United States High School Yearbooks by County
Nancy Vera Jane Hendershot
Passed away January 31, 2003 in San Rafael at the age of 74. Loving wife of Sherman P. Hendershot of Petaluma. Cherished mother of Nanette Cardoza and her husband Bill of Novato and Carl Hendershot and his wife Marian of W. Simsbury, CT. Adored grandmother of Sheri Cardoza of OR, Kristy Cardoza of Novato, Sara Hendershot, Andrew Hendershot, Erica Hendershot, and Caroline Hendershot all of W. Simsbury, CT. Nancy was born, reared, and educated in Hemel, Hempstead, England. She met her future husband Sherman while he was in the service in England; she moved to the United States in 1952. Nancy was very active in her church, and she also enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Friends and Family are invited to attend a Funeral Service on Monday, February 3, 2003 at 1:00 PM at the PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue & Keokuk Street, Petaluma, CA. interment at Cypress Hill Memorial Park, Petaluma, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Assembly of God Church Building Fund, 4695 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park, CA 94928. Arrangements made by PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, Magnolia Avenue & Keokuk Street, Petaluma, CA.
Carol Ann Mason
Of Sausalito, died January 9, 2003. She was 57 years old. Carol was born in Pennsylvania on February 6, 1945. She was the daughter of the late Ernestine Lafon Callaway and the late Conrad Gordon Callaway, Sr., and the sister of the late Conrad Gordon Callaway, Jr. Carol was a graduate of Westchester University and for a short time was an Elementary School Teacher. She began her career in Banking in 1968. Her business career included working for Blue Shield, Blue Cross and INS. Before retiring in 1998 she was a Vice President for the Office of Thrift Supervision, for the Department of the Treasury, in their San Francisco offices. She lived in San Francisco, when she moved to California in 1976 and then lived in Marin County from 1978 until her passing. She was an avid gardener and cook. She enjoyed reading tremendously, and liked to spend time along the California Coast with loved ones and family. She also enjoyed hiking and the outdoors. Carol made many loving friends easily over the years and many of those people were ones she had worked with during her career. She is survived by her daughter Melissa Mason and son-in-law Moreno Domitri and grandchildren Fabianna, Sabrina and Marco Domitri, all of Sonoma; her dear friend Angelo Douvos, of San Rafael; stepdaughter Natalie Douvos and granddaughter, Lauren Messina-Douvos, of Richmond; and stepson Alex Douvos of San Francisco. She is terribly missed by all who knew and loved her. A Memorial has been planned for Saturday, February 8, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1123 Court Street, San Rafael, CA 94901. Those who would like to join her family in honoring her memory are invited to attend. Those wishing to make donations, in her memory, may send them to a charity of your choice.
E. Jeanne Schreiber Merkling
Her name is "Merk", though some knew her as E. Jeanne Merkling. Jeanne TEED off on her first hole of life on February 23, 1924 in New York City. On December 30, 2002, she holed out during a thunderstorm in a gallery of friends around her, and her granddaughter saying: "Grandma, it's free, you won't have to pay green fees in Heaven." In January 1942, Jeanne gave her valedictory address one month after the attack on Pearl Harbor at Jamaica Vocational High School, New York City. Her words, 60 years ago -- "Much has been said in these past few months of war and of ways to win the war but too little has been said of the way to win the PEACE...without peace we cannot enjoy the simple pattern of work and success which has been the fortune of earlier generations....for no peace can come to nations until it has first found place in the heart and mind of the individual." Jeanne's life took several paths during her seven remarkable decades. But Jeanne chose those paths, and one was her career path with the William T. Grant Foundation in New York City for 24 years, from which she retired in 1986 as Senior Vice President. Recognized as a visionary she empowered the Foundation with ground breaking software that is in effect today. Beyond the limitations lung disease imposed, Jeanne breathed pure air riding the golf paths of So. Calif. public links with her gallery of fellow WPLGA players from Burbank to Ventura. Jeanne moved to San Geronimo, CA to share her New York mirth with her daughter Marianne Montgomery and husband Bill and their daughter Leslie. And so with her amazing grace she left this earth with a bang on December 30, 2002, in the company of family and special friends, Kay Barnett, Elizabeth Moore, Eric White, and Cheryl Spater. The legacy of Jeanne continues on with her daughter Janet Sosely and husband Patrick and their children, Sean and Kaitlyn all of Rockaway Township, New Jersey; by Janet's son Michael Elo, his wife Jennifer and their children, Billy, Timmy and Carolynn all of Plainfield, Illinois; and by Bill's daughter Kristi Beebe, her husband John and their daughter Jordan all of Kalamazoo, MIchigan; and by Bill's daughter Nancy, her husband Tim, and their children Autumn and Jacob all of Astoria, Oregon. Larry Merkling resides in Petaluma, California. Because of her determination to forever challenge the unforgiving greens, her life was celebrated at the 19th hole in the San Geronimo Valley Country Club, Saturday, January 4th. Jeanne's favorite recipe: "Golfers never diet, they just exist on greens." Jeanne was an active supporter of the San Anselmo Police Explorers Post #306. Donations in her name may be directed to the San Anselmo Police, Explorers Post #306, 525 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960.
Clelia Jager Palma
Passed away peacefully January 27th, 2003 at the age of 101 surrounded by her loving daughters. Clelia was born in Allentown, PA November 16, 1901. She was taken to the Jager Villa in Italy where she spent her happy childhood with grandparents of Austrian nobility; the name Jager meaning keeper of the forest. With the threat of World War I brewing she was brought back to America on the French ocean liner Rochambeau where she celebrated her 12th birthday. She arrived at her "new" home in Monongahela, PA with her parents and extended family where she later met and married Joseph Palma at the age of 18. After raising a son and four daughters, they moved to Richmond, CA in 1946 where they owned and operated Clel's Coffee Shop for the next 25 years. Clelia was well known for her delicious homemade pies in the East Bay. Her husband preceded her in death in 1969, as well as her son Joseph in 2000 and his son, Jay in 1975. Clelia has resided in San Rafael with her daughters Betty and her husband Arthur Fitch and most recently with Constance Johnson. Clelia is also survived by Olivia Silvestrini of Alameda and Mary Walker of Richmond. Being an avid gardener all of her life, she took great pride in her roses and many fruit trees. As small children, we don't remember ever being without a dog as part of our family. Many charities were beneficiaries of her generosity, especially the Humane Society. In addition, Clelia crocheted numerous lap robes for hospitalized veterans at the Medical Center in San Francisco. Clelia, affectionately known as "Grammer" by her grandchildren, is also survived by grandson Jack (and Sandy) of Running Springs, CA and their children Anna and Dustin. Her granddaughter Connie Fitch (and Philip) Slobody, and her children Amista and Jonathan Otwell and Philip Slobody; by her great grandson, Anthony Palma; and by her great great grandchildren Heather, Haleigh, Holli, Cassie, David, Jarrett and Austin. Aunt "Clel" will be sorely missed by her many nieces, nephews, and friends from coast to coast. All who knew her were blessed by her genuine warmth and gracious entertainment in her home. A Celebration of Her Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Humane Society or Hospice of Marin, 150 Nellen Drive, Corte Madera, CA 94925.
Donald (Lefty) Pickrel
Donald (Lefty) Pickrel passed away January 18, 2003 at Kaiser Hospital in San Francisco. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Rita; son Don Jr.; three stepsons: Ralph and Ronald Johns of Novato and Richard (Lecia) Johns of Vacaville, CA; six grandchildren: Ryan, Chris, Jessica, Melodie, Ricky and Gina Johns; three great-grandchildren: Natalie, Makenna and Cierra Johns. He is also survived by his brother, G. Allen (Sandy) Pickrel of Corte Madera and two nephews, Greg of Rohnert Park and Peter of San Rafael. Born in Sutton, Nebraska May 19, 1939. He moved as a child with his parents to Colorado and Washington State before settling in San Rafael in 1955. After leaving San Rafael High School, Don served in the Navy from 1956 to 1960. After receiving an Honorable Discharge he worked as a painter for various painting contractors, three years with Roto Rooter and finally as line maintenance supervisor for Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District from which he retired in May 2002 after 29 years. Don loved to travel, enjoyed fishing and was an avid 49'er and Giants fan. A loving husband and father he will be dearly missed by family and friends. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Saturday February 8, 2003 at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Gifts may be made to the Helping Hands of St. Anthony. Keaton's Redwood Chapel 1801 Novato Blvd., Novato 415-897-1151
Mary Helen Williams
Of Novato died January 26th, 2003 of heart failure. She was born January 22nd, 1920 and married Wayne Williams in 1943. She pursued a career in banking, until retiring to Marin. She was an accomplished chef and avid sports enthusiast. Survivors include her husband Wayne, son Tony and family, and daughter Susan and family.
Arthur C. Madsen Sr.
Passed away March 23rd, 2003 at his home in San Anselmo at the age of 87. Art was born on May 30, 1915 in San Rafael at home to Neils and Christina Madsen, Danish emigrants. A graduate of San Rafael High School, Art was Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army where he guarded German prisoners at Fort Riley Kansas during WWII. Art managed the Mt. Tamalpais Cemetery in the late 40's - 50's. He then worked at the Tiburon Naval Net Depot until retirement. He was custodian for Brookside School San Anselmo and upon final retirement he traveled the United States with his wife of 61 years, Helen. He is survived by his wife Helen, children Arthur Jr., Helena and Paul; grandchildren Arthur III, Erica, Noelle and Haleigh. Donations in his name to Marin Hospice.
Bradford T. Neff
Age 51, born and raised in San Francisco died accidentally on March 25, 2003. He is survived by his loving wife Catrina, his children Nicholas and Mimi, loving mother Kathleen Neff; sister Tine; brothers Mike and Louie; mother-in-law Ellen Young; father-in-law Bill Young; mother-in-law Loretta Young; brother-in-law Scott Young and many loving nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Louis, Sr.; and his brother-in-law Craig Young. Bradford had a zest for life, an incredible sense of humor and wonderful wit. He lived a life of integrity and Brad's love of his family was genuine and reciprocal -- a joy to behold. Bradford was very devoted to his family, their activities and their happiness. Bradford was an upstanding member of the Walnut Creek community, especially dedicated to youth sports. He was a respected and dedicated coach and manager of Nicky's baseball and Mimi's softball teams. He will be missed by many. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. at St. John Vianney's Church, 1650 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA. A reception will be held immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Neff Children's Fund, c/o Tine Hardy Vernor, 18 Franciscan Ct., Danville, CA 94526.
Jody Poole
In Loving Memory of Joan "Jody" Mitchell Gray Poole January 3, 1920-March 21, 2003
Jody Poole, age 83 passed away at home with family Friday, March 21, 2003. Jody was born in Springfield, Illinois on January 3, 1920. She married Navy Lieutenant William Francis Poole, an architect, of Santa Barbara on April 20, 1946. Together they built a home in Ross, California, raising four children in a happy home. They moved to Sebastopol in 1990 to be closer to family. Jody and Bill had been married 53 years when Bill passed away in 1999. Jody was very supportive and involved in her children's lives, traveling to many baseball and football games throughout the school years. An intense interest in the beauty of wild animals and nature, Jody was a member of the San Francisco Zoological Society. She was an avid bridge player until her later years. She was also involved in numerous flower & needlework society's. Jody is survived by her sons, Don of Salem, Oregon; Will of Sebastopol; Russell of Santa Rosa and her daughter Janine Hillman of Petaluma. She leaves behind eight loving grandchildren (all of whom referred to her as Mom Mom!). One great grandchild and one loving and devoted dog, Foxy. She will be greatly missed and always in our hearts. At Joy's request, services will not be held. Arrangements thru Neptune Society of Santa Rosa 707-525-9700. 2607 Santa Rosa Ave. Santa Rosa, CA
Elizabeth "Liz" Conley
Of Mill Valley, died peacefully in her sleep on March 17th, 2003 at Marin Terrace Residential Care Facility in Mill Valley from complications of lymphoblastic lymphoma. Elizabeth was 81 years of age. Liz was born in Oregon on February 20, 1922. She received her degree from the University of Oregon before enlisting in the United States Navy in July 1943. As a WAVE her rank was Chief Specialist (X)(CT) V-10. Liz served her active duty in The Bronx, NY and in Washington, D.C. She was honorably discharged in July 1946. As a draftsman, Liz worked primarily on the Naval Air Command Charts for the Pacific Rim. She was awarded the American Campaign Medal and the Victory Medal. Liz served as an active reservist for 29 years and transferred to the Retired Naval Reserves in 1975. She was Past President and a member of the Redwood Empire WAVES Unit 77 of Waves National and a lifetime member of the National Chief Petty Officer's Association. Liz was a Commander of the American Legion Post 8284 in Mill Valley. After her active service duty, Liz joined Cal Trans as a delineator/draftsman. In 1983 she retired from Cal Trans after 30 years of service. Elizabeth had a great capacity for goodness, for giving unconditionally and for loving all creatures, feathered and furred. She was well known for her volunteer service at the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito. She spent many hours doing what no one else wanted to do such as filling the coke machine and transporting specimens to U.C. Davis. Elizabeth is survived by her twin sister, Harriet Kitchens and nephews James and William Kitchens of Alabama and the many friends who loved her. A Memorial Service will be held at The Redwoods Retirement Center, 40 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, CA on Saturday, April 5th, 2003 at 1PM. All are invited. Liz called The Redwoods home for many years and was very happy there. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Marine Mammal Center, 1065 Fort Cronkhite, Sausalito, CA 95965 or The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 1390 Market Street, Suite 1200, San Francisco, CA 94102.
Bradford T. Neff
Age 51, born and raised in San Francisco died accidentally on March 25, 2003. He is survived by his loving wife Catrina, his children Nicholas and Mimi, loving mother Kathleen Neff; sister Tine; brothers Mike and Louie; mother-in-law Ellen Young; father-in-law Bill Young; mother-in-law Loretta Young; brother-in-law Scott Young and many loving nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Louis, Sr.; and his brother-in-law Craig Young. Bradford had a zest for life, an incredible sense of humor and wonderful wit. He lived a life of integrity and Brad's love of his family was genuine and reciprocal -- a joy to behold. Bradford was very devoted to his family, their activities and their happiness. Bradford was an upstanding member of the Walnut Creek community, especially dedicated to youth sports. He was a respected and dedicated coach and manager of Nicky's baseball and Mimi's softball teams. He will be missed by many. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. at St. John Vianney's Church, 1650 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA. A reception will be held immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Neff Children's Fund, c/o Tine Hardy Vernor, 18 Franciscan Ct., Danville, CA 94526.
Lauren A. Copans
A resident of Greenbrae, passed away February 25, 2003 in San Rafael, CA at age 46. She was born in Wilmington, Delaware. She studied landscape design and horticulture at the College of Marin. She was a homemaker and mother of two. Lauren was an avid gardener, sculptor, seamstress, cook and traveler. She received the Marin County Schools volunteer "Gold Bell" award in 1997. She cared for everyone she met and was loved by all who met her. Her husband Dan of Greenbrae, son, Christopher Copans and his wife Gabrielle of Dover, Delaware, and daughter Mollie Copans of Greenbrae survive her. Pastor Steve Henderson conducted services February 26, 2003 at Lucas Valley Community Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
M. Bernice Whitmore Marklinger
March 23, 2003 age 87, died peacefully at home, with her family by her side, of heart failure. Born in San Francisco, in 1915, she had lived in San Rafael since 1919. Graduating from San Rafael High School in 1933, she went on to attend San Francisco State where she became a teacher of Kindergarten through eighth grade. Married in 1941 she had one son. Bernice continued teaching until 1955 when she joined the staff of the San Rafael Public library. After retirement in 1977 she became active in charity work and enjoyed many happy hours working in her garden. Bernice leaves her son Harold Whitmore, his wife Josefina of San Rafael, and two grandchildren, Leif and Shana. She also leaves stepsons Gordon and Robert Marklinger and their families. At Bernice's request there will be no service. A celebration of her life will be held at a future date. Donations in her name may be made to Hospice of Marin.
