Obituaries

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, Ronald (Ron) Gallego, loving brother, uncle, and friend passed away just shy of 61 years of age in Santa Ana, California. Ron is survived by his brothers Ric and Randy, niece Jaszmine, great nieces, cousins, friends, and dog Chloe. Ron was born on April 10, 1963 in Inglewood, California to Robert and Bea Gallego. He grew up in West Covina, CA and graduated from Nogales High School in 1981. Since childhood, Ron’s passions were health and fitness, body building, martial arts, and the beach where he loved spending time. Ron’s career spanned a variety of professions from fitness instructor, to male review dancer and model to restaurant server, hairdresser, cosmetology industry sales rep, and entrepreneur. The common thread among all Ron’s pursuits was his ability to relate to people from all walks of life. Although known to family and friends as a fun-living, Ladies’ Man who could be ridiculously competitive, he was also a man of faith who liked to share his love of God and Christianity with anyone who would listen. Family was also important to Ron who embraced a Papa-like role with his niece and grandnieces as well his mother in her final years as her primary care giver. He had a sentimental heart and often reminisced about childhood family gatherings and holiday celebrations. The beaches of Southern California were Ron’s happy place where he loved to relax and felt close to God. His spirit lives on in the majestic waves, tranquil ocean, and loving hearts and minds of those who knew him. May he rest in peace with God as he reunites with his parents, eldest brother, and loved ones in eternity where the stars meet the sea.

Kenneth O’Brien “Kobby” GILLESPIE, died peacefully December 12,2023 Stanton, CA. Aged 61 years young. Born January 25, 1961 in Orange County to loving parents Norman Worley & Patricia Sue (dec’d). He is the loved brother of Christina Mae (nee Gillespie) & brother-in-law Xavier Hermosillo. Loved Uncle & Great Uncle. Kobby never married, coming close three times, and though not having his own children he loved all children. He was also very sentimental. Kobby in his Jr. year at Magnolia High School, Orange paid him to teach woodwork to adults, then his Sr. year saw him a table tennis champion. After graduating he started a mini truck club with his 4×4 Toyota pickup. One of his many achievements was his truck featured on the front cover of Trucking Magazine. His closest friends, Farrah & Leb Alameddin & Cindy McKinnon loved him like a brother, knowing the very comical side to this young man. A manmade master of all jobs, a perfectionist is a small understatement of Kobby. He will be truly missed by his family, many many friends & those that had the pleasure to know & love him, he will never be lost as he is buried in our hearts.

Itsuye (Tsubochi) Hirst went by the name, “Peggy,” because she and her siblings, as Nisei (2nd generation) children, served as a bridge between their non-English speaking Issei (1st generation) parents and the American social order of the early 20th century. Peggy lived a full, eventful, and long 101-years.  Peggy passed peacefully and comfortably on 14th February 2023 at her home in Seal Beach, California. She was born on 31st August 1921 from humble beginnings in San Pedro, California as the first-born child to her mother, Ito (Kitagaki) Tsubochi, and father, Chozo Tsubochi. She was blessed with four siblings Tsuneo “James” Tsubochi, Mihoye “Betty” (Tsubochi) Higgins, Tayeko “Tye” (Tsubochi) Ray, and Yoshino “Alyce” (Tsubochi) Toyama. Peggy and her siblings grew up on the Palos Verdes Peninsula of Southern California, where their  close-knit family was one of forty families who were sharecropper-farmers and grew crops on 2,000 acres of fertile land. During their childhoods they worked hard on the farm and enjoyed family time at the nearby scenic beaches for fishing, abalone-diving, octopus hunting, periwinkle foraging, and picnics. Peggy outlived her two husbands, Yasutoshi “Yas” Okuji, the father of her sons and whom she wed in November 1941, and Louis “Lou” Hirst, wedded in February 1972. As well, she was predeceased by her above-named four siblings; an infant son “Baby Okuji;” brother-in-law Tadashi Okuji; sister-in-law Tomoe Okuji; and step-son Robert Hirst. She is survived by sons Dennis Okuji, Michael Okuji, David Okuji; daughters-in-law Lilit Mazmanyan, Cindy (Sakata) Okuji; step-daughters Janet (Hirst) Henderson, Kathy (Hirst) Roberts; step-daughter-in law Linda Hirst; grand-daughter Kelli (Okuji) Wilson; grand-son-in-law Landis Wilson; great-grand-daughter Olivia Wilson; and numerous Tsubochi nieces and nephews. Peggy graduated from San Pedro High School, after which she soon married Yas to start their young lives together in Los Angeles, California. Peggy always had a ready smile and carried an underlying toughness, which prepared her for life’s uncertainties. “Strength through Smiles” can best describe Peggy’s steely grit and resilience for the hardships she endured in her 101-years. In 1942, during World War II, Peggy, Yas, and their parents and siblings were forcibly moved from Los Angeles and interned in Heart Mountain, Wyoming for two years under Presidential Order No. 9066. During these difficult years Peggy started her family with the births of two sons and a third who did not survive childbirth. Family photos show Peggy smiling from the joy of her new sons, while enduring the monotony of confinement. Upon release from Wyoming, Peggy and her family returned to Southern California and rooted in Long Beach, California where she bore and raised two more sons. Tragedy struck again in 1965 when Peggy unexpectedly lost both her husband, Yas, and her second son, Victor, within seven months of each other. Surmounting grief in mid-life, Peggy was thrust into the role as a single, working mother as a grocery clerk for Atlantic Farms and Cole’s markets in the Long Beach area. Although tired after a full day of work, Peggy always returned home with her smile. A few years later, Peggy joined a bowling team, with Lou Hirst as one of her team-mates. One thing led to another and soon they became married life-mates. Approaching retirement age, Peggy and Lou purchased property in Oregon where they could establish a life of travel as snowbirds. In 1972 they fulfilled their plan, moved to Beavercreek, Oregon, and also established a winter residence in Vincete Guerrero, Baja California, Mexico. Thanks to the early days of satellite TV technology, Peggy was able to regularly watch her beloved Portland Trail Blazers. During these care-free years Peggy and Lou enjoyed plenty of travel adventures in their recreational vehicle with sightseeing, fishing, and communing with friends and family. However, this period of bliss was disrupted when a gas-leak in their recreational vehicle ignited and exploded causing Peggy and Lou to suffer serious burns. They were air-lifted from Mexico to a burn center in Los Angeles, where Peggy underwent three months of care, rehabilitation, and full recovery. Despite the seriousness of her experience, Peggy never shared the pain and suffering she endured. Instead, she remained steadfast with her gracious smile. In 2000, and again unexpectedly, Peggy lost her beloved husband, Lou; after which she moved back to Southern California to be closer to her family. Upon her return, Peggy kept busy with watching NBA basketball, joining a competitive table tennis team, and junkets to the local tribal casinos. Peggy will always be remembered for her fastidious memory (she remembered everyone’s birth, graduation, and anniversary dates) and her love of nature’s beauty (the colors of flowers, foliage, and sunsets), the Portland Trail Blazers, singing, dancing, cooking, cake-baking, knitting and crocheting, Hershey Kisses and butterscotch candies, and ICE CREAM (although she did not partake in any other dairy products). Of course, Peggy will be remembered for her “strength through smiles.” In her final years as the sole remaining sister, Peggy would often ask, “Why am I still here?” On 13th November 2022 her question was finally answered when she was presented with her one and only 3-month old great-grand-daughter, Oliva, who shares Peggy’s August birth week and more importantly shares her joyful smile. Through Oliva, Peggy’s “strength through smiles” will continue onward. Peggy’s celebration of life remembrance will be held privately with family members at sea in Los Alamitos Bay on Saturday, 25th March 2023. To honor Peggy’s love of nature’s beauty, donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy.

Dennis Okuji, a consummate visual artist, died on March 2, 2023 at his long-time home in Long Beach, CA after a short illness. He was 80. Dennis worked as a research analyst at the Long Beach Public Library for 25-years. He preferred the public library over a university research library because the quiet surroundings gave him the independence and solitude to delve into his passion for painting, drawing and wood-block printing. He seemed to change mediums every five-years. Prior to his library stint, Dennis used his design talent in the fast paced world of commercial art at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City, MO and the Los Angeles Times (newspaper) art department. Upon retirement, he soon expanded his interests to photography, calligraphy, coin and firearm collecting. He could often be found driving fast down Pacific Coast Highway with the windows down in his candy-apple red Pontiac Firebird. Dennis was an enthusiastic traveler who brought whimsy to his trips to Las Vegas, Santa Cruz and San Francisco to visit family. He was so thrilled to visit Napa Valley for his niece Kelli’s wedding at Meadowood that he bought a swanky new suit, shirt, tie, shoes and a pocket square for a bit of panache . . . a special flair for such a frugal kind of guy. Dennis Masao Okuji was born January 21, 1943 in the Heart Mountain, Wyoming relocation camp during World War II to Itsuye (Tsubochi) and Yasutoshi Okuji. He showed so much artistic talent at Long Beach Polytechnic High School that his teachers arranged for him to receive a scholarship to the Parsons School of Design in New York City. In an early show of his independent bent, Dennis eschewed the scholarship and remained close to home to earn his Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree from Long Beach State College (now California State University, Long Beach). He later earned his Master of Library Science (MLS) degree from the University of Southern California. Dennis served in the Army as an infantryman deployed to Viet Nam where he saw combat action and volunteered to jump out of airplanes as a paratrooper. He regularly traded stories on Army life with his uncles Raymond Toyama and Tadashi Okuji. On his return flight from Tokyo, he remembered being bumped-up to a first-class seat where he shared a row, wine and stories with the film actor E.G. Marshall. In retirement, Dennis continued to live a fiercely independent life where he even drove himself to the hospital for surgery. He lived his entire life on his own terms, created beautiful art, was content in solitude and passed peacefully. A life well lived. Dennis is survived by his younger brothers Michael and David, sisters-in-law Lilit Mazmanyan and Cindy (Sakata) Okuji, niece Kelli (Okuji) Wilson, grand-niece Olivia Wilson, and many Tsubochi cousins. Private services will be held at sea in Los Alamitos on March 25, 2023. Memorial donations in Dennis’ honor may be made to the Room to Read literacy program for underserved children.

November 29, 1953 – January 1, 2023 Christine Anne Haapala Oosdyke entered into eternal life on Sunday, January 1, 2023. Beloved wife of Robert (Bob) Oosdyke. Cherished mother of Lauren (Levi) Storms and Brett Oosdyke. Dear sister of Bill (Nancy) Haapala, Therese (Derek) Marshall, the late Robert Haapala, Eric (Debby) Haapala, Steven (Debbie) Haapala, John (Peggy) Haapala, and Margaret (Michael) Kurpiers. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and will be an angel-grandmother to her first grandchild, a boy, who will bring comfort to her family when he is born this month. Christine was born November 29, 1953 in Joplin, Missouri, where she had a wonderful childhood with her many siblings. In 1958, the family moved to Michigan, where Chris attended Precious Blood Grade School and Our Lady of Mercy High School. She went to college at Michigan Technological University and graduated from St. Joseph School of Nursing, MI in 1973. She worked in critical care and burn units at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, MI and Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI. While living in Grand Rapids, Chris met Bob, and they enjoyed many summer weekends at the marina and sailing up the coast of lower Michigan on Bob’s boat, Big-O. In 1983, Chris joined Support Systems International (Hillrom) as a sales rep and moved to Chicago, where Bob had accepted a job with Herman Miller. Chris and Bob married in 1985 and eventually made their home in Southern California. Chris rose to stellar heights in her sales director career, yet she remained humble and graciously mentored others along the way. Chris was a dedicated and loving wife, mother, sister, and daughter. She truly enjoyed family time together, whether it be vacationing in Hawaii, skiing in Colorado, or watching Lauren and Brett play basketball. She often traveled to Michigan to spend time with her large extended family. And she was a loyal friend to many. Chris loved working out and organizing anything and everything. She had a wonderful sense of style and loved shopping for clothes and household décor. She loved a great Nordstrom fashion find, a good Starbucks latte, and all things chocolate. Christine’s Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, January 7 at 10:00 am at San Francisco Solano Catholic Church, 22082 Antonio Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.     In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes are suggested to Wendy Walk Foundation (https://www.wendywalk.org) in support of sarcoma research.

Patrick Sean McKenna was born January 30, 1961 in Whittier, California and died January 19, 2021 in a homeless shelter in Orange County, California following a lifelong battle with alcohol. Pat went to Lowell High School in California and spoke fondly of riding the public bus down Beach Boulevard to surf and hang out in Huntington Beach. He loved football and played at Utah State University where he made the list of top 10 all-time tackles as a linebacker with 359 tackles in his college career. Always the life of the party, often shared his story of tackling BYU’s Steve Young and promptly receiving a penalty. Post-college, Pat worked for the family automobile business in California and Hawaii, and then others around the country. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Joseph “Mike” McKenna and his mother, Ann Stephens Luzzi. He is remembered by his two beautiful daughters, Courtney and Meagan McKenna, his brothers Danny McKenna and Steven Luzzi, his sisters, Tracy McKenna and Michael Widener, his ex-wife Cathy McKenna and her family, nieces and nephews, several close friends, and the automotive industry at large. If you are so inclined, please consider a donation to: Athletes Against Anxiety and Depression Phone: (310)923-6394 https://aaadfoundation.org/donate/  

Betty Louise Erwin  October 17, 1938-November 28, 2022 Betty Louise (Mayes) Erwin was born October 17, 1938 in Phillips Texas. She was the daughter of Liniel & Mary Mayes. She was sister to John (Johnny) Mayes. Due to her Fathers work, Betty’s family moved around quite much. She would say that she attended 13 schools in 5 states over the years (Texas, California, Tennessee, Kentucky). When she entered High School her family moved to Long Beach, California. She asked Jesus in her heart as her Savior in the quiet at her home. She would say that she sensed the need to be saved. She met & married the love of her life Jim Erwin after graduating from Wilson High School. Betty & Jim met at a church during their High School years. Betty & Jim lived in Glendale, Arizona(during Jims time in the Air Force). Once Jim was out of the Air Force, they moved back to Long Beach, California. During the following 6 years, their three children would enter their life & add much joy. Jim worked for LA County & they moved to Saugus. Once the earthquake of 1971 occurred, Jim was relocated to Long Beach General Hospital & they moved to Buena Park. Throughout all of these changes Betty loved being wife & mother to her three children.  Always loved serving & taking care of family & friends. Loving & serving others was always the heart of Betty. She had great joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren & great grandchildren. Betty was always planning events at the family home & looked forward to all the gatherings. The last home that Betty & Jim enjoyed was at Quaker Gardens/Rowntree Gardens Senior living 1999. Betty & Jim loved their new home & they made many wonderful new friends. in 2004, Betty was excited to share that she had read through the Bible from Genesis  to Revelation for the first time. Jim went home to be with Jesus 2013 & Betty was ready to join her love in Heaven.  Betty entered Elmwood Care Facility in 2018. Obviously, due to various health challenges…strokes, Covid-19 & pneumonia – Betty went home to be with the Lord entering heaven on November 28,2022. Life verse Psalm 34:4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Donald Ray Basham January 31, 1934 – October 30, 2022                                                                                                              Age 88                                   Age 68                            Age 18 Donald Ray Basham passed away October 30, 2022, at the age of 88 from chronic illness.  He was surrounded by close family and Friends as he passed peacefully. Don Basham was born January 31, 1934, in Harrisburg, Illinois.  He was the youngest son of 10 children. Donald spent his formative years hunting the woods of Illinois, caring for all manner of wounded woodland animals, and learning everything he could about cars.  At 18 he married the love of his life, Marlyss Olney.  Their courtship was spent dancing, going to the drive in, roller skating at the local roller rink, attending her singing competitions and cruising around town in Don’s old Ford. They were married 70 years. After high school, Don completed his certification exams and became one of the youngest Ford Master Mechanics in the Bay Area.  People knew Don far and wide as a mechanic you could trust for quality service.  Business moguls, movie stars and athletes would periodically come asking for Donald.  Players from the Oakland As would hand him wrenches and football players would help him set lug nuts on wheels.  Don’s love for anything with an engine was contagious and his work showed that passion.  He would often say he could fix anything with an engine and at least 2 wheels…” except for “Stupid-bakers” but they went under, so I never had to worry about them after that.” Donald had a great circle of friends and hobbies.  As a lifelong member of the Moose Lodge association, he could be found playing cards with the boys, donating his time, and helping others. In his off time, he was a prodigious angler, radio-controlled airplane pilot, DIYer, outdoorsman and entrepreneur. He could often be found playing pool at a pub near home. He enjoyed life, was a good husband and father, and a nice all-around guy. He will be missed by family and friends. Marlyss Basham is receiving calls at 714 846-7729

  In Fond Memory of Betty Ann Cantrell (5/7/1925 – 9/1/2022) Heaven gained another angel September 1, 2022.  Betty Ann Cantrell (Vertrees) joined other family and friends in the kingdom of God a few months after celebrating her 97th birthday on May 7th.  The last of what was known as the “Modern Nine” and “The Nine Shy Babes” of her high school class that stayed in touch throughout their entire lives.  She is survived by her two sons Kevin Blake and Craig Lee, her grandson Christopher Blake and great grand daughter Olivia Grace.  Betty was preceded by her late husband of 58 years Gerald Eugene Cantrell (5/12/1925-12/24/2014).  A kind and loving soul, Betty will be greatly missed by all. The Cantrell family will be having an intimate private graveside gathering at Riverside National Cemetery per Betty’s request.  Flowers and condolences can be sent to the Cantrell family’s Anaheim home.   I’m Free   Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free I’m following the path God has chosen for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way I’ve now found peace at the end of day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss Oh yes, these things, I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow Look for the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savored much Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch. Perhaps my time seems all to brief Don’t lengthen your pain with undue grief. Lift up your heart and peace to thee, God wanted me now – He set me free.

In Loving memory of Robert Ibarra. Robert was born on March 12, 1966 and passed away on May 16, 2022. Entrusted to the care of Cremation Society of Orange Coast, (800) 678-0669.

Phillip Arthur Rose February 6, 1966 – April 3, 2022 Phillip Arthur Rose Jr. was our beloved son, brother, uncle and friend.  On April 3rd he passed on to be with the Lord. He was our gift of love from the very highest source – Jesus.  I vow to live, laugh and love for the both of us to honor him. Until we met again in heaven.

James Carl Sahlstedt passed away on April 10, 2022 at the age of 75 in Anaheim, California, where he had resided for the better half of his life. His battle with a serious health condition that turned into something unexpected left us all in shock, but he showed us what it was like to be brave and courageous during life’s challenges with a smile. James was a lover of music and played the bass guitar in his high school band as well as other small groups in his retirement years. Listening to music always made him full of joy and would often bring a tear to his eye. He was a gentle, emotional man with a huge heart. James is survived by his beautiful wife, Beverly, whom he was with for 45 years. He was a proud father to two kids, Stephanie (sp. Sean) and Andrew (sp. Eileen) and adored his three grandchildren. He also had a close relationship with his sister, LaVerne (sp. Warren). He always enjoyed goofing off and joking with people wherever he went. He often stated “I just like having fun!” with a big grin on his face. His spunk and zest for life will be missed tremendously.

Charles “Chuck” Frederick Vondra, 92, of Irvine, CA., passed away peacefully on February 4, 2022. He was preceded in death by his daughter Sharon Kay Vondra and his sisters Carol Vondra Rustad and Marilyn Vondra. Left to cherish his memory are daughter, Susan V. Crosland (Dudley) of Virginia Beach VA; son, Charles N. Vondra (Lisa-beth) of Chester Springs, PA; son, Alan J. Vondra (Hassina) of Irvine, CA; grandchildren, Edward D. Wood (Sammy); Neal M. Wood (Erin); Virginia R. Schiappa (Andrew); Kai Vondra; Clare Vondra; great granddaughters, Elizabeth R. Schiappa; Lavinia P. Wood and much-loved nieces and nephews. Chuck was born on December 1, 1929, in Detroit Lakes, MN. He graduated from Carleton College, served in the Army and worked in sales for Honeywell. Chuck was devoted to his family and spent his life loving and supporting his children and grandchildren. Online condolences can be expressed by visiting www.cremationoc.com

  On December 8th 2021, Frank Martin Estes passed away at the age of 62. Frank was an adoring father, doting grandfather, brother, uncle, best friend and stepfather. He was born in Concord, California on April 22nd, 1959 to Faith Georgia Haviland and Herbert Wayne Estes. Frank was raised by his loving grandmother, Katherine Erma Estes. He was a devoted brother to his siblings, Daniel, Donna, Chris and Nancy. He grew up in Northern California and later moved to Southern California where he graduated high school from Los Alamitos High School. He was incredibly hard working and devoted himself to the casino industry. He also worked part time in construction doing drywall and worked in many areas of the casino business, first in Northern Nevada and then in Southern California. His nickname in his casino workplaces was “Chicago.” He eventually retired from the casino management industry in California. In retirement, Frank enjoyed the simple times of making special memories with those who loved him the most. He was very grateful for the love and caregiving Wanda gave. They enjoyed the simple moments with their dog Toby.  Until the last day, Wanda was at his bedside, caretaking and selflessly loving him. His favorite name was “Papa” to his 4 grandchildren, Benjamin(14), Madyson(12) Kylee(5) and Connor(4). He was an adoring father to his daughter, Paula and cherished his amazing son in law, Ryan. He loved spoiling his babies and always made time for a good chess game with his oldest granddaughter. He looked forward to his favorite holiday every year, Thanksgiving where he would visit his daughter Paula and make cherished memories with family. Frank had 5 stepchildren, Brian, Stacy, Susan, Pisay, and Vongsai. He also treasured his 12 step grandchildren, and 1 step great grandchild. One of his favorite memories is attending the Navy-Army game in Philadelphia and was incredibly proud of his stepson Brian’s military career and service in the Navy. He was so very proud of all his kids, each a special part of his life and he loved them all very much. Frank loved to watch baseball, The Dodgers, ride motorcycles, fish, ski, boogey board, the ocean, watching sunsets, traveling, cruising, dog Toby, a good poker game, wheeling a good discount, debating and his favorite meal at Katella Deli restaurant. Frank will be remembered as selflessly devoted to those he loved, generous and kind. He had the greatest sense of humor, a gentle man who so much wanted peace and love for himself and all he loved. He found faith and hope in God and felt very blessed in his life after many personal struggles and hardships. We find much comfort in knowing he is now in his heavenly home, free of pain and suffering. Frank would want to thank his wonderful healthcare workers who took care of him many times over the years during times in the hospital. Frank Estes is survived by his siblings, Daniel, Donna, Steve, Chris, Nancy, daughter Paula and son-in-law Ryan, 4 grandchildren- Benjamin, Madyson, Kylee, Connor, Wanda, stepson Brian, stepdaughters Susan and Stacy, stepsons Pisay and Vongsai, many step grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Frank wished no services and final resting place will be at Mountain View Cemetary in Reno, Nevada. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” | Philippians 4:6-7

In loving memory of Kirsty Lynn Hardwick. Kirsty was born on March 9, 1971 and passed away on November 1, 2021. Entrusted to the care of Cremation Society of Orange Coast, (800) 678-0669.

  On Monday, September 20, 2021, Sondra Darline Lariz passed away at the age of 68 years old while surrounded by her loved ones.  Sondra was born on May 13, 1953 to Harold and Dora Edwards, their 4th child (They had 6 children) and youngest of 3 sisters. Sondra loved being a Mom to her children, she was their best friend and confidant. They felt very fortunate to have such a very close loving relationship with her. She adored being a grandmother more than anything, they were all her babies.(no matter how big they were). She had a way of making all of her grandchildren feel special. She really enjoyed spending time with all of them, whether they were watching a movie, playing games, watching sports or watching them play a sport, it never got old, she just loved being around them. She was a big fan of the SF Giants, SF 49ers and even liked watching basketball and rooting for the Lakers.  If you spent time with her, she was probably making you take a selfie with her, she had a great smile and loved sharing it with everyone. Sondra had such a big heart, she always worried about others before herself. Her ability to connect with people was a gift and she didn’t take it for granted and made sure to spread love while bringing people together. She will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved her. We will cherish and be forever grateful for the ways she impacted our lives and make her proud as we live on. She is survived by her three children, Jason, Jeremy (Sonya) and Jennifer (David). Sondra had seven Grandchildren, two sisters, three brothers as well as brother in-laws, sister in-laws, and a large extended family across the country. A memorial will be held in her honor on November 6th at 11am. at Camden Assembly of God located at 2275 Camden Ave, Campbell, CA 95008.

  Zella Yvonne “Bonnie” Davis, 90, of Irvine, California passed away September 12, 2021. She was the oldest of 14 children born to Alvin and Ellen Paramore on August 14, 1931, in New London, Ohio. She graduated high school in 1949 from Ruggels Troy High School.  She is survived by her husband Raymond A. Davis of 32 years.  She is also survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Terry) Asbury, son Thomas (Morag) Neer, and stepchildren Janell (Rick) Dankert, and Rod (Carla) Davis.  She is also survived by 5 granddaughters, 5 grandsons and 7 great grandchildren, 4 sisters, Jean, Eleanor (Lennie), Marilyn and June and 4 brothers, Harold (Susan), Marion (Mary Jo), Mark (Patty) and Richard and an extensive family. She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers Art, Jim, Robert, Lawrence, sister Mary, brothers in law Jack and Chuck, and sister-in-law Thelma and son Timothy. Raised in a large family she was given to kind generosity, a loving nature, stubbornness, strong will and a mischievous sense of humor most likely passed on from her father. What can you say about a woman who has given us life?  As a mother, she was simply the best.  Our Heavens shine brighter! Bonnie and her husband Ray spent their retirement years cruising the continental United States on Casper, their Honda Gold Wing during summers visiting family and friends.  They also headed up the organization MARC (Motorcycling Amateur Radio Club) for many years in Southern California.  Cremation was handled by Cremation Society of Orange Coast, Garden Grove, Ca. Interment is scheduled for June 2022 at Greenwich Greenlawn Cemetery, Greenwich, Ohio.

  William Douglas Morton, 25, passed away September 8th, 2021, in Huntington Beach, California. Will was born January 19th, 1996 in Pineville, North Carolina to Terry and Lori Morton. Will attended Fort Mill, SC schools and most recently finished his education in Huntington Beach, CA. He was employed at Tanners Oceanfront Restaurant and Cruisers Pizza Bar and Grill. From the beginning of Will’s life, he was on the move and born for adventure. Will thoroughly enjoyed skateboarding, extreme sports, photography, art, the outdoors, a nice day on the beach, and spending time with his family and friends. Will would embrace any and every opportunity to try new and interesting activities any chance he got. Everyone describes Will as an eccentric, genuine, caring guy, the kind to give the shirt off his back to others. He had an energetic and magnetic personality that had an impact on many lives. His earlier years were spent in the Carolinas, he was well known at Cinder Skateboard Park, in Fort Mill, SC and for his street skating adventures in Charlotte, NC. In 2017 Will moved to Southern California, to start a new chapter of his life. Ultimately, he fell in love with Oceanside, CA, after the locals took him in as one of their own. He moved to Huntington Beach in 2021, and pursued his career in fine dining, along the way he made lots of new friends in the few months residing there, no one was a stranger to Will.  Although Will’s life was cut tragically short, he was living out his life’s dreams and looking forward to the future with positivity.   He is survived by his parents, Terry Morton Jr., Lori Akers, and stepfather Paul Akers. Siblings, Mary Morton, Macie Morton, and Benton Akers. Grandfather, Mark Cooney. William is predeceased by his grandparents, Terry Morton Sr. and Kathy Cooney. Will’s services are private, and his family will be scattering his ashes in a burial at sea, in the place he loved the most, Oceanside, CA.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Skate4life. Skate4lifenc.com   He’s in the sun, the wind, the rain, He’s in the air you breathe with every breathe you take. He sings a song of hope and cheer, there’s no more pain, no more fear. You’ll see him in the clouds above, hear him whisper words of love, You’ll be together before long, until then listen to this song.

  William (“Bill”) Crosby Milo was born on April 3, 1935 in Montpelier, Vermont. He passed away  on August 6, 2021, at the age of 86 in Orange, California, surrounded by loved ones.    Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janet Cecilia Papen Milo, and their children: Sandy Milo of Anaheim, California; Rebecca Hansen (Allen) of Castle Rock, Washington; Rich Milo (Davida) of Huntington Beach, California; and Kathryn Gibson (Tom) of Huntington Beach, California. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Katherine (Ramsey) Milo of Montpelier, Vermont, and his brothers, George Milo and Tom Milo. Bill also has many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews with whom he enjoyed spending time. Bill loved to spend time with his large extended family.    Education was very important to Bill. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. army with the goal of attending college through the GI Bill. Upon his return from serving 18 months in the Korean War, Bill was discharged and achieved his goal by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Vermont. The taste of warmer climates he was given in the army drew him to look towards the Southwest for a job, culminating in a move to Southern California where he’d soon get married and start a family. Bill demonstrated the love and respect he had for education to his children by earning an MBA from Pepperdine University while they were young, still working full time along the way, later leading to motivate each of his children’s own college degrees.    Bill worked in aerospace his entire career. The job he’d take in Southern California was as an electrical engineer for North American Aviation, later Rockwell International and now a part of Boeing. Just some of his accomplishments include several patents and programs on exhibit in the Smithsonian, research hanging from the ceiling of the National Air and Space Museum on the X-15 aircraft, and building the first digital fingerprint machine for the FBI.   Bill married Janet Papen at St. Boniface in Anaheim, California, on August 24, 1963. Jan and Bill enjoyed going out dancing together, which they continued to do well into their 70s. They had four children and lived in the same house in Anaheim for over 50 years. Bill and Jan enjoyed their home and neighborhood and attended church weekly at St Justin Martyr and St Boniface.  They spent many summers with their family traveling and exploring the country, usually by camping and visiting national parks in trailers and RVs, enjoying campfires, hiking, site seeing, fishing, and exploring. In retirement, Bill and Jan completed their world travels via plane trips and cruises covering all 7 continents. Bill was a positive staple of his community through his hobbies, volunteer work, and playful personality. He loved dogs and had them as pets as a child, when his kids were young, as well as later playing with his kids’ dogs — his “granddogs”. He enjoyed joking and being silly to entertain his and other children, including making them laugh at Mass, earning him the nickname “Grandpa Silly Billy”. His corner lot house was nearly a suburban farm when his kids were young between the rabbits, pheasant, and quail being raised in the backyard, beer brewing in the bathroom, and a thriving garden including an abundance of fruit trees. He helped lead an “Indians Guides” YMCA troop, including taking charge of “crafts” (weapons). At 40 years old he started running marathons (later triathlons), a running club at work, and running 5 and 10ks with his kids as well as bicycling events with his coworkers and son. He coached AYSO soccer and little league baseball for many years, beginning with local youth sports when he was single, then his own kids’ teams when they were young, and finally his grandson’s first soccer team.  Along with his wife, Bill was very generous with his time and talent. When their family was young, they opened their home to a foster child for a year. Bill volunteered with charitable organizations such as St Vincent de Paul Society, Second Harvest Food Bank, and Halcyon Interfaith Shelter. He helped many of his family members, friends, neighbors, charities, and later his own kids over the years with home repair and construction. He was experienced in woodworking and construction, including electrical and plumbing. He maintained and fixed his own cars (even when his children caused the damage) and household appliances.   After retiring in his late fifties, Bill spent much of his time visiting extended family, volunteering, camping, fishing, golfing, and teasing his grandchildren. His love of education stuck with him through extensive reading and travel, providing knowledge of many topics, and Bill even worked to learn Spanish. He was a frequent golfer at his local course, Dad Miller in Anaheim, and became so well known by the employees and other regulars that he’d often spend more time talking than golfing. Bill enjoyed fishing with his kids and grandkids, or even by himself up in the Sierras. He participated in an annual “opening day” trout fishing trip with his son for many years, and multiple times won the “biggest trout” contest. It wasn’t enough to just fish and golf for Bill, he actually assembled his own custom rods and clubs — some of which are enjoyed now by his kids.   Funeral Mass will be offered at St Boniface Catholic Church in Anaheim, California, on Friday, September 3, 2021, at 10 am. Friends and Family are welcome. Bill was a man of science as well as a man of faith. Therefore, for the safety of all and to honor Bill, vaccination (except for those 12 and under), social distancing, and mask use (covering mouth and nose) will be required.  

In loving memory of Rick Leonard Burns.  Rick was born on June 28,1952 and passed away on July 21, 2021. Entrusted to the care of Cremation Society of Orange Coast, (800) 678-0669.