United States High School Yearbooks by County
Thomas Neil Marrett
Passed away peacefully on April 7th, 2003 in Springfield Missouri. He was born in San Francisco on July 14th, 1952 and was raised in Novato graduating from Novato High School. He is survived by his loving family: mother, Rita Timmer of Novato; his sister, Lisa Ann Vandergriff of Anchorage Alaska; and his brother, Daniel Marrett of Vallejo. Memorial Service will be private.
Marion Rech
2/21/30 - 4/10/03
Marion was a longtime resident of Mill Valley. She played championship golf in Minnesota in the 40's and 50's before moving out to California. She worked in San Francisco where she led the way for women in the insurance industry by becoming the first supervisor for Workman's Compensation claims. She was adored by her friends and family and will be missed greatly. She is survived by her three sisters and three brothers: Marilyn Peery of Campbell, CA, Rosemary Wellnitz of Kirkland, WA, Joan Donahue of Delwood, MN, Willis Rech of La Quinta, CA, Robert Rech of Thiensville, WI, and Jack Rech of Highland Ranch, CO., and numerous nieces and nephews.
Philip C. Smith
Philip C. Smith, longtime Marin County resident passed away April 3rd, 2003 at Arden Wood in San Francisco. Born in Steubenville, Ohio in 1914, he moved to Ross in 1929, where he attended Tamalpais High School and met his future wife Dorothy. After high school he graduated from University of California at Berkeley in 1936 with a degree in fine art. While raising his family in San Anselmo, he enjoyed both painting and music, having played the cello for many years. Philip was part owner and president of Walker Engraving in San Francisco until he retired in 1980. He served as president of the Marin Society of Artists and the American Photoengravers Association, and was always an active member of the First Church of Christ Scientist in San Rafael. He was a member of the San Anselmo Board of Education before moving to San Rafael in 1963. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, brother Paul of Vacaville, children Judith Hixson of Watsonville, Dorman Smith of Tucson, Paul Smith of Novato, Allan Smith of Reno and Cynthia Marthaler of Vallejo, along with nine grandchildren and 11 great- grandchildren. A Celebration Of His Life will be held in the Montgomery Chapel at the Corner of Bolinas and Richmond Avenues in San Anselmo at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 3rd.
Erling Olaf Willman III (Earl)
Died suddenly on March 8th, 2003 at the age of 44. Erling was a warmhearted, generous man who loved cooking and fishing. Erling attended Novato High School in 1976 through 1978, and made a living doing bodywork and painting cars all over Marin County. Erling is preceded in death by his twin brother Erik and his mother Antoinette (Toni) Willman. He is survived by his son Christopher R. Landi, father Erling O. Willman Jr., sisters Wendy Petersen, Wanda Perkins and Rebecca Willman, and numerous nieces and nephews. Services were private. Donations in his name may be made to Hospice of Marin. He is loved and missed by all.
Angelina Farina
Angie was born in New York City on June 5, 1925, she died peacefully on April 4, 2003. Widow of Gaetano Farina who died in 1967. She is survived by her beloved daughter Toni Casale of Terra Linda, her three grandsons Ralph, Robert and Christopher Casale and son-in-law Ralph Casale. She is also survived by her loving great grandchildren Stanzi, Jack and Isabella Casale and Rachel and Cody Betts. Also survived by loving niece Norma Landman and nephew Vincent Mazziotti of Arizona. Angie was a telephone operator for 19 years at the Northgate Mall in Terra Linda. She made numerous friends easily after moving to California in 1977. Her kindheartedness and 'happy to see you' smile will be missed by many, especially by Dorothy Jorgensen, her long time friend of 20 years. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 18th at 11:00 AM at Mount Tamalpais, 2500 5th Avenue, San Rafael, CA. Donations to your favorite charity. No flowers, please.
Gus Johnson
Was called to his mission for God on April 8th, 2003. He is the beloved husband of 11 years to Connie Vetter-Johnson and devoted father of Darnell Johnson, 24, Catherine Johnson, 10, Mikael Johnson, 8, and Aaron Johnson, 2. Dear brother of Alta Faye Calhoun and Carl Johnson and beloved son of Augustus and Catherine Johnson. Gus was a veteran of the Vietnam War. Gus dedicated his life to children. He was always active in his community on their behalf. Gus was a minister of God and a teacher. He fulfilled his mission in life and will forever be with us in spirit. We will miss you Sensei. Peace and Love. The family is holding a private gathering to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Connie Vetter-Johnson Family Fund through WestAmerica Bank.
In Memory of MEREDITH FORGUSON July 10, 1932- April 15 1998
Your wife of thirty-five years, Marilynne, and your family and friends love and miss you. From all of us.
Norton Hastings
Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Service for Norton Ross Hastings, who passed away on March 4, 2003. The Memorial gathering will take place Saturday, April 19, 2003 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Muir Woods Improvement Club, 40 Ridge Ave, Mill Valley.
Aaron David White Gallagher
Age 20, of Petaluma, died Friday, April 4, 2003 in San Rafael from complications of cystic fibrosis. Aaron was born August 6, 1982, in San Francisco to Margo White. He is the natural son of David Creighton, who preceded him in death. He was adopted and raised by Dennis Gallagher, a long time Mill Valley fire fighter, who died two years ago. He spent his early years in Marin, but primarily grew up in Petaluma, attending McNear Elementary School and Valley Oaks High School. He was loved for his loyal companionship, creativity, tremendous humor and incredible courage. Though he suffered from C.F. his entire life, he never complained, never expressed nor showed self-pity. The quality of his character can be measured by the many good people who were his devoted friends. Aaron was an artist, drummer and renowned lover of barbecue. He was also a mechanic -- rebuilding a classic Cadillac from wheels up. Throughout his life he was a train enthusiast and enjoyed the process of building H.O. Scale Model Railroads. In addition to his mother, Aaron is survived by two younger brothers, James and Daniel of Petaluma, and two sisters, Leah Hassett of Modesto and Sarah Kirley of Vallejo. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Services will held on April 21, 2003. Memorial contributions may be made to The Carousel Fund (17 Buckeye Court, Petaluma).
Virginia Ryerson Johns
A native of Piedmont and former resident of Novato passed away April 4, 2003, after a long illness in Los Angeles, age 84. A loving, joyful and generous person she was devoted to her family and to her beloved Catholic faith. She was an expert seamstress who as a 4-H leader she loved teaching young women home economics. She also was an avid gardener who enjoyed collecting, traveling and as a youngster performing magic. She is survived by her brother, George Ryerson of Florence, Oregon and five children: Harriet, Richard, Jeff, Kathleen, John plus ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The Celebration of her life will occur Wednesday, April 16, 2003 at 10:00 AM with a Funeral Mass to be Celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes, 2808 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland. Robert P. Mack
4/5/1942- 4/5/2003
Robert (Bob) Patrick Mack, a tall, handsome man who mastered whatever interested him, died on his Birthday, April 5, 2003. He was born Easter Sunday in S.F. and graduated valedictorian from Balboa High School, class of 1960. He excelled in sports, particularly track and field. He attended Heald College and studied architecture. His stepfather, Arnold Mack trained him in woodworking from an early age. A superb draftsman with the unique gift of three dimensional vision, he contributed to building the Bart system. An excellent craftsman and artist, he earned master stair builder status. He designed and built the first exterior circular staircase in S.F. and many other custom wooden spiral staircases. Bob was a perfectionist who loved his work. Numerous fine homes stand testimony to his talent. He met his wife, his "amore de vida", artist Jane Richardson, at the 1990 VILLA ALTURA Marin Designer's Showcase. They were married in 1992 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. They lived, loved, laughed and worked together ever since. Bob loved adventure, motorcycle racing, skiing, scuba diving, mountain biking and travelling. He served with distinction in the US military. His strong presence, gracious style, dry wit and warm humour will be missed by all. He is survived by his loving wife, Jane; son, Robert Patrick Mack, Jr.; mother, Alice Mack; brother, Henry Mack, family and friends. Donations may be made in his memory to Pancreatic Cancer, Inc. 1-877-272-6226.
Toma Czerepniowska
Daughter of Gregory and Maria, passed away April 7, 2003. She was born on December 27, 1927 in St. Petersburg, Russia. She emigrated to the United States in the 1950s and settled in the San Francisco Bay area. Toma established a successful interior design sewing studio (Toma Decor Studio). Her work represented talent and attention to detail. A true artist in spirit and execution. Her gentle and refined manner touched the hearts of all who were fortunate to have known her. She will be missed. Toma is survived by her sister Zoya (Victor) Filipov and Helena Meyer; nieces and nephews Luba Arkin, Yuri Filipov, Mary Hrinek, Bob Roberts, Michael Roberts, and Cathy Ulibarri. She leaves behind many loving great nieces and nephews. Panahida Service will be held Monday, April 14, 2003 at 6:00 PM at Monte’s Chapel of the Hills, 330 Redhill Avenue, San Anselmo, CA. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, 102 Ross Avenue, San Anselmo, CA. interment will be at Valley Memorial Park, Novato CA. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Marin or Jewish Family and Children's Services. Monte’s Chapel of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo- 415-453-8440
Mary Dolores (Dee) Fahy
15 August 1925- 9 April 2003
Born Mary Dolores Ortega - Dee Fahy died peacefully on April 9, 2003 at the age of 77. Beloved "Girl Friend" and wife of Kenneth Fahy, widow of Col. Gerald Robinson, mother of four & grandmother of nine. Dee was born and raised in San Francisco, graduated from Washington HS and attended the University of Maryland. She was a direct descendent for the Spanish explorer, Juan Francisco de Ortega - the discoverer of San Francisco Bay. Dee's loves were travel, singing in the St. Sebastian's Choir, playing bridge with friends and volunteering for Hospice of Marin. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Col. Gerald Robinson, who died in 1977. Two years later she married Kenneth Fahy and was blessed with another 23 years of a loving husband. She often reflected to her children how lucky she had been to have married two such wonderful men. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Sebastian's Church in Greenbrae. Reception to follow in church hall. In lieu of flowers please send gifts in Dee's name to the Hospice of Marin Foundation, 21 Tamal Vista Blvd. #101, Corte Madera, CA 94925-1130.
Gerald (Jerry) M. Lynch
Jerry passed away February 20, 2003 in San Antonio, Texas. He had suffered from necrotizing pancreatitis for several years. Jerry was raised in Larkspur and graduated from Redwood High School. He retired from the Air Force as a tech sergeant and lived in Oklahoma City and then San Antonio. Jerry leaves behind his wife Maria Elena and son Dustin, both of San Antonio. He is also survived by his mother Audrey of Carson City, Nevada, his sister Teri Hurt of Stagecoach, NV, sister Elaine Thornton and Alice Kattner of Novato, and a brother Paul Hannel of Little Rock, AR. Jerry's father Ray, preceded him in death in March of 2002. Everyone who knew Jerry was touched by his love of life and wonderful sense of humor. He was a devoted father, husband, son and brother -- he will be greatly missed by all.
John Rogers Peckham
Birthright Quaker and Civil Engineer
John Rogers Peckham, age 73 of Mill Valley passed away April 10, 2003. He was born June 9, 1929 in Wilder, Idaho, son of Cecil Rogers Peckham and Edith Wildman Peckham. His father died in 1942 while he was still in grade school. When his mother was offered a job at the Quaker Boarding School in Chester County, Pennsylvania, he and his brother, Alan Embree Peckham, moved East where both were educated at Westtown. He graduated from Earlham College, a Quaker institution in Richmond, Indiana with a BA in Social Science. He spent over two years in Mexico with the American Friends Service Committee working on projects to bring water to poor communities. Upon his return to the U.S., he entered Purdue University, graduating in 1957 with a BS in Civil Engineering. He worked with the California Department of Water Resource in Sacramento for over 11 years in the South Bay Aqueduct Design, after which he joined the consulting firm of Leeds, Hill & Jewett in San Francisco. In December of 1970 he joined the Marin Municipal Water District where he did project design, project management, supervision and administrative work for over 22 years until his retirement in July of 1992. He was active in the American Concrete Institute, the Bay Area Water Works Association, Water for People Committee raising money for potable water installations in developing countries, and after retirement did consulting work for the Religious Society of Friends. He was a talented photographer and enjoyed his hobbies of astronomy, stamp collecting and mountain climbing, having scaled many high peaks in the U.S. and Mexico. His brother, Alan Embree Peckham of Las Vegas, survives him and many cousins throughout the U.S. Burial will be in Caldwell, Idaho in a family plot. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Donations in his name may be made to the American Friends Service Committee, 1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102. RUSSELL & GOOCH FUNERAL CHAPEL 270 Miller Avenue Mill Valley, 415-388-1573
Paul J. Williams
Passed away on April 8, 2003 at home following a long illness with pancreatic cancer. Born in Marin on May 6, 1953 Paul lived his entire life in the county. He attended St. Anselm's Grammar School and Sir Francis Drake High School. Paul is the son of John S. Williams and the late Anne Williams of San Anselmo. Paul leaves his wife Cara and son Gavin Williams of Woodacre. He also leaves a brother Steve Williams of Windsor, a sister Kathleen Williams of San Anselmo, sister Therese Hoffman of Cotati and the late Susan Ortelle. He also leaves nieces and nephews Tara Williams of San Anselmo, Cassie Ortelle of Petaluma, and Michael, Krista and Patrick Hoffman of Cotati. Paul's career was spent in heavy equipment operation. He was highly respected for his expertise and knowledge in this area. The last eight and a half years he has worked for MMWD at Mount Tamalpais Watershed District. He truly loved all the wonderful people he had the opportunity to work with, and felt blessed to have such a great position on the "Mountain". Paul embraced and loved life to the fullest. He had an incredible sense of humor and intelligent wit. He lived a life of integrity and was always understanding of others. Paul had a deep love and devotion to Cara, Gavin and his family and friends. He was profoundly genuine, honest, caring and giving. He embraced everyone he met through his kind heart and generous spirit. Through Paul's illness he displayed tremendous faith, love and strength in dealing with his cancer. Paul's greatest gift to his family and friends was to show us even in dying how to live to appreciate every moment and to share it with love and laughter. Paul will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched. Friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass on Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 10:00 AM at Saint Anselm's Catholic Church, Ross, CA. A Vigil Service will be held Monday, April 14, 2003 at 7:30 PM at Saint Anselm's Catholic Church. Inurnment Private. Due to Holy Week flowers are not allowed in the church. Contributions in Paul's memory may be made to Mount Tamalpais Watershed Fund, For: Paul Williams Memorial Bench c/o Marin Community Foundation, 5 Hamilton Landing, Suite 200, Novato CA 94949 or Hospice of Marin. Mass Intentions may be made by calling St. Anselm's Church at 415-453-2342. Monte's Chapel of the Hills Family Owned and Operated San Anselmo- 415-453-8440
