Nicolaus, Harms
& other related Families: Obituaries, Death Notices, & Headstones.
page nine
Sac Bee Wed 13
Dec 2000
STRAUCH, LORRAINE FAY
Passed away on December 10, 2000 in Sacramento at the age of 84. Mrs.
Strauch was born on July 27, 1916 to Abram and Lillian Smith. She is survived
by her loving husband Clifford. Also survived by her step daughters Jeannie
Smith of Sacramento, and Diane Boyles of Paradise, her son William and
her two grandchildren Darren and Deidra England. At her request no services
will be held. Arrangements at East Lawn Mortuary. Sac Bee Thu 19 Apr 2001
STRAUCH, CLIFFORD
Passed away on Friday, April 13, 2001 at the age of 83. He was preceded
in death by his wife of 43 years Lorraine Strauch. Loving father of Jean
Smith of Sacramento, and Diane Boyles of Magalia CA. Brother of Earl Strauch
of Sacramento and Marlene Meider, of Oklahoma. Grandfather of Dean Doyle
and Renea Wood, great grandfather of Bradly, Justin & Alyssa Wood & Zachery
Doyle. Mr. Strauch was a veteran of WWII where he served in the Army Air
Corps, He was employed as a truck driver by Crystal Creamery for 20 years.
Friends are welcome for visitation on Saturday, April 21, 2001 from Noon
- 5:00 PM and Sunday, April 22, from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM at EAST LAWN MORTURARY,
5757 Greenback Lane, and Graveside service on Monday, April 23, 2001 at
11:00 AM at East Lawn Sierra Hills Memorial Park at the same address. In
lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the charity of the donors choice.
The Sun Sun 24 Apr 2001 (Bremerton WA)
Gerry Bernier
Gerald "Gerry" Deveraux Bernier Sr., 62, died April 19, 2001,
at his Bremerton residence.
He was born Nov. 13, 1938, in Seattle to Gustave and Muriel (Smith) Bernier.
He attended Queen Anne High School in Seattle.
He married Earleen Nicolaus on May 23, 1964, in Bremerton.
Mr. Bernier was instrumental in the establishment of the county's emergency
dispatching system as an assistant to Wes Henry. He then worked for Ted
Zink at the Kitsap County Coroner's Office as a deputy coroner until ill
health forced his retirement in 1996.
He enjoyed cooking, family and friends.
Survivors include his wife; his mother; three sons, Gerald D. Bernier
Jr. of Brownsville and Dan Bernier and Thomas Culliton, both of Bremerton;
a daughter, Suzanne Sabanal of Port Orchard; three sisters, Gloria Van
Moorhem of Bellingham, Shirley Suputa of Florida and Michelle Kellogg
of Seattle; and three grandchildren.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Lewis Funeral Chapel.
Cremation will be by Cherry Grove. Arrangements are by Lewis Funeral Chapel.
Sac Bee Fri 10 Aug 2001 p.B5
DESMOND, MICHAEL J.
In Sacramento, August 7, 2001. Beloved husband of Margaret "Peggy"
Desmond loving father of Kerry, Katie, Colleen, and David Desmond, loving
brother of Richard & Doie Desmond, Louis & Gerry Desmond, Mary
& Cass Mastalski, Denise & Al Franzoia, and Clare Lagomarsino,
brother-in-law of Mark Thompson, son-in-law of Margaret Thompson, cousin
of Wendel Flint and Sally Swanson, also survived by 43 nieces and nephews.
A 4th generation Sacramentan, aged 64 years. Mr. Desmond was an educator
at Jonas Salk Middle School, and Bishop Monogue and Christian Brothers
High Schools. Friends are welcome for visitation at W.F. GORMLEY &
SONS CHAPEL, 2015 Capitol Avenue, Monday from 9AM to 4PM, and are invited
to attend a Rosary at St. Philomene Church, 2428 Bell Street, Monday at
7PM. Friends are also invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial which
will be offered for the repose of his soul at St. Plilomene Church, Tuesday
at 10AM. Graveside Services will follow the Mass. In lieu of flowers,
memorials may be made in his memory to Christian Brothers High School
Memorial Program, 4315 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Sacto., CA 95820.
Sac Bee Sun12 Aug 2001
Michael Desmond, 64, teaching was a 'calling'
By Walt Wiley
Bee Staff Writer
Michael Desmond had wanted to be a lawyer like his father and two brothers,
but life kept steering him to be a teacher, a vocation that turned out
to be a true calling for him.
"People come up to me all the time and ask if I'm related to the
teacher, Michael Desmond," said his wife, Peggy. "Then they
go on to tell me about the wonderful time they had in his class. Teaching
really was a calling with him."
Mr. Desmond died at home Tuesday of a heart attack at age 64.
Since 1998, when he suffered a stroke, he had been working part time
training teachers at Christian Brothers High School, where he taught history
for the last 11 years of his 30-year classroom career, his wife said.
Earlier, he had taught at Jonas Salk Middle School and Bishop Manogue
High School.
"He had an absolute passion for history, any history. He traced
his family's history way back. He liked to tell of one great-great-grandmother
who came on the boat from Ireland" and made her way to Marysville,
"then walked to Grass Valley," she said. "He gave me a
lesson on the history of the Portuguese National Church the day he died."
Equal with his love of history, Mr. Desmond was a gregarious man who
loved corny jokes, his wife said.
"He was very people oriented, and he used humor to connect with
his students," she said. "And he was also a die-hard fan of
Christian Brothers athletics, as well as a man of deep faith, involved
in all the Catholic activities."
Mr. Desmond was born May 1, 1937, to Edna Nicolaus and Earl D. Desmond,
both descendants of Gold Rush pioneers. She was the daughter of Louis
Nicolaus, a founder of Sacramento's old Buffalo Brewery at 21st and Q
streets.
Mr. Desmond graduated from Christian Brothers in 1956, then attended
seminary in Oregon before graduating from Seattle University. Later, he
was awarded his teaching credential at Gonzaga University and a master's
at the University of San Francisco.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughters Kerry Desmond of
Kansas City, Mo., Katie Desmond of Flagstaff, Ariz., and Colleen Desmond
of Washington, D.C.; a son, David Desmond of Pasadena; and brothers Richard
and Louis and sisters Mary Mastalski, Denise Franzoia and Clare Lagomarsino,
all of Sacramento.
Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday at W.F. Gormley &
Sons Chapel, 2015 Capitol Ave. A rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Monday
at St. Philomene Church, 2428 Bell St., where a Mass of Christian burial
will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Christian Brothers
High School Memorial Program, 4315 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Sacramento,
95820.
Sac Bee Sun 4 Nov 2001 p.B7
STILLWELL, LILLIAN MAY
Lillian was born April 4, 1921, in rural Montana. Following the death
of her father, Charles Bowrey in 1931, Lillian moved to California with
her mother, Daisy, and sister Virginia. She married Franklin Stillwell
on September 6, 1942. Her dream of attending college was delayed first
by the great depression, then by WWII, and finally by her two sons. Finally
in 1958 she entered Sacramento State College. She participated in the
honors program and graduated in 1963 both in and with honors. She continued
at Sac State, earning a Masters degree in 1965. Lillian worked as a school
psychologist for Placer County and then Auburn Unified School District,
eventually becoming director of special education programs. While in the
Auburn schools, Lillian obtained a number of grants and conducted research
projects on improving education.
In 1979, the California Association of School Psychologist recognized
Lillian as the outstanding school psychologist in region 1, one of six
regions in the state. She served as the president of the California Association
of School Psychologists from 1980 to 1981. Following her retirement, Lillian
continued to do volunteer work for different organizations. She passed
away on October 31, 2001. Lillian is survived by her husband Franklin
Stillwell, her son Robert Stillwell, and Grandchildren, Christine Bellavia,
Sean Stillwell, Sara Stillwell, and Amelia Stillwell. Remembrances should
be sent to the Lillian Stillwell Scholarship fund, c/o University Advancement,
7750 College Town Dr., Suite 200, Sacramento, CA, 95826
Sac Bee Tue & Wed 11 & 12 Dec 2001 p.B5
LAGOMARSINO, CLARE In Carmichael, on December
9th, 2001. Loving mother of Clyde A. Lagomarsino Jr. and wife, Jane of
Carmichael, Mary Louise Amato and husband Lt. Col. Steven L. Amato of
Virginia, Earl Desmond Lagomarsino of North Carolina, Virginia "Ginny"
Clare Lagomarsino of Carmichael and Edna Eileen Wells of Carmichael. Loving
sister of Richard and Doie Desmond, Louis & Gerry Desmond, Mary &
Cass Mastalski, Denise & Al Franzoia, and the late Michael Desmond,
and her sister-in-law Margaret "Peggy" Desmond. Cherished grandmother
of Chelsea & William Lagomarsino, Sofia Burille, Timothy & Nicolaus
Amato, Joseph Lagomarsino and Christina, Eric, & Rebecca Wells; also
survived by 43 nieces & nephews. A fourth generation Sacramentan,
aged 69 years. For 21 years, Clare was active in the Jesuit Spring Fling,
for 35 years she was a supporter of Jesuit High School, and has been a
active parishoner at Our Lady of Assumption Church for 50 years. Friends
are welcome for visitation at W.F. Gormley & Sons Chapel, 2015 Capitol
Avenue on Thursday and Friday from 9am until 5pm. and are invited to attend
a Rosary at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 5057 Cottage Way in Carmichael,
Friday at 7:00pm. Friends are also invited to a Mass of Christian Burial
which will be offered for the repose of her soul at the church Saturday
at 9:30am. Interment will be at St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers,
memorials may be made in her memory to the Desmond Family Endowment Scholarship
Fund at Christian Brothers High School or Our Lady of Assumption Grammer
School.
Sac Bee Tues 10 Sep 2002 p.B5
NICOLAUS, WARREN K. (MIKE)
Age 82, born in Sacramento June 30, 1920. Youngest of seven children,
survived by brothers Earl Nicolaus of Bremerton, WA and Wayne Nicolaus
of Elk Grove. Died on September 6, 2002 surrounded by his loving family.
Survived by Mary, his beloved wife of 54 years, cherished daughter Cathie
Nicolaus, her husband Richard Steenwyk, and grandchildren Ivah Marie and
Devin Michael. Mike retired from Pacific Bell in 1978 after 37 years of
service. He was an avid gardener and golfer. He was a member of Ancil
Hoffman Golf Club and SIRS Branch 23. Memorial services will be held at
St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2140 Mission Ave. Carmichael at 2:00 PM
Friday, September 13th. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to
St. Michael's Memorial. Fund or a charity of your choice.
Sac Bee Thu 15 May 15, 2003 p.B7
HANSEN, MARY Born April 27, 1915, in
Hinckley, Utah. Died at Eskaton Village, Carmichael on May 13, 2003. Before
her long struggle with Alzheimer's Disease, Mary enjoyed many rounds of
golf at Valley Hi Country Club, Borrego Springs and Del Paso Country Club.
She also loved her bridge clubs, her garden and her pets. She kept her
charm and wit even after her illness began. She enjoyed the loving care
of the staff at Eskaton. Mary came to Sacramento with her mother Nettie
McCurdy in 1929. She was married to Lawrence Nicolaus in 1934, and they
lived in Elk Grove until his death in 1965. In 1966 she married Kenneth
Hansen who preceded her in death in May 1997. A loving, caring mother,
Mary leaves her two daughters Joan Brooks (Bill) of Elk Grove and Diane
Watkins of Freeport. She was loved by her grandchildren Teresa Monroe,
Courtney Campbell, Jennifer Faukner, Cheri Hughes and Shawn Campbell.
She leaves eleven great grandchildren; Christopher, Nicolaus, Michael,
Traci, Lexie, Brandon, Jason, Amanda, Shane, Andrew and Casey. She leaves
a great great granddaughter Sarah Campbell. A private family memorial
will be held. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Mary Hansen's name may
be made to the Alzheimer's Association for Research, 225 N. Michigan Ave.
17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601. Interment at Elk Grove District Cemetery.
The SUN Mon 19 Jan 2004 (Bremerton WA)
OBITUARY
Earl Nicolaus
Aug. 16, 1905 - Jan. 12, 2004
Earl D. Nicolaus, 98, of Bremerton died Monday in Bremerton.
He was born in Sacramento, Calif., to Louis and Myrtle Nicolaus. He attended
high school in California.
On Jan. 30, 1937, he and his wife, Juanita, of Bremerton were married
in San Diego.
Mr. Nicolaus served in the Navy from 1929 to 1937 and from 1941 to 1954,
achieving the rank of chief petty officer. He served during World War
II aboard the USS Bunker Hill from 1942 to 1946.
He went on to work as a machinist at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Mr. Nicolaus was a member of Fleet Reserve Post 29.
Survivors include his wife; two sons, Michael and Steve Nicolaus, both
of Bremerton; a daughter, Earleen Bernier of Port Orchard; eight grandchildren,
Edward, James, Robert, Gerald, Junior, Daniel, Suzanne and Tom; and six
great-grandchildren.
No services will be held. Arrangements are under the direction of Lewis
Funeral Chapel in Bremerton.
Sac Bee Thu 17 Jun, 2004 p.B
DESMOND, Richard F.
Passed away June 16, 2004, at his home in Carmichael. Mr. Desmond is survived
by his beloved wife, Doris; nine adoring children, Ann, Daniel, Meg, Janie,
John, Peter, Madeline, Tess, and Richard Jr.; twenty-one grandchildren,
Christopher, Jessica, Madeline, Cameron, Carolyn, Adam, Megan, Emily, Daniel,
Jr., Kayla, Hope, Stephen, Katie, Peter, Ryan, Garrett, Michael, Tessie,
Kaylee, Adam and Alexandria; and siblings Louis Desmond, Mary Mastalski,
and Denise Franzoia. Mr. Desmond was born November 13, 1923, in Sacramento
to the late Senator Earl and Mrs. Edna Desmond. He was preceded in death
by his siblings, Clare Lagomarsino, Michael and Buddy. Mr. Desmond spent
most of his youth working on the family's ranch north of Galt. After graduating
from Christian Brothers High School and Saint Mary's College, Mr. Desmond
was drafted by the United States Army during World War II. He served as
an Army journalist in Japan during the post-war reconstruction. After the
war, he returned stateside and attended law school at the University of
San Francisco. There he met the love of his life and future wife of 54 years,
Doris. After law school, Mr. Desmond served another stint in the Army as
a 1st Lieutenant in the Judge Advocate General Corps during the Korean War.
In 1953, Mr. Desmond joined Desmond, Miller & Desmond, the Sacramento
law firm founded by his father in 1938. He remained active in private law
practice until his death. One of Californias pre-eminent condemnation attorneys,
Mr. Desmond spent nearly fifty years defending the rights of private property
owners. He recently won hard-fought victories for hundreds of flood victims
in Rio Linda, Strawberry Manor, Linda, and Olivehurst after their homes
and businesses were destroyed by the floods of 1986. In 2000, Mr. Desmond
participated in the People to People Ambassador Programs American Lawyers
and Judges Delegation to South Africa to advise representatives of that
country's bench and bar on constitutional and human rights issues. Mr. Desmond
was an active member of the Christian Brothers alumni Brotherhood group
and the Grandfathers Club. He was also a past exalted ruler of the Sacramento
Elks and a longtime Jesuit Booster. Mr. Desmond enjoyed a rich life outside
of his law practice as a farmer, world traveler, armchair historian, and
model railroader. His favorite roles, however, were as adoring Poppy to
his twenty-one grandchildren and beloved patriarch of his family. We will
miss his integrity, honesty, generosity, and even his stubbornness. Most
of all we will miss tractor rides, fresh fruits and vegetables, his Christmas
poem and the Candle Story. He left an impression on everyone who met him
and was loved more than he ever knew. A funeral mass and celebration of
Mr. Desmond's life will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2004, at 12:00 PM
at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 5055 Cottage Way in Carmichael.
A rosary service will be held at the same location on Friday, June 18, at
7:00 PM. Donations may be made in Mr. Desmond's name to the Christian Brothers
High School Desmond Family Scholarship or Jesuit High School Capital Campaign.
Obituary: Richard Desmond, attorney on floods
By Steve Gibson -- Bee Staff Writer
Published 2:15 am PDT Thursday, June 17, 2004
Richard F. Desmond, an attorney who won a $21.3 million settlement for
victims of Sacramento County's devastating 1986 floods, died at home Wednesday.
He was 80.
The Carmichael resident was playing solitaire on his computer when he
suffered a heart attack, one of his sons, Richard Desmond Jr., said.
Mr. Desmond was a specialist in eminent domain who, like his father,
the late state Sen. Earl Desmond, devoted his career to representing property
owners in condemnation actions.
For nearly half a century, he was a partner in the Sacramento firm of
Desmond, Miller & Desmond, now called Desmond, Nolan, Livaich &
Cunningham.
The Sacramento County flooding case consumed 14 years. Representing homeowners
in Rio Linda, Strawberry Manor and Elverta, he sued the state of California,
the American River Flood Control District and Reclamation District No.
1000.
In a levee collapse in the early 1980s that flooded the Jones Tract in
the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, Mr. Desmond negotiated a $6 million-plus
settlement for an asparagus grower, said one of his law partners, Gary
Livaich.
"Probably the most special thing about Richard was his ability to
communicate with people," Livaich recalled. "To see him argue
his case ... was like watching a master storyteller. He could explain
technical testimony in terms that everyone could understand.
"He was persuasive. He was principled. He was honest. His word was
his bond. He was respected by judges and attorneys throughout the state.
... The attorneys for Caltrans that he battled over the years respectfully
refer to him as 'the loyal opposition.' "
Though semiretired, Mr. Desmond continued showing up for work nearly
every day at the firm's offices, Livaich said.
He worked through Tuesday on another case stemming from the 1986 floods,
this one involving damages suffered by thousands of residents of Linda
and Olivehurst in southern Yuba County, Livaich said.
A native of Sacramento, Mr. Desmond attended Immaculate Conception Grammar
School and graduated from Christian Brothers High School in 1941. He worked
on his family's ranch near Galt, and attended Sacramento Junior College
until he was drafted into the Army in 1944. He served three years, including
a stint in Japan with allied occupation forces following World War II.
Back in California, he attended St. Mary's College and earned his law
degree from the University of San Francisco, where he met his future wife,
the former Doris Matson. They married July 22, 1950.
Recalled to active duty during the Korean War, Mr. Desmond again served
in Japan, this time as an Army lawyer, his family said. Discharged a year
later, he returned to Sacramento and joined his father's law firm. Eight
years later, his younger brother, Louis, joined the firm.
As an eminent domain specialist, Mr. Desmond represented scores of Sacramento
property owners whose land was taken by the city for creation of the historic
section of Old Sacramento, and for construction of Interstate 5.
He also represented property owners whose land was taken by Sacramento
County in the early 1960s for construction of what is now Sacramento International
Airport.
"In an eminent domain action, people are brought into court unwillingly
by the government ... (attempting) to take their property for public purposes,"
Livaich said. "In these cases, the owners are fighting against the
superior resources of government. Richard would provide the best legal
representation available, even if he wouldn't make a dime on the case."
Mr. Desmond did not want a fancy funeral service, family members said.
"He'd go to funerals and say, 'Don't let 'em get me one of those
fancy coffins. I want a pine box,' " recalled one of his daughters,
Janie Desmond Ison. "So he'll be in a simple pine coffin for his
service."
Richard F. Desmond
Born: Nov. 13, 1923
Died: June 16, 2004
Remembered for: His skills as a trial lawyer who, among other things,
won a $21.3 million settlement for victims of Sacramento County's 1986
floods.
Survived by: Wife, Doris Matson Desmond of Carmichael; sons, Daniel of
Richmond, Va., John of Fair Oaks, and Peter and Richard Jr., both of Carmichael;
daughters, Tess Arthur of Salinas and Ann Swegle, Meg Desmond, Janie Desmond
Ison and Madeline Berghoff, all of Carmichael; brother, Louis Desmond
of Sacramento; sisters, Denise Franzoia and Mary Mastalski, both of Sacramento;
21 grandchildren.
Rosary: 7 p.m. Friday at Our Lady of Assumption Church, 5055 Cottage
Way, Carmichael.
Funeral Mass: Noon Saturday at Our Lady of Assumption Church.
Helen Pauline (Scheidel) McKenzie
MCKENZIE, Helen Pauline(Scheidel)
Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away December 26, 2004 in Sacramento, CA. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Ross B. McKenzie and daughter-in-law Clare Griffiths McKenzie, and will be missed by her four children, their spouses and her grandchildren: Gary R. McKenzie of Austin, TX, daughter Heather, and daughter and son-in-law Sara and Mike Quirk; B. Chris McKenzie of Pleasant Grove, CA, wife Christy, son Brian, and daughter and son-in-law Julia and Mark Gabbhart; Kent McKenzie of Oroville, CA, wife Kathryn, and sons Douglas and John Ross; and Wendy M. Rosell of Elverta, CA, husband Kevin, and sons Kenneth and Ryan. Helen, born Sept. 13, 1918, was the eldest daughter of Albert and Florence Scheidel of Elverta and is survived by her sisters, Shirley Cornelius and Patty Hoyt, and brother, Jack Scheidel. She was a 1936 graduate of Grant High School, active member of the Elverta community, and secretary at Valle Vista Junior High. A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30, 2004 at Zion Lutheran Church, 3644 Bolivar Ave., North Highlands. Memorial donations may be made to Shriners' Children Hospital, Rio Linda/Elverta Historical Society, or the charity of your choice.
Published in the Sacramento Bee from 12/28/2004 - 12/30/2004.
Elmer Townsend
TOWNSEND, Elmer
Age 89, native of Montana and resident of California since 1940. He served
in the North African Campaign during World War II. For many years, he
was in the auto repair business with his brothers, Warren and Ralph. He
is survived by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy; his son, James; brother,
Warren (Dorothy); brother-in-law, Melvin Dosch (Margaret); several nieces
and nephews and many dear and true friends, most especially, John Watts,
David Mackie and Bob Maxon. A member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. A
memorial service will be held at the church at Broadway and 59th Street,
on Sat. Oct. 20 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Paul's
Lutheran Church or charity of your choice.
Published in the Sacramento Bee from 10/17/2007 - 10/19/2007.
GEACH, William F. ''Bill''
William F. GEACH
Born on August 10, 1926, in Grass Valley, Calif. He passed away suddenly at the age of 83 on March 2, 2010 in Sacramento, as a result of complications from cancer. Family and friends who loved him for his generosity, kindness, sense of humor and gentle spirit will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lorraine Geach, whose relatives came from Cornwall England. He spent his childhood and early adult years in Grass Valley. He graduated from Mt. St. Mary's Academy in Grass Valley and continued his education at California State University, Sacramento. Bill served his country during World War II, as a member of the United States Navy. He became the Traffic Manager, and then a Vice President of Blue Anchor, Inc., in Sacramento where he worked for almost 40 years.
He was devoted to his wife, Mary E. Geach, for 59 years. Upon their retirement, Bill and Mary traveled the world, enjoying the history and culture of each country they visited. He also loved gardening, the performing arts and always had a devoted pet to attend to. He and Mary volunteered many thousands of hours over the years as Docents for the California State Capitol Museum. Mary personally made many of their costumes and they both trained other volunteers to be Docents. Bill was also an ''unofficial'' member of Beta Sigma Phi, an International Sorority that supports Cystic Fibrosis and many other charities and was given an official title of ''Envoy'' of which Mary has been a member for over 50 years. In addition, they ushered for the Music Circus for almost 50 years.
We are all joined through the love of God, and not even death can part us. Bill leaves behind his beloved wife Mary, a sister Lillian Womack, and nephews Robert Fisher, James Fisher and John Fisher, and niece Diane Borden and their families. Many good times will be remembered by their friends of over 50 years, Roy Adams and Shirley Wadekamper. Bill was respected for his values and integrity, and will be loved and remembered by us forever.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, to be held in the Chapel at Andrews & Greilich Mortuary, 3939 Fruitridge Road, in Sacramento.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association (Checks payable to CSCMVA), P.O. Box 19956, Sacramento, CA 95819 or to the SPCA 6201 Florin Perkins Road, Sacramento, CA 95828.
Published in the The Sacramento Bee from March 6 to March 7, 2010
Published Tuesday, Mar. 09, 2010
Obituary: William Geach took historic roles as Capitol docent
By Robert D. Dávila
William F. Geach, a retired executive who was a volunteer docent at the state Capitol for 20 years, died March 2 of complications related to cancer. He was 83.
Besides narrating building tours, Mr. Geach described artifacts and answered questions from visitors to restored historic offices at the Capitol. He dressed in period costumes while participating in dramatizations and re- enactments of major events, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. He also portrayed Gov. Henry Gage, who led the state from 1899 to 1903.
"He was not one to do something like acting in public," said his wife, Mary, a volunteer docent who played Mrs. Gage. "But he learned very quickly."
Mr. Geach shed his natural reserve with tour groups, volunteer Leslie Cooper said. He enjoyed escorting visitors to special areas, including the Capitol dome and the Assembly and Senate floors.
"Bill just exuded a love for the Capitol," said Cooper, vice president of the California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association. "As he talked, people realized just what a wonderful place it is."
Mr. Geach also was an unofficial member of Beta Sigma Phi, an international service sorority his wife joined more than 50 years ago. He attended conferences and fundraising events for cystic fibrosis and other charities. The couple also volunteered as Music Circus ushers at Monday evening performances for almost 50 years.
He was born in 1926 and reared in Grass Valley. He served in the Navy and attended Sacramento State.
He worked for the state Department of Bridges and Highways and for Union Pacific railroad before joining Blue Anchor, a farmers cooperative, for almost 40 years. He oversaw fruit shipping as traffic manager and rose to vice president before retiring in 1991.
Mr. Geach spent many spare hours gardening at his Sacramento home, where he specialized in raising cymbidium orchids. He planted azaleas and primroses on grave sites he and his wife "adopted" and tended at the Sacramento Historic City Cemetery.
The couple also volunteered for several years as docents at the Stanford Mansion. His wife, a retired history teacher, created their costumes for the mansion and the Capitol.
"He became so involved because he went with me to all these events," said his wife of 59 years. "We were joined at the hip."
Andrew J. HIPP
HIPP, Andrew J.
Born 1-16-85. Died 6-16-2011. Son of Jennifer and Burton Hipp. Grandson of Gilbert and Pauline Faukner, Joan and Bill Brooks, Bill and Yuki Hipp. Memorial Service on June 30, 2011 at 10:30am at the Harvest Church, 10385 East Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA. Remembrances to the Elk Grove Teen Center.
Published in The Sacramento Bee from June 29 to June 30, 2011
LUX, Bernice A.
March 20, 1916 - Oct. 15, 2011
Bernice (Strauch) Lux was born on the Strauch Family Homestead in Elverta, California on March 20, 1916. She was the daughter of Charles and Lena (Wolfe) Strauch and the last living grandchild of David and Magdelena Strauch (mid-1850's pioneers of Elverta). Bernice peacefully entered into heaven on October 15, 2011 at the age of 95. Bernice was married in 1938 to her late husband of 48 years, Chris Lux, of Montana. They were longtime residents of Rio Linda, CA and moved to the Sierra Meadows Mobile Estates in Citrus Heights in 1983. During the past few years Bernice enjoyed living at the Creekside Oaks Retirement Community in Folsom, CA. Bernice was a longtime member of many local groups, including the Rio Linda/Elverta Historical Society, Native Daughters of the Golden West, Grant Union High Alumni, Starlite Shufflers Square Dance Club, Sierra Meadows social clubs, and Holy Family Parish. Bernice leaves a legacy as a great fisherwomen, an avid lover of life, fun, games and laughter. She will be remembered as a cheerful loving mother with a strong devotion to family, friends and the Lord. Bernice is survived by her 5 children: Ray, Marie, David, Charlie and Steven. 4 daughters-in-law: Linda, Gloria, Bobette and Evelyn, son-in-law: Steve; 6 grandchildren: Mike, Karen, Ken, Kevin, Chris and Brian, their wives and 9 great-grandchildren: Jenelle, Sarah, Brian, Isabelle, Natalie, Claire, Lolah, Ryan and Max. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 21, 1:00 PM, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 7817 Old Auburn Road, Citrus Heights. A reception will follow at the Sierra Meadows Mobile Estates Clubhouse on Mallard Lane, Citrus Heights, CA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Rio Linda/Elverta Historical Society, P.O. Box 478 Rio Linda, CA 95673 or CASA of El Dorado County, 347 Main St., Placerville, CA 95667. PRICE FUNERAL CHAPEL (725-2109), directors.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on October 19, 2011
Obituary: Louis Desmond was prominent Sacramento lawyer
By Robert D. Dávila
bdavila@sacbee.com
Published: Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 - 12:00 am | Page 4B
Louis N. Desmond, a lawyer who represented the Catholic Diocese of Sacramento for many years, died last Friday of heart failure, his family said. He was 85.
Mr. Desmond, who came from a family of well-known lawyers, made his name as a judge, prosecutor and successful attorney for more than 50 years. He represented clients in high-profile cases, including families of victims in the 1972 plane crash at Farrell's Ice Cream shop and the 1986 Sacramento County floods.
An expert in canon law, he also served for more than 25 years as general counsel for the Catholic Diocese. Besides other legal matters, he represented the diocese in cases alleging sexual misconduct by priests. In 1992, he successfully defended church officials from financial liability in the case of a priest who admitted engaging in sex with three female parishioners in Orland.
"He guided us very professionally in things that needed to be handled legally," former Bishop Francis Quinn said. "He was someone who had great love for the church."
A Sacramento native, Mr. Desmond was born in 1926 to Edna and Earl Desmond and graduated from Christian Brothers High School. His father was a Sacramento assemblyman and state senator who co-founded Desmond & Miller law firm in 1938. His brother Richard also practiced law as an eminent domain expert.
Louis Desmond played football and graduated from Saint Mary's College in Moraga in 1949 after serving as a Navy radioman. He graduated from McGeorge Law School and became a lawyer in 1954.
He worked as a Sacramento County deputy district attorney and served from 1955 to 1960 as judge of the South Sacramento Judicial District. He practiced law at Melvin & Desmond and later was a partner at his father's law firm – now Desmond, Nolan, Livaich & Cunningham – until he retired in the 1990s.
Active in Republican politics, he ran unsuccessfully in 1958 to succeed his father – a Democrat – in the state Senate. He held leadership positions in professional and civic groups, including the California Trial Lawyers Association and South Sacramento Lions Club. He was a co-owner of the historic California Fruit Building, one of Sacramento's first skyscrapers, at Fourth and J streets.
Mr. Desmond was married for 60 years and had four children with his wife, Gerry. He was an avid golfer and member of Del Paso Country Club.
A devout Catholic, he prayed the rosary every night and supported Catholic charities. In recognition of his service to the church, he was appointed a papal knight of the Order of St. Gregory.
He was remembered as a charming and cheerful man who enjoyed singing, telling jokes and talking politics.
"He always had a good Irish joke – always," said his daughter Gemma Konovaloff. "He was telling them until the end."
TOWNSEND, Dorothy A.
(nee Dosch)
Born and reared in Sacramento, Dorothy was descended from German-Americans who settled in the area in the 1850's and 60's. She was the daughter of Frederick W. and Sophia Dosch and the widow of Elmer J. Townsend, to whom she was married for 66 years. Survived by her loving son, Rev. James E. Townsend of Sacramento, and dear brother, Melvin L. Dosch of Houston, Texas, (Margaret) and several nephews and nieces. Age 90 years. Memorial Service at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 2958 59th Street, Sacramento, 95817, Tuesday, 11/27/2012 at 11:00 A.M. Burial private. Memorials to St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger, directors.
Published in The Sacramento Bee from November 24 to November 25, 2012
LAGOMARSINO Jr., Virginia Clare
'Ginny'
Ginny passed away in her home in Sacramento after a long battle with breast cancer. She was born on January 26, 1960, in Sacramento, to Clare and Clyde Lagomarsino and was preceded in death by both.
She is survived by her loving son, Joseph A.N. Lagomarsino, her brothers Clyde Jr. (Jane) and Earl Lagomarsino, her sisters Mary L. Amato (Col. Steven L. Amato, USAF Ret. of Virginia) and Eileen (Rob) Heydon. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Ginny recently retired after 13 years with the State Water Resources Control Board where she will be greatly missed. While with the WRCB, Ginny spearheaded the CA State Employees Food Drive in her office. She did such a great job and helped inspire her coworkers so much that they decided to honor her efforts and dedication to the Annual Food Drive by renaming their Second Chance Shop and the Baked Goodies Cart as 'Ginnys Closet.'
This is a perfect example of the impact that Ginny had on many of those she knew. She loved deeply and if you were one of those fortunate enough to be the recipient of that love, you were blessed.
Ginny graduated from Our Lady of the Assumption School and Loretto High School. Ginny was also very fond of Jesuit High School. She was very involved in their 'Spring Fling' and was in charge of the concession stands for sporting events during her son's years at Jesuit.
Friends are welcome to attend a Vigil on Friday, (11/30) at 5:00pm as well as Mass of Christian Burial which will be offered for the repose of her soul on Saturday (12/1) at 10:00am, both at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 5057 Cottage Way, in Carmichael.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Joseph A.N. Lagomarsino c/o Mary Amato, 13023 Qualls Lane, Woodbridge, VA 22193, or to a charity of choice . An on-line guestbook can be signed at wfgormleyandsons.com.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on November 28, 2012
Mary Anador Nicolaus
NICOLAUS, Mary Anador,br. Mary Anador Nicolaus, 96, passed away peacefully during the blood moon lunar eclipse on October 8, 2014. The oldest of three children, she was born on December 15, 1917, in Sioux City, IA to Almer O. and Ivah M. Steensland. The family lived in Lake Andes, SD where she graduated high school in 1935. After high school she attended business and secretarial college in Minneapolis. After graduation, she worked in Milwaukee, Chicago, and Houston, before moving to San Francisco where she met her husband, Warren K. "Mike" Nicolaus of Sacramento. They were married on Dec 8, 1948, and moved to Sacramento, happily married for 54 years. After her marriage and the birth of their daughter she found a secretarial position with the State Legislature. Mary worked for various assemblymen, Lloyd W. Lowrey, Peter F. Schabarum, and Bill H. Lancaster. She served as an administrative secretary and worked on various committees. She enjoyed her career at the Capitol and retired in December, 1975. Mary was a member of FLAIR and St. Margaret's Guild at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. During her retirement years, she stayed busy with the church, instructing the Bethel Bible studies series, and became a Eucharistic minister to the home bound. In 2005, Mary joined the Woman's Social and Cultural League. She enjoyed golfing, traveling with her husband, playing bridge with friends, and spending time with her family. Mary was preceded in death by her husband in 2002, and her brother, Thomas Steensland in 1971. She is survived by her daughter and husband, Kathleen Nicolaus and Richard Steenwyk of Willits, CA, two grandchildren, Ivah Steenwyk and Devin Steenwyk, her "thister", Holly Herman of Modesto, CA, and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of her life will be held at St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2140 Mission Ave., Carmichael at 2 pm, November 22, 2014. The family will be greeting friends and relatives at the reception that will follow the service in the St. Michael's Parrish Hall. In lieu of flowers, Mary and family have requested memorial donations be made to St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 2140 Mission Ave., Carmichael, Ca. 95468, or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be left at the Church.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on Nov. 16, 2014
William Foster BROOKS Jr.
William Foster Brooks, Jr. passed away in his sleep on December 23, 2015. He was 82. He leaves his wife of 40 years, Joan, his children Victoria Lunt (Keith), William III (Toni), step daughters Taryn Monroe and Jennifer, grandchildren Christal, Tanya (Matt), Nathan, Annessa, Jason Sr. (Rika), Brandon (Erica), great grandchildren Allina, Brianna, Cerena, Lydia, Jason Jr., and Augustine. Predeceased by step grandson Andrew. Bill was born April 28, 1933 in Sacramento to William Foster Brooks and Dorothy, predeceased by sister Carol Carson. He was employed at Aerojet. Mr. Brooks taught 6th grade at Franklin Elementary. He earned his Masters degree and teaching credential at California State University, Sacramento. He graduated from Sacramento High School in 1951, a proud dilapidated dragon. An avid collector of magic, he was recently honored by the International Order of Magicians. Bill loved food, so please donate remembrances to Loaves and Fishes. Together, Joan and Bill enjoyed dancing. Billy will be loved and missed by many friends and family. There will be no services.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on Jan. 17, 2016
Marilynn "Mimi" Kelley (1935 - 2016)
Long time Sacramento resident, Marilynn "Mimi" Kelley passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, January 25th. Mimi is preceded in death by her husband, Guy C. Kelley (of Kelley Opticians) and her parents Ruth and Louis Nicolaus (of Nicolaus Optical). She is survived by her three children Guy, Kym and Shawn Kelley; grandchildren Keema and Kevin Kelley; sister Marcy Cronin and brother-in-law Herbert Cronin. Born in San Francisco on May 8th, 1935, Mimi was raised in Sacramento and graduated from McClatchy High School on 1953. She attended UC Santa Barbara and UC Berkeley. While skiing on the Berkeley Ski Team, Mimi met and later married Guy in 1955. They shared a happy and active life together until his death in 2005. Mimi's life has been blessed with the love and devotion of her children and grandchildren and for the last several years the tender care and cheerful companionship of Albert "Babe" Lovotti, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mimi founded Kelley Contact Lenses, which she owned and operated from 1976 to 1995. Her dedication was reflected in her professional life as well as through her public service. Mimi was a two-term president of the Sacramento Children's Home, the Sacramento Children's Home Guild and a founding member of Los Amigos, a family organization benefitting the Sacramento Children's Home. She served on the Del Paso Country Club Board of Directors where her family's membership goes back to 1942. She was a member of the Junior League of Sacramento and for more than 50 years, a member of both Kandahar and Tamarack Ski Clubs. When she wasn't skiing down expert runs, you could catch Mimi playing bridge or golfing, as she was a member of the California 15 Elite Golfers. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held at the Carmichael Presbyterian Church on Marconi Ave. on Saturday, February 6th at 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Sacramento Children's Home at 2750 Sutterville Rd. Sacramento, CA 95820. Arrangements by W.F. Gormley & Sons.
Published in The Sacramento Bee on Jan. 31, 2016
Index
page one: 1867- 1889
page two: 1890 - 1899
page three: 1900 - 1919
page four: 1920 - 1929
page five: 1930 - 1949
page six: 1950 - 1969
page seven: 1970 - 1985
page eight: 1986 - 1999
page nine: 2000 - Pres.
HARMS *** NICOLAUS
*** Strauch *** Sacramento
Co.
home email me at: genealogy105 at comcast.net
[Copyright ©1996-2012 by B. Pascoe All rights reserved] |