Betty Sierck, 83, passed away on September 8, 2014 in Sonoma, CA. Betty was born on October 5, 1930 in San Francisco, CA where she would attend Mission High School. Betty married Otto Sierck in 1950 and then moved to Sonoma in 1958. Betty worked at Valley Mart Variety and Coast to Coast Hardware in the Valley Mart Shopping Center for 23 years. Betty just loved to be with family and friends. She was a member of the Golden Age Club where she went weekly for bingo. Saturday mornings were her favorite, as that’s when she got together with her three boys for a standing scrabble game.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband Otto Sierck. Betty was a much loved mother of five children: Don Sierck, Ross Sierck (Bonnie Alexander), Brad Sierck, Jan Pagh (Lonny), and Annette Jenkins. She was O’ma to her grandchildren: Eli Sierck, Andrew Sierck, Lindsay Kashack (Jeff), Scott Pagh (Mandy), James Pagh (Christina), and Clifford Jenkins. She was known as Old O’ma to her great-grandchildren: Wyatt Pagh, Caleb Pagh, Austen Pagh, Layla Pagh, Dakota Pagh, Hailey Pagh, and Hannah Kashack.

At Betty’s request, there is no service. Arrangements cared for under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel, Mission Cremation Service. Inquiries can be made to them at (707) 996-3655 or by visiting their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.

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Michael John Doyle passed away peacefully at home at the age 71 on Grandparent’s Day (9/7/2014). Mike was born on 12/28/42 to Pat and Anne Doyle in Sacramento, CA. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in 1964 and a Master’s degree in 1967 from the University of San Francisco (USF). He taught high school at Jesuit College Prep (1966-68) and Bellarmine College Prep (1969-1979). He worked at National Semiconductor (1979-1981) and Kepner Tregoe (1981-1983). He opened a very successful management consulting and training services company, Doyle & Associates, which operated throughout the United States and internationally (1983-2000). He was also a professor at USF (2000-2003).

He was a man who enjoyed every aspect of life, was full of enthusiasm and humor, and loved to tell a good story. His favorite car was a 1966 MGB which was affectionately named “the blue potato” by his children. Uncontrollable laughter bellowed from the car as he drove with his children to swim meets, the horse stables, or the baseball fields where he coached numerous little league teams. He was an amazing do-it-yourselfer, enjoyed racing at Infineon Raceway, and was an avid Giants fan. Once retired, he spent countless hours volunteering for Rotary International in both the Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa East Clubs, Habitat for Humanity, the Eldridge Foundation, the Medical Reserve Corp, and Homeowners Associations. He also tutored children and youth. He dedicated a major amount of his time and skill by painting St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church during its construction.

His heart and time always placed his family first. He spent 14 years with the light of his life and loving wife, Norma Doyle. Together, hand in hand, they took many adventures, shared laughs, and created lasting memories. Norma will remember him as her true love and life companion. As a wonderful father, Mike will be missed by his devoted children Michelle Doyle of Menlo Park, Patrice Doyle of Santa Rosa, Martin Doyle of Newark, stepson Derek Ellis of Rocklin, and stepdaughter Robyn Ellis of Portland, Oregon. As a fun-loving grandpa, he will be missed by his adoring grandchildren Shylah, Sebastian, and Camila Doyle and Justin Ellis. As a story teller of favorite family memories, he will be missed by his siblings Kathie Yeend (Bob) of Napa, Barbara Roy (Pat) of Glen Ellen, Ken Doyle of Santa Rosa, and Karen Doyle of Sonoma and by his many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to a Rosary on September 19, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. at Duggan’s Mission Chapel 525 West Napa Street in Sonoma, and a funeral Mass at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church on September 20, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at 4595 Snyder Lane in Rohnert Park. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to: Rotary Club of Santa Rosa East, P.O. Box 2785 Santa Rosa, CA 95405 and made out to: Santa Rosa Rotary East with a note Mike Doyle-Dictionaries. (This is to support free dictionaries for third grade children.)

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Jesse Reinier Van Sickle of Sonoma, age 29, died September 15, 2014.

Jesse Reinier Van Sickle died of cardiac arrest on September 15, due to a congenital heart condition. Jesse was born in Massachusetts in 1985 and moved to Sonoma in 1995. He attended the Sonoma Charter School, Sonoma Valley High School, and Solo Quest, from which he graduated in 2005.

A regular sight around town, Jesse was biking near home when his heart gave out. He passed quickly and was surrounded by those he loved most. Despite the ups and downs of a life that was not always easy, Jesse never lost his appreciation for the good things—he had a ready laugh, an appreciation for the ridiculous, a love of bad movies, deeply felt sympathy for animals and the vulnerable, and a special place in his heart for Sonoma and lazy summer days on Lake George in the Adirondacks.

Jesse is survived by his parents, Jan and Robin Van Sickle of Sonoma; siblings Lee, Mike, and Matt; and his dogs Tucker and Lake. He is also survived by his grandparents, Lee Van Sickle and Ted and Shirley Halliday. He leaves behind many memories for his family: as a tiny baby covered head to toe in tubes and wires during one of his three open heart surgeries, as a towheaded boy with a ready smile and coke-bottle glasses, as a kind young man coming into his own. While Jesse’s heart had to work twice as hard to keep him alive, it was full of love. He was a warm and loving boy, and we will miss him dearly.

A remembrance of Jesse’s life will be held on Sunday, October 5 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in Sonoma; please call 707-529-8504 for details if you would like to attend.

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Former resident of Sonoma.

Barbara, affectionately known as Baerbel, died at age 72 in Arenal, Costa Rica, where she and Hagen, her husband of 50 years, were living for the past seven years.

Barbara was born in Berlin, Germany in 1942, immigrated from Germany to the United States in 1964 and married her beloved Hagen in December of 1964.

They lived in Woodacre, Marin County until moving to Sonoma in 1972, where they raised their two sons Marcel and Ingmar. Barbara was involved in Cub Scouts as a den mother for many years.

She was an adventurous soul who enjoyed traveling and combined that love with a career as a travel agent. She was a great cook and a fantastic hostess who enjoyed the festivities of any holiday and loved spending time in her very colorful gardens.

Barbara had endless energy and love for her family, friends, dog Tibisan and cat Miz Miz.

Barbara is survived by her husband Hagen, son Marcel of Middletown, her sisters Brigitte and Margrit of Germany.

She was preceded in death by her son Ingmar and her sister Gisela.

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Gary J Kiser, 75, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2014 in Sonoma, Calif. Gary, a lifelong Sonoma resident, was born here on November 17, 1938. He owned and operated a small business in Sonoma with his wife and son for over 50 years. He was a longtime member of the Schell Vista Volunteer Fire Department, The Native Sons of the Golden West, and The Valley of the Moon Trap Club. In his younger years he was an avid hunter and fisherman. One of his biggest joys in life was running the five wire hay press (the widow maker) and the parties after they finished bailing hay. He loved the history of Sonoma. His stories of “old time” Sonoma will be missed at holiday gatherings, while his seat at the head of the table will remain sadly vacant. Gary will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Gary is preceded in death by his brothers-in-law Willie and Reggie Poncia. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Carolyn, his son Joe (Casey), his granddaughters Grace and Katherine Kiser, his brothers-in-law Bill, Bobby, and Fred Montini and his sister-in-law Pat Poncia, all of Sonoma; his sister-in-law Connie Poncia of Santa Rosa, as well as numerous cousins.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 27^, 2014 at 21785 Broadway, Sonoma, CA

beginning at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice. Arrangements cared for under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel, Mission Cremation Service. Inquiries can be made to them at (707) 996-3655 or by visiting their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.

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Marion D. Cooper passed away on September 15, 2014, at the age of 93. He was born on March 9, 1921 in Greeley, KS and moved to California at the age of 17. Shortly thereafter he met a redheaded cowgirl named Mary Lee Rhoades at a rodeo in Monticello. She became his wife of 66 years and mother to his four children: Rose, Ron, Gerry and Bill.

Marion served in the US Army and was stationed in the Aleutian Islands during WWII. He also worked as a rancher and a plumber, retiring at the age of 62. Rarely seen without his Stetson hat, buckle, and boots, he prided himself in being an American cowboy. He loved to be called “Cowboy Coop” and spent many years in the saddle riding trails and fence lines, breaking horses and teaching his children how to ride. Called “Bapa” by his grandchildren, his family was his pride and joy. With twinkling blue eyes and an engaging smile, he was often heard saying “I love my family. I’m so very proud of every one of them.”

He is survived by three children: Rosa Lee Williams, Ronald Cooper (wife Inge), and Bill Cooper; eight grandchildren: Randy, Dale & Shawn Williams, Michael, Michele, Chris, Marissa and Dallas Cooper and seven great-grandchildren: Matthew, Jordan, Cooper, Brian, Miles, Dakota, and Colton. He is preceded in death by his wife Mary (2007) and son Gerry (1987).

Graveside services will be held Tuesday September 23, 2014 at St. Helena Cemetery at 2:00pm. Memories and words of sympathy may be shared on-line at www.tulocaycemetery.org.

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Passed on September 21^st at age 95. She was born in 1919 to Meta and John Key in Clarks Nebraska. It was there that she lived on the farm with her sister Marjorie and taught school as a young woman before marrying Ernest Hallett an air force Master Sergeant. Dorothy lived many places as an air force wife including Texas and Japan making friends where ever she went. She eventually ended up at Hamilton Air Force Base in Novato. Dorothy was a deputy sheriff for the Marin County courts for over 25 years. In 2006 Dorothy moved to Sonoma to be closer to family and most recently moved to Sonoma Hills. Dorothy was always the life of the party; she enjoyed traveling the world, playing bridge, watching the Forty Niners and was a member of many women’s groups in Marin and Sonoma Counties.

Dorothy is survived by her only child Sharon Monnich and her beloved son in law Gary Monnich, grandchildren Stefanie Thompson and her husband August, Matt Monnich and his wife Cristin, her two great grandchildren Chase and Carson Thompson. Dorothy was a strong women and an example to us all, she will be greatly missed…..There will be a private burial with family.

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93, passed away peacefully in Sonoma, California on September 18, 2014. She was born in Chiavari, Italy and she and her son, Frank, immigrated to San Francisco by ship in 1954 to join her husband who came to San Francisco several months prior. She was a dedicated worker at Mezzetta, Levi Straus and Fugazi Hall in North Beach. Lina worked for over 20 years as a waitress and assistant chef at Golden Gate Yacht Club in San Francisco. She was also a member of the Italian Catholic Federation and Ligure nel Mondo. Lina was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and loved to make the grandchildren’s favorite dishes when they came to visit. She especially took great pride in making raviolis for the holidays and special family occasions.

Lina is preceded in death by Joseph Lucchetti, her loving husband of 67 years. She leaves a son and a daughter, Dr. Frank (Rose) Lucchetti and Sandra (Martin) Ramella; four grandchildren who lovingly called her “Nonni” Steve (Tina) Lucchetti, Robert (Aimee) Lucchetti, Stefanie and Carolyn Ramella; 3 great-grandchildren, Joseph, Sophie, and Mia Lucchetti; her loving sister Luisita in Italy, sister in-law Romilda Garibaldi of San Francisco and her nephews Honorable Judge John Garibaldi and Jim Garibaldi. There are also many nieces, nephews, and cousins in Italy.

A private interment will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma, California on Friday, September 26, 2014. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your favorite charity. Arrangements cared for under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel. Inquiries can be made to them at (707) 996-3655 or by visiting their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.

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61, died peacefully in her home on Tuesday, September 23, 2014, after her valiant fight with Cancer. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in family, and the love and prayers of family, friends, and many supporters carried her through months of grueling Chemotherapy. Yet even throughout her own struggle with cancer, she lived every day to the fullest. She never missed an opportunity to not only tell but show her family and friends how much she loved them.

Kathy was born on February 23, 1953 in Wichita, Kansas to Beverly Travis. Kathy was the older of two beautiful girls. Kathy moved to Long Beach, CA in 1956 with her mother Beverly. A few years later her sister Robin was born. While living in Long Beach, Kathy met the love of her life, John Vincent at the age of 16 and a year later they were married on July 3, 1970.

Kathy and John Vincent welcomed their first child, Richard, in 1972 and moved to Sonoma two years later. Kathy and John then welcomed their 2nd and last child April in 1975. Married for 44 years, Kathy & John raised their two dear children, Richard and April in Sonoma Valley.

Her surviving family members are numerous, but mainly include: her husband of 44 years John L. Vincent, her two children and partners: Richard and Desiree Vincent and April and Michael Gray, her five grandchildren: Victoria Vincent, Gabriela and Marina Guerrero, Sherylyn Myers, and Jazsmine Reed, her great grandchild: Isabel Rodriguez, her Stepfather and Partner: Dick and Carolyn Church, her Sister and Partner, Robin and Neil Johnson, and her in-laws: David and Gail Vincent, Tim and Gloria Vincent, and Marlene Christian. Kathy also has too many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews to list or even count.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support in many heart-felt forms from too many people to name individually, but including: Hospice By The Bay, family and friends – either through visits and/or meal deliveries, neighbors, and even random acts of kindness through total “strangers”.

Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2014 at Duggan’s Mission Chapel, 525 West Napa Street Sonoma, CA 95476. Private inurnment to take place at Santa Rosa Memorial Park. Arrangements cared for under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel, Mission Cremation Service. Inquiries can be made to (707) 996-3655 or at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.

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Carmela Vella Benedetto, lifelong resident of Sonoma Valley, widow of the late Rocco (Rock) Benedetto and former proprietor of Vella’s Creamery (now Burgers and Vine), passed away Friday, September 19. Born in Oakland on September 4, 1920, she was 94 years old.

Carm, as she was known by her many local friends, was the daughter of Joseph and Rose (Sutter) Vella, who were founder-partners of the original Sonoma Cheese Company. She was also the sister of Loretta Vella.

She attended Sonoma Grammar School (now Sonoma Community Center) and Sonoma Valley High School.

She and Rocco were high school sweethearts and married in 1940. Rocco was a superb baseball player for Sonoma’s town team, and Carm was active in many community affairs, especially during World War II, when Rocco served as an infantryman in the South Pacific.

For nearly three decades, Carm and Rock ran the Creamery (across from the Mission), which had been built by Carm’s father, Joseph Vella. Sonomans frequented the Creamery as much to share conversations with Carm and Rock as to have lunch or an afternoon snack.

Always welcoming and gregarious, Carmela was happiest when surrounded by people. She would reminisce about trips she took to Oregon with Rocco, tell anecdotes, listen enthusiastically to Jerry playing with musician friends, and expound on Sonoma history and lore.

During that time, she was also one of the many “neighborhood moms” who collectively looked after not only their kids, but also their kids’ playmates.

Carm and Rock’s son, Jerry, and I were best buddies. There was always a group of neighborhood kids playing ball in the Benedettos’ backyard. Carm fed us and tolerated all of our rowdy behavior.

Carm was like a close aunt to me. She and my mom, Jean Lynch, were good friends and high school classmates. When Jerry and I weren’t playing at his house or mine, we would go down to the Creamery and persuade Carm to make us hamburgers. She always said yes.

I remember her being incredibly patient and generous. While she worked hard at the Creamery, she was also a dedicated mother who clearly liked kids.

The Creamery was also the favorite lunch and afternoon snack hangout for many Sonomans, especially those who worked on or near the Plaza. Carm had an encyclopedic memory when it came to old Sonoma families, including their children’s names. She outlived almost all of them.

Carmela Benedetto was truly a daughter of old Sonoma and, sadly, nearly the last of her generation. I still carry fond memories in my heart of those wonderful years when Jerry and I were kids and she took such loving care of us.

Carm is survived by her son, Jerry Benedetto; grandson, Rocky Benedetto and his wife, Britney; nephews Bob Anselmo of Sacramento and Rocky Anselmo of Arizona; and nieces Zolita Vella of New York City and Maria Vella of San Francisco.

At her request, no funeral services are planned.

• • •

Bill Lynch is the former editor and co-publisher of The Sonoma Index-Tribune.

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78, passed away on September 27, 2014 in Sonoma, Calif. She was born in Newport, Rhode Island and was married in 1953. She traveled with her husband, Lewis, during his Navy career and during their 51 year marriage they lived in Virginia, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Southern California, and retired to Arizona. Velma lived in Sonoma during the past eight years and although Velma worked outside the home for a number of years, her passion was her family, home and friends.

She is survived by her children: Wayne, Cheryl, Guy, and Eric; grandchildren; Travis, Meghan, Christopher, Leslie, and Connor; and siblings: Lois, Timothy, Desley, and William.

Velma will be missed by her family and friends. Donations may be made in Velma’s honor to Hospice By The Bay, 190 West Napa Street, Sonoma, CA 95476 or www.hospicebythebay.org. Arrangements cared for under the direction of Duggan’s Mission Chapel, Mission Cremation Service. Inquiries can be made to them at (707) 996-3655 or by visiting their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.

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Violet Marie Johnson Wellander, 93, went home to be with the Lord early Sunday morning, September 28th. Her last few hours here were graciously and peacefully spent at her beloved place of residence, Vintage Sonoma.

Of Swedish heritage and mid-west stock, Violet was born November 10, 1920 in DeKalb, Illinois to Oscar and Ida Johnson. Baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church, Violet attended local public schools, graduating from DeKalb Township High School in 1938. She was active in her church, including Luther League, Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, and Altar Guild and taught Sunday school.

In 1950, Violet married Wesley Wellander of Sycamore, Illinois at her parental DeKalb home. Shortly thereafter, the newlyweds headed west to California where they established their home and raised a family in Turlock; their place of residency for the next fifty years.

Prior to her last six years in Sonoma, as a resident of Vintage Sonoma and a much loved member of Faith Lutheran Church, Violet enjoyed eight years of time in Yuba City, close to her daughter, Carol and her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Willard, her sister Irene, and her husband of 56 years, Wesley. She is survived by her children Carol Whitmore (Dale) of Marysville, CA and Ron Wellander (Luanne) of Sonoma, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at Duggan’s Mission Chapel (707.996.3655), 525 West Napa Street, Sonoma on Friday, October 10th between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A “Celebration of Life” service and reception will be held at Vintage Sonoma (707.996.1500), 91 Napa Road, Sonoma on Friday, October 10th at 3:00 p.m.. A graveside service open to all, will be held the following day, Saturday, October 11th at 1:00 p.m. at Turlock Memorial Park (209.632.0111), 425 North Soderquist Road, Turlock. A reception, following the graveside service, will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Turlock. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Young Life of Sonoma Valley 227 Bettencourt Street, Sonoma, CA 95476-6910 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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Marianne Margaret (Carson) Levy, 71, passed away peacefully in her Sonoma home surrounded by family on September 29, 2014, after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.

A native San Franciscan, she was born on February 21, 1943 to Anna “Cecilia” (Ahlbach) Carson and George Francis Carson. Growing up on 19^th Avenue, she attended St. Cecilia’s Elementary School and graduated from Mercy High School in 1961. After graduation, she attended San Francisco City College where she worked as a clerk at the Main Library of San Francisco. She began her working career at Sunset Scavenger Company, where she worked more than 15 years.

Marianne and Don Levy met on a blind date in 1963–they had been together ever since. They were married at Star of the Sea Church in Santa Cruz on January 25^th 1964, and began their life together in San Francisco. They bought their first home in Pacifica in 1969, moved to Burlingame in 1976, and ultimately, moved to Sonoma in 1988, where they recently celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary.

A warm-hearted and generous person, Marianne valued friends and family above all. Gratefully, both family and friends returned her kindness by supporting her lovingly, in a time of need.

With a flair for entertaining, Marianne loved to cook, host and ‘party-on,’ never wanting the evening to end. When not in the hostess mode, she was on the cheering squad at a baseball field, soccer field or basketball court encouraging one of her five grandchildren.

Marianne was preceded in death by her parents, George and Cecilia Carson, her cousin, Fr. Bill Ahlbach and her dear friend, Diana Mion. She leaves behind her devoted & loving husband, Don Levy and her daughters and sons, Dawn & Mike Bruno of Placerville and Sean & Heidi Levy of Foster City, and five adoring grandchildren: Taylor, Courtney and Maisey Bruno and Hannah and Carson Levy. She also leaves beloved siblings: Donna & Mick Barnhill of Arizona; Mike & Sandy Carson of Novato, and David & Sherry Carson of Spokane. She is also survived by dear cousins Ellen Holden, Jeanne Biernet, Ray Arata, Don, Jerry, Margaret “Sis,” Mary and John Ahlbach, Denaire Walker, and Lanay Corbeil; as well as, her eight nieces and nephews; lifelong friends Pat & Ken Tillotson, Mary & Will McClure and Bob Mion. Marianne had many more friends and relatives who will miss her dearly, far too many to name here.

All are invited to a Memorial Mass on Friday, October 10, at 11 am at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, 601 W. Agua Caliente Rd. A reception will follow at Hanna Boys Center. Memorial donations may be made in Marianne’s name through the American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association. Private inurnment. Arrangements under Duggan’s Mission Chapel.

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The family and many friends of Vic Pozzi, Windsor, sadly mourn his death. Victor A. Pozzi, ex-dairyman in Sonoma and Windsor, passed away on October 4, 2014 as the result of a massive stroke he suffered on July 3, 2014. Victor Archangelo Pozzi was born July 4, 1931 to parents Gerry and Flora (Sartori) Pozzi, a family of dairy farmers. Vic graduated from Sonoma Valley High School in 1950 where as a senior he was awarded the Distinguished American Farmer Degree, the first Future Farmer of America student at Sonoma High School to be awarded this honor. Vic assumed responsibility of managing his parents’ dairy in 1963 after the death of his father…….and never looked back. In the mid 80’s Vic retired from the dairy business as a respected and successful dairy farmer known by many and loved by all, a legend in his time.

Vic served three years in the U.S. Army during which time he served in Korea. He often said that he served his country with pride….he was proud to be an American.

In 1956 while living in Sonoma Vic became involved with the Schell-Vista Fire Department as a volunteer. This was the beginning of his life-long commitment to volunteer fire fighting. In 1963 with the family move to Windsor Vic convinced his neighbors that the rural area where they lived needed a volunteer fire department. Today this volunteer fire department is the Windsor Fire Protection District in which he served over 45 years.

In 1987 known throughout the State of California as a competent and successful dairyman Vic sold his dairy herd. Retirement was not in his picture! Within a short time and because of his love for people and animals he became the originator of Vic’s Farm, “Noah’s Ark of the Barnyard” as Tim Tesconi, former Press Democrat Farm Reporter, commented in one of his articles. Vic’s farm became home for llamas, emus, sheep, ducks, geese, Brahma cattle, chickens, and his faithful friend, Border Collie, and companion, Jeff. For years thereafter and until the day of his stroke Vic entertained visitors from around the world introducing adults and children to his menagerie of animals. “Farmer Vic”, as he became known, is recognized as one of Sonoma County’s most respected and loved agricultural goodwill ambassadors. He loved life and life loved him. Rest in peace, dear Vic.

Vic is predeceased by his parents and sister, Geraldine Ferreira, and his first cousins Stanley Ramatici, Lester Corda, Joseph Corda, Ernest Corda, Everett Sartori, Leland Sartori and Charlotte Sartori Quesenberry. Vic is survived by a large family of relatives, neighbors, firefighters and friends. His surviving first cousins include Duane Sartori, Petaluma; Ralph Sartori, Petaluma; Don Ramatici, Petaluma; Dorothy Wheeler, Montana; Janis Bluhm, Washington; Don Sartori, Petaluma; Conrad Eaton, Washington; Dorothy Nadale, Petaluma; Beverly Candage, Carlsbad; Mervyn Sartori, Petaluma; Eleanor Avilla, Petaluma; Esther Moreda, Petaluma; Allen Marcucci, Petaluma; Shirley Sullivan, Santa Rosa; Marjorie Rosselli, Penngrove; Barbara Thomas, Healdsburg.

Vic’s first cousins would like to thank Dean Crothers of the Windsor Fire Protection District and Rick Olufs, Vic’s neighbor of many years, for their support and help on Vic’s ranch during the time of Vic’s illness. Vic’s family would also like to thank Park View Post Acute staff for their attentive, consistent, and respectful care of Vic. Additionally we would like to thank Hospice By the Bay, especially Jackie, Chris, and Raymond for the generous love they openly gave to Vic and to us during Vic’s last weeks of life.

Viewing at Lafferty and Smith Colonial Chapel, 4321 Sonoma Hwy, Santa Rosa, will be held on Sunday, October 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Funeral Services for Vic will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 8400 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor on Monday, October 13 at 11a.m. Prior to the service The Windsor Fire Protection District will lead a burial procession from Wells Fargo Center of the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, through the town of Windsor to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. The public is invited to join this procession. Those who would like to participate are asked to meet at Wells Fargo Center at 9:30 a.m. Public burial will be at Mountain Cemetery, 90 First Street West, Sonoma the following day, Tuesday, October 14 at 11:30 a.m.

Donations in Vic’s name are appreciated to Shell-Vista Fire Department, 22950 Broadway Street, Sonoma, CA 95476; Windsor Fire Protection District, 8200 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor, CA 95492-9217; Hospice By The Bay, 190 West Napa Street, Sonoma, California 95476.

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Helen Laura Stimac, 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and many friends on October 2, 2014 in Sonoma, CA after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.

Helen was born on Oct. 10, 1936 to Caroline and Anton Stimac in East Brady, PA and grew up with 11 siblings. She came to the Bay Area as a flight attendant with United Airlines in 1962 and lived in Marin County, San Francisco, Bozeman, MT, and moved to Sonoma where she retired after 42 years with the airline. Helen loved travelling and the outdoors. Her passions were skiing, biking, fishing, golf, tennis and hiking. She was a volunteer with F.I.S.H., Vintage House and a staunch supporter of Pets Lifeline.

Helen is survived by her siblings Joe, Ann, John, Edward, Dorothy and Diana and many nieces and nephews in Pennsylvania and Ohio, as well as many very dear friends in Sonoma. Her remains will be returned to Ohio for final services.

A special thanks to her dedicated care-givers and to Hospice By The Bay.

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Sadly, Robert (Bobby) James Gilbert, our unique, gentle and beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend, passed, in spirit, from this earth and into the constellation of acceptance to be with his Heavenly Father. Although Bobby was calendared as 66, he was truly an ageless philosopher.

Bobby was loaned to us on October 6, 1947. Born to Frank William and Elizabeth (O’Rourke) Gilbert in San Francisco, California, he resided, in his youth, literally, in “The City By The Bay” (the Bay View District), with his parents and his older brother Bill. Later Bobby’s various residences were in San Mateo, Sonoma, Santa Cruz and Lake Counties where Bobby enthusiastically shared his vivid, elaborate and erudite story telling skills with all who would listen.

Bobby, though, innately, a peaceful man, followed in the footsteps of his father, Frank-a proud and decorated World War II Marine Veteran- volunteering as a Marine in the Vietnam era. After his Marine experience, Bobby chose to practice The Path of Peace – In The Shadow of the Hawk, as taught to him by his many Native American friends.

Bobby was especially close to his loving big brother William Frank Gilbert (Bill) and his adoring sister-in-law, Lee Ann, both who shepherded and cared for Bobby most of his colorful life. Bobby was cherished by his nephew, William Frank Gilbert Jr. and adored by his beloved nieces, Kimberlee, Jennifer, Meridyth and Katharyne Gilbert.Bobby was predeceased by his wife, Goldie, and also leaves behind his younger brother, Jeff Gilbert. Bobby will also be fondly remembered by his treasured grandnieces and grandnephews, numerous O’Rourke cousins as well as by the entire Gilbert/Bisacca Clan, headed by his dear Auntie Anne (Gilbert) Bisacca.

A private inurnment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma, CA. in a section reserved for our Veterans. A Celebration of Bobby’s Life, for family and friends, will be held in his honor at 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2014 at 881 Innes Street- Albion Castle, San Francisco, California.

RSVP: Gilbertscastle@Yahoo.com

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Sam Simon of Sonoma, California died peacefully on September 29, 2014 at the age of 98. He was a decorated veteran of World War II serving in the Rainbow Division in 1944. He was severely wounded on the battlefield and was miraculously rescued by army medics who saved his life. Decade after decade he was convinced he wouldn’t make it to another decade until he lived past the age of his father’s death, 72, and then felt he would live forever. And he almost did.

He was born in Manhattan, New York, to Leah and Joseph Simon on August 11, 1916. He attended De Witt Clinton High School in the Bronx, and then attended City College of New York Uptown Branch at the young age of 16. He enjoyed sports both on the high school and college levels where he was a member of CCNY varsity La Crosse team. Then he went on to attend Columbia Law School in 1937, passing the NY Bar Exam in 1940. Sam practiced law only for short time before he was drafted into the army. Ironically, the injuries he sustained near Nancy, France left him with partially paralyzed vocal chords which prevented him from practicing court room law, his chosen field. His recovery time was slow and painful, involving several surgeries.   When he returned to the work world, he became a manufacturer’s representative in the burgeoning field of electronics. He remained in this field throughout life forming his own successful company, Cooper-Simon.

Sam met his lifelong partner and wife Martha Grinberg in 1940. They started their family before the war and had two more children by the early 1950’s. They moved from Brooklyn, NY to Great Neck, Long Island where they raised their family and resided for the next 40 years. They maintained their family home in Great Neck so the children and grandchildren could spend vacations with them. They were always keenly interested in the lives and activities of children and grandchildren often traveling throughout the year to visit one or another family in California, or New Mexico or Barcelona. Then in 1991, Martha and Sam moved to Delray Beach, Florida permanently where they lived until 2006 when they came to Sonoma to live at Sonoma Hills Senior Residence. Always wanting to be a Californian, Sam enjoyed his last eight years of life immensely. At Sonoma HIlls, Sam made great friends of the residents and staff where he felt deeply at home.

Sam was preceded in death by his wife Martha in 2008. He is survived by his three children, Jane Zimmerman of Sonoma, Lorna Simon Ramirez (Jany) of Barcelona, Spain, and Dr. Joshua Simon (Minerva) of Portland, Maine, nine grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Augusta Petross of Seattle, WA.

All are welcome to a Memorial/Celebration of Life Gathering at Sonoma Hills, 405 W. MacArthur St., Sonoma on Sunday, October 19 at 3 p.m. followed by a reception. Donations can be made to Hospice by the Bay in the name of Sam Simon.

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John Susoeff, 71, of Sonoma, CA, passed away of natural causes in his home on September 23rd, 2014.

John was born in San Francisco on December 3, 1942 to John and Alice Susoeff. He graduated from Balboa High School and attended City College of San Francisco. After serving in the military he married Florence Frank and they raised three children: Marjorie, Rex and Melinda. The family traveled often to John’s beloved second home in Ciudad Guzman, Mexico. The couple divorced.John’s second marriage to Beatrice Torres in Mexico also ended in divorce.

John’s passion was classic and antique stoves, such as Wedgewood and O’Keefe & Merritt. His business, Johnny’s Appliances and Classic Ranges is located in Sonoma. His classic stoves have been featured in movies and television shows.

John is survived by his daughter, Melinda; two sisters, Dorothy Barnett and Linda Susoeff; and nine grandchildren: Michael, Kimberly, Christopher, Rex, David, Calvin, William, Montana and Hannah, as well as extended family and many friends.

A celebration of John’s life is to be arranged. For more information please call 707-996-9730 after October 30^th.

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Mark Drew Tuel passed away on August 29th, 2013. He left a legacy of amazing song, fabulous apple pies and gourmet dinner parties, legendary storytelling and the gift of an open heart and a ready smile as a friend to many. He was a World War II Army Air Corp Pilot and a twenty year career officer of the Army Counter Intelligence Corps.

Mark’s ashes will be interred at Sonoma Valley Veteran’s Cemetery with military honors on Tuesday, October 21st, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. Friends are invited by his wife, Diane Wardell Tuel, to attend the ceremony.

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Randy Frank Hooker, age 51, passed away from heart failure at Marin General Hospital in San Rafael, California on October 9, 2014.

Born November 4, 1962, in Banning, California, he was a lifelong resident of Sonoma California. He spent his later years caring for his aging parents, and the family Wild Game Bird business. Randy graduated from Sonoma Valley High School, and attended Santa Rosa Junior College. Randy’s career paths included working as a crew supervisor for F&J Bandag at the railroad yard in Sacramento, California, a ranch hand at M2L Ranch in Petaluma, CA, and as a technician for Discovery Office Systems. Randy was an avid gun enthusiast, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors with his German shepherd named “Dog”.

He is survived by his brother John Allen Hooker of Cotati, California, and sister Mary-Ann Sanders of Spokane, Washington. Surviving family members also include Randy’s Aunts, Dorcus Hooker (California), Beulah Hooker (Oklahoma), Anna and Mark Vimont (Oregon), and his nieces and nephews, Madonna Plourd, Sandy Keese, Paul Dillon Albright, Brian Allen Hooker, and Stacia Elise Rodden.

Services will be held at Duggan’s Mission Chapel in Sonoma on Tuesday October 21, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. Randy’s final resting place will be at Mountain Cemetery in Sonoma, California.

Duggan’s Mission Chapel

Sonoma

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