Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel Obituaries

Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel: A Compassionate Funeral Home in Santa Cruz

Located at 1050 Cayuga Street, Santa Cruz, CA, 95062, Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel is a trusted funeral home that provides compassionate and personalized services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the community, this funeral home has established itself as a beacon of hope and support during difficult times.

A Legacy of Excellence

Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel has been serving the Santa Cruz community for many years, earning a reputation for its commitment to excellence and dedication to providing exceptional service. The funeral home's team of experienced professionals is trained to handle every aspect of funeral planning, from traditional funerals to cremations and memorial services. Their goal is to provide a meaningful and personalized celebration of life that honors the memory of loved ones.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Elaine Marie McMenamy - Unknown - April 26, 2024

Departed: 04/26/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: January 3, 1945 - April 26, 2024

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday in Aptos for Elaine McMenamy who passed away at her home with her beloved husband at her side. Born in Evanston, Illinois, Elaine moved with her family to Minneapolis at the age of three. She graduated from Southwest High School and attended the University of Minnesota.

Elaine worked in Minneapolis for Prudential Insurance for a time before opening her own breakfast and lunch restaurant in Edina; operating it for 7 years before moving onto an administrative position with the City of Minneapolis. She met the love of her life, Patrick McMenamy while working there and the couple were married, and were to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in June.

In 1976, Elaine and Patrick moved to Southern California and in 2011 to Aptos. Elaine and Patrick felt blessed to have the prayers of their church family at Resurrection Catholic Church throughout Elaine’s battle with cancer. Elaine was a member of the church’s women’s guild and was a very talented artist working with oils, acrylics, and watercolors. She both designed and created beautiful tole painted accessories. She is survived by her husband Patrick McMenamy, her son and daughter-in-law; Michael and Jo-Ellen McMenamy and their two children Finola and Atreyu; her daughter Carol McMenamy and spouse Chris Robisch; daughter, Mary Beth McMenamy; her son and daughter-in-law Kevin and Lisa Mae McMenamy; daughter and son-in-law Nanci and Mark DesJardin; daughter and son-in-law Lisa Marie and Tony Klaers; daughter Tammy Larson. Elaine also leaves her sister Jacquelyn Swenson; nieces Lisa Aanes and Katie DeWitz;

Her grandchilden: Kayla and Daniel McMenamy, Madeleine DesJardin, Sam Morreale, Meagan Strommen and Joseph Larson and 8 great grandchildren. Two infant children, Jennifer, age 1 day and miscarried Chris McMenamy, preceded Elaine in death.

The mass will be celebrated at Resurrection Catholic Church (7600 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA) on Friday May 10 beginning at 11:15 a.m.

Friends may pay their respects at a viewing at the church on Friday morning from 10:15 am until mass begins. An act of charity in her memory can be made to the Knights of Columbus- Resurrection Council #9580 Coats for Kids Program.

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Linda Young Hall - Unknown - April 22, 2024

Departed: 04/22/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: June 27, 1942 to April 22, 2024 Love and Kindness

Everyone who knew Linda knows that these two attributes, love of family and kindness to all, characterized her life. Born in Salt Lake City, UT, on June 27, 1942 to Clint and Ina Young, Linda enjoyed a wonderful childhood, and demonstrated her love for her parents throughout their lives. She attended Highland High School and the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. With her first husband, Richard Newman, she gave birth to her two sons, Troy and Derek, whom she loved completely. After moving to Reno, NV, she became Registrar at Reed High School. (Several of her colleagues say she ran the school!) In Reno she formed several close friendships whose kindness she always reciprocated. In addition to her Registrar responsibilities, she was an advisor to the ski club, drawing on the expert skiing skills she developed while living in UT. At age 50, she married Jim Hall and moved to Aptos CA. She and Jim enjoyed watching three grandchildren, Michele, Zach and Allie, grow into wonderful adults. Linda was well known in Aptos for her friendliness as she rode her green cruiser bicycle throughout the neighborhood and along the beach. She and Jim enjoyed many trips together, including Hawaii, Great Britain, France and Mexico, and summer vacations in Graeagle, CA. Linda is survived by her husband, Jim, sons Derek (Jen) and Troy, grandchildren Michele, Zach and Allie, cousin Pamela and “little sister” Sue Baker.

A private committal will be held in Salt Lake City at Larkin Sunset Lawn. A kind act of chartiy can be made to a Hospice of Santa Cruz County or a charity of your choice.

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John Miller Hill - Unknown - April 15, 2024

Departed: 04/15/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: 1937 - 2024 42 Year Resident of Santa Cruz County

John Miller Hill was born in 1937 to John “Jack” Hill Senior, and Grace Hoyt Hill in St. Paul, MN. On his own merit, he attended Phillips Exeter Academy prep school and Princeton University. After years in New England and abroad, John settled in the Santa Cruz area with his family in 1982, where he continued to work as a recognized leader in the material handling and supply chain industry.

John was a pioneering officer of automatic data collection, material handling and supply chain systems firms with over 100 successful AIDC (bar code, radio frequency identification), material handling equipment and warehouse, and labor and transportation management information systems deployments.

John was a former president of the Material Handling Institute (MHI), member of its Board of Governors and an emeritus member of MHI’s Advisory Roundtable. He was recipient of MHI’s 1997 Norman L. Cahners and 2004 Reed-Apple awards as well as AIM’s 2014 Allan Gilligan and 2018 Dilling awards for contributions to the U.S. material handling and AIDC marketplaces. Known for his oratory skills, he gave over 350 seminars and presentations for academia, corporate clients, professional and trade associations in North and Latin America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Serving as a faculty member at Georgia Tech’s Supply Chain and Logistics Institute brought him great joy and satisfaction.

John’s youth was filled with hockey and soccer, having played both while at Exeter and Princeton. When he was done playing at the top of his game, he taught his girls and went on to coach – taking his eldest’s 11-year-old soccer team to Division Champs. Golf became his ultimate obsession and consumed much of his free time for many decades. He loved the game and the people with whom he played.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Doran. He was a loving father to Jen (Lori) and Sarah (Peter), grandfather to Madison (Rico), Riley, Sawyer, and Miles, and great grandfather to Lily.

John was predeceased by parents Jack and Grace, brother Bob, first wife Maggie McNamara, and daughter Katie. John died peacefully surrounded by family on April 15, 2024. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Services to be held at 11am on Friday, April 19 at Resurrection Catholic Church in Aptos; reception to directly follow at the adjacent Seacliff Inn.

The family requests that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to MHI’s Material Handling Industry’s Education Foundation, Inc. (MHEFI), to the John Hill Scholarship Fund.

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May Goody Taylor - Unknown - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: May (Goody) Taylor passed away peacefully on April 11th. In five more days, she would have celebrated her 93rd birthday. May was born in Oakland, the 7th of 8 children, and was only 6 years of age when her father died. Her mother moved the family to Santa Cruz to raise the kids in a small town. May attended Gault School, Branciforte Junior High and graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1950; working at Ruth’s Hamburger Stand at the Boardwalk while she was a high school student.

May met Clyde Taylor through her next-door neighbor, George Taylor, Clyde’s older brother. George and his wife took May with them to a family picnic in the redwoods at Gazos Creek where the Taylor family had a logging operation. On December 31, 1949, May and Clyde were married in a double wedding ceremony with her sister Betty and Clyde’s best friend Homer. Clyde went into business as Clyde Taylor Excavation with a dump truck, tractor, and May as his secretary/bookkeeper. Along with their excavating business, Clyde and May raised their two daughters, Cathy and Carol and built five houses. They were married for 67 years before Clyde preceded her in death in 2017.

May loved sewing clothes for her daughters, keeping a very clean home, cooking, gardening, decorating for the holidays and taking care of her grandchildren. She and Clyde also loved to travel by RV throughout the western states. May was also preceded in death by her parents Norman and Freida Goody, and six of her siblings: Florence, Harold, Chester, Betty, Donald and Ralph Goody.

Her younger brother Paul; her daughters Cathy Turpen and Carol Newberry and their husbands survive her. She also leaves her beloved grandchildren Tracy, Evan, Taylor, and great grandchildren: Teague, Thoren, and Tobin.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hanover Guest Home and Hospice of Santa Cruz for their loving care of May in her final year. May will be laid to rest with a private interment beside her husband Clyde at Holy Cross Cemetery.

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Vera Ronzano - Unknown - April 09, 2024

Departed: 04/09/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Vera Ronzano, age 89, of Soquel, CA, passed away peacefully on April 9th surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 2, 1935, to Delmer & Cecilia Nedley in Alberta, Canada.

Throughout her life, Vera was known for her extraordinary devotion to various non-profits in the County. In 1962 Vera ran the Knights of Columbus Credit Union from the family home for more than 15 years until they merged with Monterey Bay Credit Union. She was a member of the Young Ladies Institute (YLI), for more than 50 years. She volunteered for Dominican Hospital for 14 years before retiring. She also donated time at the Duran Blind Center for many years and organized and founded Hearts and Hands, a non-profit at St Joseph’s church. During the heat of the corona virus pandemic Vera made more than 1,000 masks and donated them to several convalescent hospitals in the area. Her dedication to service was commendable.

She was a devoted wife to Richard Ronzano, (of 51 years), a loving mother to Shirley Hennessey, Christopher Ronzano, Steven Ronzano, Paul Ronzano, Catherine Earl, Michael Ronzano, Carol Tara, and Thomas Ronzano, and a cherished grandmother to 15 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard and her daughter, Catherine. She is survived by her sister, Geraldine Nedley. Her kindness, compassion, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew her.

Vera had many passions and interests, including knitting, crocheting, playing dominos, and sewing. She found joy in gardening and cooking and shared that joy with those around her. She taught each one of her children to cook at young ages and they all took those skills with them in their individual lives. Vera was a devout Catholic and served as a Eucharistic minister for many years at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Capitola. Her vibrant spirit will be missed by all.

In addition to her family, Vera leaves behind a legacy of good deeds, and random acts of kindness, inspiring all who knew her to live life with purpose and thoughtfulness.

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Steven Joseph Oneto - Unknown - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: November 29, 1952 – April 6, 2024 Native of Santa Cruz Family and friends are mourning the passing of a dear friend and loving father, Steve Oneto who passed away at Dominican Hospital of an aggressive metastatic lung cancer. Born in Santa Cruz to Joseph and Neva Oneto, Steve grew up on his family’s

ranch on upper Branciforte Road in Happy Valley. Steve often spoke of the great childhood memories as a child working and playing among 200 acres of apple, apricot and pear trees.

He attended Holy Cross Elementary and High School (grades 1-12) as his was the last high school graduating class of the school.

Steve served as an altar boy while a student there, and for the last 15 years, was a familiar face at the Saturday evening mass where he served as an usher.

In 1971 and just out of high school, Steve and a business partner purchased the Mobile Service Station on Swift St. and Mission St. what is now the 7 –Eleven store on that corner. His entrepreneurial spirit led him in the direction of purchasing the Union 76 Station on Soquel Drive in 1982. . Steve managed his service station for more than 30 years, and for 12 of those years with his daughter Jenny who co-managed with him. The experience of working side by side brought the two of them much closer.

Steve’s Union was quickly recognized as the cleanest and best-staffed service station in town. Steve had immense pride for his business, and it showed in every detail. He was meticulous in its appearance and the ability to perform repairs in the onsite shop.

He enjoyed raising two daughters while building the business, and when not working, Steve enjoyed coaching GALs Softball at Harvey West Field. Fond memories and stories will continue to be shared of the trips to their condominium in South Lake Tahoe, and Steve’s 1957 Chevy. Steve also sponsored and coached his men’s Fast Pitch traveling softball Team.

Steve was a lover of music, and could be found at many of the local venues where live blues and rock music were performed. He too, played the bass guitar and routinely visited Westlake Pond just to decompress and say hello to folks he met on his walks. He was a member of Santa Cruz old Timers, and he cherished the many friendships made along the way in his life journey.

His two daughters Jenny and Erin Oneto, his two grandsons, Phillip and Angelo Oneto, his brother Danny Oneto and his nephew Philip Oneto survive Steve. Funeral services will be private, and a kind act can be made to Masses offered c/o Holy Cross Church, Dominican Hospital, or a contribution your favorite animal charity.

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Ryan Thomas Gardner - November 07, 1988 - March 31, 2024

Departed: 03/31/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Ryan Gardner, 35, passed peacefully and unexpectedly on March 31, 2024. Ryan was surrounded by family and loved ones during his final days.

Ryan was born in Lompoc, raised in Goleta, and moved to Santa Cruz in 2015. He quickly decided Santa Cruz was his new home. The majestic redwoods, large surf, and rivers called to him. His favorite activity of all-time was fishing. He could be found “throwing a cast” in the San Lorenzo River every open day of Steelhead season. He fished the ocean, river, and streams weekly. He had a personal relationship with the ocean and surfed when the swell was up often hitting Natural Bridges, Wind and Sea, and Año. He was a self-taught musician and played guitar daily. These activities all stemmed from his active youth, creative spirit, and love of the outdoors.

Ryan's curiosity drove all his pursuits from a young child and into adulthood. He never stopped learning and he loved to be good at everything he did. You could often find him watching YouTube videos and listening to podcasts on topics from bitcoin, politics, weather patterns, nature, music, tools, construction, and modification of his Ford truck.

Ryan was a standout athlete growing up in Goleta and enjoyed competition in soccer, basketball, football, and water polo, but his favorite sport was baseball. Ryan attended Goleta Union School District, Goleta Valley Junior High and Dos Pueblos High School where he was an honors student and involved in leadership and Boy Scouts until his senior year. Ryan trained for pro baseball with Santa Barbara City College, the Santa Barbara Foresters 2008-2010, and eventually signed as a free agent with the Cleveland Indians 2010-2011. As a pitcher, Ryan threw consistently in the high eighties, often in the nineties, and topped one hundred many times in his pitching career. He understood the mental game of baseball well, with its more than twelve thousand plays that could occur in one game. He also enjoyed catching and infield. After the minor leagues he continued with his love of the sport, playing on multiple men’s baseball teams including The Expos, The Marlins, and the Whitecaps from 2015 until this 2024 season. Ryan played baseball every weekend during the season and softball on Friday nights with his beloved teammates on the Bunt Pirates. He showed up to every game with a smile on his face; he was humble, supportive and had the best attitude on the field. He played his last game on March 17, 2024.

Ryan was a long-time employee of Hansmann Construction in Santa Cruz and Sage Float Spa in Capitola. Ryan was an expert carpenter and loved all aspects of the building process; especially stain-grade finish work. His work ethic was unmatched and he was a loyal part of the team who showed up happy and ready to work every day. He was respected by his co-workers and clients. He loved to take on side jobs and people all over town depended on Ryan for his multitude of skills. Over the last two years, he proudly remodeled the home he lived in with his girlfriend; completing the finishing touches just weeks before he passed.

Ryan was strong-willed, had an enormous heart, the brightest smile, and a silly sense of humor. He was positive, consistent, and always willing to lend a hand, especially when tools were involved! His talent was extreme.

Ryan is survived by mother Stephanie Gardner, who loved him to no end, calling him every morning to say, “Have a good day,” and, “I love you so much!”, father Robert Gardner; brother Nolan Gardner; half-brother Dallas Gardner; grandmothers Donna Alexander & Marilyn Gardner; aunts Lynne Hargett & Sandra Alexander, Bettina & Tina Gardner; uncles Tom Alexander, Ron Hargett, & Glenn Gardner; cousins Olivia Rottmann, Beau & Matt Manning, Tristen, Dylan Gardner & Zach Gardner; Elana Gainor of Scotts Valley; plus all of his extended family, teammates, friends, clients and co-workers.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Thomas Alexander, and Ronald Gardner.

Ryan is not defined by addiction, which he battled secretly, but rather for his love of living. We loved Ryan for being a dynamic person with so many talents and a positive attitude that would light up the jobsite, dugout, or room! We will always remember his generous, helpful nature and love of fishing, baseball, surfing, guitar- playing and building. He is adored by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten. A private celebration of life will occur on May 11th in Northern California. Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers for Ryan and the Gardner/Alexander Family. Rest In Eternal Peace, Ryan!

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Norma Jean Ratcliff Horn - September 29, 1953 - March 28, 2024

Departed: 03/28/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Norma Jean Ratcliff Horn passed away on March 28, 2024, in Santa Cruz, California. Born to Mary E. and Hugh M. Ratcliff on September 29, 1953, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Norma’s journey through life was marked by her devotion to friends and family, especially her son Travis and her granddaughter Kaila Rose.

Norma had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live in the hearts of all who knew her.

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Alice Ponza - Unknown - March 27, 2024

Departed: 03/27/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Alice was the firstborn daughter of Donald Sr. and Alice Santos. Alice was born at the Yellow Bank Dairy Ranch in Davenport. She had a twin sister, Betty McGinnis, and an older brother, Donald Santos Jr. Alice went to Mission Hill School until 1945 when Donald Sr. bought a large dairy ranch in Scotts Valley and the family moved to Scotts Valley.

Alice went to Santa Cruz High School and graduated in 1953. After high school, Alice did a short stint as a “Pixie” at the famous “Santa’s Village” off Highway 17 in Scotts Valley. Alice moves on to become a secretary at the Santa Cruz District Attorney’s office. Fate intervened at the famous “Barn Dance Hall” in Scotts Valley. Alice met a young Korean War Veteran, Michael James Ponza. Michael was the youngest son of Antonio and Madeline Ponza of Soquel.

Alice and Michael were married at Holy Cross Church in 1955 after a quick romance. Shortly after they started a family. Alice and Michael had six children, David Ponza (Betty Ponza), Geno Ponza (Kimberly Ponza), Gizelle Sipin (John Sipin), Jennifer Ponza, Anthony Ponza (Kirsten Ponza), and Mari Bennadja (Shamss Bennadja).

Alice, Michael, and young David moved from their Scotts Valley home to the Ponza Ranch shortly after Michael’s father died in 1954. Michael’s mother was now alone on the ranch and needed help. The Soquel Ranch is where Alice and Michael raised their six children. Michael was an entrepreneur at heart and soon started his own Soquel excavating company with his older brother, Rob Ponza. Alice and Grandma Madeline known as “Noni,” put their energy into making a home and raising their six children.

Alice was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis when the first four children were young. She has been miraculously in remission for many years. Alice prayed to St Jude daily. PRAYERS WORK. Alice loved being a mother and watching her family grow. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. They brought so much joy to her.

Alice and Michael were able to achieve their lifelong goals of building a strong faithful family. Sadly, Michael was diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer’s Disease and passed in 2011. Her beloved son, Anthony, preceded her in death in 2019.

Alice’s later years were happily spent surrounded by friends at Dominican Oaks Retirement Community. She referred to her new home at Dominican Oaks as the Fountain of Youth and Heaven on Earth. Her family was so happy to know that she had so much love and friendship. Alice was a practicing Catholic and a parishioner at Saint Joseph’s Church in Capitola for over 60 years. She raised her children in the catholic faith and went to mass regularly. Her faith guided and protected her and her family through both good and tough times. Alice’s prayers, rosaries, and Rosary 3 in 1 Ministry were the unseen difference in her life. Her unshakable faith guided her each day. Alice

was not afraid to die. Her faith was that the afterlife was going to be better than this world. Alice welcomed death as the next step to heaven and seeing her loved ones that she missed for so many years.

Recitation of the Holy Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday April 6, 2024 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Capitola with Fr. Wayne Dawson presiding. The rosary will begin at 10 a.m. and the funeral mass will follow at 11 a.m. An act of charity in Alice's memory can be made to St. Joseph's Church.

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Charlotte Belle Giovinazzo - Unknown - March 24, 2024

Departed: 03/24/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Charlotte Belle Giovinazzo (Gibson), beloved sister, mother, grandmother, auntie and friend, passed away on March 24, 2024, in Santa Cruz, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born on December 8, 1949, in Fort Ord, CA, she was the daughter of Shirley and Babe Gibson. Charlotte was raised in Santa Cruz, CA, where she attended Santa Cruz High School, laying the foundation for a life filled with compassion, determination, and a generous spirit. For over 15 years, Charlotte dedicated her career to the William Wrigley Jr. Company, where she exemplified loyalty and hard work. However, her true legacy lies in her unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Whether it was a kind word, a supportive gesture, or a shoulder to lean on, Charlotte's compassion knew no bounds, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Lorraine Erta Millang - Unknown - March 21, 2024

Departed: 03/21/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Aptos for Santa Cruz native Lorraine Millang who passed away at her home with her loving family at her bedside. She was 93 years old. Born to Attilio and Amabile Erta in Santa Cruz, she graduated from Santa Cruz High School and shortly after began a career as a teller with County Bank.

Lorraine married Frank Millang and the couple enjoyed 51 years of marriage. Lorraine’s love for gardening and the time she spent in her yard growing beautiful flowers, along with the many trips to Lake Tahoe will be cherished memoires for her family. She and Frank were active members of the Italian Catholic Federation Branch 227. After she raised her three children, Lorraine went back to work and had a career that spanned over 20 years with County Bank.

She was a long time parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Capitola and served as a member of the Altar Society, and as a Eucharistic Minister.

She is survived by her son Stephen Millang; her daughter in-law Evelien Millang; her three grandchildren; Erich Millang and his wife Courtney; Lori Millang, and Scott Millang; four great grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her beloved husband Frank Millang Sr. in 2002, her son, Frank Millang Jr. 2017, and her two-year-old daughter Sandra Millang.

The mass will take place on Wednesday April 3, 2024 at Resurrection Catholic Church (7600 Soquel Drive) in Aptos beginning at 11 a.m. She will be laid to rest following mass, beside her husband Frank Millang Sr. in the Our Lady of Mt Carmel Cemetery on the church grounds. Friends may pay their respects at a visitation on Tuesday April 2 at Benito and Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel from 12 noon to 4 p.m. An act of charity can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/donate/

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Thomas John Cunningham - Unknown - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: 50 Year Resident of Capitola

Family and friends are mourning the loss of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful friend, Tom Cunningham, who passed away at his Capitola home with his family at his bedside. Born in Vallejo, California, Tom graduated from St. Vincent High School and served his country as a United States Marine during the Korean conflict. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 64 years, Millie Cunningham, who preceded Tom in death March of 2023. Tom and Millie volunteered their time in assisting others with various organizations. Tom was a familiar face at California Grey Bears Thrift Store on Chanticleer; making friends while volunteering his time to this wonderful organization.

Tom and Millie were long time parishioners of St. Joseph’s Catholic Community in Capitola. They were devoted Catholics, and when Tom could no longer drive, Fred and Lesa Wheeler volunteered to bring him to church.

Tom was an avid long distance runner and competed in 21 marathons and 1 ultramarathon. Tom cherished the lifelong friendships made with running buddies, known as ’The Bizarre Buzzards’.

His family, although deeply saddened by his passing, will never forget the examples he set for them by always choosing integrity and commitment in all endeavors.

Tom is survived by his daughters Susan Paradiso, and Kathie James; his son and daughter-in-law Steve and Dena Cunningham, his beloved grandchildren: Tyler, Conner, Elliot and Jack. Tom was preceded in death by his older brother Mike and younger sister Carol He will be laid to rest with Military Honors on Tuesday May 14, 2024 at California Central Coast Veteran’s Cemetery, (2900 Parker Flats Rd) in Seaside beside his beloved wife Millie. The ceremony will begin at 9:30 a.m. A kind act of charity can be made in Tom’s memory to California Grey Bears 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz 95065

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Barbara Talpas Canfield - March 25, 1932 - March 11, 2024

Departed: 03/11/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Barbara Talpas Canfield, of Santa Cruz, 91, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Barb was the second oldest of seven children born to Samuel and Lucille Hazel of Indianapolis, Indiana. She grew up in the Midwest farm country during and after the war years of the 1940s. She loved jitterbugging and found a dance partner for life in Al Talpas. They began their life together in Cleveland, Ohio and raised a family of eight children before Al's career took them to San Jose California in the mid 1970s.

Barb always had an open door, an extra plate at the table, and an accepting heart for so many people throughout her life. She helped raise grandbabies, welcomed strays and any friend who needed a helping hand. She was an artist, nurse, teacher, cook, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

She is preceded in death by her first husband Albert Talpas, her second husband Kale Canfield, and her daughter Terry Papaleo. SHe is survived by her children Sue (and Lee) Potts, Jackie (and Vito) Scotese, Pam Dent, Kathy (and Tom) Ramey, Al (and Acacia) Talpas, Mary (and Sandy) Talpas, Lisa (and Scott) Andersen; grandchildren Michella, Skip, Rick, Lara, Julia, Vito, Nicole, Vanessa, Anthony, Kathy, Sonya, Jennifer, Jared, Charles, Maria, Trevor, Cameryn, Elisabeth, Christina, Alexandra, Lauren, Soren, Steffen; and many, many great-grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren. She was very loved.

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Jr Diego Lopez Perez - October 30, 1982 - March 08, 2024

Departed: 03/08/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Jr Diego Lopez Perez, age 41, passed away on March 8, 2024 in Santa Cruz, California. He was born on October 30, 1982 to Emelina Urias and Diego Lopez Lopez. He was a native of Santa Cruz County. He attended Branciforte Middle School and later obtained his GED.

Throughout his life Diego lived Colorado, Sacramento,and Santa Cruz. Diego loved riding his bike all over town and cruising along the beach. He enjoyed listening to music and enjoyed freestyle, oldies, R&B, Hip Hop, Regional Mexicano, and urban music. He loved caring for his dog Macy. He also liked to watch movies. He enjoyed catching up with family over the phone, especially his sister. He loved working out and loved eating. He loved joking around and making people laugh.

He had a goofy personality and a beautiful smile that was contagious. He has always been very handsome since he was born until now. Diego is survived by his mother, Emelina Urias; step-father, Alfredo Urias; sister, Ariana Lopez; daughter, Adriana Marie Lopez Espinoza; brother, Bruno Lopez; 3 aunts and five unlces. Diego is preceded in death by his father, Diego Lopez and his sister, Nayely Lopez.

A Viewing will take place at 10am on Friday, March 22 at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel with a Funeral Ceremony to begin at 11am. A Committal Service will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery. All are invited to attend a gathering following the services. In lieu of fowers, contributions may be made to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/diego-lopez-perez

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Ronald Chris Williams - Unknown - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Ronald Chris Williams passed at his home in Capitola surrounded by his family on the evening of March 4, 2024.

He was born 83 years earlier on March 5, 1941, in Hollister, CA. as the oldest child of Russell and June Williams. His younger years were spent in Hollister and Santa Cruz with his parents and two sisters, Kathy and Cindy. As a teenager, he lived in Hollister with his grandparents Chris and Ruth Smith and he raised wild owls and hawks. He later joined the Navy and travelled the world on the aircraft carrier “Bonham Richard”. After his return to Santa Cruz, he became a master in several styles of martial arts, achieving a tenth-degree black belt in karate. Ron also thrived in small business, owning a local car stereo shop, The House of Sounds, which he expanded to include other car services as well as property management. His family remembers him as a “MacGyver”, solving problems using just what he had around (duct tape and bungee cords were favorites). He loved his friends and family deeply. Later in life, his Catholic faith became very important to him and he attended mass daily at Resurrection Church.

He is survived by his daughters Ronda Williams and Taylor Capozziello (Corey), grandson Tim Barnes (Ashley Lynch), great-granddaughter Isla Barnes, sister Kathleen Mitchell (Lee), niece Melissa Ruelas (Frank), nephews Lawrence Mitchell (Ana), Lance Mitchell (Kiera), Scott Montagna, and Mike Montagna.

A Celebration of Life will be celebrated on Saturday, March 23, beginning at 9:30 am at Resurrection Catholic Church (7600 Soquel Drive in Aptos) A committal ceremony with military honors will immediately follow at Holy Cross Cemetery on 7th Ave in Santa Cruz at 11am with a reception to follow.

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Bruce Edward Eggleton - July 04, 1939 - March 04, 2024

Departed: 03/04/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Bruce Edward Eggleton, 84, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at his home in Scotts Valley, CA on March 4, 2024.

Bruce was born on July 4, 1939, in Minneapolis, MN to Cecil and Mae Eggleton. He was the older brother to three sisters, Gail, Joan, and Lynn. Bruce spent his time in Minnesota running around with friends, building model boats, and canoeing. From childhood, one of the most consistent themes in Bruce’s life was his role as a handyman. Bruce could conceptualize a solution to any problem and execute it.

When Bruce was 16, his family moved to Santa Barbara, CA where Bruce attended Santa Barbara High School. He was known in town for his award-winning “phone booth on wheels,” a beautiful 1927 Model T that he restored and maintained.

Bruce graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 1962 with a bachelor’s degree. There, he met his incredible wife, Pat, and the two married on June 30, 1962. Shortly after their wedding, the pair moved to Tucson, AZ, where Bruce proudly served in the US Air Force as a First Lieutenant. In Arizona, Bruce and Pat enjoyed picnicking with neighbors, barbecuing with friends at Mount Lemmon, and becoming parents to their son Keith.

In 1966, Bruce and Pat moved to Santa Maria, CA and in 1968, they welcomed their daughter Carol. While living in Santa Maria, Bruce enjoyed a lengthy, successful career as a salesman at IBM and showcased his humor by performing in office skits and at happy hours with co-workers. To this day, IBM timecards with handwritten instructions for various processes can be found throughout Bruce’s house. After retiring from IBM, he worked as the YMCA Membership Director and, in his spare time, enjoyed camping, swimming, and completing a variety of home projects.

Many of Bruce’s fondest memories were formed on road trips with Pat. Over thousands of miles, Pat drove and Bruce occupied the passenger seat, often reading the newspaper out loud. Always equipped with camping chairs and a cooler, the two traveled to all fifty states, many historical sites, and visited lots of friends along the way.

Bruce made friends everywhere he went and famously had a knack for learning about others. His curiosity was endless, and you could often hear him ask questions such as “How long have you been working here?” or “What brought you here today?” To everyone’s amazement, he would typically leave conversations knowing the other person’s life story. As described by his daughter, Bruce had a “superpower” of connection. He had an unparalleled sense of humor and could never resist telling a good joke. He could offend no one no matter what question he asked because he always had a playful twinkle in his eye.

In 1999, Bruce and Pat became grandparents and in 2003, the two moved to Scotts Valley, CA to live closer to the growing family. Bruce had six grandchildren and was affectionately known by them as Papa or Pabu. Family was extremely important to Bruce – he loved his grandchildren hard and teased them even harder. He continued his role as a builder and a fixer, and crafted his family a plethora of desks, sandboxes, soapbox derby cars, toy chests, mirror frames, and even a life-size wooden horse. Trips to Kauai forged memories the family will cherish forever.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 62 years, Pat, son Keith (Erin), daughter Carol Snell (Jim), and grandchildren Katie, Charlie, Aya, Maggie, Jimmy, and Annie. The family is holding a service to celebrate Bruce’s life on March 26, 2024, at 10 am at San Agustin Catholic Church in Scotts Valley, CA.

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David Charles Spencer - Unknown - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Dave Spencer passed away on Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024 after a long battle with skin cancer. He was 76 years old. Dave fought his illness mostly in private because he didn't want people to worry about him. He was so strong, courageous, loving, generous, and quiet but full of wit until his last breath.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Karen (Porath) Spencer, who passed in 2015. He is survived by his 2 children, Chris & Kelly Spencer, Chris' wife Shannon and their kids Brady & Sean, Kelly's daughter, Makena, his godchildren and many other family members. He was an amazing dad, papa, friend, manager, coach, role model, and good human. Family was everything to Dave.

Dave was born in San Diego, and his family moved to Santa Cruz when he was 2 years old. Dave attended Live Oak Elementary, Del Mar Jr high, and Soquel High. He played youth baseball in Live Oak Little League, Mid County Pony League, and various leagues after that. After completing high school, his passion for cars led him to automotive training school. He then started his career as an automotive technician at Prolo Chevrolet in Santa Cruz. Little did he know, that would lead him to a 50+ year career in the auto business. He progressed through the business as a service manager, general manager, and owner. He always cherished the relationships that were built during his profession, from employees to customers. He considered his employees like family.

Dave's passion for coaching started in 1966 for Mid County Pony League. For the next 30 years, he coached various basketball and baseball teams around the county. He finished his coaching career as the basketball coach at Soquel High, where he retired in 1994. He truly loved the relationships that were built from his coaching years, and he considered his players family as well.

Some things about Dave that he loved...his family, his friends, Chris and Kelly's friends, his players, his employees, cars (he could name any car year, make & model just by glancing at it), car auctions with the fast talking auctioneer, steak & potatoes dinner,Bud light & olives, trips to Hawaii, donuts, sporting events, playing golf at all the nice courses, the Northstar house (even though he didn't ski but loved having a fun vacation house for family & friends), gravy with a side of mashed potatoes, mounds of whipped cream with a tiny slice pumpkin pie, fixing things, the quote..."Team work makes the dream work" (by John C. Maxwell), treating everyone with respect, rooting for the underdog/underprivileged and guiding them in any way he could, driving/road trips(he wouldn't think twice about driving down & back to UCSB in one day for Chris' baseball game or Kelly's tennis match), the candy drawer in his office, surprising a kid with a $20-$100 bill on their birthday or for no reason at all (he LOVED seeing the look of shock & happiness on that kid's faces when he did that).

A running theme throughout all the condolences we've received was that he was like a SECOND FATHER to them, the BEST COACH they ever had, the BEST BOSS they ever had. It makes us feel honored that he influenced and affected so many in such a positive light. He truly has no idea how many lives he has impacted. He never looked for attention or recognition, he just always did the right thing.

As much as we'd like to celebrate Dave with a big party, he was adamant that he did not want a funeral. He did not like a lot of attention, so we are trying to work on a video montage that we will share it when completed. In the meantime, please raise a glass to cheers & celebrate Dave for the incredible man he was and wonderful life he lived and keep his memory alive.

Thank you to everyone who has already reached out to us. We have been so touched by all the love and support we've been given. It warms our hearts to hear your stories about how much he affected your lives and to know how loved, admired, respected he was. Thank you for sharing and thank you for being his friend. He is already deeply missed. The only thing bringing us comfort is knowing that he is back together with our mom, the love of his life, his high school sweetheart, Karen Spencer.

In honor of Dave, let's all try to be more kind, generous, hard working (while having fun too) and continue to spread love, positivity & encouragement.

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Alfred Hayden Reeves - January 25, 1951 - February 26, 2024

Departed: 02/26/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Alfred Hayden Reeves entered the world on January 25th, 1951, in the hip town of San Francisco. This is where he learned to wear skinny jeans and tapered shirts, smoke Virginia Slims and drink dirty martinis. He was born to Joe and Ruth, and had an older sister named Bonnie Jo, whom Al described as “four years older and just a little bit uglier than me.” Bonnie was also the one who tapered his shirts. For the first 18 years of his life, Al lived in Brisbane and then San Bruno. Al attended Capuchino High School. The school’s mascot was the Mustangs, which also coincidentally turned out to be three of his future children’s mascot at Monte Vista High School. Who knew such a majestic horse would bring the whole family together? It is unclear if he was classmates with Suzanne Somers, but we all like to think her celebrity rubbed off on him. He often spoke of needing to maintain his “boyish figure.”

At the age of 19, Al joined the U.S. Air Force and put his self-described Ansel Adams-level photography skills to good use by developing film from SR-71 Blackbirds during the Vietnam War. After he left the service, his sister drove him to a company named Plantronics and told her hippie brother to, “Get in there and get a job. You’re not coming home unless you have one.” Well, he managed to get one, and thanks to his formidable work ethic, he rose through the ranks over the decades, retiring as Senior Director of Quality Assurance. Such an illustrious position sent him all around the world to check on Plantronics’ factories, places like Mexico, Korea, Japan, and China. In the office, he was given the nickname “Dr. No,” because he would constantly tell his colleagues their ideas were impossible. It could also have been because he was a major James Bond fan. One of Al’s greatest achievements was helping his company secure the 2013 Secretary of State’s Award for Corporate Excellence. Al got to travel to Washington, D.C. to receive the prize from none other than Secretary John Kerry. If you know anything about Al’s politics, meeting Kerry was practically at the top of his bucket list.

On September 26th, 1981, Al and Annie Kearney welcomed into the world their beautiful daughter, Jessica, named after the mother of Paul Artreides from the hit sci-fi book, Dune. One Christmas, Al took Jess to Yosemite, and they stayed at the Ahwahnee Hotel. They had high tea at three, and then went to the Ahwahnee Christmas feast. He made her feel like the most special person in the world, which she will always remember him as having done.

On June 21st, 1992, Al married Katherine Massena; she, along with her two sons, Casey and Andrew, joined Al’s family. Together, they went on many memorable trips. One such trip involved a foray into beautiful Alberta, Canada, where the family stayed at the preeminent Prince of Wales hotel and were treated to the finest of luxury living. This included a round of golf at a course that chose to turn the sprinklers on every inch of grass as soon as Al arrived, ensuring his 9am tee off turned into a soaking mess at every hole. The family left Canada with a newfound appreciation for the United States, which was expressed through Al and Jess kissing the soil as soon as the family crossed the border. The family stayed state-side after that, venturing to such places as Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Lolo, and Lahaina.

Over the years, Al assiduously and meticulously crafted his children into inimitable creatures. Knowing Casey and Andrew needed to “toughen up,” he enrolled them in a program called Junior Life Guards, where they were instructed to swim in the freezing Pacific Ocean on the first day, and were rescued from drowning by several lifeguards, also on the first day. In addition, he taught his children the fundamentals of democracy. When Jess, Casey, and Andrew voted to eat dinner out one night, Al overruled them, declaring, “I’m at least six kids,” to which Jess replied, “You’re at least six pigs.” Finally, though he modeled a strong work ethic, he also taught the importance of prioritizing family. One beautiful day, he pulled Jess from school. Knowing she loved the ocean, he brought her to the beach, and together, they splashed in the water, bobbing up and down in a moment that wove together eternity.

He always put family first. The proof of that was in many things, but foremost: his monumental ability to become and stay sober on November 20th, 1987.

Al was inexplicably frugal, often purchasing his clothing at rundown department stores. But he did like to shop. Two of his most prized purchases were a Corvette and a commemorative Harley-Davidson motorcycle. You could find him at Costco on Saturdays, going up and down every single aisle, filling his cart with things his family neither needed nor even asked for, or eating a Polish hot dog with sauerkraut. It didn’t matter if he was in Santa Cruz or Hawaii; you could find him at Costco.

In April of 1997, Al met Cindy at a social event. As mentioned above, he was a frugal man, and in keeping with this sacred way of life, he took her to frozen yogurt on their first date, strictly forbidding any toppings. But he stepped up his game for the second date. Cindy had just returned from a triathlon with her girlfriend, Joan. She had a message on the machine from Al, asking her out to dinner so they could celebrate her accomplishment. She looked at Joan and said she did not want to go out that night. Joan replied, “Cindy, it’s a free dinner.” So she went. They ate at Olitas. And the rest is history. They dated for five years. Al unfailingly called Cindy every night to tell her goodnight, even when he was traveling in other countries. By the end of the five years, Cindy asked Al the big question: “Where is this relationship going?” From her perspective, she needed to know if there was a future. From his, she was giving an ultimatum. But he gave his answer. One evening, at Pine Mountain Lake, Al did the most romantic thing: he randomly blurted out, in a robustly monotonous tone, “What kind of ring do you want?” Her reaction, quite understandably, was fury. After five years of courtship, this was his “proposal.” Needless to say, a do-over was in order. During their marriage, Al and Cindy rode their Harleys to Sturgis and Milwaukee, two of the hottest destinations in the continental United States. They would take turns being in the lead. Whenever Al was in front, Cindy would fall far behind him; when she was in the lead, she would drive at 90mph. Al didn’t want Cindy so far behind, and he also didn’t want her riding so dangerously fast, so he asked her if it was possible for them to be closer together without going at breakneck speeds. They found they could accomplish this by riding side-by-side. They did this for the rest of the trip, and you might even say, they continued to do this for the rest of their marriage. Cindy once said, “Wherever we went, whatever we did was magical. He was everything to me: amazing, sincere, loving, generous, patient, gentle.”

Between the two of them, Al and Cindy already had four children. Al’s were Jess, Casey, and Andrew. And Cindy’s was Kristen. With so many mouths to feed and not enough marmalade to go around, Al and Cindy decided to ditch having human babies, and opted for dog babies, instead. Their first canine was an English Springer Spaniel that they aptly named Harley Davidson. The veterinarian described Harley as a “lemon,” and he certainly lived up to that reputation, being continually prone to seizures. But he was a sweet dog, and very playful. Al and Cindy added to their family Penelope, who was originally Bonnie’s, but came to live with Al and Cindy in 2014 when Bonnie passed away. Two years later, Harley passed. But then, two years after that, Al and Cindy welcomed a new member into the family, Maka, a dog they had met in Kaua’i. Al loved dogs. In fact, he loved them so much, he even turned his beloved, impeccable—save for a scratch Andrew left on the left passenger door, trying to get his bike out of the garage, an incident Al made sure he would never forget—Eddie Bauer Edition Ford Explorer into a dog mobile, laying down the back seat to make it more comfortable for them to ride with him.

At the age of 73, Al passed away peacefully in his home in Santa Cruz on February 26th, 2024, having lived 37 years of sobriety, for which his family is immensely proud of him. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; his four children, Jess, Casey (and his wife Catie), Andrew (and his wife, Lindsay, and children, Tova and Bodie), and Kristen (and Joe, and their two sons, Anthony and Logan); and his two nieces, Cheryl (and her husband Charlie, her sons, Taylor and Hunter, and Taylor’s girlfriend, Tosha), and Aimee (and her husband Donald, and two sons, Vincent and Joe).

Flowers can be sent to Benito & Azzaro Pacific Garden Chapel. In lieu of gifts, please donate to the Kaua’i Humane Society.

Al’s memorial celebration will take place at 11am on Thursday, March 7th at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel in Santa Cruz, CA. He will be buried the next day with his immediate family and closest friends at the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery.

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Joey Keith Tuttle - April 29, 1942 - February 26, 2024

Departed: 02/26/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Joey Keith Tuttle passed away Monday, February 26, 2024, in Santa Cruz, California, at the age of 81 years old. He was born in Corvallis, Oregon on April 29, 1942, the only son of Mabel Angeline (Flowers) and Christopher Columbus Tuttle Jr.

Joey is survived by three daughters, Cheri Tuttle (James) Callis of Castroville, Heather McKenna of Sutter Creek, and Michelle Tuttle of Santa Cruz, Calif. He is also survived by grandchildren Hannah Flock and Calvin McKenna. He is preceded in death by his son, Mark Tuttle and his parents Mabel and Columbus Tuttle.

Joey grew up in Houston, Missouri and lived in the apartment attached to his parent’s business, Tuttle Utility Gas. He graduated Houston High School in 1960 and married his high school sweetheart Stella Pauline Markunas. In High School he was an outstanding science student and Science Club Officer, He was also part of the marching band and orchestra playing the trumpet. Joey and Stella moved to Rolla, MO where he attended Missouri University of Science and Technology and earned his BS and MS of EE in Physics. He was a member of Tau Beta Pi and Sigma Pi Sigma. His thesis subject concerning atmospheric radiation transfer in/near pollution was a bit ahead of its time. His interests always gravitated towards science, and he started with IBM even before graduating from college. At IBM he was a Senior Engineer and Member of IBM Yorktown Research APL group.

He worked with IBM until 1977 and moved many times across the country with the APL group. Cheri and Michelle were born in Longmont, CO, and his son who unfortunately died as an infant was born in Pennsylvania. The APL group eventually moved to Palo Alto, CA where his daughter Heather was born. He joined I.P. Sharp in 1977 and was Vice President of Development and Operations. IP Sharp was acquired by Reuters, and he became the VP of Technology/Research/Development/Operations. Most of his work involved the computer language APL, and he even worked to design a font for the language. His work took him to many places around the world and he worked with many people involved in the development of computers and the internet. He always enjoyed working on a mathematics puzzle or programming challenge and led many fellow engineers on multiple projects and held numerous patents. He moved on from Reuters to Fax Focus/Magnacom as CTO and founding partner., and then was CIO of Marketmaker Capital. He volunteered with the local SCORE group, freely giving his time to local businesses who needed technology advice. He helped at Porter Memorial Library as technical support.

He became a resident of Aptos in 1992. He had many friends locally and he enjoyed attending music concerts, plays, and lectures particularly at the Computer History Museum or The Long Now. He became a member of UUFSCC in November 2018 and was on the Tech Committee as the Fellowship endeavored to stay connected and active through the pandemic. He was always ready to meet someone over a cup of coffee or lunch. He became a resident of Brookdale Senior Community in July 2022 after a number of health complications but was active and cheerful with his new friends and neighbors. He served as VP and then President of the Brookdale Residents Association.

A service will be held at 10 am Saturday, March 9th at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel.

Memorial contributions can be made in Joey’s name to The Computer History Museum, https://chm.secure.nonprofitsoapbox.com/donate or The Porter Library, 3050 Porter Street, Soquel, CA 95073, 831-475-3326 or to a charity of your choice.

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Lydia Christine Gonzalez - September 01, 1952 - February 25, 2024

Departed: 02/25/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Lydia Christine Gonzalez, known as Christina by friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2024 in Aptos, California. Christina was born in San Francisco, California on September 1, 1952. She lived in Ohio and grew up in Tucson, Arizona before moving to California to complete her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from San Diego State and Master’s degree in Social Work from UC Berkeley. Most recently she lived at Redwood Shores and in Santa Cruz, California.

Christina dedicated her life to helping others. As a licensed clinical social worker she specialized in adolescent mental health. Her 12 nieces and nephews can attest to her special way with young people. She was an avid runner with the Wharf to Wharf in Santa Cruz being her favorite race of the year. She loved to salsa dance, eat quesadillas and feel the warm sun on her face. Her family rejoices having known Christina for her love of life and kindness. They are at peace knowing she is no longer suffering and is made whole in the presence of the Lord.

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Robert (Bob) Albert Burruss - November 21, 1944 - February 25, 2024

Departed: 02/25/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Family and friends are mourning the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, mentor, teacher, coach, and friend, Robert (Bob) Albert Burruss who passed away with his loved ones at his side in Capitola, California on February 25th, 2024.

Bob was born in Santa Monica, California but spent the happiest years of his life raising his family in Salinas, California and later in his retirement on the North Umpqua River, Oregon. Bob earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and teaching credential from San Jose State University and spent the entirety of his teaching career (1970-1997) at Salinas High School where he was a gifted teacher in woodshop, pottery, drafting, yearbook and also a respected football coach. Known simply as “Coach” to many students, Bob had a significant impact on thousands of young lives throughout his career. He took great pride in empowering students and players and showing them their true potential.

Following retirement, Bob combined his passion for teaching with his love of fly-fishing and worked as a fly-fishing guide on the Umpqua River. He taught anglers the joy and secrets of catching steelhead on the North Umpqua River. His popular guide trips were described in Fly Rod & Reel magazine and John Gierach’s book, Fool’s Paradise.

Bob loved his life on the river and painstakingly built every inch of the family’s beautiful home on the river while Barbara built the foundation of every experience inside the home. When he wasn’t fishing, you could find him throwing clay in his custom pottery studio or restoring his 1952 Chevy truck. In 2020, he and Barbara moved to Capitola to be closer to family and the care of physicians at Stanford Hospital. In 1978, Bob underwent a double bypass surgery and is believed to have been the longest surviving person of this surgery. Like the lessons he imparted to his family and students, Bob persevered through the setbacks of life and never lost sight of what he valued the most, his family.

Bob will be remembered for his brilliant mind, artistic talent, and hilarious story telling ability. He made an indelible imprint on everyone who knew him. His legacy of love, wisdom and unforgettable “Burruss-isms” will endure through his family, friends, and generations of students and players. His total devotion to his soulmate Barbara and his three daughters will be cherished forever.

Bob is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara, his three daughters Cheri Burruss (Kent) Wiley, Michele Burruss (Joe) Sherer, Nicole Burruss (Eric) Fleck, brother Richard Burruss, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In honor of Bob, the family asks that you toast a margarita on your favorite river to Bob, make a donation to Hospice or Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, or send your condolences and favorite memories to Barbara Burruss at P.O. Box 962 Capitola, CA 95010. You can also view his obituary and make comments at pacificgardenschapel.com. The family will be holding a small, private celebration of life at a later time.

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Barbara Louise Taylor Driscoll - Unknown - February 22, 2024

Departed: 02/22/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: 90 Year Resident of Santa Cruz County

We’re not saying goodbye, we’re saying “Until we meet again!” to Barbara “Babs” Louise Driscoll, who, on February 22, 2024, at the spry age of 94, decided to sneak out of life’s back door to join her parents Theodore and Genevieve Taylor. They are playing cards right now.

Born on the sun-kissed sands of San Clemente CA, on August 18, 1929, Babs danced into the world with a hula hoop on her hip and a twinkle in her eye. She left Watsonville High School with her diploma where she was known for driving her baby blue Nash that used a fork as the ignition key and a trail of laughter, and then polished off her studies in San Francisco at dental college , flossing away any doubt that she’d leave her mark on the world. Like everyone, life moves us in different directions, for Barbara this was excelling in the floor covering industry at Haber’s and Hilton Interiors, where she was a champion of women in construction. She was responsible for all of the floor covering during UCSC’s construction and worked on many projects with the Army Corps of Engineers.

Barbara is lovingly remembered by her younger sister Mariedda Taylor Berbert, who says Barbara was always the favorite ! Her children Kathleen Louise Hallam and Ted Shannon Driscoll, and a gaggle of grandchildren Kara Wyatt, Ryan Hallam, Jeffery Hallam (who was her caregiver these last few years ) and Athena Driscoll and great- grandchildren Logan Wyatt, Taylor Wyatt, Holly Hallam who have all inherited her zest for life.

She will also be missed by her many nieces and nephews who called her Auntie Barb! She is preceeded in death by her ex-husband James William Driscoll and her dearest friend Al Pound.

Barbara grew up in the Watsonville Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was unshakable, much like her determination to always embrace life. Barbara’s celebration of life will be held on August 17th at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 220 Elk Street. Services will begin at 11:00, with reception to follow. Please join us in the recognition of her life will lived. Her sparkle will be missed.

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Clinton Maywood Blount - October 16, 1947 - February 22, 2024

Departed: 02/22/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Clinton M. Blount of Aptos, CA died on February 22 of complications from Covid. He was 76.

Clinton was a loving husband, a beloved uncle and a highly respected anthropologist, ethnographer and oral historian.

California Native Americans were the focus of Clinton’s long career. He played a significant early role in the protection and preservation of cultural resources, conducting some of the first cultural resource and traditional cultural property studies in Central and Northern California, especially those involving large infrastructure improvement projects. He was also among the first researchers to use the newly compiled notes of legendary ethnographer and linguist John P. Harrington.

Clinton’s ethnographic work among the Native American Pomo communities of Lake Sonoma in 1974 was the first federally sponsored purely ethnographic research aimed at developing mitigation recommendations for a large federal project. Equally groundbreaking was his work on the Gasquet-Orleans Road (G-O Road) project. This project, which dealt with Native religious practices, eventually made its way to the Supreme Court and was in many ways a precursor to the development of the study of Traditional Properties under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

Over many decades, Clinton also worked on numerous oral history projects, including a multi-year recording project for the U.S. Army’s Fort Hunter Liggett in Monterey County; the oral history of Doc Rickett’s Lab (immortalized by John Steinbeck) for the City of Monterey; the oral autobiography of Tom Cade, leader of the recovery program for U.S. populations of the Peregrine falcon; and the oral history of the W.W. II defenders of Wake Island. At the time of his death, he was engaged by the CA State Parks in an oral history of the early leaders of its resource management program.

Clinton had a passion for discovery. If there was a jewel to be found, he unearthed it—a fishing hole in the Sierra, a hat store in Oakland, a used bookstore on Cape Ann, a bar in North Beach, a bistro in Paris. When his interest was piqued, he dove in and learned everything there was to know about a subject: music, food, travel, photography. A late-in-life love of chamber music inspired him to join the volunteer corps at Music@Menlo, where he was a stalwart for many summers. No one made a better Manhattan than Clinton.

Clinton was born in Sacramento in 1947, the only child of Charles and Leone Blount. He received a B.A. (1970) and M.A. (1971) in Anthropology at California State University, Sacramento.

He is survived by his wife, Margo Crabtree; his brothers-in-law Art Crabtree and Bill Hirsch; his sisters-in-law Vicki, Bobbi and Betsy Crabtree; his niece Katharine Egan-Lustrin (Mike); and his nephews Toby Crabtree (Monika), Ben Crabtree (Chelsea), Zach Egan and Brady and Jack Hirsch. He was predeceased by his brothers-in-law Peter Crabtree and Tom Egan.

Donations in Clinton’s memory may be made to the Second Harvest Food Bank, Watsonville, California. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 15th, from 2-5 pm at Bargetto Winery on 3535 North Main Street, Soquel, CA. Please RSVP by May 20 at margo.crabtree@gmail.com

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Augustine Daniel Gomes - April 26, 1952 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Augustine Daniel Gomes, a beloved artist, musician, and storyteller, passed away peacefully in Palo Alto, California, at the age of 71. He was born on April 26, 1952, in Stockton, California, to Augustine and Melba Gomes.

Augustine lived a rich and colorful life, embodying the spirit of a global citizen with residences in California, Washington, Italy, and Greece. Raised in Santa Cruz, he went on to earn an associate degree from Cabrillo College. He also attended the San Francisco Academy of Art, nurturing his passion for the arts.

Augustine proudly served in the military at Ft. Lewis, Washington, from 1972 to 1974, achieving the rank of E-4 and receiving an honorable discharge. He then pursued his artistic dreams, becoming an accomplished and celebrated artist and musician. Augustine was also an aspiring filmmaker, showcasing his talent as a lifelong storyteller.

A vibrant member of his community, Augustine was known for his involvement in local art, storytelling, and music circles. His passion for creativity and expression touched the lives of many.

Augustine is survived by his loving brother, Larry Champion. He was preceded in death by his parents, Augustine and Melba Gomes.

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Raymond E. Ward - Unknown - February 16, 2024

Departed: 02/16/2024 (Santa Cruz)

Obituary Preview: Raymond E. Ward

Raymond Ernest Ward, born January 16, 1930, passed away on February 16, just a month after his 94th birthday. Ray was the only child of Ernest and Alice Ward in San Jose, CA. Ray’s childhood was spent living at Alum Rock Park in San Jose where his Dad was park superintendent. The park was his playground and he had many fond memories of his time there. Ray’s Dad loved the ocean and bought a beach house in Santa Cruz within walking distance of the Boardwalk. Ray and his Mom would spend the summers at the beach house enjoying the ocean and the Boardwalk.

When Ray was in his early teens, his Dad bought a small resort in Boulder Creek called Redwood Rest.

In High School Ray attended Boulder Creek High. He always said his favorite subject was P.E. and he played all four years on the High School basketball team.

When Ray was a senior, He met the “love of his life” Sara Folk. They were both involved in the Junior/Senior play and he fell in love. After 8 months of dating, they were married on January 28, 1951.

Ray and Sara lived in Santa Cruz all their married life of 65 years and only purchased two homes. They had two children Cindy (Pitter) 1959 and Donald 1961.

Ray worked for the County of Santa Cruz. He did Public Work Road Fleet Maintenance for 35 years until his retirement in 1992. After retirement, he and Sara enjoyed working on their yard and house doing various projects. They bought a motor home and traveled on many trips with their RV club and Sara’s sister Lorraine and her husband. Ray loved collecting autographs of movie stars and famous people. It was a passion and hobby that he started shortly after he got married and continued all his life. He collected hundreds of autographed photos. He had a room dedicated to his hobby with bookcases full of photos and walls covered with photos as well. In his later years he began selling off some of his collection but

he always had a hard time trying to decide which ones to sell. Ray also collected DVD’s and had an extensive collection of movies as well. He loved going down to Streetlight in Santa Cruz and trading movies and building up his collection. Ray is preceded in death by his wife Sara and his son-in-law Donald Pitter. He leaves his daughter,

Cindy Pitter, son, Donald Ward (Aloma), 5 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life for Ray will be held at Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, 1050 Cayuga St. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 on March 23, 2024, 11:00 a.m.

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A Beautiful and Peaceful Setting

The funeral home is situated on a picturesque property, surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil surroundings. The chapel itself is designed to provide a sense of comfort and serenity, with warm lighting, comfortable seating, and tasteful décor. The peaceful atmosphere creates a sense of calm, allowing families to focus on celebrating the life of their loved one.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, every family is treated with dignity and respect. The funeral home's staff takes the time to listen to families' needs and preferences, working closely with them to create a customized funeral service that reflects the personality and spirit of their loved one. From traditional funerals to unique celebrations of life, the possibilities are endless.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional funeral services, Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel also offers cremation services. The funeral home's staff is knowledgeable about the cremation process and can guide families through the various options available. Whether families choose direct cremation or a more elaborate ceremony, the funeral home's team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and attention to detail.

Pre-Planning Options

Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel understands the importance of pre-planning funeral arrangements. By making arrangements in advance, families can ensure that their wishes are respected and avoid placing a burden on loved ones during a difficult time. The funeral home's staff is happy to discuss pre-planning options with families, providing guidance and support throughout the process.

Community Involvement

Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel is deeply committed to the Santa Cruz community. The funeral home's staff is actively involved in local organizations and charities, working to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them. This commitment to community involvement sets the funeral home apart and demonstrates its dedication to serving others.

Grief Support Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel offers grief support resources to help families cope with their loss. From support groups to online resources, the funeral home's staff is dedicated to providing ongoing care and support during the grieving process.

Contact Information

If you're in need of funeral services or would like to learn more about Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, please don't hesitate to contact them. You can reach them by phone at [phone number] or visit their website at [website URL]. Their compassionate staff is always available to answer questions and provide guidance during difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any notable achievements or accomplishments.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and can be a therapeutic way for loved ones to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, hobbies, interests, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their education, military service, awards, or other notable achievements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life story. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the notice and make it more engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. You may need to provide the written obituary, along with any photos or additional information they require.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, including memorial websites, social media, and online obituary databases. These can be especially useful for reaching a wider audience and allowing people to share condolences and memories from anywhere in the world.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 or more for a traditional newspaper obituary. Online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I edit or revise an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult or impossible to make changes to an obituary once it's been published in print. However, online platforms may allow you to edit or update the notice at any time.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Typically, expect a delay of 1-5 days for print publications and immediate posting for online platforms.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they're remembered and to make things easier for their loved ones after they pass away.

What is a death notice versus an obituary?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed notice that provides a fuller picture of the person's life.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber or formal. Including humor or personal stories can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased and make the notice more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice an error in an already-published obituary, contact the publication immediately to request corrections. For online platforms, you may be able to edit the notice yourself.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes. If you want to republish an obituary on a special anniversary or occasion, contact the original publication or online platform to ask about their policies and procedures.

What is the purpose of an online memorial or tribute page?

An online memorial or tribute page provides a space for people to share memories, condolences, and stories about the deceased. It can serve as a lasting tribute and allow people to continue celebrating the person's life over time.

How do I create an online memorial or tribute page?

You can create an online memorial or tribute page through various websites and platforms that offer this service. Some popular options include Legacy.com, Tributes.com, and Facebook Memorials.

Can I add multimedia elements like videos or audio files to an online memorial?

Yes! Many online memorial platforms allow you to upload multimedia elements like videos, audio files, and photos to create a more interactive and engaging tribute.

Are online memorials permanent?

In most cases, yes. Online memorials are designed to be permanent tributes that remain available for years to come. However, it's always a good idea to check with the platform provider about their archiving policies and procedures.

How do I ensure that my loved one's online memorial remains active over time?

To keep your loved one's online memorial active, encourage friends and family members to visit regularly and leave comments or messages. You can also consider setting up recurring donations or contributions in their memory.

Can I create multiple online memorials for my loved one?

Yes! You can create multiple online memorials for your loved one across different platforms or websites. This can help reach different audiences and provide more opportunities for people to share memories and condolences.