Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery Obituaries

Introduction to Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery

Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery is a premier funeral home and cemetery located in Oakland, California. With a rich history and commitment to providing compassionate care, this esteemed institution has been serving the community for generations. In this article, we will delve into the services and amenities offered by Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery, highlighting what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery has a long-standing reputation for providing exceptional care and support to families during their most difficult times. Their experienced team of funeral directors, counselors, and support staff are dedicated to ensuring that every family receives personalized attention and guidance throughout the funeral planning process. From traditional funerals to cremation services, they offer a range of options to suit individual needs and preferences.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

FRANCO DIAMOND - December 24, 1946 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Franco Diamond, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother, passed from our lives on March 29th after a brief illness. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family and friends. Franco is survived by Carolyn, his devoted wife of 43 years, his cherished children Joanna and Christopher, his adored granddaughter Leah and his dear sister Val Diamond Salgo and her husband Steve. He was the son of Harold and Lilly Diamond.

Throughout his entire professional career, Franco was a stalwart in the healthcare industry. Colleagues fondly remember him as a beacon of creativity and leadership, tirelessly striving to cultivate a positive work environment for his associates. He earned the respect of his team and developed many life-long friendships with those who worked with him. His commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape.

Upon retiring from the healthcare world in 2019, Franco embarked on a new chapter, dedicating his time to his passion for cooking. Proud of his Italian heritage, he delighted in creating exquisite Italian meals to share with family and friends, infusing every dish with love and tradition.

Franco will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and zest for life will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched. Though he may no longer be with us, his spirit will continue to live on through the memories he created and the lives he enriched.

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STEPHEN KARL HENEL - June 06, 1964 - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Karl Henel 1964-2024

Stephen Karl Henel was born feet first at The Brooklyn Hospital in New York City on June 6, 1964, to parents Rolf and Dora Henel. His two older sisters, Julia and Sylvia, were excited to have a baby brother join them at the family home in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

At the age of two, Stephen and his family boarded a Sabena flight to Brussels where his father had taken on a position working for Pfizer. He attended a Flemish-speaking nursery school, which at times he would depart on his own accord to find his way home. A clever and quick learner, he picked up French from his sisters and playmates. This was the beginning of a life-long knack for speaking languages, taking on personas, and, later, playing instruments. The range of his repertoire delighted many who knew him.

Stephen attended elementary and middle school in Tehran, Madrid, and Rome. In Tehran, he became a big brother to Carolyn, who looked up to him. Once back in the U.S., he took up guitar and later graduated from Ramapo High School in 1982. Rather than immediately pursue a college degree, Stephen delved into the world of comics. Always an avid reader, he collected and sold graphic novels, publishing his own title, Xenya, in 1994. He also attended Rutgers in New Jersey and was a proud member of the glee club.

In the 2000s, he followed his mother in moving to California, where all his sisters lived. In the Bay Area, he continued his book collecting and selling. Soon, he expanded his purview to include illustrations, prints, antiques, and vintage goods. A favorite hobby of his was to dig for old prescription glass bottles that the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906 had heaved into the Bay. But Stephen’s greatest love was still music. Already as a boy, he was electrified by the heavy metal and rock records his American neighbors in Spain would play. Once in Rome, he bought those records himself and then some. It wasn’t long before he started playing the guitar—both acoustic and electric. Instruments accompanied him wherever he went. He played in bands, parties, wherever people gathered.

When not making music, Stephen could be found preparing any number of specialties in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors and textures. Although Italian dishes were his favorite, he also loved Asian and Middle Eastern food. He was a true foodie and knew no limit to the types of cheese that he could enjoy.

Always the funny uncle to seven nephews and one niece, Stephen was ultimately blessed, in becoming a father himself to Dora Marie on December 1, 2009, with her mother Cynthia Morales. Having Dora in his life gave him a renewed sense of purpose. Under his guidance and encouragement, Dora learned to play countless games, make all sorts of crafts, and hone her natural athleticism in swimming, gymnastics, soccer, and volleyball. Stephen spent countless hours being with Dora so that she would always have someone to play with.

As his own mother was struggling after a few falls, Stephen stepped in to help with her caregiving. Stephen was his mother’s companion and helpmate for over five years. However, with her increasing debilitation, she needed a more specialized level of care. Stephen had just moved into his own apartment with Dora when on March 16th his heart stopped beating. The shock of his sudden departure hit his family like a sucker punch. Stephen loved life too much to want to leave in this way. Thankfully, he did not leave without living his life to the best of his capacity.

Stephen is survived by his daughter Dora Marie and her mother Cindy, his mother Dora, his sisters Julia, Sylvia, and Carolyn, his brothers-in-law Tim and Edward, his niece Catherine, his nephews Chris, Malcom, Peter, Joseph, August, Andrew, and Alex, his aunt Tina, his stepmother Emily, his stepbrother Ramon, and countless friends.

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LIN QI, PhD - September 09, 1949 - March 03, 2024

Departed: 03/03/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Lin Qi (林琦), PhD, passed away on March 3, 2024 in Oakland, at the age of 74, after unsuccessful treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Dr. Lin Qi was a respected Chinese scientist and inventor, but he was also a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was brilliant and skilled professionally, but humble and sincere as an individual. He was gentle and soft-spoken, but filled with quiet wonder and boundless curiosity. He was sincerely admired by his colleagues and brought endless warmth and support to his relatives.

Dr. Lin Qi was born on September 9, 1949, to parents Lin Zhaoyun, a senior electrical engineer, and Cao Huimin, a homemaker. At the age of four, he was enrolled in one of the few private kindergartens in Beijing at the time. He excelled academically throughout primary school and gained admission to Beijing No. 4 High School, one of China's top schools, with a perfect score. During the Cultural Revolution, he was sent to work in Shaanxi Province, and later at the Ningxia Hydropower Bureau as a worker. While there, he had no access to formal education and referenced his elder sister’s old textbooks to self-study the entire high school curriculum.

In February 1978, he was admitted to Xi’an Jiaotong University and was selected as the class monitor. In the second semester of his first year of university, he ended his studies prematurely with validation for an equivalent undergraduate degree, after he was one of an elite few students recruited by a Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Academician to be admitted to the Institute of Computing Technology (ICT) at CAS. In October 1978, he was selected as a government-sponsored student for overseas studies. In less than a year, he passed the first University entrance exam after the Cultural Revolution, the first graduate entrance examination, and the first overseas graduate examination. He became a legendary figure in the Class of 1977 at Xi'an Jiaotong University and China's largest newspaper, People's Daily, dedicated a special report to his remarkable speed of achievements titled “林琦速度” or “Lin Qi Speed”.

In 1979, as one of the first batch of 150 government-sponsored students sent abroad by China, Dr. Lin Qi began studying for his masters and doctoral degrees in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. During a break from his studies abroad, he met his wife Qin Ning (秦宁) in Beijing; they married in 1984 and later had a daughter, Jenny (林晓婧). By 1983, he had obtained his PhD in Computer Science from Manchester and returned to China, where he engaged in research on “100MHz time difference pipeline” technology at ICT-CAS. In June 1984, he was in charge of and completed a key national research project. In 1988, he was awarded the "Young Scientist Award" by the China Association for Science and Technology. In 1989, Dr. Lin Qi represented ICT-CAS and presented a paper at the 11th World Computer Conference in San Francisco. He previously received funding support from the Chinese National Science Fund for his research project in the late 1980s.

Dr. Lin Qi went to the US with his daughter in early 1990 to be reunited with his wife, who had gone to the US to pursue her graduate studies in 1988. The family lived in Fremont, California. He also often visited his daughter, Jenny, when she did her undergraduate studies at UC Berkeley. While in the US, he continued to work in the computer technology field. He served as Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Highpoint Technology Company. He holds patents in the field of computer storage and successfully transformed intellectual property rights into products to market. Since 1991, he has been engaged in the development and application of storage system products at research centers in Silicon Valley and Beijing. The developed HPT374 chip was extensively used as a storage component in early Google data servers. The HPT3XX driver is embedded in the LINUX kernel.

In 1999, he founded Beijing Micro Aurora Information Technology Co., Ltd., and in 2020, he was appointed as a visiting doctoral supervisor by ICT-CAS. During his time in China, he was featured in an exclusive broadcast interview by the renowned CCTV host Dr. Lu Yiming, and he earned great respect and admiration in the domestic scientific and technological community.

Dr. Lin Qi had a deep fascination with ancient Chinese folklore and history, including historical sites, architecture, and epic wuxia legends. He loved to read and tell fantastical tales and was a talented storyteller. He read his favorite book, "Journey to the West", hundreds of times and loved telling stories to his daughter during her childhood. Since 2020, he has spent a lot of time taking care of, teaching and playing with his beloved grandson, Hugo, sharing his favorite stories and spontaneously crafting imaginative tales featuring Hugo and his friends. In 2023, he also met his youngest grandson Nico and helped rock him to sleep. He enjoyed mountain hiking, fixing all manner of gadgets and appliances, staying up to date on the latest technology, and playing Sudoku and jigsaw puzzles. A lifelong learner with an insatiable mind, he had greatly looked forward to teaching all he knew to his grandsons in the future.

He is survived by his wife Qin Ning (秦宁), sister Lin Li (林莉), daughter Jenny Lin (林晓婧) and her husband Berk Altın, and grandsons Hugo (林虎戈), 4, and Nico (林猊科), 9 months, who both bear his surname in Chinese.

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Paulette Marie Claire Maher - August 25, 1930 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Paulette Marie Claire Maher - Obituary

A celebration of the remarkable life of Paulette Marie Claire Maher will be held on Thursday, March 14th at 2:00 pm at Mountain View Cemetery by Piedmont Funeral Services, followed by a gathering at 15 Ashbrook Place, Moraga, California. Paulette passed away on February 27, 2024, at the age of 93.

Born on August 25, 1930, in Dolbeau, Quebec, Canada, Paulette was the cherished daughter of Marie-Ange and Alfred Gignac. She attended Saint Tharcisius High School in Dolbeau before embarking on a journey that would take her across continents and cultures. At the age of 18, Paulette ventured to Toronto, where she worked at an insurance company.

In 1960, Paulette exchanged vows with her beloved husband, Richard Jerome Maher, in Glendale, California. Their union spanned an incredible 64 years, marked by devotion, companionship, and mutual respect. Richard's career with IBM afforded them the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences. Together, they traversed the globe, living in Los Angeles, California; Versailles, France; Montreal, Canada; Philothea, Greece; and Wassenar, The Netherlands.

Paulette was the epitome of a nurturing and selfless matriarch. Her culinary skills were legendary, as she lovingly prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day for her family, neighbors, and friends. With unwavering dedication, she chauffeured her children to school and maintained a meticulously spotless household. Paulette's warm and welcoming demeanor ensured that anyone who crossed the threshold of the Maher residence was embraced as family.

Her innate kindness extended beyond human relationships; animals of all kinds were drawn to her gentle spirit, making her backyard a sanctuary for furry and feathered friends alike.

Paulette leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Denise Srivastava, who tragically passed May 18, 2023. She is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Maher of Moraga, Calif.; her son, Peter Maher of Montreal, Quebec; her son-in-law, Deepak Srivastava; and her adoring grandchildren, Dillon Srivastava, Claire Srivastava, and Sydney Srivastava of San Francisco.

In honoring Paulette's memory, let us cherish the precious moments shared and strive to emulate her enduring spirit of generosity, kindness, and grace. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Shawn Michael Crane - June 29, 1958 - February 06, 2024

Departed: 02/06/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Shawn Michael Crane was born June 29, 1958, in Oakland, California. After a long struggle with his health, he found peace on February 6, 2024.

Shawn began school at Sequoia Elementary School in Oakland. He was raised by two loving, caring and active parents and a large extended family including Great Grandparents, Grandparents and many cousins.

When the family moved to Chico in 1965, he had many opportunities and experiences in this wonderful community. His childhood was filled with activities, and when he was twelve, he became one of the youngest Eagle Scouts in California at that time. He participated in Gymnastics, Marching Band as a Drummer, Bowling, Little League, Pop Warner Football, Civil Air Patrol and Jr. High and High School Football. Shawn attended Marigold Elementary, Bidwell Jr. High School and Pleasant Valley Sr. High. He graduated from Dunsmuir High School in 1976. He received an appointment to the Air Force Academy however, he chose to attend UC Berkeley. He played Freshman Football for the Bears and graduated in 1981.

Shawn enjoyed boating, skiing, extensive travel for both pleasure and work, and spending time with his friends.

Shawn had many different roles and educational experiences in his career. From commodities to technology sales, he performed admirably for his teams.

Shawn is predeceased by his parents and dearly beloved Grandparents, as well as a nephew and his much beloved West Highland terrier, Cappy. He is survived by his sister, two daughters, a grandson and many dear cousins.

There will be a family and friends gathering planned for a future date.

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ANTHONY HO FAI LEE - February 03, 1946 - January 09, 2024

Departed: 01/09/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Anthony Ho Fai Lee was born in Canton, China on February 3rd, 1946. He is the son of Stephen and Theresa Lee. He graduated from Mansfield College in Hong Kong and continued on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Marketing and Sales Management from California State University, East Bay (formerly known as California State University, Hayward).

Anthony met and later married Sui-Foon Ma (“Sue”) on August 14th, 1976; they were married 48 years. From this union was born one son, Brian Anthony Lee, and one daughter, Kristal Joyce Lee.

Anthony worked as a Territory Sales Manager for the Kellogg Company for over 25 years, until he retired at the age of 62. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching action movies and listening to music, “Unchained Melody” being his favorite song. He loved going out to eat different cuisines but dim sum with his family was his favorite, where egg tarts were always a must at the table.

He is survived by his wife, Sue, son Brian and his wife Ashley Lee, daughter Kristal, and two grandchildren, Jaxon and Gracey Lee. He is also survived by his three sisters and their families.

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NATASHA HARRIET SARAH LOUISE WALLACE - July 07, 1977 - January 02, 2024

Departed: 01/02/2024 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Dr. Natasha Harriet Sarah Louise Wallace

Natasha Wallace M.D. was a brilliant and compassionate psychiatrist who dedicated her life to helping others. She was born in England in July 1977 and passed away in January 2024 at the early age of 46. Natasha grew up in England then migrated to the United States at age 10 where she grew up in Canarsie, Brooklyn. She attended Edward R. Murrow High School, then pursued her undergraduate studies at Medgar Evers College CUNY, eventually earning her medical degree from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

Dr. Wallace completed her residency at Kings County Hospital Center in Brooklyn, NY and went on to become a successful psychiatrist certified in both Child/Adolescent and Adult services. In 2017, she and her partner, David Fung, relocated to Emeryville, California, starting a new life while embracing the beauty of the Bay Area.

As the eldest of three siblings, Natasha assumed a maternal and mentoring role, despite any initial reluctance from her younger siblings. Her generosity towards friends and family knew no limits, and she was always ready to offer support and compassion to those who needed it. She would always check in on family and friends, and consistently sought out the perfect gifts for her loved ones.

Dr. Wallace was known for her kindness, grace, empathy, and unwavering dedication to her patients. She was a steadfast advocate in the field of psychiatry, actively involved in developing new treatment strategies for people with mental illness, she earned admiration from colleagues and patients for her intelligence, clinical acumen, and unwavering compassion.

Dr. Wallace was a true humanitarian who always put others before herself. She was a tireless advocate for mental health and worked vehemently to improve the lives of those around her. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the many people she helped throughout her career.

During Natasha’s last few days, she was surrounded by family and friends who loved her dearly. She is survived by her loving family, her partner David Fung, and her son Logan Wallace. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

May she rest in peace.

Memorial Service to be held at Deriso Funeral Home on February 17, 2024 at 1:00PM.

**Flower Donations are accepted at Deriso Funeral Home, 5012 - 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11220.

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LORINDA BETH HARRIS - September 21, 1968 - November 29, 2023

Departed: 11/29/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Lorinda Beth Harris September 21, 1968 - November 09/2023

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our daughter and sister, Lorinda Harris, on November 29, 2023. Shortly before her passing she was thoughtfully selecting gifts for her nephews in preparation for Thanksgiving. Two weeks later, she was unexpectedly gone as a result of an accident outside her home in Sebec, Maine, leaving the many who loved her devastated.

The daughter of Ted Harris and Karen Oleson, Lorinda grew up in the Bay Area, the oldest of five siblings. As a young girl, Lorinda loved the living room dance parties she and her siblings improvised to the tunes of Donna Summer and ABBA. One of her siblings remembers their dad, newly single, taking all five kids up to the family cabin and forgetting to bring sunblock along. After a day at the lake and the sunburns that followed, Lorinda spent the night slathering her four siblings head to toe in Noxzema. She was a concerned helper and a consummate older sister, and whether it was with over-the-counter skin cream or another emblem or demonstration of love, she was always quick to extend herself, especially for her family. This made a real difference when before finishing high school, the family gained three stepsisters from her father’s second marriage to Heidi Clawson. Following a predictable pattern, these new sisters quickly came to look up to and adore her as well.

Lorinda was a Piedmont High School Varsity Cheerleader and was often seen driving around town in the family’s wood paneled station wagon, frequently with Lou Gramm blasting on the radio. In a family full of Spanish and Portuguese speakers, Lorinda chose to study German. And while she always insisted that she greatly admired the members of her own family, they couldn’t help but notice that German was the home language of her best friend Michelle Mueller’s family, whose house became a second home to Lorinda during her teenage years. Lorinda was always grateful for the influence of the many loyal friends she enjoyed both in Piedmont and her later homes elsewhere. Upon graduating from high school, Lorinda attended UC Irvine, where she quickly fell in with a wonderful group of friends and sorority sisters in the Tri Delta Sorority. She even went on to serve as the Sorority President. These friendships and relationships brought her immense joy during formative years. They could also be the source of some mischief from time to time. Her siblings remember one spring break when the family drove down to Southern California to hit the amusement parks and visit Lorinda during her freshman year. While in town, Lorinda had all 7 siblings stay in the dorms with her for the night while many students were away on vacation. Rumor has it that she took her siblings to a dorm party that evening. Rumor also has it that none of the underaged partygoers ever told their parents or ever complained!

After graduating from UC Irvine, and following in her father’s footsteps, Lorinda pursued a degree in law. While at law school she was able to put her German to use, spending part of a semester in Germany on a study abroad program. She graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law and spent the following years practicing in law firms in San Diego and Orange County.

Despite her advanced academic degree and professional success, Lorinda remained down to earth and able to laugh at herself. One favorite family story regarded an apparent gap in her familiarity with world geography. The family remembers that Lorinda commented to two sisters about to depart on separate study abroad programs in Spain and Brazil, “How great! You can visit each other while you’re away!” Whether it actually happened that way or not, to the date of her passing Lorinda never failed to laugh good-naturedly when the story was told in the family. And retold. And retold again.

Eventually, Lorinda returned to the Bay Area to work at the law firm Thelen, Reid & Priest, where her father practiced law. When her dad found out about Lorinda’s offer of employment at the firm, he was worried that they were hiring her because of her connection to him, a senior partner. He was relieved and pleased to discover instead that she was in fact hired on the strength of her own merit, for possessing the pedigree, skills and experience the firm was in need of at that time. In this way, she loved to work in the same firm where most of her younger siblings got summer jobs doing secretarial support work. Both she and they were aware, however, that Lorinda spent her tour there working as an actual attorney.  Her family admired her for this distinction in roles, and looked up to her professional success. During this time, Lorinda also developed a love of cooking and became quite accomplished at it — to her family’s shock, as the years leading up to this interest were peppered with cooking horror stories including copious quantities of burnt toast! However, her siblings remember Lorinda cooking, hosting, and serving a delicious and beautifully planned Christmas dinner for the entire family — not accepting any assistance whatsoever in its preparation, despite their initially quite preoccupied attempts to insist. Over the years that followed the family’s newly-discovered ease with regard to her culinary skill, Lorinda poured over issues of “Food & Wine” and “Bon Appétit” magazines, drawn to the more complicated recipes. It resulted in some amazing meals, that her family and friends were the grateful beneficiaries of. And none of them included even remotely overdone toast, which was a detail that all who knew her past sincerely appreciated!

After many years working in law, Lorinda decided to take time off to travel and see the world. Her travels took her throughout Europe and Asia where in many of the locations she visited, she reconnected with friends who themselves had gone abroad. There’s even a story of her having a chance run-in with an uncle and cousins in an airport halfway around the world in Croatia! Lorinda mentioned on numerous occasions how happy she was during this time.

Following her return to the U.S., Lorinda was accepted into the National Security Studies program at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland and received her certificate with Honors. She started a new career in government and law working for Senator Susan Collins of Maine as a legal advisor, which included working for the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. She was passionate for justice and held a deep love of politics, dedicating herself to her work and demonstrating an unwavering patriotism for her country.

Lorinda eventually returned to Northern California, this time to Sacramento, where she worked for the law firm DLA Piper in their labor law practice group. This position involved traveling to counsel clients on labor related issues. It was a role she tolerated more than relished, but that by all reports she carried out with distinction. Lorinda eventually left her career and moved to a beautiful lakeside house in Maine — a dream she had harbored for some time, and like most objectives she set herself in her life, was accomplished directly upon her setting her mind to carrying it out. In the years that followed her move, she focused her energies into making her house a home — a beautiful and thoughtful one, as Lorinda was apt to do. She loved to host friends and family for lobster boils, boating on the lake, and cozy fireside visits. She even bravely hosted a Harris Family reunion there. It turned out to be a family favorite, despite her astonishment at

the amount of food the family was able to cram into her previously very sparse, tidy and organized refrigerator. Her primary loves in life were evident on the walls of her home, which were covered with the photos of friends, family, and travel adventures from all over the world.

Being the oldest sibling in a family of 8 kids gave Lorinda the ability to act as a mother to many — whether they always appreciated it or not… However, all agreed that her generosity towards friends and family knew no bounds, and she was always ready to offer support and compassion to those who needed it. She was quick to check in on siblings with a thoughtful text, phone call or card, or to seek out the perfect gift for a friend. Her nephews were also beneficiaries of these qualities, and were the frequent objects of thoughtful videos, visits, gifts and drawing sessions she did for and with them. She loved being an aunt to her nephews and an honorary aunt to friends’ kids, and considered this role one of her greatest honors — a tribute to both them and her.

Throughout the years, Lorinda loved to remind her family of funny memories from their childhood, too — often from time spent at the family cabin, which she cherished and loved to visit each summer. She had nicknames for everyone. She loved to watch Seinfeld and was known to recite entire episodes. She bonded with her nephews over their shared obsession with Stars Wars. And although she was the world’s slowest eater, she would scarf down cheesecake and beef stroganoff with equal zeal.

Lorinda departs this life with a legacy of loyalty, kindness, and unwavering love for family and friends, and leaves an indelible mark of these notable attributes on all who were fortunate enough to know her. We will greatly miss her.

Lorinda leaves behind her father and stepmother Ted and Heidi Harris; brother Ted Harris, Jr.; six sisters: Rebecca Harris, Anne Harris, Amelia Clawson (Chad Carter), Abby Low (Brian), Jennifer Harris, and Greta Clawson; her five nephews: Thomas, Matthew, Andrew, Alec, and Nico; and a wide circle of adoring aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom held a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her mother Karen Oleson.

Our family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support following this sudden loss.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 16th at 4:00 p.m. at the Sequoyah Country Club, 4550 Heafey Road, Oakland, California. The memorial service will also be live-streamed via Zoom at the following link: https://shorturl.at/sRU25

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JUAN BALTAZAR GONZALEZ - February 09, 1979 - November 03, 2023

Departed: 11/03/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Juan Baltazar Gonzalez was born in Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in San Jose, CA on February 9th, 1979 at 2:56 AM to parents, Carmen and Juan Gonzalez. Juan was raised in Oakland, CA where he made many friendships and connections that lasted a lifetime.  Juan was a talented and proud Longshoremen reefer mechanic at the Port of Oakland, as was his late father.

At age 44, Juan passed away tragically on Friday, November 3rd, 2023 at 5:29 PM in a car accident on highway 4. We are devastated as a family that such a creative, talented, hardworking, kind, loving, and welcoming soul, that gave so much of himself to us, has left this earth. Juan is survived by his 11 children- Juan B. Gonzalez Jr, Jessica Gonzalez, Ignacio Gonzalez, Angel Gonzalez, Sophia Gonzalez, Justin Quintana, Tristyn Quintana, Julian Gonzalez, Adrian Gonzalez, Abigail Gonzalez, Adam Gonzalez, his sisters- Yasmin Gonzalez-Ayala and Celia Gonzalez, his mother- Carmen I. Gonzalez, his wife- Pauline Manginsay, his ex-wife Lindsey Tucker, his half sister- Nancy Anderson and a number of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Juan’s previously departed loved ones include his father, Juan Gonzalez, and his 2 grandmothers- Francisca Gonzalez and Consuelo Avendaño.

Juan loved his children and family above anything else and valued the people who were present in his life. When focused on a project he poured his heart and soul into it; he’d always say that if you were going to do something you had to “do it the right way because if you didn’t intend to do it that way, there was no point in doing it at all” and his dedication to preciseness can be seen of each one of his completed projects. Juan was a very hardworking man and he was always willing to lend a helping hand and pass on knowledge that could help his family, friends and ILWU (International Longshore and Warehouse Union) family.

Juan's ability to talk to anyone made it easy for him to connect with others and create bonds with people from all walks of life. It is impossible to capture a person in an obituary, especially someone as special as Juan. Only a close family members and loved ones knew who he really was, what made him laugh, what his daily struggles were and how hard he worked to overcome everything that came his way. Juan, like everyone else, was not perfect and throughout his life he struggled maintaining his sobriety which caused stress on his family relationships but he never gave up hope, he always tried his best and maintained his sobriety for many years. If you are reading this with judgment, educate yourself about this disease, because that is what it is. It is not a choice or a weakness. The hard times were only one chord in the musical performance of his life, a life that was always tuning and retuning to the tempo of this world and his journey in it.

Juan impacted so many lives and the ripples of his journey are seen today in each and every one of his children, family members and friends whom he shared special moments with. Juan will continue to live on in the memories of his children, family members and those who remember him dearly. We take comfort in knowing that Juan is surrounded by light, free from all his struggles and is at peace.

Our grief over losing Juan is infinite and now so is he. Juan’s wake and rosary will be held on Tuesday, November 14th, 2023 from 4:30PM - 6:30 PM and his funeral services will be on Wednesday, November 15th, 2023 at 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Piedmont Funeral Services and Mountain View Cemetery at Tower Chapel.

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DIANNE FRISTROM - December 18, 1940 - September 03, 2023

Departed: 09/03/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Sep 3, 2023: Dr. Dianne “Di” Fristrom - geneticist, docent, dancer, photographer – passed away in her Oakland, CA home, surrounded by family and friends.

Di was born in Sydney Australia, the daughter of Thelma and David King, and sister to Graham. She grew up in a duplex with few amenities – no car, no refrigerator, no indoor toilets – but even there, her interest in biology and the arts was already apparent. She developed photos in the bathroom and painted murals on the bedroom walls. Her father introduced her to the local wildlife. They caught tadpoles together and watched them transform into frogs. She kept silkworms in a shoe box, fed them leaves from a mulberry tree, and unwound the silk from their cocoons as they developed. She had a pet lizard named “José Gecko” after the Spanish dancer.

While studying at Burwood Girls High, she planned on attending Sydney Technical College to study art. “I didn’t have a great collection of classes for college applications, but this was typical for an all-girls Home Economics High School”. Her biology teacher, Mrs. Pinkas, “was appalled”, and helped tutor her through some of the prerequisites for biology at The University of New South Wales. Di attended on a teaching scholarship and graduated as one of the first women in the program. Her scholarship entailed teaching grade school when she was done, so after donning her cap and gown, she promptly fled the country. UC Berkeley offered her asylum, where she completed her Ph.D. and became a research geneticist. She never gave up her Australian citizenship or her accent, but she became a permanent resident after marrying James W. Fristrom. She worked alongside him in the lab for many years and raised two children, Ted and Jamie.

As a working mother in the 70s, she often had the kids by her side. They played on the floor of the Mulford Hall lab while she worked at the microscope. She brought them to Hungary and Australia on sabbatical, and to conferences around the globe, which they complained about bitterly but appreciated in hindsight. Holidays were a special time. She hosted lab parties for Christmas and made elaborate costumes for the kids on Halloween. She sewed Jawa outfits with near-perfect robes, gloves, and black balaclavas. She wired the costumes with little lamps below the eyes, which left the children half-blind and stumbling in the dark. Somehow, this made the costumes even more authentic. Her craftiness was contagious. She painted the kitchen; the kids painted a cardboard house outside. She worked at a drawing table with fine-black pens, stencils, and press-on letters; the kids worked in the kitchen with Ed Emberley’s Drawing Book of Animals. She took ballet lessons; the kids ... kept drawing.

She described herself as “less a scientist than someone who used art to do science,” but the two were far from being mutually exclusive. She illustrated The Principles of Genetics by Fristrom and Spieth. Her electron microscopy images appeared on the covers of Cell and Development. Her contributions to genetics involved new ways of visualizing how cells moved during fruit fly metamorphosis, how imaginal discs became legs or wings.

In her free time, she developed a CD-based app for identifying wildflowers, collaborating with botanists John Game and Glenn Keator. The photos were culled from her hikes around Northern California, particularly in the Bay Area and the Trinity Alps. Is “Di all right?” friends and colleagues would often ask, as she lagged behind on the trail or was found face down in a field. “Yes,” Jim would explain, “She’s trying to get a better angle on that poppy”.

Perhaps this second career would have panned out if only smartphones had been invented yet, but over two hundred of her photos continue to live on through the CalPhotos website. Upon retiring, Jim and Di split their time between the Bay Area and Ashland, Oregon. Their condo overlooked Lake Merritt and offered easy access to the Oakland Museum. There she volunteered as a docent and planned excursions to exotic locations including Antarctica. In her last decade, she helped to reopen the Rotary Nature Center of Lake Merritt: as donor, organizer, and chief ratcatcher. (Legend has it that she dispatched at least one rat with a hammer.)

She lived a full and happy life and insisted that no one should mourn her passing. But of course, we will. She will be missed by friends and family. She will be missed at her book club and dance classes; at the nature center, museum, and lab; in her home country, and everywhere she traveled.

She is survived by her sons and her two granddaughters, Sofi and Zara.

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ERIC KESSEL - April 13, 1955 - August 07, 2023

Departed: 08/07/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Eric Kessel

Eric passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2023. He was 68 years old. Eric was born in Massachusetts to Bert and Joan Kessel. He was raised there with his sisters Karen, Laurie, and Audrey before moving to California in 1978. Eric was a devoted husband to Athena and a proud and loving father to Sam and Hannah. He adored Sam’s fiancée, Hayley.

Always an athlete, Eric enjoyed playing many sports throughout his life. Most recently he loved rock climbing, outdoors in beautiful places he traveled to and indoors with his treasured community of friends. He loved traveling, gardening, hiking, running, and bicycling with Athena.

Eric was predeceased by his father, Bert, and his sister, Karen. He leaves behind his beloved family, including his mother, Joan, sisters Laurie and Audrey, and their extended families, to cherish him forever.

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PATRICIA HELEN LAURENT - April 03, 1924 - July 27, 2023

Departed: 07/27/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Patricia Helen Laurent April 3, 1924 – July 27, 2023

Patricia Helen (Dean) Laurent passed on July 27, 2023 at the age of 99 in Palo Alto, California. She was born to Corbett and Helen Dean on April 3, 1924 in Oakland CA. An only child, she frequently saw her maternal grandparents, and particularly looked forward to spending time with her grandfather, Oakland policeman P J Connolly, who spoiled her often with visits to special places like Fenton’s Creamery for ice cream. She also remembers her father, Corbett, telling her about watching the San Francisco earthquake fire from Oakland. Her mother, Helen, was well known to be a fantastic cook who overfed anyone who sat at her table.

She met and married U.S. Marine Lewis L Laurent during WWII. After the war, they had 2 sons, Lewis D and Rand. Her husband’s job with Western Electric moved the family to Pittsburg CA and San Francisco, and they finally settled in Sacramento. She and her husband were active in the Shriners in San Francisco and Sacramento, where she was a member of the Ben Ali Ladies ILA NEB Court No. 51.

Pat loved fashion, indulging her passion by working at Macy’s in San Francisco and Sacramento, and later at an upscale shop at Town and Country Sacramento. She used her earnings for buying fashionable clothes and for frequent trips to Hong Kong to buy more! She was fond of Chinese fabrics, styles, and culture, and collected small carved jade figures to enjoy between her trips. Her other travel destination was Honolulu’s Waikiki, where she would soak up the sun “like a cat” and enjoy the tropical flowers.

Patricia is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Lewis and Diana Laurent of Aptos CA, grandchildren Laura Laurent of Sacramento CA, Jacob Collins-Farmer of London England, David “Mike” Laurent of Sacramento CA, John Laurent of Elk Grove CA, Mary Denney of Auburn CA, Michael Laurent of Aptos CA, and twelve great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Lewis L Laurent, son Rand Laurent and grandson Sam Laurent.

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VAHE MENER - January 31, 1943 - June 03, 2023

Departed: 06/03/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Vahe Mener, 80, Beloved Husband, Father, and Friend

Vahe Mener, a loving husband, caring father, and cherished friend, passed away on June 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. While his physical presence may no longer be with us, his spirit will forever reside in our hearts, bringing comfort and inspiration to all whose lives he touched. Vahe's unwavering dedication to his family, his tireless work ethic, and his deep faith will be remembered as lasting legacies of a remarkable life.

Vahe was born on January 31, 1943, in Istanbul, Turkey, to Kevork and Alis Mener. He attended St. Michel French High School in Istanbul, where he received an education that laid the foundation for his future endeavors. In search of a brighter future, he immigrated to the United States in 1977, determined to create a better life for his family. As a new immigrant, Vahe faced numerous challenges, but his perseverance and spirit propelled him forward. He worked tirelessly to achieve the American Dream, becoming a homeowner and establishing his own business, Hilda's Deli.

Throughout his life, Vahe demonstrated a natural talent for salesmanship, which he learned from his early days in Istanbul. Later in his career, he joined Southern Wine and Spirits, where he became an award-winning salesman, further showcasing his dedication and skill. Even as he built his family and pursued his professional aspirations, Vahe always made his faith a central pillar of his life. He served as an Archdeacon in his church, St. Vartan Armenian Church of Oakland.

Beyond his professional achievements and religious service, Vahe will be remembered for his gentle nature and his unwavering commitment to making others happy. His warm smile and kind-heartedness endeared him to all who knew him, and his genuine care for others forged lifelong friendships that brought joy and laughter to countless lives. Vahe's absence leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family and friends, who will dearly miss his presence, his wisdom, and his unwavering love.

Vahe is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Hilda, who stood by his side sharing in his joys and triumphs as well as his challenges and sorrows. He is also survived by his two daughters, Alis Perreira and Karen Mener, who were the pride and joy of his life. Alis' husband, Mark Perreira, became a son-in-law to Vahe, and their relationship brought him tranquility. Additionally, Vahe is survived by a brother, Berc Mener, and his wife, Ani, with whom he shared cherished memories.

The impact Vahe made on the lives of those around him is immeasurable, and his legacy will endure through the memories, stories, and lessons he leaves behind. May his soul find eternal peace, and may we find solace in the knowledge that his spirit will forever live on in our hearts.

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ANNIE H. CHAN - December 29, 1942 - April 24, 2023

Departed: 04/24/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Obituary 許 叱 明 Annie H. Chan 12/29/42-4/24/23

On April 24, Annie Chan, a widow, beloved mother and cherished grandmother, passed away at the age of 81 years old, having suffered a massive stroke while recovering in the hospital for spine surgery, after a fall. Annie was born in Hoiping, China. She was the oldest of 3 children, with a younger brother and sister. She courageously survived the 2nd Sino-Japanese War and all the civil wars within China during her elementary years.

Even with impoverished means, she earned a certificate in sewing and later gained a college degree in Education as well as a teaching credential where she taught kindergarten in Hong Kong. While she was earning her degree, she met her husband, Henry T. Chan. They married in 1965 and raised two children, Grace and Baldwin. They immigrated to the US in 1973 and settled in the East Bay in California.

Despite the language barrier, she worked hard as a dormitory housekeeper at Mills College for 23 years. After caring for her husband who died of lung cancer, she lived with Grace and her husband Owen Lee and helped raise her two grand-daughters, Faith and Hope. She loved spending time with them and they brought her joy and laughter. Then, she moved to Southern California to live with her son, Baldwin. She loved her children and grand-children more than herself, always providing her time and resources sacrificially. She had a “green thumb” in gardening and very talented in cooking Cantonese cuisine and herbal soups. She was well-read, especially in the Bible and even kept up with current news and politics.

Annie was well known for being a prayer warrior, always diligently praying for her children and son-in-law, all of whom are in pastoral ministries. Despite all the atrocities that she suffered through, Annie was treasured for her gentle spirit and kindness. She loved the Lord and lived a life that imitated Christ in both word and deed.

Hours before she had the stroke, she instinctively knew something would happen. She gave clear directives to Grace to not do anything medically aggressive if something were to happen. She was transported from So. Cal to San Jose to an assisted living facility where she passed peacefully under hospice care. The only consolation we have is that Annie is now with God up in heaven. “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” 2 Corinthians 4:17

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MARY ELIZABETH VANOYAN - April 11, 1937 - February 17, 2023

Departed: 02/17/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Elizabeth Vanoyan (Mary “Lily” Baker).

Mary passed away peacefully at her home with family by her side on February 17th, 2023. She was born in Oakland California on April 11, 1937 to Elmas and Margarios Akmekjian. Her childhood in Oakland was defined by love, family, church and hospitality. Mary carried this love with her and, throughout her life, she shared the love and generosity which defined her childhood.

She was devoted to her family. She gave fully and unconditionally to her children and grandchildren whom she loved fervently. She also found joy in charity and in opening her home in hospitality. She gave of herself throughout her life.

She valued education and even in the last year of her life demonstrated this by convincing two people she met to return to school and, through education, reach beyond what they had imagined for themselves.

Mary also greatly valued her Armenian heritage and community. She was a life long learner and even after she was unable to read due to challenges with her vision, she listened to books voraciously. She gravitated to non-fiction titles often related to Armenian history and culture. After her retirement from a career in education, she partook in extension courses at Fresno State University thru the Armenian studies program.

In honor of her passion for education and her love of her culture, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Armenian Studies program at FSU.

We know Mom would also be thrilled, if you were to enjoy some of the learning opportunities provided through this program which are now often available on line. Donations can be made by check to Armenian Studies Program and sent to: Armenian Studies Program 5245 N Backer Ave. PB4 Fresno CA 93740-8001 or online at fresnostate.edu ( click on “give” in the side menu, choose “view all giving opportunities” then scroll to “Armenian Studies”

Mary was preceeded in death by her beloved parents and her brother, Nubert Baker. She leaves behind her daughter Alise Vanoyan, and Alise’s children Lusine and Kirk, her daughter and son in law Mimi Vanoyan, and Jon Wagreich, and their two children Sloane and Jack Wagreich Mary is also survived by her loving niece ( Nubert’s daughter ) Julie Baker and Julie’s mother Jeanette as well as innumerable friends whose lives she touched. Mary was laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland California

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ON LO - July 12, 1935 - February 13, 2023

Departed: 02/13/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: On Lo passed away on February 13, 2023 at the Chinese age of 88 at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland from complications related to cancer. He was surrounded by the family he devoted his life to.

Born on July 12, 1935 (lunar calendar) in Guangdong, China, On Lo was the eighth of ten children. During war-torn China, he left his village to work in the city at age 16, and then fled to Hong Kong in 1956. In Hong Kong, he apprenticed in construction work. He married Yuk Yuen Chiu in 1964 and had three daughters. In 1972, he immigrated with his family to the United States and settled in Oakland, sponsored by his wife’s brother. He worked first as a painter, then in his learned trade of construction. He purchased and completely renovated a house in Chinatown to create a home for his family. He later built a home from the ground up, where he lived until his death. He taught his trade to many, so that others could also provide for their families. He sponsored many of his siblings and their families in their immigration to the United States, working long days and weekends to ensure they had what they needed. Supporting his daughters through school, he put their educational needs and happiness above all else. He had a zest for life, was a self-taught gardener, avid Chinese chess player, and loved to have an aquarium full of fish. Hosting many celebrations in his home, he loved to be surrounded by family and friends. In his retirement, he and his wife traveled the world with family and friends. When his grandchildren were born, he devoted much of his time caring for them and making them smile.

He is well-loved, respected, and dearly missed. He is survived by his wife Yuk Yuen, older sister Wai Ling, eldest daughter Susan and her husband Alan Jung, daughter Sandy, youngest daughter Sue and her husband Oscar Iglesias, grandchildren Kaitlyn and Jonathan, and many nieces and nephews. Please join us for a funeral service at The Tower Chapel at Mountain View Cemetery (5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland) on Sunday, February 26, 2023. (For everyone's safety, please wear a mask inside the Tower Chapel)

Viewing and incense burning: 9:15 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Service: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Funeral procession and burial: 10:45 a.m. Lunch reception at Peony Seafood Restaurant (Pacific Renaissance Plaza - 388 9th St., Suite 288, Oakland): 12:45 p.m. RSVP via this link: https://forms.gle/SnTq2Eo38Jk63o6a9

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JOHN QUINN - April 10, 1945 - February 07, 2023

Departed: 02/07/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: John Quinn died of heart failure on February 7th, 2023 at the age of 77. It seems fitting considering core to his self was that he loved and felt too much. He was born of privilege but rejected his advantage early in life. He would become an Oakland activist and union organizer with two young sons, living in Oakland where very few people of his color and advantage would have chosen. He believed strongly that no one was born better but some were born lucky. He felt ashamed of his privilege and endeavored to build community based on equity and justice.

John Quinn read all the time. He read philosophy, history, politics, and the occasional mystery novel (Judge Dee was one of his favorites). He imparted his knowledge to anyone who would listen with a passion and joy that enthralled the most apathetic person. He shared his passion of skiing and the remote wilderness with his two sons through many backpacking and fly fishing journeys in the Warner Mountains. He also led his 12 and 14 year old sons on an incredible two-month journey as a single Dad around the world through Japan, along the Siberian Railway in the Soviet Union (Lake Baikal, Samarkand, Tashkent, Moscow, Leningrad), Finland, Sweden, Denmark, England, and New York at the age of 39. While in the Hermitage in Leningrad, tourists followed him around as they thought he was a tour guide with an incredible knowledge of each piece of art. They were shocked to find he was a tourist showing his kids around the museum.

He was a tow truck driver on the Bay Bridge where every stranded driver was happy to see him. John Quinn earned his teachers credential in 1980. He became a ski team coach at Skyline High School, and taught his passion (history) at Carondelet High School in Concord for over 10 years. I know for many, Mr. Quinn was their favorite teacher at Carondelet: demanding, kind, passionate, and deeply intelligent.

He fell in love many times and married twice. However, his heart was permanently broken after his son, Vladimir Quinn, was tragically murdered in 1993. He never healed from the tragedy but he doubled down on humanity, first serving formerly homeless at the Tri-Valley Homeless Coalition, then as a legal aid for seniors and disabled at the Alameda Legal Aid Society and the Law Center for Families. He finally served as a program director for the Center for Rehabilitation and Independent Living helping homeless people find jobs and housing. In the end, his broken heart took a toll on his health suffering a stroke at 57 that took away his capacity to ski. He did his best to share his passions with his two grandchildren, Kylie Quinn and Xavier Quinn. They brought him joy. He lived in a small studio apartment in Oakland, walked to the Piedmont Grocery, and then up to see his son at the Mountain View Cemetery everyday.

He will be laid to rest beside his son where he bought the plot next to him 30 years ago. He left nothing of material to his surviving son but imparted more wealth onto him that he is forever indebted and grateful.

I carry the wealth of an upbringing that only a privilege few can experience. I hope to impart that wealth to my children, god willing.

John Quinn’s funeral will be held at the Mountain View Cemetery on February 22nd, Wednesday at 12. It will be adjacent to Vladimir Quinn grave site. You are welcome to join.

John Quinn is survived by his son, Alexander Quinn and his two beautiful grandchildren, Kylie (14) and Xavier Quinn (soon to be 12), Alexander’s partner and son Jacinta Tobin and Cian Brownson, John’s brother Mike Quinn and sister in law Marylin Quinn, his nephew Cooper Quinn, and Cooper’s son Avery Quinn.

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CHRISTOPHER MALLORY CATLETT - November 21, 1946 - January 21, 2023

Departed: 01/21/2023 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Christopher Mallory Catlett, commonly known as Chris, passed away on January 12, 2023 at age 76. He was born November 21, 1946 in Rhode Island to William Jackson Catlett and Helen Antonia Vann. Chris attended high school in Virginia and traveled to California in the 1960s. He met his wife there, Lynda Gail (Picow) Catlett. They were married in 1971, at their home in Berkeley. They lived and loved together for 20 years in their home, until Lynda passed away in 1991. Chris loved Lynda deeply and was devastated by her death.

In the early 1990s, Chris met Anida Weyl, and they had a daughter together in 1994, Rebecca Lynn Catlett. Anida and Chris separated in 1997 and Chris remained in his Berkeley home.

A contractor by trade for over 40 years, Chris had his own company, “Catco” with his friend Kenny Thacker. He was well respected in his trade, beginning his career working on foundations and complete house builds, and ending his career building decks, arbors and trellises. Chris was a founding member of The Splinter Group, a coalition of building tradespeople.

Chris was an active member of the Cajun and Zydeco community, frequenting the Ashkanaz in Berkeley, and he attended shows all over Northern California until a few months before his passing. Later in his life, he met his partner Sian Palmer of Novato, California. They were together for over 15 years.

A notorious character, Chris lived life to the fullest. He will be sorely missed. He is survived by his partner Sian Palmer, his daughter, Rebecca Lynn Catlett, and his brother, Bill Catlett.

Funeral Services will be held January 24, 2023 at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland California at 11:00am. A Celebration of Chris’s Life will be held on February 18, 2023 in his home in Berkeley, details to follow. For more information please contact Rebecca Catlett at 510.459.2559 or stringsonboard@gmail.com

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SHIRLEY ANN NICHOLS RODENBORN - October 02, 1936 - December 18, 2022

Departed: 12/18/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Shirley Rodenborn Obituary "Those we love don't go away;

They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard but always near. Sill loved, still missed, and very dear..." – Irish Blessing

Shirley Ann Nichols Rodenborn was born October 2, 1936 to Ann Teresa Nichols (Castro) and Earl George Nichols at East Oakland Hospital in her beloved Oakland, California. She passed on December 18, 2022 in Redwood City after a stroke two days before. Many people were able to sit with her before she passed and her daughter, Marcy, and granddaughter Penelope, were with her when she departed.

She had a rough start to her life, losing her mother to tuberculosis at the age of 3. She was cared for by a variety of relatives, including her father’s second wife who gave her beloved siblings Greg (Ann), Floyd, and Joyce Rice (Bill). She had many stories of her Irish grandmother “Nana” who supported her while working as a banquet waitress in Oakland. Most of her young school life was spent in the Alameda Public Schools meeting a variety of lifelong friends including two future ex-husbands, Richard and George, and lifelong BFFs, Pat and Charlene (“Shofe”). She graduated from Alameda High School in 1954 and, lacking the resources that she worked her whole life to give to her daughter and granddaughter, she enlisted in the Women’s Army Corp to get the G.I. Bill to go to college.

She was trained as a cryptographer and had many stories of her times stationed in Heidelberg, spending her weekends with her sister WACS traveling around Europe by car. She was the center of a lively group of other enlisted women making their way in the world, traveling by car all over Europe in their free time.

During the Hungarian uprising in 1956, she was running messages down to senior Army officials that came in from the resistance begging the US for help in their fight against the USSR. The American military did not intervene and she always talked about how upset all the soldiers around her were, they wanted to go in so badly.

After her discharge, she married her high school boyfriend, Richard Montgomery, and traveled and studied in multiple places including Venice Beach, California and New York City, where she got her Bachelors in Math from NYU.

She had many adventures and almost everyone from every part of her life has one or more crazy stories about Shirley. One favorite involved how she moved from NYC back to California by hitchhiking by herself over three days. One of those hitches was on a private plane.

She was divorced in 1961 and worked a variety of jobs for Packard Bell, as a toll taker on the Bay Bridge, as an elevator girl, and was hired by Douglas Martin who took her cryptography and math expertise and trained her in what would be her career – as a programmer on some of the earliest computers.

In 1964, she married George Rodenborn in a New Year’s Eve service in Reno, Nevada. In 1965, her one child, Marcy, was born.

She stayed mostly at home with Marcy, working smaller jobs like delivering the community newspaper so she could take her baby around with her. In 1968, she began working for the state of California at the Metropolitan Transportation Commission as a programmer and working as Project Manager on a Pavement Management Index to create a method to track pavement quality. During her tenure of 30 years there, she was part of an amazing community of friends with whom she went on multiple bike, houseboat and skiing trips. Even though she had retired 25 years earlier, old MTC colleagues showed up at the hospital in droves because of the legacy of her commitment and friendship.

In 1968, the other major life change was her family’s move to Echo Avenue. This move began the creation of a community of which she was a vital member. Lifelong friends who are now extended family shared her life – Jane, Sara, Annie, Damon, Judith, Bridget, Kelsey, Phillipa, Roy, Kay, and many many other children and grandchildren. Everyone knew Shirley – she was often on her porch most evenings, sharing a drink and a laugh with whoever came by.

After retirement, she stayed very busy even asking once “can you call in sick to retirement?” because she had a tennis lesson and a bridge game on the same day. She volunteered in a variety of areas – doing taxes for “old people” (until she was 84), gardening, making sandwiches for the homeless, helping anywhere she was needed. She was an active patron of the arts, being a decades long subscriber to 42nd Street Moon and attending concerts, plays, movies, speakers, and any performance a loved one was in. She traveled the world to multiple continents – Russia, South America, Africa, all over Europe.

Bridge became an important touchstone for her, creating a whole new community of friends. She loved her bridge group and went on cruises and played regularly in person or online. She was in the American Contract Bridge League and played well enough to earn the status of Ruby Life Master. After the pandemic, she was often playing online and having Zoom drinks with a variety of friends.

She and George split in 1976, but stayed the best of friends for the rest of his life and she spent time with him shortly before he passed in 2018.

Perhaps the very greatest joy of her life happened on March 15, 2004, when she was present for the birth of her granddaughter, Penelope. She LOVED being a Grandmother and ensured she was present for every birthday, every milestone, every performance, and having Penelope live with her in the summer for long periods from the time she was a small child. She took her on trips to England, France, and all over the United States. For years, she took her to Arizona to watch the Oakland A’s Spring Training, teaching Penelope how to track the score. There was never a prouder or more loving grandmother, and when Penelope decided to attend U.C. Berkeley and live near her, it gave them extra time together during her last months.

There were so many children she loved in her life – Milo, her godson by Sara Lisch; all of her late friend Bridget’s grandchildren - Bridget and Maceo (her beloved Kelsey’s twins), Ben and Molly (Phillipa’s children); Beloved family friends Paul and Ann’s children, Sarah, Sam and Nathan; Great friend Donald’s son, Pablo; Mary Ann and Jane and Pam and their children and grandchildren. Her house is covered in pictures of so many children at various stages of their lives.

Her nephews Jeff and Floyd, her niece Diane and her children Madison, Abigail, Favour, Ruston, and Kayla Rae were all loved and important to her. Her Castro cousins – the six children by her mother’s brother John – and their children and their grandchildren were also a huge part of her life. She spent a lot of time with them growing up and was practically another sibling.

She also leaves behind her sister Joyce Rice and her husband Bill and her younger brother Gregory and his wife Ann. She didn’t have much time with them together as a child, but made up for it the last 50 years, talking to her sister at least once a week and yelling at her brother Greg when he tried to fix things around the house. The largest theme in this obituary is community – every kind of community. Shirley’s life had a rough start and she was often uncertain of love so she created a life where she was surrounded with love. Her house was the center of a million billion parties and celebrations – weddings, birthdays, “it’s Wednesday,” Christmas, etc. Many, many people stayed with her or lived with her for periods of time. Her outgoing message on her voice mail was “Leave a message for Shirley and a cast of thousands.” She actively parented her daughter until the night of her stroke, talking to her about her recent job change and delighting that a performance of hers had gone well. They were planning a trip to Scotland in April and discussing how they would manage a giant Christmas dinner at the house. They laughed and joked and the last thing they said to each other was “I can’t wait to see you and I love love love you.”

Details on a Celebration of Life are forthcoming (it takes a bit to plan a giant party). Donations in her name would be much appreciated at the Alameda County Food Bank, Doctors Without Borders, or Planned Parenthood.

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CAMDEN STEPANEK - August 19, 2013 - December 16, 2022

Departed: 12/16/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Camden Stepanek, age 9, passed away on December 16th, 2022 after a six year battle with Leukemia. He was born on August 19, 2013 in Berkeley, CA to Drew and Megan Stepanek. He spent the first 5 years of his life in Oakland - going to Lakeview Preschool, visiting the farmer’s market for crepes, learning to ride a bike on the sidewalks of Trestle Glen, and becoming a big brother.

He was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 3, and immediately started treatment at Oakland Children’s Hospital. Camden fought heroically through the first diagnosis, only to be met with another Leukemia at the age of 5. The family moved to Orinda in 2019, just one week before his first bone marrow transplant.

Growing up it was clear that Camden was a very special boy, winning over hearts of both peers and adults with his precious smile and kind heart. He was an old soul, and his witty personality created a lasting connection with everyone he met. Through his Leukemia journey he inspired others with his courage and tenacity while undergoing rigorous treatment for years. He had two bone marrow transplants, a clinical trial in St Louis, and several relapses - none of which could bring down his beautiful spirit.

Camden enjoyed what most little boys do - sports, building Legos, acquiring Pokemon cards, playing video games, and snuggling his puppy. Despite spending so much time in the hospital over the years, Camden still developed incredibly meaningful relationships with friends and family, nurses and doctors, teachers and classmates.

Camden will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in the Oakland Hills on January 12th, 2023 in a private service. The family will be planning a large “Celebration of Life” in February for anyone who would like to participate in honoring his memory. Those details will be forthcoming.

**** If you would like to send flowers, please deliver them to Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland no later than 9AM on Thursday 1/12/2023. Camden is survived by his mother, his father, his younger brother Garrett, his dog Dixie, two sets of grandparents, aunts and uncles, four cousins, a great grandmother, and an entire community of people who adored him. Despite having lost this battle, he will always be a celebrated warrior. Cammers Tough forever

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EVELYN WONG - July 22, 1929 - December 07, 2022

Departed: 12/07/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: On December 7, 2022, Evelyn Wong passed away peacefully of natural causes. She was born the elder of two identical twins on July 22, 1929, in Oakland, California. Her early years were spent with the family on the peach ranch in Sacramento, but she spent more time in Oakland as she and her brother grew older and went to school.

Growing up in Oakland Chinatown, Evelyn attended Lincoln School and then University High. After school, Evelyn married Sam Wong, Jr., who she first met in kindergarten. They married in 1952 but were soon separated when the U.S. Army drafted Sam for the Korean Conflict.

Upon his safe return, Evelyn and Sam moved from Oakland to San Leandro and led a full life with four children, Arthur (Art), Shirley, Jeffrey, and Diane. Evelyn spent her working career at the California Department of Motor Vehicles in Hayward, California. As a working mom, Evelyn made sure her family enjoyed a happy life, and she was a loving mother to all her children. After retirement, Evelyn and Sam moved to Danville where they enjoyed time together taking vacations and dancing. Ballroom and country line dancing were their favorite social outings, and they often danced swing and foxtrot at family gatherings.

Evelyn was known for her kindness, grace, wisdom, and her smile. She is preceded by her parents Chester and Daisy Chan, brother David Chan, loving husband Sam Wong, Jr., and son Jeffrey Wong. She is survived by her sister Elsie Ng, son Art Wong, daughters Shirley Wong and Diane Wong-Kone, grandchildren Nathaniel (Nat) Wong, Courtney Ortega, Jessica Hovland, and Tim Jose, and great grandchildren Leo Ortega and Hudson Hovland.

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DR. ASADOLLAH HAYATDAVOUDI - June 06, 1938 - December 03, 2022

Departed: 12/03/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Dr. Asadollah Hayatdavoudi, 84, passed away on Saturday, December 3 after a long illness.

He was a scientist and researcher, inventor, engineer, and educator, but, above all, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

His teaching career spanned more than 45 years, during which time he trained and guided thousands of students towards a path to success, and served as an inspiration, mentor, and father figure to all. He will be missed deeply.

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DOROTHY "TAYA" ANN DUNN - October 13, 1942 - November 20, 2022

Departed: 11/20/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Taya Dunn Obituary 1942 - 2022

Dorothy Ann Dunn, known to everyone as Taya, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2022, in her Oakland home in the Jean Terrace community where she lived for over 45 years.

Taya was born in 1942 in Richmond, Virginia, and moved to Berkeley with her family when she was three. While Taya had a passion for adventure, she lived her entire life in the Bay Area, building and maintaining loyal and long-term friendships that brought great meaning to her life.

Taya was a seeker of both adventure and spiritual purpose. Raised Catholic, she entered a convent after graduating from St. Joseph’s high school in Berkeley, leaving within a week. She earned an undergraduate degree from the College of the Holy Names and a Masters in Education from San Francisco State. She taught elementary school in San Francisco and St. Thomas before realizing that she preferred behind-the-scenes work to teaching in front of a classroom. During these years Taya traveled in Europe, North Africa, and Central and South America. She once took local buses from Mexico to South America over the Andes and rode a banana barge down the Amazon River.

In 1973 Taya joined Kaiser Permanente as a data analyst and a computer (the human kind - she became a computer programmer once she had access to the University of California mainframe). Taya's research in the Quality of Care Department helped pioneer new data-informed approaches to medical care. Taya was known as a gentle and loyal colleague who was a patient trainer of many staff. Her Kaiser colleagues remember time spent together in laughter. She worked at Kaiser for 40 years.

Taya's shy and gentle manner disappeared when she got behind the wheel of a sports car or the controls of an airplane. She would whip around the corners of the Berkeley hills and even buzzed the Grand Canyon from her small plane. Taya was a member of the 99s, an organization of women pilots, where she served as treasurer for 40 years.

Taya's most important friendship was with her husband, Steve Mangnall, who she married in Tilden Park in 1981. As a couple, they built lasting friendships with others, including a group that went on an annual camping trip for three decades. They had annual events with different sets of friends for Christmas, Halloween, the Super Bowl, and to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. Taya and Steve traveled the world finding themselves in Beijing during the Tiananmen Square protests, confined to their hotel in North India during a period of social unrest, and surrounded by army tanks in Cusco, Peru. Steve passed away in 2016.

Taya was a lifelong student of healthy living, so it was a surprise to her and her loved ones when her health began to decline - slowly at first, as back pain limited her movements, and then very quickly as cancer ended her life within days of diagnosis. Taya was always thankful for the help and companionship of neighbors, caregivers, Sangha members, and family. Taya found her spiritual home at Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Marin where she practiced meditation and studied Buddhism. She joined a Sangha led by Tempel Smith in 2010. Taya was known by Sangha members for her dedication, generosity, and kindness. Lifelong friends and members of Taya's Sangha were present during her final days, bringing storytelling, song, and silent meditation to her bedside. Tempel sat with and guided Taya through her last moments of life. He wrote after her passing, “may we all have the karma and conditions of a peaceful and loving passage when we let go of this life. May all beings be well.”

Taya is survived by her sister Marilyn Dunn, her brother Richard Dunn, and her nieces Carrie Doyle and Kelly Dewitt. Beyond bloodlines, Taya's life is a testament to the power and meaning of one’s chosen family, which, for Taya, was large and omnipresent.

Taya’s memorial will take place at 1:00 PM on March 25 at the Mausoleum Chapel at Mountain View Cemetery. Immediately following the service, guests are welcome to join a driving procession to the gravesite where Taya’s ashes will be interred and butterflies will be released.

At 3:30 PM, guests are welcome to a reception at the Grand Avenue Social Club at 3601 Grand Avenue in Oakland for a chance to reconnect, share stories about Taya, and celebrate a life well lived.

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FLEET WILFORD FUGLER - May 14, 1930 - September 26, 2022

Departed: 09/26/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Fleet Wilford Fugler May 14, 1930 - September 26, 2022

A long-time resident of the San Francisco Bay Area, Bill was born in Brookhaven, Mississippi and moved with his family to Oakland, California in 1942. Bill was proud to be an officer of the Oakland Police Department rising to the rank of Lieutenant of Homicide. Although retired from OPD, Bill remained “blue blooded” and was a member various police organizations including the Widows and Orphans Aid Association, the Thursday Club, and the Le Société de Camaraderie.

Bill was the son of Houston and Lucille Fugler. He was the beloved husband of Carol Fugler and the adored father of Dana Fugler Unruh and Janice Fugler Carrigan. He was also the proud grandfather of Alexander and Austin Unruh.

Bill was a graduate of Fremont High School in Oakland, after which he served with the United States Merchant Marine and the United States Army. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at California State University, Sacramento.

In his spare time, Bill loved spending time with his friends and family, waterskiing, riding his horse Gentry, reading history and traveling.

Friends are invited to join our family as we honor his life on Thursday, October 6, 2022 at 11:15 a.m. at Mountain View Cemetery for a graveside service. Mountain View Cemetery is located at 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA, 94611.

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BARBARA J. NORTON - May 17, 1942 - August 23, 2022

Departed: 08/23/2022 (Oakland)

Obituary Preview: Barbara J. Norton, 80, beloved wife of Howie, passed away on August 23, 2022 at her home in Moraga, CA.

Barbara was born on May 17, 1942 in Oakland, CA to Margaret and Harry Schilling. She was raised in Oakland with two brothers and a sister where she attended and graduated from Fremont High School. In the early years her mother and father were active at the Oakland Speedway and later her father was a restauranter in Oakland with the Pier 29, the Ark and the Caprice his restaurants.

Following high school graduation Barbara pursued her college degree at the University of Nevada-Reno desiring a mountain lifestyle. Barbara married Howard Norton of Piedmont, CA in 1962 celebrating 60 years of marriage in 2022; they pursued the mountain lifestyle Barbara so aspired to with alpine skiing at its center. Barbara later would become a ski instructor at the world renowned Sun Valley Ski School and fully supported her three boys in their pursuit as competitive ski racers traveling throughout North America and Europe for training and competition.

In addition Barbara held her pilot’s license and designers license with her interest in interior design. She commonly supported friends and family with access to the San Francisco Design Center. After raising her children and before the main attraction, her grandchildren, Barbara continued her college course work at St. Mary’s College with an emphasis in political science. Having traveled all corners of the world Barbara took a strong interest in world affairs and its people. Along with her husband, Howie, she too developed a strong interest in bicycle riding which took them on a 59 day trip from Oceanside, CA to Williamsburg, VA on their tandem bicycle. Including multiple other tours their biking encompassed both coast lines from Washington to the Mexican Border and Maine to Georgia.

In their active lifestyle she was an avid water skier and member of the Diablo Waterski Club near their seasonal home in Discovery Bay. By far Barbara’s greatest interest was her family enjoying traveling and spending time with her grandchildren in Lake Tahoe. She will be most remembered for her generous spirit and her unwavering commitment to family. We will miss her love and support dearly.

Barbara is survived by her husband Howard Norton; her three children Scott Norton, Greg Norton and Mark Norton, her eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and her younger sister Janis Storey.

On Thursday September 8th, at 10:30 AM friends are invited to gather with family members at Piedmont Funeral Services, located at 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA. Barbara will be buried at Mountain View Cemetery. Pastor Mark Likos will deliver a blessing and burial site eulogy. For those who would like to make a donation in memory of Barbara Norton, the family suggests the Alzheimer’s Association in support of her husband who she cared for over many years. https://www.alz.org/norcal

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Funeral Services Offered

Piedmont Funeral Services offers a comprehensive range of funeral services, including:

- Traditional funerals with viewing and visitation

- Cremation services with memorialization options

- Graveside services

- Memorial services

- Veteran's services

Regardless of the type of service chosen, their team is committed to ensuring that every detail is carefully attended to, providing families with peace of mind during a difficult time.

Cemetery Options at Mountain View Cemetery

Mountain View Cemetery, located on the same grounds as Piedmont Funeral Services, offers a serene and picturesque setting for families to lay their loved ones to rest. The cemetery features beautifully manicured gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Families can choose from a variety of burial options, including:

- Traditional in-ground burial

- Lawn crypts

- Mausoleum entombment

- Cremation niches

The cemetery also features several specialty gardens and sections, including a veterans' garden and a children's garden.

Pre-Planning and Advance Planning Options

Piedmont Funeral Services understands the importance of pre-planning and advance planning when it comes to funeral arrangements. By making arrangements ahead of time, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, alleviate financial burdens on their loved ones, and gain peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. Their experienced staff can guide individuals through the pre-planning process, helping them make informed decisions about their final arrangements.

Community Involvement and Support

Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery is deeply committed to giving back to the community. They regularly host events and workshops on topics such as grief support, estate planning, and end-of-life care. Additionally, they partner with local organizations to provide resources and support to those in need.

Amenities and Facilities

The funeral home features modern facilities designed to provide comfort and convenience to families. Amenities include:

- Spacious chapel with seating for up to 200 guests

- Visitation rooms for private gatherings

- On-site crematory for added convenience

- Parking accommodations for large groups

The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all families can participate in funeral services without restriction.

Why Choose Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery?

When faced with the loss of a loved one, it's essential to choose a funeral home that can provide compassionate care, personalized attention, and professional guidance. Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery stands out from other funeral homes in the area due to their:

- Long-standing reputation for excellence

- Experienced team of funeral professionals

- Comprehensive range of services and amenities

- Commitment to community involvement and support

By choosing Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery, families can trust that they will receive exceptional care during their time of need.

Contact Information and Location

Piedmont Funeral Services & Mountain View Cemetery is conveniently located at 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA 94611. For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors, please call (insert phone number) or visit their website at (insert website URL).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including biographical information, funeral or memorial service details, and surviving family members. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and the community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries are important because they provide a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also serving as a formal notification of their passing. They offer an opportunity for family and friends to pay tribute, share memories, and say goodbye.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the deceased person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include funeral or memorial service details, charitable donations in lieu of flowers, and other relevant information.

Who writes an obituary?

The responsibility of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to fill out.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs. Online obituaries often have more flexibility in terms of length and content.

Where are obituaries published?

Traditionally, obituaries are published in local newspapers, but they can also be found online through funeral home websites, social media platforms, and dedicated obituary websites. Some families may choose to publish an obituary in multiple locations to reach a wider audience.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and its policies. Some newspapers and online platforms offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge by the word or line. Funeral homes may also offer package deals that include obituary publication.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is possible to write your own obituary. In fact, some people choose to do so as a way to control how they are remembered and to spare their loved ones from having to write it during a difficult time.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper, you can usually contact their obituary department directly via phone or email. They will provide guidance on their submission process and any specific requirements or deadlines.

Can I include photos or videos in an online obituary?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to include photos, videos, and other multimedia elements in an obituary. This can help bring the person's story to life and make the tribute more personal.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration for which online obituaries remain available varies depending on the platform. Some websites may keep them archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is possible to make corrections or edits to an obituary after it has been published. However, this may depend on the publication's policies and procedures.

What if I want to keep my loved one's obituary private?

If you wish to keep your loved one's obituary private, you can request that it not be published publicly or limit access to certain individuals or groups. Some online platforms offer privacy settings or password-protected options for this purpose.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, you can include quotes, lyrics, or other meaningful phrases in an obituary to add personal touches and reflect the person's personality or interests.

How do I notify friends and acquaintances about an upcoming funeral or memorial service?

You can notify friends and acquaintances about an upcoming funeral or memorial service through various channels such as social media, email invitations, phone calls, or printed announcements.

What is the etiquette for responding to an online condolence message?

When responding to an online condolence message, it's essential to be sincere and respectful. A simple "thank you" or acknowledgement of their sympathy is usually sufficient. You may also choose to respond with a personal message or share a memory of your loved one.

Can I create a memorial website or page for my loved one?

Yes, you can create a memorial website or page on social media platforms like Facebook or dedicated memorial websites like Legacy.com. These sites allow you to share memories, photos, and stories about your loved one.

How do I handle condolences from coworkers or acquaintances?

When receiving condolences from coworkers or acquaintances, a simple acknowledgement of their sympathy is usually sufficient. You may also choose to share a brief story or memory about your loved one if you feel comfortable doing so.

What is the significance of publishing an obituary in multiple languages?

Publishing an obituary in multiple languages can be especially important for families with international roots or connections. It ensures that all who cared about the deceased are informed and able to participate in mourning rituals.

Can I include humor or lighthearted anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes, incorporating humor or lighthearted anecdotes into an obituary can help celebrate your loved one's personality and make the tribute more relatable and engaging.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

To ensure accuracy when writing an obituary, verify facts such as dates, names, and places with reliable sources like official documents or family records. It's also essential to proofread carefully before submitting the final version.

What if I need help writing an obituary due to emotional distress?

If you're struggling emotionally and need help writing an obituary, consider enlisting the support of a trusted friend or family member. Funeral homes may also offer assistance with writing duties during this difficult time.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes, you can include charitable donation information in an obituary as a way to honor your loved one's memory and support a cause close to their heart.

How do I preserve my loved one's online presence after they've passed away?

You can preserve your loved one's online presence by creating a memorial page on social media platforms or dedicated memorial websites. This allows friends and family to continue sharing memories and paying tribute over time.