 | M Listing
Post Members submitted with obituary or death notice |
- Gordon F. MacBride
- Henry Macias, Post 650
- Don Raphael Madden
- Henry Magerfleisch, Post 83
- John Ignatius Mahan
- George Makimoto
- Dorothy B. Malis, Post 291
- John A. Mann, Post 679
- Ranch Manning, Post 147
- John Markusen
- Willard R. Markwald
- Ernest “Dee” Marrs Jr.
- Guy Marschner
- George Marshall, Post 147
- Robert Martin, Post 149
- Tedd Matusiewicz
- Charles Mattson, Post 6
- Robert Blinn Maxwell
- Leslie H. McCarty
- Joe McClain, Post 172
- Berton G. McColl
- Jim McDonald, Post 328
- Francess McDonnell, Post 6
- Paul "Mack" McGinnis
- James R. McGowan, Post 567
- Francis McGraw
- Daniel McKenzie
- John D. McMullen
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Berton G. McColl
Carl Ross Post 16, Stockton
It is my very sad duty as the 11th District Commander to report that Bert McColl suffered a heart attack this morning and passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital (March 11, 2008). Can you please disseminate to all this tragic news. Bert was a 50 plus year member and past everything.
Respectfully reported... John L. Swaim, District 11 Commander
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Berton G. McColl
Mar. 30, 1928 - Mar. 11, 2008
Berton G. McColl, Legion Leader and Marine Corp veteran passed away Mar. 11, 2008 will be remembered by friends and veterans on Sat., Mar. 29 at 2 p.m., Karl Ross American Legion Post, 2020 Plymouth Rd., Stkn., CA. | top | A full military funeral is planned for Francis Eugene “Gene” McGraw, 80, who died at his home in Tracy on Sunday, Nov. 4. Mr. McGraw was a native of Texas County, Okla, and spent most of his life in Pratt, Kan. He lived in Tracy for the past 20 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during World War II and the Korean War.
He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and was active with Tracy VFW Post 1537, the James McDermott Post 172 of the American Legion. He also was a member of the Honor Guard for San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery Memorial Council, and regularly participated in funerals for other military veterans. He married Hazel R. Laffoon of Tracy on Nov. 9, 1985, and moved to Tracy in 1987 shortly after he retired from a career with the city of Pratt. He worked with the city’s Department of Public Works in streets and utilities and also was a firefighter.
He is survived by his wife, Hazel McGraw of Tracy; son, Scott McGraw of Pratt, Kan.; sister, Karolyn Gilchrist of Wichita, Kan.; stepson Tom Laffoon, and his wife, Angela, of Livermore; stepdaughters, Linda Grilli, and her husband, Andy, and Brinda Schloss, all of Coeur D’Alene, Idaho; eight step-grandchildren; and nine step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward J. and Lola McGraw; five brothers; and five sisters.
Full military services and inurnment will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday at Tracy Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Fry Memorial Chapel is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Asera Care Hospice in care of Fry Memorial Chapel, P.O. Box 982, Tracy 95378. | top | A Memorial Masonic Service will be held for Rollin Robert Murr, 87 of Paradise, on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2007, at 11 a.m. at the Chico Masonic Family Center. Rollin passed away Monday, Aug. 13, 2007, in Paradise.
He was born May 27, 1920, to Robert and Grace Murr in Milwaukee, Wisc. Rollin was raised in Milwaukee and graduated from Beloit College. In 1942 Rollin married Doris Anderson in Milwaukee. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was stationed at the Chico Air Base.
Rollin was a member of the Chico - Leland Stanford Lodge #111 F&AM, Sincerity Lodge #132 F&AM, Scottish Rite, Ben Ali Shriners, Josephine Chapter #104 O.E.S., American Legion Post 0017 Chico and the Altacal Audubon Society.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Doris Murr of Paradise. | top |
Sunao "Ted" Miyamoto
Willis A. Rowe Post 538, Sylmar
Ted was born August 16, 1925 in Cutler, California. He passed away at home in Sylmar, California on July 28, 2007.
Ted is survived by his wife Dorothy, daughter Teri Rompel (Paul), granddaughter Sara Stewart (Beau) and brother Roy Miyamoto (Mollie). His son Gordon and his sister Rosie predeceased him. Ted is also survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Ted, a veteran, served in the United States Army Air Corps during W orld War II in Berlin. After the war he resided in Los Angeles before moving to the San Fernando Valley.
Ted was an active member of the VFW Post 9938, The Kiwanis Club of Sylmar, Friends of the Sylmar Library and through the years volunteered many hours at The First United Methodist Church of San Fernando. He is also a member of the Japanese American National Museum and recently joined the American Legion's Willis A. Rowe Post 538.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 4, 2007 at The First United Methodist Church of San Fernando, 1525 Glenoaks Boulevard, San Fernando, CA 91340.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Ted to The First United Methodist Church of San Fernando. | top | Guy Marschner of Weed, died peacefully of natural causes June 22, 2007 at Redding Care Center, surround by family members including his wife of 61 years, Joyce. He was 81. His three sons were present including Raymond (and Deanna) of Weed, John (and Lorna) Marschner of Junction City, and Roger of Lafayette; grandchildren, Shanna Cate of Santa Rosa and Lucas and Emily of Hume Lake. Two other grandchildren survive, Gabrielle and Jeremy, plus two great-grandchildren.
Guy was born in Rouen, France October 20, 1925, however, he lived in California most of his life.
He served in the US Army and Army Air Corps during World War II. He was an active charter member of US Civil Air Patrol for 65 years attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
The Marschner family have lived in Weed for 48 years, coming from Los Angeles County. They have been engaged in cattle ranching and operating a pack-string of horses into the Eddy Mountains and working with the US Forest Service. They also operated a guest ranch and pack station in the Sierras. Guy was an insurance agent for over 25 years. The couple have been Greyhound agents in Weed for 35 years, which family members continue to operate.
For 25 years Guy devoted his time and energies in promoting, teaching and training aerospace and science to teachers so they could pass the knowledge on to school children. He worked on fund-raising and securing funds for scholarships and special aerospace training programs for youth including trips to the National Aerospace Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.
He served as Grange Master from 1971-1975 and was instrumental in securing a grant to enhance the Grange building with improvements. Guy was a member of Siskiyou County Airport Advisory Committee for four years.
A Funeral Mass will be held this Monday, July 2, at 9:30 a.m., at Holy Family Church in Weed. Burial will follow in the veterans section of Evergreen Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Air Force Association. | top | David Moulton went to Post Everlasting today July 17, 2007 at approximately 3:30 P.M. Dave was a Past Commander & Adjutant of Orange P-132; 29th District Commander in 1994; Ritual Chairman and Sgt-at-Arms for the 29th District Ritual Team since 1991; President of Outpost 29 of the Past Commander's Club in 1989; Past 29th District Judge Advocate, and Past Adjutant for Orange Post 132; 5th Area Vice President twice. Also the State Emblem Sales Chairman for the PCC for several years. Dave was one of just a few men who were members of the Sweethearts Club. He was a member of Sweethearts Club 29. Chef de Gare of Orange County Voiture #527 in 1990. Was a Grand Garde de la Porte Passe`.
Please send your cards and letters to Dave's Family: Daughter & Grand Daughter:
1959 Honey Bear Lane
N. Fort Myers, FL. 33917 There will be a Memorial Service for Dave Moulton on Saturday, August 4, 2007 AT 10:00 A.M. at Orange Post 132, 143 S. Lemon St., Orange, CA 92868 PH: (714) 538-6311
Refreshments to follow.
Respectfully submitted... Jerry Hoosier, Post 132 Adjutant | top |
Robert Murillo
James McDermott Post 172, Tracy, CA
Nov 02, 1925 — Jun 28, 2007
A Mass of Christian Burial is planned Friday morning for Robert “Bob” Murillo, 81, a retired longtime Tracy barber and veteran of World War II. He died Thursday at Sutter Tracy Community Hospital after a lengthy illness. Born in Oakland, he grew up in Tracy and attended Tracy schools, graduating from Tracy High School in 1943.
Mr. Murillo entered the U.S. Army during World War II, serving in the Pacific and in Japan, and was discharged as a technician 5th grade with the 1379th Military Police Company. He and his brother, Pedro Murillo, were barbers in Tracy for many years. In the late 1960s, they moved to Southern California to operate their own barbershop in Stanton. Mr. Murillo returned to Tracy in the early 1970s and continued barbering until his retirement in 1982.
Mr. Murillo was a Tracy Bulldogs’ fan his entire life and could be seen raising the American flag or taking pictures at Tracy High football games. He was also an avid San Francisco 49ers fan and was a season-ticket holder during the team’s Kezar Stadium era.
As a member of the Tracy Post 1537 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Mr. Murillo photographed many VFW activities over the years. He also was a member of the American Legion and St. Bernard’s Catholic Church. Family members remember Mr. Murillo for his witty sense of humor and easy laugh.
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Sally V. Murillo of Tracy; a son, Joseph Pedro Murillo of Long Beach; and a sister, Priscilla Rodarte of Tracy. Preceding him in death were his parents, Jose and Elpidia Murillo; and his brother, Pedro Murillo.
Friday’s Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 163 W. Eaton Ave. Interment will be in Tracy Cemetery. Visitation will be observed from 1 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Hotchkiss Mortuary, 5 W. Highland Ave., followed by a vigil service at 7.
Memorial contributions in Mr. Murillo’s name can be made to Veterans of Foreign Wars, Tracy Post 1537, P.O. Box 1123, Tracy 95378. | top |
Fred J. Morgan
Mt. Diablo Post 246, Danville, CA
FRED J. MORGAN July 15, 1923 - March 16, 2007 Resident of Alamo Fred passed away March 16, 2007 in Alamo at the age of 83. He was born in Santa Rosa, CA. Fred was a fourth generation Danville/Alamo resident. His great grandparents came to the San Ramon Valley in the 1850's. He was a graduate of Fremont High School in Oakland and Golden Gate College in San Francisco. Fred served in the United States Air Force and was a proud World War II veteran. While stationed in England, he met and married his beloved wife Dorothy (Diane) Fielding. They were married 62 years. He was employed for many years at Crown Zellerbach and Champion Paper. After he retired from Champion International Paper, he obtained his real estate license and worked for a short time at Rossmoor Realty. He was past commander and 60-year member of American Legion Post 246 in Danville. He was an avid fan of the Oakland Raiders, Oakland A's and Golden State Warriors. He enjoyed coaching adult basketball and participated in Danville Senior Softball and won several trophies for the American Legion in Annual Guy Zimmerman Horseshoe Tournaments. Most of all, Fred loved his home and family. Fred is survived by his wife, Diane; daughters and sons-in-law, Jan and Dale Noonkester; Gloria and Steve Hobaugh; and son and daughter-in-law, David and Joyce Morgan. He will also be missed by his eight grandchildren, Sandee, Kristen, Wayne, Brian, Melissa, Serena, Daniel and Julie; great grandchildren, Eric, Heather, Jennifer and Kevin. He also leaves his brothers and sisters-in-law, Edward and Emeline Mullikin; Richard and Betty Mullikin as well as nieces, nephews and cousins. Fred Morgan's family would like to thank the staff of Alamo Residence Home for the excellent and personal care that they gave to him during the last several months. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service on Friday, March 30, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at Wilson & Kratzer Chapel of San Ramon Valley, 825 Hartz Way, Danville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Museum of San Ramon Valley or your favorite charity. | top | Resident of Livermore Thaddeus "Tedd" Casimer Matusiewicz passed away April 1, 2007 at the age of 77. Tedd was born September 27, 1929 in Chicago. Tedd has been a Livermore resident since 1971. He retired from the United States Air Force in 1970 and retired as a San Jose Police Dispatcher in 1994. He was an active member in his union.
He was married for 53 years to his wife, Dee Matusiewicz of Livermore, who survives him; sister, Genevieve Solak, and brother, Joseph Matusiewicz, both of Chicago. Predeceased by brother, Edward Matusiewicz of Chicago in 2006. Survived by son, Mike Matusiewicz of San Jose; daughter, Debbie Brucker of Sacramento; daughter, Tina Gehrig of Tracy; and predeceased by son, Thomas Matusiewicz of Livermore in 2001. Also surviving are 7 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Tedd was a Past Grand President of Danish Society Dania of California and Nevada, and Past President of Dannevang #7, a local lodge. Tedd was a member of the Air Force Association (AFA), the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the American Legion. His volunteer duties included: assisted in raising the POW/MIA star on Mt. Umhunum each year from 1985 to 1989; Trustee of AFSA Chapter 1379 for 17 years; President of AFSA Chapter 1379 for 6 years; and Treasurer for AFSA Division 13 for 4 years. Tedd presented the U.S. and Chapter flags at the annual San Jose Veterans Day Parade, the annual Four Chaplains Ceremony in San Jose, and the annual Memorial Day Ceremony in San Jose. With his wife, who is President of AFSA Auxiliary Chapter A1379, performed as "Ambassadors" to the local military and civilian communities. Tedd presented awards at the Orizuka AFS Quarterly Awards Breakfasts and Annual Awards Luncheons and the annual 129th Rescue Wing Awards Formation. He attended the California Air National Guard Outstanding Airmen of the Year Banquets and presented the chapter at official and social events of other nearby AFSA chapters.
Visitation will be on Thursday, April 5th from 4-8 p.m.; and Memorial Services will be held on Friday, April 6th at 1 p.m. at the Callaghan Mortuary, 3833 East Ave., Livermore, 94550.
Memorials may be sent in his name to the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association. | top |
Herman Mercer
Westland Post 355, Kerman
Herman Mercer, WWII veteran, has transferred to Post Everlasting Mr. Mercer died in a fire accident on November 6, 2006. He was an active member of The American Legion with his membership in Westland Post 355, Kerman for over 7 years He will be missed by all who knew him. Our Post wishes Herman <ercer a good journey to Post Everlasting.
God Bless Him... Leonard Didway, Post 355 Commander | top | Morell George Moran, of San Diego, was born on May 7, 1924 in Cleveland, Ohio and died on Christmas morning 2006 in Fillmore, Utah while visiting with family. Morell was raised in La Jolla and graduated from La Jolla High School, where he lettered in baseball.
Morell served in the Navy during WWII both in the Atlantic and Pacific Theatres. Morell later attended San Diego State where he earned a Bachelor's degree then a Master's degree from US International. He worked for the U.S. Public Health Service then became a 5th grade teacher at Montgomery Elementary School in Chula Vista for 16 years. He was a Free Mason, a member of the American Legion, Eagles Wings, and a member of St. Lukes Episcopal Church.
Morell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Viola "Connie" Economu. He is survived by his son, Stanley F. Moran, of San Diego.
Funeral services will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 3725 30th St., on Saturday, January 6, 2007 at 10 a.m. Interment will be at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. | top |  Thomas Harding Miller was born December 26, 1920 in Etowah, Tennessee and passed away on January 2, 2007 in Merced, California at the age of 86 years. Mr. Miller was a retired Minister and was one of the founders of the Merced Rescue Mission. He worked as the Mission Director from 1991-2003. He also served in Merced as the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church for 12 years. He worked as a Missionary in Alaska, and there he established a Native Baptist Mission and adopted two Native children. His ministry was a pioneer type of ministry. He revived churches and established new churches.
Preceded in death by his son, John Robert Miller. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife, Letitia Ruth Miller; daughters Margaret Rigdon and Davida Blais; 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 7, 2007 from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, January 8, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Central Presbyterian Church 1920 Canal, Merced, Ca. Burial with Military Honors by Merced American Legion Post 83, will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Winton District Cemetery in Winton.
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Tabea "Toby" Merkel
Lodi Post 22
April 8, 1918 - December 28, 2006
Tabea Toby worked for a local cannery, J.C. Penny Company and Holt Brothers Farm Equipment before she married Harold Merkel, she then became a homemaker. She was a graduate of Lodi High School, class of 1938. Toby was Past President of Loyal Order of Moose, Lodi, member of American Legion Post #22 of Lodi, member of Utopian Women's Club of Modesto, the Republican Party and was a former Charter Member of Turlock County Club.
She is survived by her daughter, Una Mae Merkel-Pednaud (and her husband, Ray) of Sylmar, California, brother, Arthur Bischel of Washington, sisters, May Peak of Oregon, and Elaine Banks of Stockton. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Merkel, brother, Henry Bischel, and sister, Esther Jones.
Private services have been held.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to American Legion Auxiliary Post #22, 320 N. Washington Street, Lodi, CA 94520 | top |  Attorney and former Oxnard City Councilman Robert Blinn Maxwell, 87, died Dec. 27, 2006, in Oxnard from complications resulting from a stroke a year earlier.
Blinn was born on Jan. 1, 1919, in Bloomington, Ill., and grew up in Lincoln, Ill. He later attended the University of Illinois, where he met his future wife, Inez Johnson. After graduation, Blinn served in the U.S. Army in World War II, where he fought on Omaha Beach and at the Battle of the Bulge. At the closing of the war, he helped free the prisoners at the German concentration camp at Dachau and earned the rank of captain. His heartfelt patriotism for his country was apparent throughout his entire life.
Upon completing his military service, Blinn attended Stanford University Law School. After graduation, he married Inez, his college sweetheart, and brought her to live with him in Oxnard, where he worked as a lawyer with his brother "Hap." Blinn continued to work full time as an attorney until the day he was hospitalized.
Blinn was dedicated to his community. He served on the Oxnard City Council, the Oxnard Planning Commission, and the Central Committee of the Ventura County Republican Party. He was active in the Oxnard Boys & Girls Club; Rotary; American Legion; Oxnard's sister city of Ocotlan, Mexico; and was past exalted ruler of Oxnard Elks Lodge.
Additionally, Blinn had a deep religious faith and regularly attended All Saints Episcopal Church, where he served on the vestry and was an usher.
Blinn also had a great love of the outdoors as he enjoyed hunting with family and friends, riding horses on Rancheros Visitadores, and playing golf on the weekends. He looked forward to trips with Inez and friends to Europe, Mexico, and Escondido.
Blinn always delighted in social activities where he especially loved to discuss history and politics with all. He was often referred to as having a large presence when he entered a room, yet all that knew him well felt his gentle spirit.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Karen Maxwell of Ventura; daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Tom Pecht of Oxnard; grandchildren, Kristen, Katie, and Brendon Maxwell, Ben (wife Banks), J.P. and Matt Pecht; and three great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007, at All Saints Episcopal Church, 144 South C St., Oxnard.
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Gordon F. MacBride
Harold W Hyland Post 53, Hemet
 GORDON F. MacBRIDE Age 90, of Hemet, California, died Saturday, December 30, 2006 at Meadowbrook Convalescent Hospital in Hemet and was born September 27, 1916 in Rochester, NY.
Gordon worked 20 years as an auto mechanic in the auto industry. He enjoyed playing golf, working with wood and traveling.
He is survived by his 3 children, Barbara Fallows of New York, Lloyd MacBride of Hemet, CA., David MacBride of Savannah, Georgia; nine grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Memorial Service will be at 1:00 PM, Saturday, January 5, 2007 at the American Legion Post #53, Hemet, CA. Interment will be private.
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John D. McMullen
Raisin Post 36, Parlier
John D. McMullen, 81, of Arroyo Grande, passed away Sunday, Sept. 17, 2006. He was a 58 year member of Post 36, Parlier, California.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. | top |
Eugene 'Gene' Miller
Mt. Diablo Post 246, Danville
June 25, 1921 - Dec. 16, 2006
Resident of Walnut Creek Gene a retired State Farm Insurance Agent, passed away peacefully at age 85. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Irene Miller. His father, Frank Miller and mother Bonita Belle Miller (McKinney) resided in Orland, CA where he was born.
Gene's older brother Robert served in the US Army while he and his brother Richard served in the US Army Air Force during World War II. After the Army Air Force Gene & Irene lived in Stockton and Millbrae before settling down in Contra Costa County to raise their family.
Both were active in the American Legion of Danville, the Pleasant Hill Country Club and then later the Contra Costa Country Club. They enjoyed traveling the world playing golf and enjoying friends and family. The last 2 years Gene lived at Renaissance at Kensington Place in Walnut Creek, enjoying playing cards and making a friend out of everyone he met.
He is survived by his 3 children, Larry Miller and Jeannie Johnson of Walnut Creek, and Pam Benefiel of Martinez. During his life he was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of his life will be held on January 13, 2007 at 1:00 PM at the Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacasse Ave., Walnut Creek, CA. | top |
Thomas Dean Milligan
Carl R Meairs Post 289, Riverside
October 16, 1962 - December, 2006
 Thomas died suddenly Dec. 18 at Community Hospital of Riverside at the age of 44. He was born Oct. 16, 1962 to John and Patsy Milligan in Riverside.
He graduated from North High School in 1980. He also attended San Bernardino Valley College. He worked as a Tool Maker for Wilden Pump and Engineering in Grand Terrace for 21 years. Tom enjoyed outings with his family, Harley rides with his great buddies and being involved in his childrens sports. You would see him helping with Pachapa Little League and Pop Warner Football with the Chiefs.
He is survived by loving wife, Carole; his beautiful daughter, Jasmine and his great son, Tommy; his mother and stephfather, Patsy and Jim Thompson; his father and step-mother, John and Shirley Milligan; his brother, Dan (Donna) Milligan and sister, Tami (Cory) Carter.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 PM, with Rosary at 7:00 PM, Thursday, Dec. 28 at Acheson & Graham Mortuary. Funeral Service will be Fri. Dec. 29 at 12:00 PM with interment following at Olivewood Cemetery. An Irish Wake will be held following the cemetery at the American Legion Post #289.
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Daniel McKenzie
James McDermott Post 172, Tracy
Jul 05, 1936 — Dec 21, 2006
A celebration of life will be Thursday for longtime Tracy resident and retired Owens-Illinois employee Daniel McKenzie, 70, who died Thursday in Tracy.
A native of Hawaii, Mr. McKenzie moved to California when he was 16. He was a Tracy resident since 1979, where he raised his family. He was a manager at the O-I glass-container plant until his retirement in 1992.
His hobbies were hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling and racquetball. He loved his friends and family and was active in the Tracy Moose Lodge, Tracy Elks Lodge, American Legion, Post 172, Tracy and Veterans of Foreign Wars 1537.
Mr. McKenzie is survived by his wife, Vera of Tracy; his children, Yevonne Allison of Pollock Pines, Daniel McKenzie Jr. of Oakley, David McKenzie of San Jose and Dianne McKenzie Ayala of Tracy; sister, Barbara McKinzie of Concord; brother, David Bostrom of Pleasant Hill; and 10 granddaughters, Jessica Lorscheider, Tiffany McKenzie, Lauren Ayala, Taylor Allison, Jenny Corder, Jill Corder, Ashley Johnson, Chelsea Johnson, Jamie Zogaric and Jessica Zogaric.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Catherine McKenzie in 1988.
Thursday’s celebration of life will begin at 5 p.m. at the Tracy Moose Lodge, 35 E. Sixth St. | top |
John Markusen
Theodore Roosevelt Post 21, Santa Rosa
MARKUSEN, John M. - "Pa", who suffered from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. Loving husband of Pat Markusen of Santa Rosa.
Loving father of Dennis Markusen and his wife Cathy, Donna Naredo and her husband Fred, Diane Keefer and her husband Mike and Denise Lorenzo and her husband Marty. Beloved grandfather of Marty Lorenzo III and his wife Ashley, Tony Keefer and his wife Sarah, Valentina Naredo, Alexandra Lorenzo, Andrew Keefer, Micaela Naredo, Fred Naredo Jr., Brett Schaeffer and Cory Maestas and her husband Charlie. Great grandfather of Cade Maestas. Beloved brother of Aunora Eib and Anna Scott and brother in law Sonny Weinholdt and his wife Marilyn. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
A native of Penngrove, age 80 years. He was Vice President of sales and partner with Clover-Stornetta farms for over 60 years. He served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He was a member of the American Legion-Theodore Roosevelt Post #21, the U.S. Navy armed guard, and was one of the original members and faithful parishioner of Bethlehem Lutheran Church. He loved golf, and he especially loved his grandchildren. He believed strongly in always keeping family together. He lived by the values of family, faith, honesty and love.
Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1300 St. Francis Road, Santa Rosa. Private family entombment, Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Santa Rosa, CA.
Those desiring, may make memorial contributions to Bethlehem Lutheran Church or your favorite charity. | top |  Alvaro Meneses was born to Pedro and Aurora Meneses in Fresno, California on February 19, 1949 and passed away in Merced, California on December 13, 2006 at the age of 57 years.
Mr. Meneses graduated from Merced High School and was a life long resident of Merced. He was also a United States Veteran who served his county proudly in Vietnam. Big Al loved the great outdoors, this was his idea of heaven, and he shared this love with his kids. Some of his favorite places to visit were Briceburg, Don Pedro Lake and Hyatt's Cove. He was an excellent swimmer and also enjoyed 4-wheeling, hiking and fishing. Big Al spoke often of his journey to find the “great spirit”… his journey is now complete.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela Meneses on January 21, 2006. Mr. Meneses is survived by his wife, Salma Meneses of Merced; parents, Pedro Meneses and Aurora Meneses of Merced; son, Fabian Meneses of Merced; daughter, Diana Meneses of Merced; brothers, Pete Meneses Jr. of Atwater, Mike Meneses of Merced, Nicolas Meneses of Merced, Raymond Meneses of Merced and John Meneses of Merced; sisters, Linda Lierra of Merced, Dolores Cavazos of Merced, Stella Meneses of Santa Clara and Rita Meneses of Merced and grandchildren, Abel, Diego, Paulina, Kayla, Elijah and Alexia who is on the way.
Visitation was held on Monday, December 18, 2006 from 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Merced. Military Honors will be provided by Merced American Legion Post #83. Burial will be private at Calvary Cemetery.
| top | A year after being diagnosed with ALS, John died peacefully surrounded by his family. Survived by his wife of 57 years Laura, daughters Regina 'Jeannie' Mahan Visger, Patricia Mahan, and Bernadette Mahan, D.D.S., sons-in-law Terry Visger, John Boyles, and Dr. Neal White; grandchildren Nik and Teddy Visger, Colin and Sean Boyles, and Katherine and Ally White.
John was a Santa Clara City Council member (1977-1988), Santa Clara Unified School Board trustee, and member of many community organizations - Santa Clara Lions Club, Silicon Valley Blind Center, I.C.F., Elks, American Legion.
Donations to ALS Treatment and Research Center at UCSF Medical Center, 400 Parnassus Ave., 8th Floor, Dept. of Neurology, San Francisco, CA 94143 or Santa Clara Valley Blind Center, 101 N. Bascom Ave., San Jose, CA 95128. Attn: Judy would be preferred.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2006, from 11:00 a.,. to 9:00 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon both at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N. Winchester Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95050.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, Dec. 11, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Justin's Catholic Church, 2655 Homestead Road, Santa Clara, CA followed by burial at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery. | top |
George Makimoto
John A. Stacker Post 775, Loomis
 George Makimoto was 84. A lifelong resident of Loomis, beloved family man and cherished friend, passed away on November 26, 2006, in Fair Oaks, CA. Born on September 27, 1922, in Loomis, CA, he is survived by his wife, Mitsue (Mitsy) Nakanishi Makimoto; children Bob Makimoto (Nancy), Dee Nakamura (Norman), Margaret MacGowan (Paul), Bill Makimoto (Susie), and Tom Makimoto; grandchildren Matthew MacGowan, Tanner Makimoto, Jerrod Makimoto, Christopher Nakamura, Kyle Makimoto, Alanna Mac- Gowan, Jenna Makimoto and Karen Nakamura; step-grandchildren Tracy Chanter, Josh Chanter (Angela) and step great grandchild, Claire Chanter; siblings Alice Kakehashi, James Makimoto (Betty), Janlce Muto (Carl); and many nieces, nephews and in-laws. Preceded in death by his parents Sahei and Hisayo (Yoshino) Makimoto; sisters Martha Saito, Midori Hiyama.
George attended Loomis Grammar and Placer High schools, and attended Placer Junior College before transferring to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo to study agriculture. He attended Cal Poly until March 1942, when he and his family were forced to move to Japanese internment camps, first in Arboga then in Tule Lake. Through a friendship forged at Tule Lake, he later met Mitsy, who would become his wife of 58 years.
Following his service in the Army in 1945, he returned to Loomis to run the family ranch. He and Mitsy married in 1948, and bought their own ranch in 1950, raising peaches, pears, plums and mandarin oranges. In 1965 he was named Placer County Farmer of the Year. Starting in the early 1960's, he owned and operated Union 76 gas stations in the Placer and Sacramento Counties. He stayed active in the business until December 2005, when the station in Loomis at Sierra College Blvd. and I-80, was closed under eminent domain laws.
George was an active member of the Loomis Lions Club, American Legion - John A. Stacker Post 775, Placer JACL and the First United Methodist Church in Loomis. He was an avid fan of the Sacramento Kings, the SF 49ers, and the SF Giants. He loved to fish, hunt, golf, travel and most of all, loved being with people of all ages. A good friend to many, he enjoyed hanging around the barn with buddies. He was a friend and father figure to all generations. His smile and laughter will be greatly missed.
On Saturday, December 9, at 2:00PM, a memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 6414 Brace Rd., Loomis, CA (916) 652-0469.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Organization, PO Box 5312, Akron, OH 44334. http://www.cjdfoundation.org
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Don Raphael Madden
Lewis White Post 76, Ukiah
April 22, 1927 — October 13, 2006
Memorial services for Don Raphael Madden will be held on Friday, October 20, 2006 at 4:00 pm at Trinity Baptist Church, 900 S. Dora, Ukiah with Pastor Gerry Burney officiating.
Don Raphael Madden was born in Sacramento, California on April 22, 1927 to Jack and Vera Madden. Don peacefully passed away at Chula Vista Veterans Home near San Diego California on Friday, at age 79.
Don spent a total of six years in the United States Marine Corps and spent time on the front lines as a message runner in the Korean War. Don belonged to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1900, Disabled American Veterans and was an honorary lifetime member of the American Legion Post 76. He was also was a member of the Toastmasters.
Don had just finished writing a book, The Chronicles of My Life which will be published soon.
Art has always been an important part of his life and he has created many beautiful paintings.
Don was married to Virginia for 34 years before she passed away in 2003. Don is survived by his daughter Vera Lynn Chin, her husband Hector, their daughter Marissa, Don's son Donnie, Don's sister Janis Nelson and husband Ted, sisters-in-law Emily Duarte, JoAnne Ward, Peggy Kennedy and brother-in-law Albert Boogaard as well as many nieces and nephews.
Don had a zest for life and enjoyed exchanging ideas with a variety of people. | top |
Ernest “Dee” Marrs Jr.
James McDermott Post 172, Tracy
Mar 21, 1918 — Jun 17, 2006
 Interment will be private for veteran Ernest “Dee” Marrs Jr., 88, of Tracy, who died Saturday at Sutter Tracy Community Hospital.
Born in Ida Belle, Okla., Mr. Marrs moved to Tracy from Minnesota in 1969. He served in the U.S. Air Corps during World War II. He worked in the fruit processing business as a maintenance mechanic 48 years and retired in 1983. He was a charter member of Rochester, Minn., Moose and a member of Tracy Moose No. 2283 where he served in a number of offices. He was also a member of the American Legion.
He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.
Mr. Marrs is survived by his wife of 63 years, Thelma Marrs of Tracy; children, Al Marrs, and his wife, Susan, of Monroe, Mich., Larry Dean Marrs, and his wife, Vickie, of North Pole, Alaska; grandchildren, Kathryn Thompson of Hampton, N.H., Jack Dee Marrs of Exeter, N.H., Christopher Marrs of Minnesota, and Barbara, Laura, Roxanne and Danielle Marrs, all of Lodi; and numerous great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, Daniel Marrs; and two brothers.
No services will be offered at the request of the family.
Contributions in Mr. Marrs’ name may be sent to:
Tracy Loyal Order of Moose, 35 E. Sixth St., Tracy 95376
| top |  Paul "Mack" McGinnis, Post 620, passed away in his sleep and transferred to Post Everlasting on Friday, May 5, 2006. A 54 year member of The American Legion.
Paul was Service Officer of Post 620, Rocklin, Current Service Officer for District 31, the Charter Past District 31 Commander, and Past Department Historian (1989-1990).
Paul is survived by his wife Marian, a past Auxiliary Department Chaplain.
Memorial Service - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at 11:00 a.m.
Roseville Elks Lodge #2248, 3000 Brady Ln, Roseville, CA
| top |  It is my sad duty to inform you of the transfer to Post Everlasting of Comrade Richard C. Murphy, from Post 172, Tracy, California.
Comrade Murphy was a veteran of World War II and served both in the Merchant Marine and U. S. Navy. He was born 19 July 1928 and passed on 15 October 2005. The following is a copy of the obituary from the "Tracy Press" of 18 October. Graveside services will be Thursday for longtime Tracy resident Richard Clarke Murphy, 77, who died Saturday at Dameron Hospital in Stockton.
A native of Alameda, Mr. Murphy moved from Livermore to the San Joaquin River Club in Tracy after retiring in 1971.
He had worked 20 years at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as an electronic engineering supervisor, after working at General Electric and Western Electric in Oakland. Mr. Murphy served in the Merchant Marines and the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Sycamore Ward in Tracy and S.T.A.R.R.S. He enjoyed fishing, camping and pets, especially his dog, Jiggers.
Mr. Murphy is survived by his wife of 58 years, Jean Murphy, of Tracy; children, Margaret Sparks of Lower Lake, Robert Lawrence Murphy of El Cajon and Patricia Dee Tubbs of Reno.; grandchildren, Sara Jean Murphy, Richard E. Lohr and Andrew Murphy, all of California; and great-grandchildren, Christopher and Nathan Lohr, both of California.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Victoria Murphy.
Thursday’s graveside service will begin at 11 a.m. at Tracy Cemetery. Visitation will be observed from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday at Hotchkiss Mortuary, 5 W. Highland Ave.
Contributions in Mr. Murphy’s name may be sent to Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sycamore Ward, 1981 Chester Drive, Tracy 95376.
| top | Old buddies were vets' champions
by Dennis McCarthy, Columnist, LA Daily News
 I figure that by now, Bob Myers has found his old buddy Norm Berney up in heaven. The two World War II vets and American Legion pals from Post 193 in Van Nuys are probably catching up on old times and plotting their next move on behalf of all veterans. They were inseparable when they were living here in the San Fernando Valley carrying on their two-man war - making sure people never forgot the veterans who didn't make it home.
Bob, who died at age 84 last week, and Norm, who passed away last year, bled red, white and blue. I could set my watch by their phone calls every year before Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and POW/MIA Day. "Don't forget what tomorrow is," Bob would say. "I won't, Bob," I would promise. "Good," he'd say. "So how are things going?"
The city of Los Angeles made the mistake of getting on Norm and Bob's bad side once, and City Hall never knew what hit it. Norm and Bob were talking to the son of a World War I veteran one day in 1996. The man's father had belonged to their Van Nuys American Legion post back in 1945 - when Norm was busy fighting in Iwo Jima and Bob was fighting in the South Pacific. The man said his father had always wondered whatever happened to a deal his post cut with the city back in 1947. “What deal?”, Bob asked.
It turns out the post had formed a War Memorial Park Association and raised money to buy 70 acres along Van Nuys Boulevard for a memorial park dedicated to war veterans. The association turned the land over to the city of Los Angeles to build a public park, and in return, the city was to erect a big veterans memorial in the park. The city got around to opening Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Park, but it never got around to putting up the memorial. And many of the old vets who remembered the 1947 deal had either died or moved out of the Valley.
In short, the city never paid its IOU to veterans. After the man left, Bob looked at Norm and shook his head. "What do you say we go get that memorial, Norm?" he asked. And that's exactly what they did. They spent months knocking on doors at City Hall - and getting the runaround.
The city owes you a memorial? What memorial? From 1947? What are you talking about? Politicians can't remember promises they made last week; how are they going to remember one from 50 years ago? Good luck, fellas.
Bob and Norm just nodded and went back to doing what they did best: Dig in and keep fighting. They went deep into the city archives and found the transfer of land from the association to the city. And with the help of former Los Angeles City Councilman Mike Feuer, they finally got that memorial built. So the next time you're driving by Van Nuys-Sherman Oaks Park, stop and take a look. It's pretty impressive. And say a few words of thanks to a couple of great guys who never let us forget.
A service for Bob Myers will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 29, 2005 at Utter McKinley Mortuary, 11071 Columbus Ave., Mission Hills. He will be buried at Riverside National Cemetery. | top | It is with regret that I have to inform you that a Past 29th District Executive Board Member, Past Commander of Orange Post 132, Currently the Post Finance Officer and Clubroom Manager for Orange Post went to Post Everlasting October 13, 2005. Her name is Joanne Moulton.
Her husband is Dave Moulton, Past 29th District Commander, Past Commander of Orange Post 132, and currently is the 29th District Judge Advocate, and the Adjutant for Orange Post 132.
Please send your cards and letters to:
David Moulton & Family
827 N. Bristol, Santa Ana, CA. 92703
(714) 543-3483
Respectfully.... Bill iii | top |
Joseph Mark “Joe” Moore
James McDermott Post 172, Tracy
June 7, 1942—February 28, 2006
A memorial service will be Saturday for former Tracy High School teacher Joseph Mark “Joe” Moore, 63, of Tracy who died February 28 at Hospice House of San Joaquin in Stockton.
Born in Galion, Ohio, Mr. Moore lived in Tracy for 25 years and was previously of Bremerton, Wash. He was an aviation maintenance officer 29 years for the U. S. Navy. After his retirement from the Navy, he taught U. S. Government at Tracy High School about 10 years where he became active Tracy Teachers Association. He eventually became the chapter president. He joined the California Teachers Association where he was a union negotiator who worked from Bakersfield. He then transferred to the Stockton office of the CTA until his death. He enjoyed fishing, boating and camping.
He was a member of the James McDermott Post 172 of the American Legion and a member of the Fleet Reserve Association in Livermore.
Mr. Moore is survived by his children, Edward Ray Moore of Tracy, Teresa Dawn Davison of Woodbridge, Melanie Kay Herfel of Ione, and Julia Elaine Moore-How of Patterson; siblings Edward Moore of Otway, Ohio, Frank Moore of Salida, Marcia Davis of South Augusta, S. C., Rachel Chamblin of Hillsboro, Ohio, and Bernadette “Dee Dee” Smith of Manchester, Ohio; and grandchildren Fallon and Tyler Harp of Woodbridge.
Saturday’s service will begin a 2:30 p.m. at Fry Memorial Chapel, 550 S. Central Ave. Inte5rnment will be private.
Contributions can be sent to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95204 | top |  Mae, Age 79, died on Friday, February 6, 2004 at the Life Care Center of Vista. Born June 7, 1924 in Willoughby, Ohio where her parents, Samuel and Ann Southall, raised her with her four brothers. She remained there through graduation from Willoughby Union High School.
While attending Western Reserve University, she left school to enlist in the Women's Army Air Force during WWII. She was stationed at Mather Air Force Base outside of Sacramento, CA serving as an aircraft inspector.
While stationed at Mather AFB, she met and married Thomas Mitchell, who was also serving in the Army Air Force. They remained in the Sacramento area after the end of WWII and declared it their new home.
Mae was very active in youth and community activities. She is a Life Member of the American Legion, having served in positions at the Post, Department, State and National levels. Active with the Sacramento Women's Council, Boy's/Girl's State Program, National Oratorical Program, PTA, Toast Mistresses and Foreign Student Exchange Program, she has received numerous awards of recognition for her contributions. Mae is a Sister in the Order of the Eastern Star, White Shrine and was on the Job's Daughters' Council.
A supporter of the Performing Arts in the Sacramento area, she was active with Music Circus and The Best of Broadway. Mae spent 25 years with the Federal Service working at McClellan AFB before retiring in 1984.
Her children survive her, Tom, Jr. of Oceanside, CA, Karen Kopet of Las Vegas, and Kat Bahry of Sacramento. She had four grandchildren, Kelli, Tony, Brian, and Taylyr and two great-grandchildren, Haylee and Victoria.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 17, 2004 at Mt. Vernon Memorial Park, 8201 Greenback Lane, Fair Oaks, CA. which will be followed by a reception.
| top |  At peace with God, free of earthly limitations on March 29, 2004, at the age of 81.
Richard was preceded into death by his wife Jane Gotelli Mibach, and his brother Chub Mibach. His very devoted children survive him. Brian H. Mibach and wife Julianne Mibach of Novato. Claire Mibach-Fugate and husband Stephen M. Fugate and his adored and only Grandchild Nicholas Mibach Fugate of San Rafael.
His sister Rita M. Smith, Sister-in-Law Mary Gail Mibach and Brother-in-Law Dominic Gotelli also survive Richard. Other relatives include cousins Donald and Cathy Mibach, Charlene Peterson and Shirley Takas, numerous God Children, Nieces, nephews, and cousins in the greater
Mibach, Eckhart, Kast and Gotelli families.
A proud native San Franciscan of Irish and German descent, he was raised in the Parkside district of San Francisco and attended St. Ceilia's Polytechnic High and U.S.F.
During the early days of WW 2 Richard at age 18 enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and served with distinction in the Pacific Theater for the entire war effort. He became a specialist in the sonar and served proudly as a small ship sailor. He primarily served aboard the USS Chalcedony, based out of Pearl Harbor. Richard returned to Naval service when his country called, to be an instructor at the fleet sonar/radar school in San Diego during the Korean War.
Richard joined Pacific Telephone and Telegraph upon his return from the Wars. He spent most of his career in the marketing department. and retired as a department manager with 41 years of service.
He was active in many associations; Telephone Pioneers, V.F.W., German Catholic Society and he American Legion Twin Cities Post #313. He proudly served as Department of California Commander in 1984/1985. He was happy to help Veterans that were in need or sick and lobbied on their behalf in Washington D.C.
Richard and his wife Jane lived in and were active members of St. Stephen's Parish S.F., where they raised their children. He was active member of the Men's Club, boys softball coach, and Assistant Scout Master of Troop #61 B.S.A. He also spent many Saturdays driving the Mercy High speech team.
Richard was a symbol of America's values, heart, soul, ideals and robust ambition. He partook of everything life gave him. He could be charming, tough, undefeatable, ferocious, funny and lovable.
Richard believed in God and Country. He died as he lived, fully, fighting, believing in himself and others. Always determined to succeed. Rest well Richard in God's love.
At his request no formal service will be held, he asked only to be remembered in yours prayers.
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Leslie H. McCarty
Tredway Post 194, Kelseyville
Leslie H. McCarty passed away on Sunday, Nov. 14, 2004, in his Kelseyville home of 26 years, at the age of 80. He was born in Alameda on March 22, 1924.
He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1943 to 1945. After he returned from his service time he worked at Long Barn Lodge, Calif., where he met his future wife on a blind date June 22, 1946 and married March 22, 1947.
He was a dearly beloved husband for 57 years to Winona (Nonie) McCarty. He raised his family in Hayward and worked at Naval Air Station Alameda for 35 years. Upon retirement he moved to Soda Bay in Lake County.
He was a member of the American Legion for 59 years, very active in the Highland Touring Club and VW Air Cooled Club, NARFE, AARP and Soda Bay Spring Subdivision Home Owner's president and watermaster.
He is a beloved father to daughters, Kathy (Rick) Logoteta of Brea and Sandy (Tom) Willis of Kelseyville, and to his son, Steve (Kathleen) McCarty of Lakeport; adored grandfather to Stacy, Steven, Rob, Nick, Justin, Cassie and Eli; great-grandfather to Noah, Ivy, Nicky and Taylor; dear brother to Dolores Squire of Fairfield, Iowa; brother-in-law to June Tegg of El Cerrito; brother-in-law to Fred Painter of Sonora; and loved by many nieces and nephews.
At his request there will be no services.
If desired, donations in his memory may be made to Special Olympics or your favorite charity. Cremation will be by Lake County Memorial Crematory.
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Tommy K. Merino
Indian Valley Post 568, Greenville
Department Vice Commander Representing Area One, 1969-70
Born: March 17, 1920 Died: Dec. 10, 2004
 GREENVILLE - Shortly after Tommy K. Merino was discharged from the U.S. Army with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star, he was denied service at a local tavern because he was a Mountain Maidu Indian. That incident started a campaign for American Indian rights that lasted until his death Friday at 84 of complications caused by pneumonia.
A co-founder of California Indian Education Association and Plumas County Indians Inc., Mr. Merino led statewide efforts to preserve Maidu culture. He taught Maidu language at DQ University, where he served on the board of education, and in Plumas and Lassen counties.
He identified native plants from memory as part of a project demonstrating Maidu forest management techniques on 2,100 acres of the Plumas National Forest. He also served as president of the Maidu Cultural and Development Group, coordinator of the forest stewardship project.
Born in Greenville in 1920, Mr. Merino attended local schools, where he competed in track and was a member of the Greenville High School band when it placed second in statewide competition. Following his graduation in 1939, he attended Stuart Indian School in Nevada.
Mr. Merino's military service in Europe began on D-Day as part of the landing force and included the Battle of the Bulge. It ended with a ride home on the Queen Mary, his first and last experience with an oceanic vessel and the seasickness it caused.
After his discharge, he worked in local lumber mills. He was a longtime member of the Lumber Production and Industrial Workers Union Local 3074 and recently joined the Indian Valley Chamber of Commerce.
When a mining operation threatened Soda Rock, a local Maidu cultural and mythological site, Mr. Merino fought for its preservation. He also helped maintain the traditional Maidu Bear Dance and other Indian ceremonies, including powwows now held annually in Greenville.
Mr. Merino also was a proud veteran who served as commander of the American Legion Post 568. Among his responsibilities were selecting high school juniors to attend Boys State and organizing the honor guard to carry flags at high school football games and parades.
"His best interests were in the community, and he served them well," said Indian Valley Fire Chief Jim Hamblin.
Mr. Merino was preceded in death by Ivy Ruth, his wife of 57 years; sons Tom and Jimmy, and a daughter, Patricia.
Remembered for: A lifelong campaign for American Indian rights; leadership in efforts to preserve Mountain Maidu culture; promoting forest stewardship; being part of the landing force in Normandy on D-Day; active in the American Legion; widespread interest in Indian Valley community affairs; always being in the company of his faithful dog, Stonette.
Survived by: Sons Johnny, Marshall, Melvern, Jerome and Rick; daughters Helen Miguel, Priscilla Atkins, Kathy Bone, Jackie Merino, Rosalie Samson, Nancy Merino, Pat Merino, and Joyce Merino; 51 grandchildren, 129 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services: December 14 - 10 a.m. at the Greenville High School gymnasium, followed by interment at the Indian Cemetery in Taylorsville.
| top |  Will Markwald passed away Sept. 16, 2005, in Oxnard. He was 69 years old.
Will was born Oct. 1, 1935, in Stevensville, Mich., to his father, Emil and mother, Lydia. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in the 82nd Airborne Division for three years.
After his honorable discharge, he attended California State Polytechnic University at Pomona. He graduated from California Polytechnic University in 1964 with a bachelor of science in industrial engineering. Along the way, he served as a volunteer fireman in Pomona. He moved to Oxnard with his family in 1967. He worked a the Naval Ship Weapons Systems Engineering station until his retirement in 1994.
Will liked fishing, boating, hunting, camping, coaching youth soccer, bowling and dancing. He was a trusted handyman and mechanic. He always had a kind word and smile for those in his life. He will be missed by many.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy.
He is survived by his sons, Todd (wife Angie) and Tom; grandson, Spencer; brothers, Rudy (wife Louise), Erv (wife Joyce) and Harold; sister, Betty; and a large extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21 at Conrad-Carroll Mortuary,. 401 W. Channel Islands Blvd., Oxnard. A service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 at Conrad-Carroll Mortuary.
A graveside service will follow at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura.
After the ceremony, a reception will be held at the American Legion Post 48, 2639 Wagon Wheel Road, Oxnard.
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