story here.
William Ellery McClatchy, a world-class croquet player and the last member of his generation to oversee the family's newspaper business, The McClatchy Co., died Sept. 20, 2011, at age 86. Read his story here.
Barbara "Bobbie" Bonti, a Sacramento woman who was featured in a 2010 Bee story about geriatric cancer patients, died July 20, 2011, at age 90. Read her story here.
Dr. William H. Davis, the last of three generations of Sacramento optometrists who once ran the biggest practice in Northern California, died July 26, 2011, at age 81. Read his story here.
Charles "Chuck" Mier, a former state Assembly sergeant-at-arms who owned a popular East Sacramento bar, The Club 2-Me, died July 16, 2011, at age 74. Read his story here.
Jvance L. Stewart Jr., a downtown Sacramento guide who used street smarts and gentle persistence to help homeless people get social services, died July 5 at age 56. Read his story here.
Judith Parke Smith, a longtime top retail advertising saleswoman for The Bee, died July 5 of cancer at age 69. Read her story here.
Christopher Lo, a Sacramento businessman and prominent activist in the Asian American community, died June 26 at age 45. Read his story here.
Anne Milburn Huff, a social worker who was an early leader of Planned Parenthood of Sacramento, died June 25 of natural causes at age 90. Read her story here.
Jerome William Rosen, a composer, musician and professor who founded the UC Davis music department, died June 20 at age 89. Read his story here.
Cpl. Gurpreet Singh, an Antelope resident who was serving his second tour with the Marines, died June 22 of injuries during combat in Afghanistan at age 21. Read his story here.
Grant P. Donnelly, a former baseball coach who led American River College to four straight conference championships, died June 20 at age 80. Read his story here.
David J. Elliot Jr., a Courtland farmer and patriarch of a family business that has raised Bartlett pears in the Sacramento River Delta for six generations, died June 26 at age 79. Read his story here.
Richard "Richie" Myers, a former Sacramento Solon who was a fan favorite as one of the best shortstops in baseball, died June 24 at age 81. Read his story here.
James E. McManus Sr., who rose through the ranks of the Sacramento Police Department to be deputy chief, died June 12 at age 83. Read his story here.
Thomas H. Richards Jr., a former state wildlife commissioner and Sacramento business leader who ran his family's historic cannery, died June 13 at age 90. Read his story here.
The Rev. Richard W. Whitmore, a pastor for 59 years who led Centennial United Methodist Church in Sacramento from 1957 to 1966, died June 20 at age 85. Read his story here.
Shirley Solomon Dubnick, a retired schoolteacher who became an influential Sacramento art dealer as founder of Solomon Dubnick Gallery, died June 21 at age 81.Read her story here.
F. Earl Corin, a veteran public servant whose 34-year career as Placer County treasurer-tax collector endured grand jury investigations and battles with local officials, died June 12 at age 85.Read his story here.
Edmund Oliver Mahany, a visionary Roseville parks director who led efforts to preserve open space in the rapidly developing Placer County city, died June 2 at age 80.Read his story here.
Dr. Edward G. "Ted" Jones, an internationally renowned neuroscientist who was former head of the UC Davis Center for Neuroscience, died June 6 at age 72.Read his story here.
Joseph William Harlan, who was active in the Sacramento business community as an executive at Weinstock's department stores, died June 4.Read his story here.
Joseph Anthony Cronin, a retired National Weather Service meteorologist and voracious collector of sports media memorabilia, who served as historian for the Sacramento Kings, died June 13 at age 72.Read his story here.
The Rev. Robert Warr Moon, an influential voice for social justice who marched with Martin Luther King Jr. and served as pastor at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento, died June 2 at age 95.Read his story here.
Neil Lawrence Witt, a Placerville resident and veteran who fought in the Allied invasion of Normandy and other major battles during World War II, died June 6 at age 90.Read his story here.
James Woodress, a retired University of California, Davis, literary scholar who wrote an acclaimed biography of author Willa Cather, died May 19 at age 94.Read his story here.
Joe Alto, a longtime Cal Expo racetrack announcer who was known for his signature call -- "Heeeeere they come!" -- died May 26 at age 78.Read his story here.
Alice Helen Stedman, a lifelong Sacramento resident who devoted her early years to helping run her family's popular downtown restaurant and sandwich shop, died May 26 at age 90.Read her story here.
Fred Winn, a Democratic activist who started an essay contest to help El Dorado County high school students, died May 9 at age 78.Read his story here.
Christopher Dale Garrett, a beloved math teacher who was active in student activities at Emerson Junior High School in Davis, died May 18 at age 46.Read his story here.
Robert "Bob" Hurst, a developer and philanthropist who raised millions of dollars for charity as chairman of the Swing at Cancer golf tournament in Sacramento, died May 7 at age 84.Read his story here.
Michael James DeLong, a state investigator who monitored political campaigns and pursued tax cheats, died May 8 at age 59.Read his story here.
Guy Michael Dubets, a popular Sacramento pitching instructor who mentored players from Little League to the major leagues, died May 8 at age 52.Read his story here.
Lonnie Beard, who served his country as a military veteran of three wars and helped feed the hungry as a founding member of Senior Gleaners, died May 8 at age 91.Read his story here.
Vincent James Lozito, 89, a devoted bibliophile who collected rare books after retiring as an Air Force colonel and veteran of three wars, died May 10 of a brain tumor, his family said. Read his story here.
Jane Way, 91, an individualistic innkeeper who transformed a small, historic house into a pioneering bed-and-breakfast in Sutter Creek, died April 30 after a brief illness, her family said. Read her story here.
Robert G. Hutchison, 84, who oversaw Roseville's growth from sleepy railroad town to booming suburb as city manager for 20 years died April 8 of pneumonia. Read his story here.
Gene Peter Berthelsen, 73, a retired state transportation official who was a longtime volunteer and former head of the Sacramento Traditional Jazz Society, died April 10 of multiple myeloma. Read his story here.What You Should Know About Comments on Sacbee.com
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