Santa Rosa Mortuary Obituaries

Understanding the Importance of a Funeral Home in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa Mortuary, located at 1900 Franklin Ave, Santa Rosa, CA, 95404, is a trusted and respected funeral home that has been serving the community for years. Losing a loved one can be an incredibly difficult experience, and during this challenging time, it's essential to have a supportive and caring team to guide you through the funeral planning process. In this article, we will delve into the significance of a funeral home like Santa Rosa Mortuary and how they can provide comfort and support during your time of need.

A Brief History of Santa Rosa Mortuary

Santa Rosa Mortuary has a rich history in the community, with a legacy of providing compassionate and personalized funeral services to families in Santa Rosa and surrounding areas. Their experienced staff is dedicated to honoring the lives of loved ones who have passed, while also supporting those who are grieving. With a deep understanding of the importance of celebrating life, Santa Rosa Mortuary strives to create meaningful and memorable funeral experiences that bring comfort to those who are saying goodbye.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Linda Louise Ingley - August 02, 1941 - March 07, 2022

Departed: 03/07/2022 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Linda Louise Ingley of Rohnert Park, CA passed away on Monday, March 7th, 2022 at Santa Rosa Kaiser Hospital with her two daughters by her side.Linda was born on the family farm in Hillsboro, Iowa on Aug. 2,1941 to Roland and Lucile Newbold. After moving to Huntington Beach, CA she graduated from Huntington Beach High School in 1959. Shortly after marrying Robert Ingley, they moved to Sonoma County where she called home for over 60 years. Linda was very involved with raising her two daughters by volunteering with Bellevue School PTA, Bluebirds, and Campfire Girls, among many other community organizations.Linda was a longtime U.S. Postal Service Employee, she was appointed to Postmaster in Inverness, CA. She retired in 2005 with a Service Award for her 25 years. Linda enjoyed camping, fishing, gardening, and cooking, but most of all spending time with her family and her dog, Buster.She is survived by two daughters, Yvette Ingley Kennedy (Shawn) of Ukiah, CA. Stefanie Ingley Faddis (Garrett) of Lynden, WA. Her grandchildren Derek Kennedy (Tashi), Amanda Kennedy (Ryan), Kyle Kennedy, and Ryan Faddis. Great-grandchildren Talen Kennedy, Lillian Cranford, Easton Cranford, Brinley Cranford, Kingston Kennedy with another great-granddaughter on the way. Preceded in death by her sister, Joanne Booz. A graveside service will be held at Santa Rosa Memorial Park on March 28th at 1:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to attend.

View Full Obituary

Kalliope Smernes - August 16, 1916 - December 21, 2021

Departed: 12/21/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Kalliope Smernes of Santa Rosa California passed away peacefully on December 21st, 2021 at the age of 105. Kalliope was born in 1916 in the village of Kandyla Greece to Demetrios and Gianula Karzis. In 1949 after surviving Nazi occupation of her village, Kalliope and her family moved to Athens where she lived until 1960 when she came to America and married Mr. Tony Smernes, Sr. She is preceeded in death by her parents and siblings and her husband Tony Smernes Sr., Vikki Smernes Dumm (Frank), as well as her great-granddaughter Celeste Streutker and great-grandson Geno Smernes. Kalliope is survived by Mrs. Nanci Streutker (Donald) and Mr. Anthony Smernes Jr. (Judy). She the was the cherished and adored “Yiayia” to Robert Streutker, Kurt Streutker, Dawne Cerecedes (Frank), Anthony Streutker (Joy) and Carlos Enriquez, Jennifer Smernes, Sarah Edson (Zak), Anthony Smernes III (Stacey) and Great-Grandmother to Charles and Nicholas Enriquez, Rachele Streutker, Nika and Anthony Edson, Tony, Gregory, Andrew and Gianluca Smernes. Adored “Theia” to Margarita Gianakouras (John). Our amazing Yiayia was renown for her delicious Greek cooking, baking, hospitality and generosity. She lovingly cared for her grandchildren and loved to cook meals for her family and passed along many recipes as we spent decades with her in her kitchen. She was a member of the Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church and was an active member of the Ladies Philoptochos Group and enjoyed making dozens of perfect cookies and working at the loukoumades station at the annual Greek Festival. She enjoyed the simple things in life—sewing, knitting, reading, flowers in her garden and being with those she loved. She enjoyed watching Wheel Of Fortune, Jeopardy and Dancing with the Stars on TV and was incredibly informed on current events. Yiayia, you’ll live on in our hearts forever. May her Memory be Eternal. Services for Kalliope will be private and at a later date.

View Full Obituary

James McKee - July 23, 1934 - August 29, 2021

Departed: 08/29/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: McKEE, James Lee “Jim” Born in Des Moines, Iowa,

on July 23, 1934, passed away on August 29, 2021, Jim is now home with the Lord. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Marjorie, and his brother, Jerry. He is survived by, and will be deeply missed by, his daughter, Cindy (Bruce) Kitabjian; son, James Robert (Kimberly) McKee; grandchildren, Sarah, Anna, Rachel and Susanna Kitabjian, Jana (Eli) Contreras, Kelly (Trey) Box and Angela Roa; great grandson, James Contreras; and loving in-laws, nieces and nephews. Jim worked 39 years as a Civil Engineer, first in Los Angeles and San Jose before moving to Santa Rosa in 1965, where he worked for the City of Santa Rosa until his retirement in 1995. Jim was also an accomplished songwriter. A memorial service will be held at Santa Rosa Nazarene Church, 1135 Farmers Lane, Santa Rosa, California, September 10, 2021 at 5:00pm.

View Full Obituary

Fred Joseph Perry Jr. - September 29, 1929 - July 24, 2021

Departed: 07/24/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Fred Joseph Perry, Jr. passed away on July 24, 2021. He was the son of Fred Joseph Perry and Blanche Bernice (Dyer) Perry and born on September 29, 1929, in Santa Rosa, California. He was the oldest child of three (Ronald and Sandra) and lived most of his life in Santa Rosa, CA. He attended St. Rose Catholic School, Santa Rosa High School and Santa Rosa Junior College. He spent two years (March 22, 1951 – March 22, 1953) as a Mess Sargent in the Army, stationed at Camp Roberts, CA. He married Beverly Ann Story on July 10, 1952 at the Sonoma County Court House, by Judge L. E. Fulwider. They just celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. They have five children: Debra Triacca, Michael Perry (Leslie), Patrick Perry (Betsy), Kathleen Geney (Michael), and Timothy Perry; twelve grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. In high school, Fred was very active in sports. In 1947 he was voted the All-American Blanket award for being the most valuable teammate on the North Bay league. He held several track records and competed in the California Interscholastic Federation Championship in Visalia, CA and ended up ninth place in the state. He was also an avid bowler. In the early days, he built a family ski boat "Perry's Ferry" and loved to go to the lake and waterski. After serving in the army, he worked for Clover Dairy delivering milk. He then worked as a salesman for Kurlander & Son. He retired after 30 years as a Farmers Insurance agent. After retirement, Fred and Beverly traveled the U.S. in a Fifth Wheel trailer for seventeen years. As a Depression Era child, Fred learned to fix everything. He was a mechanic, a carpenter, a painter and an all-around handyman. He could fix just about anything and passed all of those skills onto his kids.

View Full Obituary

William Lovell Kramer - January 08, 1935 - July 03, 2021

Departed: 07/03/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: William Lovell Kramer, Captain USMC Retired

A guiding light to many, William Lovell Kramer, Captain USMC Retired, passed away on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at the age of 86.

He was born January 8, 1935, at the Point Arena Lighthouse in Mendocino County. His grandfather, Lovel Hamilton, was the lighthouse keeper. Bill spent his early years on the Mendocino Coast with his parents, Helen Arline Hamilton and George William McMillen.

After graduating from Healdsburg High School in 1952, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps. After graduating from recruit training, he became a drill instructor. Bill is a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War. He served honorably in the Marines for twenty years, earning several awards and medals. Bill's experience in the Marines played a very important role in his life. He frequently pointed out that the Marines taught him the value of discipline, teamwork and investing in a cause larger than himself.

While home on leave, he met and married Betty Lou Frye in 1957. They had three children: David, Christina and Stephen and settled in Windsor, then in Santa Rosa.

After Bill retired from the Marines as a Captain, he obtained a BA Degree from Sonoma State University with a double major in Physics and English. He worked for Weigh Tronix as the Manager of the Postal Division and retired in 1997. Bill also taught electronics courses at SRJC. Although he and Betty divorced, they remained close. Bill married Joan Kramer in 1989 and they moved to Hidden Valley Lake in 1998.

There was nothing Bill liked better than making (and eating) sourdough pancakes with his family. The gatherings were a huge joy. He loved photography and built his own darkroom. He was an avid golfer for many years and a legendary cribbage player. Devoted to animals, he loved his German Shepard "King." A voracious reader, he enjoyed Shakespeare and historical nonfiction. Sports was another passion and he loved watching his children and grandchildren. Bill was a very kind and brave man and will be missed by many.

Bill is survived by former spouses Betty Kramer and Joan Kramer; daughter Christina Kramer (Justin Reilly), sons David (Tammy Durston) Kramer and Steve (Amy) Kramer, six grandchildren and many other family and friends. We are thankful to Lena, his caregiver as well as the Middletown Senior Center for their assistance.

View Full Obituary

Dom Phanchanh - December 13, 1965 - May 02, 2021

Departed: 05/02/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Dom Phanchanh was born on December 13, 1965 in Sayaboury, Laos to her father Mieng Kala and her mother Pong Kala. In 1982, she married the love of her life, Sert. Surrounded by war and corruption, Dom and her family fled Laos to take refuge at the Ban Nam Yao refugee camp in Thailand and later moved on to Ban Vinai. It was during her time at camp that she was introduced to God and taught about the greatness of His salvation. A new journey awaited Dom and her family in the United States where they settled in Santa Rosa, California in 1987. Although she faced a plethora of hardships, the Lord blessed Dom with four sons: Yai, Scott, Johnny, and Marky and five granddaughters: Sophie, Sadie, Aurora, Stephanie, and Aila.

Dom first came face-to-face with her health battle in 2007 when she became ill with pneumonia. This became pertinent to the chronic health issues that would affect the rest of her life. With complete understanding of her condition’s severity and with each day that passed by, her faith in God only grew stronger. In 2015, Dom and her family received news that she would need a lung transplant. Then, two years later, a heart transplant as well. Even through her toughest battles, Dom’s faith in the Lord could not be shaken.

An opportunity of a lifetime arose on April 6th, when God gave her the long-awaited transplants she had been praying for. For those who might not have known, this champion made it through the operations. Very much so that she was able to open her eyes and see her husband and children by her side just like she had promised them.

On May 2, 2021, with the promise of eternal life where there would be no more suffering, the Lord opened the gates and called Dom home to Him. Dom was the backbone to our family. Her spirit lives on in all of us as we are reminded of her kindness, her selflessness, her courage, her wisdom, and her devotion to God.

View Full Obituary

Jerry Edwin Arnold - April 14, 1942 - April 07, 2021

Departed: 04/07/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Jerry Edwin Arnold passed away peacefully on April 7, 2021, following a brief, valiant battle with cancer. Born in Los Angeles on April 14, 1942, Jerry became the man of the house at an early age following the unexpected passing of his father. Caring for his mom and sisters shaped him into a sentimental ‘girl dad’ and he forever put his family’s needs first. Jerry is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Linda; daughters Karin (Brad) Manning and Krista (Emil) Johansen; grandchildren Ceili, Conor, Sofia, Ella, and Hayden; sisters Janalee Weibel Bounds and Linda (Jim) Williams; brother-in-law Robert (Peggy) Swift; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Theo Arnold, and in-laws, Hayden and Dixie Swift.

Jerry enlisted in the US Army in 1964 and was deployed to Vietnam where he served as both a helicopter mechanic and PX operator. Following their marriage on May 7, 1966, Jerry and Linda explored the US on a cross-country trip to their army base destination in Fort Benning, GA, where he achieved Specialist 5 Technician rank. After honorable discharge, Jerry worked for LA Water and Power at several power plants, including operating a bridge crane and working on large machinery at the Hoover Dam. He followed his in-laws to Santa Rosa in 1974 where he settled to raise his own family. Jerry learned the sheet metal trade and worked in the HVAC industry through the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 104 for 32 years. He worked for many local companies throughout the Bay Area and enjoyed the challenge of architectural projects until his retirement in 2006.

One of Jerry’s favorite activities was ocean fishing, something that reminded him of good times with his own dad. He removed many ‘stuck’ bobbers from reeds and trees in local lakes as he taught his daughters and grandchildren to fish. He loved his family dogs, photography, camping trips, coffee, and conversation, making many friends over the years. Jerry never knew a stranger. He began early mornings at Sonoma Bagel and Deli chatting with the owner as he helped ‘open shop’ or the local Starbucks with the morning crew. He was best known for his creativity, problem-solving, wealth of information, stories, wit, and friendly pranks, fondly nicknamed ‘Jerry jokes’. He was a kind husband, dad, and Papa who dropped everything to help others. Jerry’s happy, positive spirit will be very deeply missed by many whose lives he touched.

View Full Obituary

Barbara Bobbie Stapleton - June 10, 1930 - March 15, 2021

Departed: 03/15/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Barbara (Bobbie) Stapleton June 10, 1930 - March 15, 2021, Age 90. Beloved wife of the late Martin. Loving Mother of Cheryl (Gordon) Ashton, Patty (Frank) Peters, and Kathy (Gene) Petrini. Proud and loving grandmother to Dawn (Jeff) Roulo, Frank (Jill) Peters, Jennifer Johnson, Gina (James) Peyer, and Justin (Carina) Petrini and great grandmother of 15. Survived by one brother James VanMeter.

A private funeral will be held March 23, 2021 at Eggen & Lance Chapel. Entombment at Santa Rosa Memorial Park. Services (2:00PM) will be live streamed.

Memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society are appreciated.

View Full Obituary

Salvador G. Vazquez - January 03, 1927 - February 22, 2021

Departed: 02/22/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Salvador G. Vázquez passed from this earth on February 22, 2021, in his home of 45 years in Santa Rosa, California at the age of 94. Salvador was born in Pajacuáran, Michoacán, México on January 3, 1927. He was the eldest child of his parents Jesús Vázquez and María Luisa Gutiérrez, who preceded his death. He had eight younger siblings; Jesús, María Luisa (deceased), Juan Manuel, Roberto, Roselia (deceased), Juanita, José Luis, and Javier (deceased). He lived and worked on the family farm before coming to the United States in 1955 through the Bracero Program. He arrived in Sebastopol, California in 1960 and worked at Kikuchi Farms. He later moved to Santa Rosa and worked for Hess Construction and then Lemos Construction and retired as an expert concrete tradesman.

In 1968 he began a life with Pauline Silvas Galupe Vasquez (deceased). Together they raised their children; Gwendolyn Galupe Perkins (Ron, deceased), Kathleen Galupe Karlsen (Dan), Laura Galupe Salazar (Rick, deceased), Larry Galupe, Angie Galupe Pimentel (David), Paula Vasquez Beltran (Daniel) and Salvador Christopher Vasquez.

He will be missed by all his children, including his 14 grandchildren Jesse (deceased), Cole, Angelia, Malia, Samuel, Robert, Gary Allen, Angelina, Alexander, Camerina, Kathleen, Pauline, Colleen, and Devin. And 9 great-grandchildren, Samuel, Emily, Gwendolyn, Alexander, Joy, Linnea, Cole, Austin, Tash and many other relatives.

Salvador was a man of resilience and drive. He succeeded in obtaining his American citizenship in 1995. He often shared his life experiences with us, an effort by him to assist with our own life decisions.

We will remember our father as a man who took pride in his family and home. He grew beautiful flowers and had a bountiful vegetable garden for many years. He was also a fantastic cook, enjoyed at home projects of carpentry and cement. He loved to discuss history, current events and sharing memories of his childhood in his native Country. But most of all, we will cherish the love and support he has given to us as the patriarch of our family.

Due to COVID-19 there will be a limited number of persons allowed to attend the celebration of Salvador's life. A viewing will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at Eggen and Lance Chapel; 1540 Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa, California 95404 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Rosary will begin at 7:00 pm.

On Wednesday, March 10, 2021 we will gather at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church; 8400 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor, California 95492 at 11:00 am with a private burial to follow at Santa Rosa Memorial Cemetery- Shiloh Annex.

View Full Obituary

Edward H. Peterson - October 13, 1936 - February 17, 2021

Departed: 02/17/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Edward Hinshaw "Big Ed" Peterson, 84, entered into rest on February 17, 2021, at his home in Indian Wells, California. Ed succumbed to MDS, family by his side, but now is at peace, having suffered little pain.

Ed was born to delighted parents Edward H. Peterson of Santa Rosa, and Elaine Ellis Peterson, of Petaluma, in Santa Rosa on October 13, 1936. Ed was a sixth generation Californian and a resident, through his life, of Santa Rosa, Piedmont, Graton, Orinda, and Indian Wells. He attended Fremont Elementary School, Santa Rosa Junior High School, Army Navy Academy high school in Carlsbad, California, and graduated with a business degree from the University of California at Berkeley. He was a member and president of Zeta Psi fraternity, and a member of Skull & Keys and Beta Beta. Cal is also where he met his wife of 47 years and mother of his children, Barbara Bell "Bug" Peterson of Piedmont.

Ed was married twice. Bug predeceased Ed in 2008. Then, for ten years, he was married to Gail Dutton of Santa Rosa and Graton, who remained his close companion until his passing.

Ed's father, known as Duke, was a Santa Rosa farmer specializing in hops, prunes, and green beans, who died in 1943 at a very young age. Thus Ed joined the family farming business being quite young himself. Ed’s mother Elaine remarried in 1946 to Edward Healey, who became a wonderful mentor and stepfather. However, the hop industry had slowed by the time Ed was out of college, so instead he embarked on his lifelong career in real estate.

About 1960, Ed joined Grubb & Ellis, working with Hal Ellis and his team as the firm was just starting out. Ed transacted commercial real estate deals throughout the western United States for over a decade. Then, in 1972, Ed and his lifelong pal Vic Nelson founded Nelson Peterson Associates, later to become NP&A. They led the firm for many years, selling and leasing what Ed would say was "almost every building in the San Francisco financial district." During this time Ed also invested in and redeveloped industrial real estate. By 1986, Ed's side business became a full-time endeavor, and Ed semi-retired from the corporate world to focus on his real estate interests, founding Peterson Properties in 1986. His children all entered the business and have worked alongside Ed for many years.

Ed was a member of Eldorado Country Club in Indian Wells, the Bohemian Club and Pacific Union Club in San Francisco, Claremont Country Club in Oakland, the Outrigger Canoe Club in Honolulu, and horseback riding clubs including the Sonoma County Trailblazers, the Frontier Boys, and the Wild Oak Saddle Club. Ed also enjoyed Lifetime Membership in the Society of California Pioneers in San Francisco.

Ed loved sports. While in high school, Ed was a triple varsity letterman in football, basketball, and track, then went on to play freshman basketball at Cal. Ed's love of sports continued through his life. As a spectator, Ed was a lifetime season ticket holder and Bear Backer for the University of California Golden Bears football and basketball teams. And as a participant, Ed enjoyed waterskiing on Lake Tahoe and the Sacramento Delta, hunting in California, Alaska, Colorado, Canada, Mexico, and Africa, and snow skiing at his beloved Sugar Bowl, as well as at Aspen, Vail, and Sun Valley. He spent many years supporting Sugar Bowl, as both a skier and Chairman of the Board of the corporation.

Ed traveled extensively in his life. While he enjoyed regular trips to Aspen, Lake Tahoe, La Jolla, and Hawaii (Ed taking in the tropic sun of Honolulu almost annually), he and his companions - Bug & later Gail, also traveled the world. When asked to recall his favorite trip, Ed always replied fondly that it was the family trip to London, Africa, and Rome in 1987.

Ed was a lifelong parishioner, first at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Oakland, then later at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco and St. Margaret's Episcopal Church in Palm Desert.

Fundraising was also a lifelong passion for Ed. For UC Berkeley, Ed served as Chairman of the UC Berkeley Foundation and became a Trustee Emeritus. Ed also assisted in fundraising for various campus disciplines and was a Berkeley Fellow. He served as the Northern California co-chair of the Keeping the Promise Campaign and raised money for the 25th and 50th reunions for the Class of '58. He was instrumental in the lead gifts for various buildings on the Cal campus, including the Valley Life Sciences building and the Bancroft Library. The bronze Mark Twain bench in the Doe Library commemorates one of his most fond philanthropic accomplishments. He assisted from the outset with the Builders of Berkeley wall and is a "Builder" himself. He was also the recipient of the Wheeler Oak Meritorious Award and the Chancellor's Award. In the Palm Springs area, Ed served on the Board of Trustees of Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage and was formerly a Chairperson of Eisenhower Health Foundation. He was an eager supporter of both Eisenhower Health and St. Margaret's Church in Palm Desert. Ed also served on various committees and loved assisting with the governance of Eldorado Country Club. He was a supporter of The Living Desert in Palm Springs and a supporter of Cardinal Newman High School's post-fire rebuilding project in Santa Rosa. Early in his life in Oakland, Ed had also served on the Board of Trustees of Children's Hospital of Oakland.

Ed was predeceased by his mother Elaine Ellis Peterson Healey, father Edward Hinshaw Peterson and stepfather Edward Joseph Healey, and his wife of 48 years Barbara Bell Peterson of Piedmont. He is survived by his second wife Gail Dutton, his brother Jerrold E. Peterson, sister Adrienne Hotchkiss (husband Bruce), daughter Carolyn Baxter (husband Greg), sons Ted (wife Caryl), and Steve (wife Liz), and grandchildren Jordan and Brett Baxter, and Duke, Clay, Tate, Blake, Katherine, and Sally Peterson. And not to forget one more survivor: Riley, his Labrador retriever who was at Ed's side every minute of the day and night.

View Full Obituary

Giovanni "Johnny" Giuseppe Gianfermi - December 02, 1936 - January 16, 2021

Departed: 01/16/2021 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Giovanni "Johnny" Giuseppe Gianfermi of Santa Rosa passed away on January 16, 2021 at the age of 84 due to complications of dementia.

Johnny was born December 2, 1936 in Ceprano Italy. Son of Eleuterio and Luisa Gianfermi. Immigrating to France at the age of 13, Johnny began doing work for a Marble and Monuments company. Johnny was always physically fit and became very proficient at Boxing and especially Judo. At the age of 20, Johnny left France and moved to Hamilton Canada where he picked tobacco and did other labor work. While visiting friends in Detroit Michigan he met his former spouse Rina and married in 1960. In 1961 Johnny moved to northern California where he had an uncle, Alberto, who knew of many job opportunities.

Johnny joined the Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons Union in 1962 and traveled throughout Northern California building bridges and roadways before joining Ghilotti Brothers .

For many years as a foreman for Ghilotti, he worked on construction of bridges, overpasses, dams, walls, anything where concrete was involved. A true" lead by example" man, Johnny showed many young workers the correct way to work hard and steady. He didn't say it often, but if Johnny said "good job", you know you earned it. He was a great mentor, enjoyed his work, and often recalled the good times he had with his co-workers, particularly Bobby, Dale, and Frank. A naturally outgoing man, Johnny enjoyed travel,bocce ball,golf, blackjack and slot machine tournaments in Reno, and was very generous in helping others and doing concrete work for friends and family. He hosted many family gatherings and was a long time member of the Sons Of Italy and the Moose Lodge

He is survived by his brothers Roberto and Giuseppe, and sister Carmella, all residents of France. Preceded in death by brother Rocco an sister Maria.

Cherished father of Maria McLaughlin (Duane) of Citrus Heights, Jeanette Clarey (Mitch) of Petaluma, and son John (Julie) of Santa Rosa. Loving grandfather to Austin, Melissa, Jaden, Dalton, Giavanna and Sophia. Johnny also leaves behind his loving companion Ida Paladini.

A public visitation is scheduled for Saturday, January 30 from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm at Eggen & Lance Chapel 1540 Mendocino Ave. Santa Rosa. Masks and social distancing are required. Due to covid restrictions the family will hold a private service following visitation.

View Full Obituary

Helen Navas Freese - February 25, 1953 - December 16, 2020

Departed: 12/16/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Helen Navas Freese, age 67, passed away suddenly on December 16, 2020, from complications of a kidney infection and diabetes. She was born on February 25, 1953, in San Francisco, California to Ernest Navas and Blanche Lee Sullivan. Helen was the middle child of three children and loved to help others. She was an amazing seamstress and extremely hardworking. She and her husband Robert Freese, together, built Seescape Landscaping and R - Trees wholesale nursery businesses in Santa Rosa, California, where they have resided together for over 30 years. Many of their staff are long-time employees and share in the heartbreak of her passing. Her favorite holiday season was Christmas which allowed her to shower family and friends with gifts and cheer. Helen and her husband, Robert, were dog lovers, and traveled frequently. Helen adored her great-niece Tula, age 20, and they had many adventures spending quality time together and eating Sees candy. Her love of ladybugs was evident by her collection of jewelry and accessories. In English folklore ladybugs are considered to bring good luck. Helen emitted positive energy, joy, compassion, and generosity to all those she encountered. Helen enjoyed traveling with her beloved husband, Robert, and spending time with her friends and family. She looked forward to her gatherings with her Navas relatives and was considered the glue that kept parts of her family in touch with one another. Her life was a living example of her favorite Bible verse, Ephesians 4:32 — “And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.”

Helen is survived by her husband, Robert Freese, daughter Deanna Hill and two grandchildren, stepchildren, Randy Freese and Tami Aho, niece Barbara Godoy, great-niece Tula Borges and great-nephews Sebastian Borges, Jamie, Nicklas, and Richard Sorenson, sister, Ethel Narro and numerous beloved cousins.

View Full Obituary

Fred Eugene Bradley - August 07, 1945 - November 23, 2020

Departed: 11/23/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Fred Eugene Bradley, 75, originally from Santa Rosa, California, passed away at Lancaster, Texas on November 23, 2020 after a battle with cancer. Fred resided in Port Lavaca, Texas.

Fred was born on August 7, 1945 to Roland and Gloria Bradley in El Paso, Texas. After graduating from Pacific Christian Academy, Graton, California in 1963, he went on to graduate with an advanced degree in biology at Pepperdine Christian University.

After graduation, Fred obtained certification and licenses as a registered nurse, chiropractor and anesthetist. Fred loved to travel and worked in these professions in numerous hospitals across Texas, California and across the United States.

Fred’s travels took him to numerous countries in Central America, South America and Europe where he made many friends. Though Fred traveled extensively, he always took time to be there for his family. He was especially devoted to his nieces and nephews, who were close to his heart.

Fred was predeceased by Roland Bradley (father), Gloria Bradley (mother), Juanita Bradley (sister) and Shana Bradley (niece). He is survived by Joseph Bradley (brother), Kenneth Bradley (brother) and the following nieces and nephews: Joseph Roland Bradley 2nd, Gloria Bradley, Nicole Bradley, Stace Bradley, Gerald Bradley, Steven Bradley, Kevin Bradley, Christopher Bradley, Kenneth Bradley, Katherine Bradley, Donald Beaman, Rhonda Reese and Sasha Barber, as well as grand-nieces and grand-nephews and many friends who were blessed to know him.

View Full Obituary

Arvid La Mar Kretz Sr. - May 29, 1923 - October 14, 2020

Departed: 10/14/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Arv Kretz Sr (full name = Arvid La Mar Kretz) passed away Wednesday, October 14th from complications following his 2nd hip surgery in 3 years; both sustained during wildfire evacuations from Oakmont, the retirement community near Santa Rosa, California that he called home for 30 years. He was 97.

Always the Marine, he began phone calls in retirement by saying “I have nothing to report.” For some families, that might be a conversation stopper, but it was his mirthful way of saying “as my son, you are entitled to an update.” His love of teasing humor remained to the end even as dementia set in at 89.

The athletic but scrawny 18-year-old enlisted right after Pearl Harbor and served until the war ended, flying about 150 combat missions as the machine gunner in the rear seat of a Dauntless Dive Bomber. More than half of Dauntless combatants were killed, in part due to their frequency of use. Aside from the atomic bomb itself there was no more important weapon in the Pacific Theatre. He was a war hero.

On June 30th, 1943, for example, he and his pilot met Japanese Zeros in a gigantic dogfight around the Solomon Islands involving 350 planes. Following combat, a storm pushed them into open water. With fuel nearly spent, they finally spotted land (which turned out to be Rennell Island), crash landed in the lagoon; and were rescued by natives. The submerged aircraft is still visible from surface of the water. Although never lacking for lady friends (before marriage or after) due to his charismatic charm, the love of his life was wife Eleanore who passed away in 1995 at age 78. She was seven years older. Courtship famously began in 1948 at the Reading Eagles Club on Penn St. In his own words, “She sat there like a prim lady with a hat on, with pursued lips. My Dad asked me to dance with her. ‘I don’t want to dance with that old prune’”. He started commuting weekends from Reading, PA (where they were both born and raised) to Washington DC to see her. His daily question in dementia was this “where is my bride”?

Eleanore worked in the State Department in a secretarial role that took her to Berlin where she was during the Berlin Airlift in 1948-49. This comes full circle in the sense that Arv reported into George Shultz while working at Bechtel in the 80’s. Shultz later became Secretary of State under Ronald Reagan.

Arv’s most noteworthy professional accomplishment was 2 years leading the Jubail project for Bechtel, responsible for all non-engineering services including accounting, finance, operations, and technology. Jubail began in 1976 as a Saudi government initiative to build a city from scratch on the edge of the Persian Gulf, including utilities, an airport, and water desalination plant. 350K people live there today. They made hooch on the sly since alcohol was forbidden, and formed deep friendships lasting decades.

Eleanore set her career aside to support his; and to raise children which she did with glee, rewarded with two sons who could do no wrong in her eyes. Together, she and my Dad attended every cross-country meet (that was me), chess tournament (that was my brother), and music concert (both of us).

Emblematic of their character, Arv and Eleanore treated their younger son’s bride Mary like a beloved daughter, even after divorce. Unfortunately, Allan was lost to heart failure in 2017 at the age of 64.

Arv Sr is survived by his eldest son Arv Jr, his daughter-in-law Barbara, and their two beautiful adult girls, Teri and Tracy. It was the smile of those granddaughters that lifted him the most; never losing his ability to recognize their faces; a blessing that will be cherished along with all our fond memories of him. He patiently tried to teach them how to fish and play tennis to no avail. They loved him dearly.

He was good at golf; committed to the uniquely hilly course at Green Hills Country Club in Millbrae where he remained a member for 27 years, even after moving to Orinda for work. After 15 years at Bechtel, Arv retired with Eleanore to Oakmont, still playing golf, but also tennis (on the Oakmont traveling team) twice weekly until 85. His trademark drop shot was the cruelest stroke in tennis.

Before her death from cancer in 2015, his close companion in later years was girlfriend Barbara McLaughlin (affectionately known in the Kretz family as Barbara Sr). She knew and loved his wife Eleanore, waiting 12 years after her death before approaching Arv for a date. She renewed the international travel with him that Eleanore deeply enjoyed doing with him in the 70’s and 80’s. Arv didn’t really like travel that much (had too much of it on business); and did it to please them.

His two sons, his beloved daughter-in-law, the only person that could truly put him in his place (Kretz men are notoriously full of themselves:-), and two granddaughters took him on a trip to France in 2002, where his resistance met accordion music in the Metro, the Eiffel Tower, the River Seine, the Mona Lisa, and Notre-Dame. He was the one family member able to coax his youngest granddaughter to end her tearful resistance to a chalk portrait in Montmartre; a precious family possession. As the saying goes, we will always have Paris.

Barbara Sr remained utterly loyal even as dementia robbed Arv of the blinding intelligence that marked his business leadership and family discussions, creating some challenging mood swings. The kindness of his three-person team; Matt, Eroni, and Fereti in skillfully managing care since 2013 created many moments of enjoyment for him, for his family, and for them.

View Full Obituary

Dave H. Pinsky - December 22, 1939 - October 09, 2020

Departed: 10/09/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Dave Pinsky was a man who loved flying and who loved being an Air Force fighter pilot. Most everything Dave did reflected that "fighter pilot attitude". Dave was a hard driver who expected excellence from himself and everyone around him. He often told people that his "Dad said hard work will get you everywhere" and Dave was a great example of that.

Colonel Dave Pinsky, U.S. Air Force (Retired), was born in Teaneck, NJ, and grew up in Ridgefield Park, NJ, Denver, CO, and Teaneck. He loved flying and airplanes from a very early age when he used to watch them take off and land from Teterboro Airport in NJ.

Dave wanted to be an automobile mechanic, but his high school auto mechanics teacher convinced him to go to college. He attended Rutgers University from 1958 to 1961 where he studied business administration and was a Distinguished Graduate from the Air Force ROTC program where he earned his USAF officer's commission and then began to live his dream of flying jet fighters at Craig Air Force Base in Selma, AL.

After serving as a pilot instructor in California, he deployed to Vietnam for service as a Forward Air Controller, piloting a Cessna O-1E "Bird Dog." Based at Duc Hoa, his unit supported the 25th ARVN Division and a variety of US Special Forces. During that tour, Dave flew 614 combat missions and was awarded two Silver Stars, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and 26 Air Medals. Returning stateside, he realized his dream and flew the Air Force's newest fighter, the F-106, out of Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, VA for the next seven years. During his tour at Langley he deployed temporarily to South Korea in response to the USS Pueblo Crisis and was sent to Alaska for air defense alert where he scrambled several times to intercept Soviet aircraft.

Following his early promotion to Major, Dave attended Armed Forces Staff College, then served at Fort Lee, VA, in Air Defense Headquarters as the Fighter Standardization and Evaluation Officer for the East Coast. Dave was then assigned to command the F-106 unit at Homestead Air Force Base, FL during the time President Nixon often visited the Key Biscayne White House. Dave was then sent to Naples, Italy with NATO forces in charge of planning for external reinforcements of Southern Europe in the event of war.

Returning to the US, he was selected to attend Air War College, graduating as a Distinguished Graduate, then, joined the Air Staff at the Pentagon to serve as Deputy Division Chief for Air Defense, Missiles and Space. After an early promotion to full Colonel, he served as Division Chief for Western Hemisphere Policy and Plans within the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Dave was then assigned as Assistant Director of Operations of the Strategic Air Command FB-111 unit at Plattsburgh, NY, before becoming FB-111 Director of Operations at Pease Air Force Base, NH.

He was then assigned to Beale Air Force Base, CA, where he served as Vice Wing Commander, then, Wing Commander of the high-altitude 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing that included SR-71 Blackbirds and U-2s, the Air Force's most prestigious wing. While at Beale he was awarded the Legion of Merit.

Following his retirement from the USAF in 1987, Dave worked as Deputy Director of Utilities for Santa Rosa, CA, ultimately asked to bring on board the one-of-kind Geysers Recharge Project. Dave retired from this position after eighteen years in 2005. During this period Dave was selected for Leadership Santa Rosa Class VII which he enjoyed immensely. This led to Dave's becoming a Board Member, then President, of the Luther Burbank Rose Parade.

He was then asked to become the Executive Director of the Pacific Coast Air Museum in Santa Rosa and the Wings Over Wine Country Air Show, which he happily did for ten years and became well known in the Air Operations field of the air show industry.

In 2011 Dave was selected as the recipient of the Sonoma County "Spirit" Award. He was also selected to receive the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the most prestigious award the FAA issues to pilots. This award honors individuals who have exhibited professionalism, skill, and aviation expertise for at least 50 years while piloting aircraft as "Master Pilots". A command pilot, he has flown over 6,500 hours in the SR-71, U-2, F-106, F-102, FB-111, T-38, T-33, T-37, T-29, KC-135 and O-1 aircraft, including over 1,000 hours of Combat Time. After his retirement from the Air Force, Dave continued to fly regularly in a Cessna 172.

Dave was also a proud member of the National Ski Patrol and patrolled first at Sugar Bowl, then at Squaw Valley for over 15 years.

Following the October 2017 Santa Rosa firestorm in which Dave and Betty lost their home and all their possessions, Dave focused on rebuilding his and Betty's life in their new home in Rincon Valley, Santa Rosa. Dave was asked to join the California Highway Patrol as a Senior Volunteer which he did and enjoyed tremendously, becoming coordinator for the program.

Dave was a hard charger who loved life, loved being a "fighter" pilot, always wanted things done "the right way, one time, the first time". Inside he was soft hearted and would give you the shirt off his back.

Dave passed away on October 9, 2020, and is survived by his lovely wife Betty, their daughter Jerilyn, and granddaughters Elliana and Lilyan, their son Bob and grandchildren Nick, Heather and Bobby, Jr., all of whom he loved very much.

View Full Obituary

Noreen Eugenia Marx - May 20, 1934 - August 05, 2020

Departed: 08/05/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Noreen Eugenia Marx passed early Wednesday morning on August 5th, 2020 in Cloverdale, CA. She was born in Glendive, Montana on May 20, 1934 to Myrtle and James Walsh. Her mother later re-married and they moved to San Francisco in 1944. She was a graduate of Galileo High School, San Francisco and San Jose State University. On August 23rd, 1953 she married Bill Marx.

Noreen was a social worker in Cook County, Illinois, Humboldt, Sonoma and Butte Counties. She was a member of Stephen Ministries, the United Methodist’s Women’s Club, and the Santa Rosa First United Methodist Church. She was devoted to missionary work and social justice causes.

Noreen is survived by her husband Bill of 67 years, brother Richard, daughters Elizabeth (Tom) Aiken, Stephanie (Mike) Hobbs and Katherine (Carl Stein) Marx, grandchildren Amelia, Mary, Olivia and Zoe and great-grandchildren Levi, Blakelee and Marlee, along with extended family of cousins, nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. The family wishes any expressions of sympathy take the form of contributions in Noreen’s name to: United Methodist Committee on Relief (OMCOR.org), or

View Full Obituary

David G. Reynoso - August 20, 1956 - June 03, 2020

Departed: 06/03/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: David Reynoso at age 63 passed away peacefully at his home in company of his family Wednesday, June 3, 2020 after a short battle with cancer. David was born and raised in Sonoma County. He was in the tile trade for 40 years and a contractor for 16.

He leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Yolanda and two daughters, Nina and Bianca. David was a beloved man, known by many. He enjoyed being a Niner, Giants and Chivas fan. On his free time he enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling and sporting events.

View Full Obituary

Annie Blander Oram - June 21, 1950 - May 14, 2020

Departed: 05/14/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Annie Bell Blander Bouligny Oram was born June 21, 1950 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Louise Draughter Blander and Ernest Blander. She passed away quietly at her home in San Leandro, California On May 14, 2020.

Ann, as she was affectionately called, was the founder of North Bay Black Chamber of Commerce of Santa Rosa, California; President of The Bouligny Group, a human resources consulting firm; and Operations Coordinator for The Prospectus Group.

She leaves, to cherish her memories, her dear, beloved husband Steven Oram , her son Marcus Bouligny of Atlanta, Georgia, daughter Yvonne Bouligny of Oakland, California and a grandson Issac Bouligny of Atlanta, Georgia. Also brother Philip E. Blander of Bonham, Texas , sister Zelma S. Evans (Karon ) of New Orleans, Louisiana, Aunts Anita D.Hanzy Of Las Vegas, Nevada and Mary D. Hanzy of Los Angeles, California. Also, her very special cousins Mary D. Lea of New Orleans, Louisiana and Doris A. Shaffer of Gonzales, Louisiana and a host of Nieces, nephews, cousins ,friends and coworkers.

View Full Obituary

Clark G. Gleason - September 25, 1931 - May 10, 2020

Departed: 05/10/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: At the fulcrum of his life, Clark G. “Jerry” Gleason gazed deeply into the eyes of his bride Nancy (Roe) at the alter and, so overcome by her beauty and their joy, promptly lost his voice just as he was supposed to be saying “I do.” Resilient man that he was, Jerry quickly recovered that August day and the two voted “Sweetest Smiles” in their South Haven HS Class of ‘49 but since separated by war and schooling soon celebrated their wedding and the promise of the continuation of love to come over the next 55 years of marriage.

Born September 25, 1931 in Placerville, CA, to Dorothy C. and Clark H. Gleason, Jerry moved over 30 times by the time he turned 32, taking him throughout the world before settling in Santa Rosa, CA for 50 years then returning to Cameron Park and Placerville, where he passed away from complications of poor circulation on May 10. Growing up, Jerry joined the YMCA, and sang in the church choir until 4th grade. Jerry’s parents divorced in 1939, and both remarried. At age 9 he completed the mile swim at camp; at 11 he became a camp counselor as World War II claimed the attention of older youth and adults. He played high school football, swimming, tennis, and the trombone. Transferring to South Haven HS his junior year, he served as Sr. Class President. Every summer, Jerry would work at Windcliff House, the family resort on Lake Michigan, as either a lifeguard or on the 40-acre farm, in addition to other after-school jobs such as at the grocery store, mopping the barber shop and caring for coal furnaces all as part of the homefront war efforts. Jerry started at Albion College, Michigan first focusing on a degree as a forester, and during the summer of 1950 he worked as a compass man on a survey crew of the USFS in Sierra National Forest, CA. He became a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity. His sophomore year though, he was drafted by the Army, but instead joined the Air Force for the Korean/Cold War, travelling to Texas for basic training and gaining assignment to Army Language School to learn Russian at Syracuse University, New York for a year. In 1952, Jerry was stationed in Bremerhaven and Darmstadt, Germany and in early 1953 in Tripoli, Libya, North Africa before being honorably discharged in early 1954. After the war, he attended the University of Michigan where he re-met Nancy and their love flourished. They married August 19, 1956 and welcomed daughter Holly (b. 1957). Jerry transferred to Albion College in 1957 graduating with a degree in Economics, minoring in Political Science and Russian language in 1958, and soon welcomed sons Barry (b. 1958) and Tom (b. 1960). Jerry’s first “real” job was with Cummins Engineer Co. and Cummins Diesel in Columbus, IN, Cambridge, MA, and Santa Rosa, CA. In Santa Rosa he also worked at Stevenson Equipment Co. selling logging and construction equipment from Ukiah north to the Oregon border. From February 1967 – June 1992, Jerry worked for State Farm Insurance Company as an underwriter and supervisor, welcoming daughter Wendy (b. 1969).

Jerry is fondly remembered as a kind man, one who often would help a friend. Jerry was also fun-loving: as a young man, he and some friends were seen parading past the holiday-decorated windows of the dining hall at Windcliff House through the snow sporting summer swim trunks and surf-boards heading to the Lake Michigan beach adjacent to the Beach House he helped build; with leave during the war, he could be found driving his motorcycle through parts of Africa and exploring Europe; or posing for pictures in funny attire or talking like Donald Duck to delight his family and grandkids. Jerry was a man of service, joining the Air Force where he learned to love coffee given the consequences should a soldier fall asleep at post during night watch; later as a church deacon; and as Boy Scout Scoutmaster of Troop 32 in Santa Rosa leading his sons and other scouts on 50-mile backpacking trips complete with midnight close encounters by investigative bears and tent city pre-trip gear checks in his backyard. A dedicated and loving family man, he was always willing to engage in and pause dinner discussions to consult a well-used copy of Encyclopedia Britannica for facts and figures. He also enjoyed taking his 1928 Ford Model A on trips with the Redwood Empire Antique Car Club and in the Kenwood Parade; playing golf, bowling, cheering the Oakland Raiders, enjoying nightly Dixieland Jazz music; travelling with Nancy to explore New Zealand, Russia, Germany, Ireland and Mexico among others; the meditative joy of a good game of solitaire; genealogy; and in recent years sharing meals, church, and wine club with his friends at Ponte Palmero Independent Living.

View Full Obituary

Frank Ngo - March 20, 1943 - January 17, 2020

Departed: 01/17/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Frank Quoc-Hai Ngo, 76, passed away peacefully in his home in Santa Rosa, California on Friday, January 17th, 2020 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was born to parents Nai Ying Ngo and Nghe Chung on March 20th, 1943 in Quiming, China. Frank graduated from National Taiwan University with a BS in Physics, then continued his studies with a MS in Plasma Physics from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; and later, earned a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

After his education, Frank spent his entire life dedicated to finding a cure for the disease that ultimately claimed him, with career stops at Argonne National Lab in Chicago, IL; Lawrence Berkeley Lab at the University of California, Berkeley; and The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, where he spent 12 years as the Director of Radiation Biology and NMR Research. He concluded his career as the Dean of the College of Medical Technology and Engineering at National Yang-Ming University in Taipei, Taiwan. His love of science and helping others led to over 200 publications in renowned scientific journals. During his career, he served on many Cancer Review Boards, including the Radiation Study Section at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Study Section for Biology and Medicine at the Department of Energy (DOE).

Outside of work, Frank was passionate about golf and was a talented artist, ballroom dancer and singer. He also loved to travel, especially to Hawaii, spending many weeks there escaping the winter months of the Midwest. He was very fond of the city of Cleveland, where he did extensive work in the community, and was a founding member and President of the Organization of Chinese Americans, Ohio Chapter. One of the biggest thrills in his life was seeing the Cleveland Cavaliers win the 2016 NBA Championship.

He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia; sister, Elisa Ho (Ben) of Portland, Oregon; son, Jeff (Yen) of Santa Rosa, CA (originally Shaker Heights, OH); 3 granddaughters Sydney, Ashley, Courtney; and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.

View Full Obituary

Carol McNeil - August 31, 1937 - January 13, 2020

Departed: 01/13/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Carol Jean McNeil also known as Carol Jean Cognata and Carol Jean Box left this earth at the tender age of 82 to start her next grand adventure on January 13, 2020. She departed holding her son Alex Cognata's hand in farewell with love and security guiding her path. She is survived by her beloved children Alex Cognata, Corlynn Messer and Emmy Kishi, the grandchildren she cherished Jordan and Zach Porteous and Amber and Karissa Cognata, the brother she treasured Patrick Box, his wife, Bev Box and their children April, Henri, Julia and Adrianne. Carol will join her mother and father, Catherine and Richard Box and her life partner Al Cognata as well as her other beloved relatives. She is a long time resident of Santa Rosa, California and served as an extraordinary teacher for many wonderful children. Carol loved her work, dedicating over 30 years to teaching. She had a spirit filled with light and joy with a passion for nature and all living things. Although her heart has stopped beating her legacy of love lives on in all of us she has touched throughout her life. Love you mom. Forever.

View Full Obituary

Coleen Johnson - April 07, 1928 - January 04, 2020

Departed: 01/04/2020 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Coleen Johnson of Santa Rosa went to Heaven on Saturday, January 4, 2020. Born April 7, 1928 in Los Angeles to the late William and Elsie Briscoe. Preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Ken Johnson and her son Bob, survived by sons Steve Johnson, Gary Johnson, Dennis Johnson, Alan (Cindy) Johnson, daughters Bonnie (Larry) Cassidy, Carol (George) Kurty, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and her brother Bill Briscoe. Coleen graduated from St. Bernard's, Sacred Heart Academy, Glendale College and San Jose State with a B.A. degree. Santa Rosa has been her home since 1953 where she raised seven children. She was a first grade teacher at Oak Grove Elementary for 24 years. Coleen was a very active member of our community. She was a Cub Scout leader and a Boys Club volunteer. For more than 40 years, she volunteered sharing her loving heart and time with people living in nursing homes. She was a longtime member of St. Eugene's and a member of the Scandinavians. She loved spending time with her family, the ocean, camping, hiking and traveling.

View Full Obituary

Carol Rhodes - September 20, 1924 - December 09, 2019

Departed: 12/09/2019 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: Today we lost our beloved Granny, Carol Elizabeth Rhodes, age 95, passed away on December 9th after a long and difficult fight with Alzheimer’s.

A lifetime resident of Sonoma County after being born in Berkeley. Carol grew up in the west of Sebastopol on 80-acre apple farm where she helped her father nurture and harvest apples. The youngest of three daughters, Carol was more comfortable on her horse or driving a tractor than doing what young women of that age were accustomed to doing. A fiercely independent and strong-willed woman, Carol married her sweetheart, Carlos Olibas, having to travel by bus across three States to find a minister who would sanction the wedding of a mixed marriage.

They had five children, losing two of her children, Randy soon after birth and her youngest son, Ron Olibas, a Vietnam War Hero, in 2005. She is survived by her remaining children, Lee Olibas, Bonnie Jenkins, and Carla Hannahs. Also, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

During her long lifetime, Carol worked in a variety of jobs, from short order cook to electrician’s helper during WWII at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, before settling at Sonoma State Hospital Eldridge as a Psych Tech for over 30 years.

View Full Obituary

William Kiker - April 05, 1935 - October 31, 2019

Departed: 10/31/2019 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: William (Bill) Kiker, 84 of Santa Rosa, died peacefully at home with family on October 31, 2019. He was a loving husband to his wife Angie. They raised two children, Christine Barry (Dave) and David Kiker. Born in Faribault, MN. He graduated from Medford High School. Bill was in the Air Force and served in Korea. He worked at Reliance Enterprises (Santa Rosa), he constructed satellite tracking stations worldwide.

Bill will be greatly missed by his sisters, Joan Caron (Fran), Sharon Kiker, and Lois Smith (Walt) and grandchildren, Christopher Kiker, Holly Kiker, and Amanda Barry and his great-grandson, Hank Kiker.

Bill loved family gatherings, tinkering in his garage, country music, electronics, and his ham radio. KA6JLP is now a “Silent Key”. Bill had a wonderful sense of humor.

View Full Obituary

Christine Haydock - March 25, 1964 - October 24, 2019

Departed: 10/24/2019 (Santa Rosa)

Obituary Preview: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christine Annette (Keeler) Haydock. Christine died unexpectedly at age 55 on October 24th, 2019 in her home in Santa Rosa (Larkfield) CA, from a brain aneurism. She was born March 25, 1964 at Memorial Hospital, Santa Rosa CA.

Christine was raised in Santa Rosa, and was educated at Proctor Terrace Elementary, Santa Rosa Junior High, and Santa Rosa High (1982). She lived most of her life here in Sonoma County, aside from 1 year that she spent in Utah. She attended Santa Rosa Junior College and earned her BA in Business Administration from Sonoma State University. Christine worked for Bank of America for many years, and most recently for 20 years at State Fund Insurance. She was proud about the work and her accomplishments she had there. Christine had an incredible work ethic, exemplified by the fact that she rarely took days off from work and was extremely reliable.

Christine was an accomplished pianist and organist and as such was part of various musical and performing arts groups in the area. She loved playing and teaching the piano. Anyone who knew her, knew of her passion, love and talents for music and for playing her piano. People frequently commented that when she was playing the piano, she was “in her element.” She also loved exercising, especially going on walks in nature and being outdoors. Christine also played a big part in her church community, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was always looking for opportunities to serve or do special favors and surprises for others, including sharing her accomplished musical talents.

Christine was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and found great joy in serving those around her. She lived and loved the gospel of Jesus Christ, and her life is a great example of faith, charity, and love. Having lost so many family members early on, her love for the Savior and belief that families can be eternal, gave her great strength throughout her life.

Christine had one loving daughter, Marina (19) with her ex-husband Jeremy Haydock. She is survived by her daughter Marina Haydock, her brother Philip Morgan Keeler II, her two sisters Karen Pierce, and Darleen Keeler, as well as countless other family members and friends who loved her dearly. She was predeceased by her loving father Philip Morgan Keeler (1977) and mother Elizabeth Helen Keeler (1999), as well as a brother Henry Keeler, and 3 sisters, Noreen Keeler, Patricia Keeler and Bonnier Keeler.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all those who have shared their love and memories with us as we mourn her passing.

A Memorial service will be held at 3pm on Saturday November 2, 2019, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel at 1725 Peterson Lane, Santa Rosa CA. The family would like to welcome all her friends to come and join us for this celebration of the life for Christine Haydock.

View Full Obituary

12

The Services Offered by Santa Rosa Mortuary

Santa Rosa Mortuary offers a wide range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and burials, their experienced team will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's life. Some of the specific services they offer include:

• Funeral planning and coordination
• Cremation services
• Burial arrangements
• Memorial gatherings and celebrations of life
• Grief support and counseling

The Benefits of Pre-Planning with Santa Rosa Mortuary

While it may seem difficult to think about, pre-planning your funeral can be a wise decision that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. By making arrangements in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, while also alleviating the emotional burden on your family during an already difficult time. Santa Rosa Mortuary offers pre-planning services that allow you to make informed decisions about your funeral, including choosing the type of service, selecting a casket or urn, and even paying for expenses in advance.

The Importance of Grief Support

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience that leaves you feeling lost and alone. At Santa Rosa Mortuary, they understand the importance of grief support and offer resources to help you navigate the healing process. From individual counseling sessions to support groups and online resources, their compassionate staff is dedicated to providing guidance and comfort as you work through your emotions.

The Role of Funeral Directors at Santa Rosa Mortuary

The funeral directors at Santa Rosa Mortuary play a vital role in ensuring that every funeral service is carried out with dignity and respect. These dedicated professionals are responsible for overseeing all aspects of the funeral planning process, from coordinating logistics to providing emotional support to families. With their expertise and compassion, you can trust that every detail will be taken care of, allowing you to focus on saying goodbye to your loved one.

Sustainability Efforts at Santa Rosa Mortuary

Santa Rosa Mortuary is committed to reducing their environmental impact and promoting sustainability in all aspects of their operations. From using eco-friendly products to implementing energy-efficient practices, their team is dedicated to minimizing their carbon footprint while still providing exceptional service to families.

Why Choose Santa Rosa Mortuary?

In times of loss, it's essential to have a trusted partner by your side. Santa Rosa Mortuary has built a reputation on their commitment to excellence, compassion, and personalized service. By choosing them, you can rest assured that your loved one will be treated with dignity and respect, while you receive the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

Losing a loved one is never easy, but with the support of a caring funeral home like Santa Rosa Mortuary, you don't have to face it alone. Their experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional service, compassion, and guidance as you navigate the funeral planning process. Whether you're planning ahead or need immediate assistance, trust Santa Rosa Mortuary to help you celebrate the life of your loved one with dignity and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a permanent record of a person's life and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to use.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include details about their life story, accomplishments, and charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

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

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Check their website or contact their customer service department for specific guidelines and deadlines.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals or discounts for online-only publications.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that includes additional biographical information and personal anecdotes.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including humorous anecdotes or personality traits can make the obituary more engaging and reflective of the person's true spirit.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues or family conflicts involved, it's best to approach the situation with tact and discretion. Consider consulting with other family members or a trusted advisor before finalizing the obituary.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, including meaningful quotes or song lyrics can add depth and personality to the obituary. Just be sure to verify the accuracy of the quote and obtain any necessary permissions.

How do I proofread an obituary?

Carefully review the obituary for spelling, grammar, and factual errors before submitting it for publication. Ask multiple people to review it as well to catch any mistakes.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult or impossible to make changes to an obituary once it's been published. Be sure to double-check the information before submitting it.

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

The timeframe for publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Online platforms may publish immediately, while print newspapers may have a longer delay.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes. Check with the original publication or platform to see if they allow republication or have any specific guidelines for doing so.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It may include additional features such as photos, videos, guestbooks, and donation links.

How do online obituaries differ from traditional print obituaries?

Online obituaries offer greater flexibility in terms of length, format, and multimedia content. They also allow for easier sharing and access by friends and family around the world.

Can I create my own online memorial page?

Yes! Many websites offer tools and templates for creating personalized online memorial pages. These can be a meaningful way to honor your loved one and share memories with others.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites for old obituaries. Local libraries or historical societies may also have physical copies of old newspapers that can be searched.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was young or died suddenly?

Yes. When writing an obituary for someone who died young or suddenly, it's especially important to be sensitive to the grieving family and focus on celebrating their life rather than dwelling on their death.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers can be a meaningful way to honor your loved one's legacy and support a good cause.

How do I handle cultural or religious differences when writing an obituary?

Be respectful of cultural and religious traditions when writing an obituary. Consider consulting with family members or religious leaders to ensure that you're accurately representing their beliefs and customs.

Is it appropriate to mention pets in an obituary?

Yes! Many people consider their pets to be part of their family, so it's perfectly fine to mention them in the obituary as surviving family members.