Obituaries

Bennet Abrams
August 3, 2004
    Bennett Abrams, renowned eco-artist and co-founder of Carlsbad-based NatureMaker Inc., died Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2004 at his San Marcos home. He was 72.
    An artist, sculptor, ecologist, inventor, metaphysician and entrepreneur, Mr. Abrams was mentor to many, and was known as a gentle and restless spirit who manifested his limitless creativity into a successful 40-year career in the visual arts.
    In the 1960s, spurred by the budding environmental movement, his research into Egyptian mummification, Victorian taxidermy and other preservation methodologies led him to create a series of ecological sculptures in wax, primarily commissioned by museums, corporations and private collectors. Vignettes of butterflies, fallen leaves and mossy hillsides of trembling wildflowers “frozen under glass,” initially a fad, became a sought-after decorative and collectible art throughout the 1970s.
    In the 1980s, he and his life partner, Gary Hanick, founded California Country Trees, and later the public studio, NatureMaker Inc. Mr. Abrams gained worldwide recognition and fame for inventing, innovating and promulgating an entirely new art form, Steel Art Trees. These true-to-life arboreal sculptures — giant oaks, palms, sequoias, banyans and many others — are seen and enjoyed in public and private venues on five continents.
    Mr. Abrams’ first studio was founded in Idyllwild where he lived form 1979 to 1995. The inspiration of the majestic mountains and primeval forest were immediately manifest in his work.
    Services were private.

Deserei Sky Ackley
January 14, 2005
    Deserei Sky Ackley, 18, of Idyllwild, took her own life at home Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005.
    She was born Dec. 16, 1986 in San Dimas and was a student.
    A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 30 at Town Hall with the Dr. Rev. Betty Jandl officiating.
    She is survived by her mother, Glenda Bloom Ackley of Idyllwild; a brother, Philip Glen Ackley of Idyllwild; and her grandparents, Glen and Esther Bloom of Idyllwild.

Bruce Adams
January 20, 2005
    Bruce Adams, 78, of Hemet, died of a stroke at 1 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005 at home.
    He was born Feb. 17, 1926 in Long Beach.
    Mr. Adams moved to Idyllwild in 1955 but had started coming to Camp Tahquitz with a Long Beach Boy Scout troop in 1938. He built his first cabin here in 1948.
    When he first came to Idyllwild, he helped rebuild the Idyllwild Inn after it burned down in the 1940s.
    He entered the real estate business with the late Jerry Johnson in 1958 and obtained his broker’s license five years later. He opened his own office next to the old Town Crier building in Fern Valley in 1964.
By 1966, Adams Realty had three branch offices in Idyllwild.
Mr. Adams also built more than 13 homes, mostly in the Pine Crest Avenue area.
He was a past president and honorary member of the Idyllwild Lions Club and a member of American Legion Post 800. He also had served on the Idyllwild Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and was a director on both the Idyllwild Board of Realtors and the Hemet-San Jacinto Board of Realtors.
    Mr. Adams was a Hemet Unified School District trustee for more than 16 years who loved Hemet High School football. He also was a Little League coach and a “heck” of a tennis player.
    Close friends included Sparky Allert, Bud Hunt and Mary Arnaiz, his first wife. He’ll be watching this year’s Super Bowl in the front row with his best friends.
    Services will be private and his ashes will be scattered in Idyllwild.
    He is survived by his wife and best friend of 32 years, Thelma Adams, with whom he had lots of fun; a son, R.B. Adams of Hemet; a daughter, Sandy Adams of Hemet; and three grandchildren.
    In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Hemet High School Scholarship Fund,  41701 Stetson Ave., Hemet, CA 92544.

Katherine Estella Alexander
February 2, 2005
    Katherine Estella Alexander, 81, of Idyllwild, died Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2005 at home.
    She was born May 24, 1923 in Nodaway County, Mo.
    Mrs. Alexander was a homemaker for 45 years. She enjoyed cooking and her family.
    She lived in Los Angeles for 45 years and in Idyllwild for the past three years.
    No services are planned. Inurnment will be private.
    Arrangements are being handled by Miller-Jones Mortuary & Crematory in Hemet.
    She is survived by a son, Robert Wayne Dorman of Idyllwild; a sister, Martha Stevens of Missouri; two grandchildren and three great-grandchidlren.

Stephen Don Ambrose
January 14, 2004
    Stephen “Steve” Don Ambrose, 39, of Hemet died Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004 at the University of California Irvine Hospital from complications after surgery.
    He was born Sept. 4, 1964, in Banning.
    Mr. Ambrose was the activity coordinator for recreation and sports at Morning Sky School in Mountain Center. He was a behavior intervention counselor, dorm counselor, physical education teacher and friend.
    He belonged to the Mt. San Jacinto College Theatre of the Arts, was involved in the Ramona Pageant and belonged to the Boy Scouts of America.
    Funeral services are pending.
    His wife said he was considered a great and loving father, son, uncle and husband. She said he could always make people smile and laugh, and they will miss him and always remember his humor.
    He is survived by his wife, Annette Ambrose of Hemet; a son, Cody Ambrose of Hemet; a daughter, Stephanie Ambrose of Hemet; two stepdaughters, Susan and Danielle  of Hemet; his mother, Carole Ambrose of Hemet; his father, Terry Ambrose of Valle Vista; two brothers, Michael Ambrose of Corona and Robert Ambrose of Winchester; and a sister, Tracy Ambrose of Hemet.
    Mrs. Ambrose said, “To everyone who has helped with donations, cards and such wonderful support, I, Cody, Stephanie and Susan thank you very much. It helps a lot right now.”
    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ambrose family in care of Annette Ambrose, 41117 Stetson Ave., Hemet, CA 92544.

Vilmos ‘Bill’ Bayer
March 7, 2004 

    Vilmos “Bill” Bayer, 83, a long-time Idyllwild resident, died Sunday, March 7, 2004.
    He was born Feb. 8, 1921 in Hungary where he acquired his baking skills for his famous European-style pastries.
    Mr. Bayer and his family immigrated to the United States in 1957.
    He moved to Idyllwild in 1977 and opened The Bread Basket Restaurant in 1978 which he owned and operated until 1995.
    In 1996, Mr. Bayer relocated to Temecula where he had resided with his wife of 59 years.
    He was a loving and devoted husband, father and friend.
    Mr. Bayer is survived by his wife, Irene; four children; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandhildren.
    Services were private.

Francine Ann Billman
December 16, 2003
    Francine Ann Billman, 61, of Idyllwild, died of breast cancer Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2003 at home.
    She was born Feb. 9, 1942, in Bell, Calif.
    She graduated from Glendale High School and California Western College.
    She previously lived in El Cajon and Glendale.
    Mrs. Billman was director of residential services at Morning Sky School from 1985 to 2002.
    She was a resident of Idyllwild for 18 years and was a member of the Idyllwild Lioness Club.
    Viewing was held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a memorial service was at 1 p.m., Friday, Dec. 19, both at the Billman home.
    Interment was at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at Forest Lawn in Glendale. Robert Thomas officiated.
    Mrs. Billman is survived by her husband, James Billman of Idyllwild; her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Cozette Thomas of Arcadia, Fla.; a son, John Jacobs of Idyllwild; a son and daughter-in-law, James and Alicia Jacobs of San Diego; a daughter, Jennifer Jacobs of Riverside; a daughter and grandsons, Jill, Jeremiah and Zachary Storie of Laguna Niguel; and a son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter, Koosje, Erika and Miren Pino of Idyllwild.
    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Ramona VNA and Hospice, 890 W. Stetson Ave., Hemet, CA 92543.

Clarence Howard Black
February 8, 2005
    Clarence Howard Black, 80, of Banning, died peacefully at home Monday night, Feb. 28, 2005, ending a long life of duty and honor.
    Grandson of pioneer citrus rancher and Redlands City Councilmember M.L. Black, he was born Dec. 7, 1924 in Redlands and grew up on a 20-acre citrus grove on Prospect Street in Loma Linda.
While attending Redlands High School, he assisted his father, C.E. Black, in the family’s citrus operation. World War II interrupted his freshman year at Los Angeles City College. He served in naval aviation after the Pearl Harbor attack.
In 1951, Mr. Black graduated from the CHP Academy in Sacramento. He proudly served as a sergeant in the CHP from 1951 to 1977 where he made many lifelong friends.
    He retired to the 100-acre Black Ranch on Highway 243 near Idyllwild where he managed the HB Cattle Co. throughout the 1980s. Most recently, he resided in Banning.
    A treasury of Western history who patterened his life after John “the Duke” Wayne, Mr. Black personified true “grit.” His larger-than-life presence will be dearly missed by friends and family.
    A memorial service will be held from 2 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 30 at the American Legion Post 106, 820 W. State St., Redlands. Interment will be at the Hillside Memorial Park in Redlands.
    Survivors include his dearest friend and companion, Wilma Black of Cherry Valley; two daughters, Susan C. Black of Costa Mesa and Nancy Black of Lafayette; a son, Charles D. Black of Laguna Beach; and four grandchildren, Mark Black of Idyllwild, Andy Black Gause of Lafayette, and Samantha and Charlie Black Jr. of Laguna Beach.

Hugh Bonnell
March 7, 2005
    Hugh McKenzie Bonnell, 85, of Hemet, died Monday, March 7, 2005 at the Ramona Manor Rehab Facility in Hemet following hip replacement surgery from which he failed to recover.
    Mr. Bonnell was born Dec. 5, 1919 in Los Angeles.
    He was retired from the Air Force and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
    Mr. Bonnell was a long-time Idyllwild resident before his recent move to Hemet. He belonged to the Idyllwild Lions Club and the American Legion Post 800, including the Legion’s Color Guard.
    He was actively involved in many of the Hill activities, projects and organizations. He will be dearly remembered by those who knew him.
    A funeral service will be held at the Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside. Arrangements are pending. For more information, call Criss Bonnell at (951) 927-5682.
    He is survived by four sons, Criss Bonnell of California, Munro Bonnell and Steve Bonnell, both of New York, and Mark Bonnell of California; a daughter, Cherina Guzman of California; and eight grandchildren.
    Mr. Bonnell was preceded in death by his wife, Ellouise Bonnell.

Gerald L. Burke
December 9, 2003
    Gerald LaMotte Burke, 85, of Idyllwild, died of a heart attack Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2003 at Desert Regional Medical Center.
    He was born Feb. 5, 1918, in Trenton, Mo.
    Mr. Burke was a retired machinist with 17 years employment at Consolidated Products Inc. of Idyllwild.
    He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was discharged as a chief motor machinist’s mate.
    Mr. Burke was a member of the American Legion Post 800, the Pearl Harbor Survivors, the American Rifle Association and the Idyllwild Bible Church.
    He lived in Idyllwild for 35 years and in Carson for 13 years.
    Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside. Miller-Jones Mortuary is handling arrangements. Interment will be at Riverside National Cemetry.
    He is survived by a son, Gary Burke of Long Beach; a stepson, Tom Powers of Garden Grove; and four stepgrandchildren.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Burke.

David E. Burgess
January 28, 2004 

    David “Dave” E. Burgess, 69, of Idyllwild, died from complications of leukemia on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2004 at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    Mr. Burgess was born Dec. 9, 1934, in Minneapolis, Minn.
    He earned his bachelor’s degree in Texas and had been an engineer for 45 years, retiring in 2003 from Remtec Systems in Gardenia. He also had served in the Air Force Reserves.
    Mr. Burgess had lived in Idyllwild for the past six years. He loved birds, squirrels and fire engines, and was an avid mountain bike rider.
    He had been a volunteer at the YMCA in Torrance. He also was a chalice bearer at his church and helped build an outdoor chapel at St. Hugh’s Episcopal Church.
    He volunteered at the Idyllwild HELP Center, delivered Meals-on-Wheels in Idyllwild and assisted at the Cedar Glen Fire in San Diego County for a couple of days by having fund-raisers for fire victims.
    His family said they were very blessed to have him in their lives and he was a blessed man.
    Inurnment was to be private. Hemet Valley Mortuary is handling arrangements.
    He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Barbara Burgess of Idyllwild; two daughters, Holly Hiza of Napa and Lisa Casperson of Idyllwild; a son, David E. Burgess Jr. of Wildomar; and three grandhildren.

Georgia Busher
October 30, 2005 

    Georgia June (Larimer) Busher, 97, of Idyllwild, died from complications of a fractured hip at Hemet Valley Medical Center on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005.
    Mrs. Busher was born June 23, 1908 in Marrieta, Ohio.
    She was a registered nurse in Buffalo, N.Y., San Diego, Riverside and Hemet. She was also owner and operator of Oak Crest Motel in Idyllwild for 40 years, from 1965 to 2005.
    Mrs. Busher was a member of the Rotary Anns, the Girl Scouts and an alumni of her nursing college. She has been affiliated with the Baptist, Presbyterian and Mormon denominations.
    A service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Idyllwild. Dr. Charles Schelly officiated.
    Her remains were donated to the Loma Linda University for research, after which, she will be cremated.
    Mrs. Busher is survived by two sons, Gary Busher and Kent Busher, both of Idyllwild; a daughter, Judy Cassity of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two on the way.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, Edison Busher, a brother and a sister.

Stephanie “Stefi” Marianne Chase
February 27, 2005
“Magic is the hearth
    where the welcome-fire burns —
    where joy lifts a beacon
    in the gathering night,” wrote Stephanie “Stefi” Marianne Chase, a published and prolific poet who fell deeply in love with Idyllwild, writing fondly about the mountains throughout the half-century she lived here.
    Stefi died about 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27, 2005, at the Meadowbrook Convalescent Hospital in Hemet, where she suffered from Parkinson’s disease. She was 91.
    Born Stefania Marianne Czajkowska on Jan. 9, 1914 in Minneapolis, she was the only child of Polish immigrants Anthony and Tekla Czajkowska.
     “She had a lot of religious training,” said friend Jane Stonehill. Stefi attended a Polish Catholic school but was very interested in Eastern religions. “She spoke Polish until the day she died,” said Stonehill. Little else is known about her background.
     Stonehill said Stefi was a person of strong opinion who was a Democrat and very liberal in her political views. 
    Stefi moved to Idyllwild from the desert in about 1950 and married well-known artist Val Samuelson. They later divorced but remained friends all their lives.
    As she said in an April 2, 1965 Town Crier story about her first visit here, “I took a long, deep breath, made an eternal pact with the mountain and stayed.
    “The idea was to write, write, write! But I found myself so involved with the enchantment of living in this environment, trying to encompass the wonders of each day, that I almost begrudged the distraction of taking up a pencil.”
    Stefi told friends that she had hiked every trail in the mountains several times. In later years when she could no longer hike, her favorite day was one spent with friends at Uptown Coffee House, later Café Aroma.
    “Whenever any music was playing there, John and I would bring her to Café Aroma,” said friend Alla Marshall. “I used to buy her tapes of music and one of her favorites was Simon and Garfunkel.”
    Stefi called everyone “dear heart” and truly loved everyone, said Marshall.
    “She sent me $100 when I was poor, just out of the blue,” said friend Olivia Redwine. “One day my older dog had a major operation. I sat with her after the operation with the vet. Stefi came all night long outside the window and knocked on it to see if my dog was OK.”
    Stefi was a former member of the League of Minnesota Poets and of the California Federation of Chaparral Poets. Her poems and articles were published in many magazines, including in the Ford Times, a Ford Motor Company publication.
    For three years in the early 1950s, she had the first book store in Idyllwild, The Bookend. It was located in the Village Lane.
    Stefi once served as secretary of the Idyllwild Chamber of Commerce and as a staff member of ISOMATA, now Idyllwild Arts. And at one time, she wrote a column for the Town Crier.
    One of her first series of poetry books was printed in the mid-1960s under the publisher Strawberry Valley Press, a Town Crier publishing company. Some of the poems, thoughts and prose from that limited-edition volume also were published in Arizona Highways.
    As much as she loved the mountains, in mid-1966, she decided to move back to Minneapolis to be with her parents who were ill.
    “I’m looking forward to an urban atmosphere and to catching up on some interests I’ve not had a chance to enjoy,” she told the Town Crier. “I can do this because I’ve been fortified by so much here. Now I can face the city.
    “I expect to splurge on art galleries and concerts where all I have to do is step on a bus or call a cab.”
    After her parents died a few years later, Stefi returned to Idyllwild.
    A modern, refined quality did not keep her from resisting driving a car. Instead, she was often seen walking one of her beloved dog companions. “She never owned or drove a car in her life,” said Stonehill. “I always laughed when she talked about herself as being independent. But in this modern age, if you don’t drive a car, you’re not independent. It was an illusion we let her have.”
    She and Stonehill were friends for 13 years. In 1996 when Stonehill had a book store in Idyllwild, her company, Stonehill Books, published one of Stefi’s volumes, “Out of Silence, From the Heart of the San Jacinto Mountains.”
    “She was always a lady, although she loved the outdoors,” Stonehill said.
    Marshall and friend Hill Champion said Stefi fed the squirrels and birds every day and often fed coyotes and raccoons.
    “I would come home from the sea and put a balloon on her fence,” Champion said, about when he worked as a sailor. “That was my way of saying, ‘Stefi, I’m home if you need anything.’”
    Marshall said Stefi was always well-groomed and would only wear purple, light blue, lavender and pink colors.
    She suffered from osteoporosis causing her to hunch over in her later years.
    “She was wonderful and very courageous,” said Marshall’s husband, John, who had known her for about 17 years. “She always had trouble in her spine and she used to walk up the Hill in front of our house every morning. I’d see her with this very grim, determined look. She was so courageous.”
    Stonehill said Stefi was grateful for the care she received from the staff at Meadowbrook and Hemet Hospice.
    “Before she moved down to Hemet, she used to come into Uptown Coffee House [now Café Aroma] for soups and I used to make her special soups,” said Bruce Watts, who was managing and cooking at the restaurant.
    “I always thought she was like an angel … Even though she was so stooped over in pain, she always had a beautiful smile. She’ll be missed.”
    Stefi had no living relatives but is survived by many loving friends.
     Her ashes will be inurned at the Memorial Garden at St. Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church.

Marguerite Clapp
December 15, 2005
    Marguerite Clapp, 96, of Idyllwild, died peacefully in her sleep early Thursday, Dec. 15, 2005, of natural causes in Hemet.
    She was born Aug. 27, 1909 in Redlands.
    Mrs. Clapp was a longtime Idyllwild and Palm Springs resident. She was an accomplished violinist for the Redlands Bowl, as well as a soloist for a Los Angeles radio station.
    She earned her primary teaching credential from UCLA and served as a kindergarten teacher until retiring in the early 1970s. She was also asked to present numerous workshops for teachers in the areas of music and dance education.
    Mrs. Clapp’s affiliation with ISOMATA (now Idyllwild Arts) began when she attended a music educators’ workshop with Bee Krone in the early 1950s. She presented the Monday night folk dance mixers for years, assisted with Elderhostels, and, up until last year, served on the Krone Library Advisory Board.
    She belonged to the American Association of University Women, the Idyllwild Area Historical Society and the Palm Springs Desert Museum, and she was a lifetime honorary member of the Associates of Idyllwild Arts Foundation.
    No memorial service is planned. Her remains were donated to Loma Linda University.
    Mrs. Clapp is survived by a daughter, Carol Acosta of Idyllwild; and a granddaughter, Dawn Sandhu-Clinton of Los Angeles.
    She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Gordon Clapp.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in her memory be made to the Redlands Bowl, P.O. Box 466, Redlands, CA 92373, or to the Krone Library, Idyllwild Arts, P.O. Box 38, Idyllwild, CA 92549. 

Tracy Claus
February 22, 2004
    Tracy Claus died Sunday evening, Feb. 22, 2004, at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach. 
    He was surrounded by his wife of 25 years, Jane, his son, Stephen, his future daughter-in-law, Melinda, and a loving family. His passing was peaceful after a painful fight with lung cancer.
    Most of his family was able to spend time with him during the last two days of his life. His family said most of his concern continued to be with their welfare, and the time spent with family was warm and loving.
    Mr. Claus touched many lives in his 57 years. Friends and family feel very sad and said they will miss his quiet strength.
    His family said his influence was felt in his business, Rogers Poultry, where he was a fair and compassionate owner, the Long Beach Symphony where he was on the Board of Directors and served as treasurer and passionate supporter, Idyllwild Arts as chairman of the Planning Committee and The Yosemite Fund of which he was a major supporter.
    They said he felt and responded to the need to support his communities as well as the lives of his personal friends and family.
    Born in 1946 in Alhambra, Mr. Claus grew up the youngest of four.
     He attended San Jose State University, transferred to California State University in Long Beach and graduated in 1969 with a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering.
    During this time he lived on the peninsula of Alamitos Bay establishing friendships that would last his lifetime.
    In the fall of 1969 he joined the Navy. He was stationed in Naples until 1972 where he was a communications officer.
    After the service, Mr. Claus used his engineering degree working for Boise Cascade Bendix.
    In 1974, he was invited to join his brother and father in the family business, Rogers Poultry, then located in the Farmer’s Market in Los Angeles.
    After Roger’s retirement, Tracy took on leadership of the company focusing on the family tradition of producing the best quality product. Under his leadership the business continued to thrive.
    His family said his sense of integrity permeated all he did. For those who knew him, his “chicken stories” are legendary. 
    A memorial celebration was held at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27 at the Long Beach Museum of Art. The Luyben Family Dilday-Mottell Mortuary handled arrangements.
    Along with his wife, son and future daughter-in-law, Mr. Claus is survived by a brother, Roger Claus; two sisters, Carol Crawford and Dorothy Beckett; and many beloved nephews and nieces, Scott Beckett, Julie Kalogianis, Renee Villa, Jason Beckett, Terry Butler, Sandy Daze, Diane Nofsinger, Michael and David Hellmers.
    His family said he was a great husband, father, friend, mentor to the young, and a very giving and loving man. 
    They wrote, “We will remember and miss him. Among his last words he said, ‘All you have at the end is love. Love is all that there is.’”
    In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to: Idyllwild Arts, c/o Bill Lowman, P.O. Box 38, Idyllwild, CA 92549; Long Beach Symphony, 110 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 22, Long Beach, CA 90802; or Yosemite Fund-Memorial Tribute, 155 Montgomery St., #1104, San Francisco, CA 94104.

Nelda Carol Davis
September 6, 2005  

    Nelda Carol Davis, 54, of Acworth, Ga., died Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2005 in Atlanta.
    She was born Jan. 21, 1951 in Hughes County, Okla. and was a registered nurse.
    Mrs. Davis had lived in Idyllwild in recent years.
    Memorial services were held Sunday, Sept. 11 at Collins Funeral Home Chapel in Acworth, Ga.
    She is survived by her husband, George Davis of Acworth, Ga.; a daughter, Lia Elizabeth Davis of Acworth, Ga.; a brother, Gary Massey of Fresno; a sister, Nancy Sommerman of Dallas; and her parents, Betty and Claude Massey of Ft. Worth, Texas.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to Hurricane Katrina victims.

Margaret DePalma
January 9, 2004
    Margaret Frances DePalma, 83, affectionately known as Margo, died Friday, Jan. 9, 2004.
    She was born March 13, 1920, to John Vincent Nelson and Emma Dove Nothnagle in Commerce, Okla.
    Her first husband, Jake Bouranian of Los Angeles, and her second husband, Frank DePalma Sr. of Idyllwild, preceded her in death.
    Mrs. DePalma lived in Idyllwild approximately 12 years. She worked at Consolidated Products and attended the Queen of Angels Catholic Church.
    After the death of her second husband, she moved to Seguin, Texas, where she lived for the past 20 years.
    As a devout Catholic, Mrs. DePalma was a volunteer with St. Ann’s Circle. For 10 years, she was a member of the Pink Ladies of Guadalupe Hospital.
    The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated last week at St. James Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas.
    She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt.   
    She is survived by three stepsons, Don DePalma of Idyllwild, Michael DePalma of Rancho Cucamonga and Frank DePalma Jr. of Irvine; 10 grandchildren, Eli, Roxanne, Melinda, Jessica, Justin, Jeff, Michael, Christina, John and Catherine Lynn; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, Joan Duron of Seguin, Texas and Mary Alice “Judy” Haskell of Atascadero, Calif.; two nephews, John Haskell Jr. and Michael Haskell; a niece, Janice Gorreutte; and a great-nephew, Jaye Gorreutte.

"Friday" Diven
August 23, 2003
    Otis “Friday” Diven died Saturday, Aug. 23, 2003, in North Bend, Ore. He was 83. He had been a resident of North Bend for five years.
    Mr. Diven was born in Wilson, Kan., on June 24, 1920, the son of Otis O. and Melissa E. King Diven.
    He served in the U.S. Army during World War II with the U.S. Army Band performing at USO shows as a drummer.
    He was a professional musician in big bands in the San Diego and Hemet areas.
    Mr. Diven was a tile contractor for more than 50 years, during which time he owned and operated Ceramic Tile Supply and Diven Tile Co. in the Southern California area.
    He was a Rotarian and served as president of the Rotary Club of Idyllwild.
    Funeral services will be held at the Allen Brothers Mortuary Chapel, 1315 S. Santa Fe Ave. in Vista, at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2003. Internment will be at Eternal Hills Memorial Park in Oceanside.
    Mr. Diven is survived by his beloved companion, Gladys “Sam” Miller, and a sister, MaryEllen Diedolf, both of North Bend; three sons, Daniel J. Diven of San Diego, Carey W. Diven of North Bend and Richard O. Diven of Escondido; three stepsons, Paul Bianco of Graeagle, Calif., Thomas Bianco of Lake Elsinore and Steve Bianco of North County; a niece, Melissa Hammer of North Bend; three nephews, Mike Hammer of North Bend, Dan Diven of San Diego and Bill Diven of McMinnville, Ore.; and two grandsons, three great-grandsons and two step-grandchildren. 
    He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Carola Diven, a brother and a great-grandson.
    Friends and family say “Friday” will be remembered as an energetic, loving man who enjoyed every moment of life to the fullest and will be truly missed.

Shirley Carey Edwards
December 6, 2004
    Shirley Carey Edwards, 77, of Tennessee, died Monday, Dec. 6, 2004 in Gallatin, Tenn.
    She was born March 29, 1927 in Joliet, Ill.
    Mrs. Edwards and her husband, Ernie, were active community members in Idyllwild for 30 years. They were real estate brokers who owned Edwards Village Realty on North Circle Drive.
    Mrs. Edwards was buried in the Hendersonville Memorial Gardens in Hendersonville, Tenn., just down the slope from Johnny and June Cash and their family, as well as a number of other famous country and western musicians.
    Her huband said, “No doubt she is being entertained by some of her favorite country music singers.”
    As well as her husband, she is survived by three daughters, Ginger Edwards, Gale Dykes and husband Gary, and Lynn Young and husband Richard; and a grandson, Brandon Young.

Charles Miller Dix
August 25, 2003
    Charles Miller Dix, 66, of Idyllwild, died Monday, Aug. 25, 2003, at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Loma Linda from cancer.
    He was born Jan. 29, 1937, in Chicago.
    Mr. Dix was a 19-year resident of Idyllwild. He was an electrician and a past manager of the Idyllwild Trailer Park.
    A celebration of his life is scheduled from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 at the Idyllwild Trailer Park. Guests are asked to park their vehicles outside of the trailer park.
    Chaplin Mark Fetter will conduct the services. Inurnment will be private.
    Mr. Dix is survived by his wife of 47 years, Inge Dix; two sons, Charles Dix of Escondido and Todd Dix of St. Louis; three daughters, Sonja Beaver of Fullerton, Shelly Desmond of Weare, N.H. and Regina Yennewein of Shelby, Ala.; and seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
    His family and friends say he will be mised by all who knew him.

Inge Klara Dix
October 12, 2005
    Inge Klara Dix, 66, of Idyllwild, died Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2005 at LeVeta Convalescent Home in Orange from Cancer.
    She was born Nov. 21, 1938 in Heidelberg, Germany.
    Inge was a 19-year resident of Idyllwild. She was a homemaker and greeted and made everyone of Idyllwild know of her kind ways.
    Her services were held at Forest Lawn in Covina on Oct. 21 at 11:00 a.m.
    Mike Beaver, her son-in-law, led the service and her grandsons daniel and Michael talked highly of their grandmother. She was loved by all.
    She is survived by a daughter, Sonja Beaver of Fullerton; a son, Charles Dix of Escondido; a daughter, Regina Jacks of Shelby, Ala.; a son, Todd Dix of St. Louis, Mo.; and Shelly Hart of New Hampshire. She also had 8 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters.
    Family and friends will miss her dearly.

Alexis Echavarria
August 4, 2005
    Alexis Echavarria, 16, a film student at Idyllwild Arts Academy, who was recognized by faculty as one of their most promising film makers, died very suddenly and without warning in the early morning of Thursday, Aug. 4 at Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica. He had just returned from serving a four-week stint as a community service volunteer in Thailand, aiding — among other responsibilities — tsunami-affected children, their families, and helping to rebuild a devastated infrastructure.
    According to his parents, Tony and Christina Echavarria, Alexis had boarded the plane in Bangkok with a fever. With changes in Seoul and Tokyo, the flight lasted about 22 hours. On arriving home, he complained of stiff muscles but according to his father, was in a fine mood and on an emotional high because of how meaningful his volunteer work had been for him.   
    His parents took him to the doctor on Tuesday, Aug. 2 for what did not appear to be extraordinary symptoms. By Wednesday he was admitted to Saint John’s for treatment for dehydration and was preliminarily diagnosed with harm to his kidneys.
    Later on Wednesday, the hospital did more routine tests with results to be reported when available. Wednesday night, his parents said goodnight to Alexis at around 11:30, unaware that his condition was acutely serious or life-threatening.
    At 3:30 a.m., Alexis’ father received a call that his son was in trouble. On the way to the hospital, the hospital called his cell phone and informed him that Alexis had died from a heart attack likely prompted by kidney failure and flooding of the lungs.
    Idyllwild Arts Headmaster Bill Lowman, students and faculty were devastated at Alexis’ death, especially inasmuch as it was totally unexpected. Working together in growing artistic abilities creates strong bonds among the students and faculty at Idyllwild Arts.
    Lowman spoke for all in saying, “All of us are shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of this extraordinary young man. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family” he said.
    In an interview with his parents, Christina and Tony both seemed extraordinarily at peace, grateful that he had made it home from Thailand and that his two trips volunteering among Thailand’s poor had awakened in him a profoundly deep spirituality and sense of his life’s mission. 
    As his mother said, “It would have been a nightmare had we not been able to see him and be with him” just before his passing. Arriving home with his exuberant sense of being fulfilled by his experience and certain that his path was in assisting and caring for the less fortunate, Alexis helped his family find some sense of closure.
     Christina described how several years ago, Alexis came to her seriously announcing, “Mom, I want to make a difference in somebody’s life. I want to do community service. I want to work with children.” He was 13 or 14 at the time.
    His mom helped him research service Web sites here and abroad, and Alexis chose the Duang Prateep Foundation in Thailand. Something about the site and Thailand attracted him. He went last year for the first time and upon returning told his parents both “that it was the most phenomenal thing in my life,” and that “I think I have found my purpose.” Christina said that all he could think about during his interim year was going back.
    He returned this summer where his work also encompassed aid for those affected by last year’s catastrophic tsunami. Each trip to Thailand, he took his filmmaking equipment, including lights, intending to create a documentary about the effects of poverty and deprivation among Thailand’s poor. He had planned to go back after finishing Idyllwild Arts for an extended year of community service.
    His sister Mystral, a 2005 Idyllwild Arts interdisciplinary graduate, said that while in Thailand, Alexis had become fascinated with the Thai expression “nam jai” which means an outpouring of the heart. That expression so resonated with him that it became his mantra, one which he had tattooed just below his navel. In Eastern energy practices, the place below the navel is called the “dan tien,” the place where one’s uniquely definitional energetic power or “qi” is stored.
    At a memorial service held in Bel-Air, there was celebration for his life as he choose to live it, his gifts as a creative artist and exemplary person, stories and laughter, and abiding sadness that his voice is silenced. Many of his colleagues at Idyllwild Arts flew in to honor him. His mother remembered one of the students saying that if anybody was spiritually ready to go, it was Alexis.
    On Wednesday night prior to Alexis’ early-morning passing, Brad Battersby, Idyllwild Arts Moving Picture Department head, informed the Echavarrias that the Palm Springs International Short Film Festival, a premiere showcase for short films, had accepted Alexis’ film, “18 minutes.”
    Even the content of the film was presciently evocative, according to Pam Pierce  who along with Moving Pictures faculty member Ira Abrams helped Alexis develop the script and film. “18 minutes” was about “taking every moment you are alive to love,” she said. 
    Alexis Echavarria’s birthday would have been Aug. 29 and he would have returned to Idyllwild Arts as a senior. He was to have been the first recipient of the Cinestory Mentors Award for an exceptional Idyllwild Arts screenwriter.
    As a bittersweet post note, when the family received Battersby’s evening call informing them of the Palm Springs Festival’s acceptance of Alexis’ entry, they decided to wait until the morning to tell him, knowing that they would see him and that it would be a great start for a new day.
    Although that new day never arrived for Alexis, his mother said of his film’s acceptance, “He knows.”    
    What happened to Alexis in predominantly Buddhist Thailand profoundly changed him, awakening in him a deep spiritually clearly evident to his family, and allowing the family to find something greater than rational acceptance of his unexpected passing. They believe that Alexis’ interaction with the Thai people and their practice of living their beliefs of serving others, compassion, humility and selflessness prepared him for his last journey and for their understanding of what happened.
        Tony,  Christina and their daughter Mystral request that donations to honor Alexis be made either to a memorial fund that will be established in honor of Alexis at Idyllwild Arts or to Duang Prateep Foundation, c/o Flame of Hope Foundation, P.O. Box 32, Viroqua, WI 54665.

Richard Eggleston
May 10, 2004

    Richard Eggleston, 81, died Monday, May 10, 2004 at Brighton Gardens of Carmel, a San Diego assisted-living facility.
    He was born Sept. 14, 1922 in Nebraska but spent his entire life in California.
    Mr. Eggleston graduated from the University of California, Berkeley and was an engineer at Rockwell International for years.
    He lived in Idyllwild for about 20 years where he was very active in the Idyllwild Rotary Club, serving with the late Dr. William Lumsden as a science fair judge at Idyllwild School. His wife also was very involved in the Rotary Anns.
    Mr. Eggleston was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel, on July 15, 1998. He had no other relatives.
    Memorial services will be private.

Charles Evans
March 12, 2004

    Charles Evans, 82, of Idyllwild and Banning, died Friday, March 12, 2004 at Hemet Valley Medical Center of lung surgery complications.
    He was born Feb. 10, 1922 in Brownfield, Ill.
    Mr. Evans was a linen truck driver and belonged to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
    He resided with his sister, Grace Moore of Idyllwild, for the past four years.
    Burial was at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside on March 17.
    Along with his sister, Grace Moore, Mr. Evans is survived by a brother, Norval Evans of Fairfield, Iowa; another sister, Opal Thorn of Palm Springs; and three nieces and two nephews.

Sunderland W. Everstill
June 10, 2003

    Sunderland W. Everstill, 62, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2003, at her Mountain Center residence.
    She was born Oct. 30, 1940, in Los Angeles and had lived in Idyllwild the past 33 years and a few years in Hemet prior to that.
    She was President of Living Free Animal Sanctuary since 1989 when she assumed this leadership role after the death of its founder, Emily Jo Beard.
    Her love of music, having studied at Julliard, was only surpassed by her love of animals. There was the private and reserved person, offset by her generous and compassionate heart and spirit.
    She was always looking out for others — people and animals — and referred to people as a “Treasure Trove”. Sunderland was Living Free’s “Treasure Trove”!
    Beloved Sunderland leaves behind her sister and brother-in-law, Ima Mary and Patrick Dennis, of Anza, Calif., along with her many, many friends, co-workers and loved animals.
    A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21 at Give Life Park at Living Free Animal Sanctuary, 54250 Keen Camp Road, Mountain Center. (909) 659-4687.
    McWane Family Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
    In a faltering economic climate which has impacted Living Free, Sunderland has been the stalwart guiding light working to ensure the continuance of Living Free’s mission — saving Dogs and Cats from pound euthanasia.
    Her being translated into a tenacious pursuit of this vision against overwhelming odds.
    Her life demonstrated Living Free’s philosophy: “We Save What We Value.” Her absence now leaves an immeasurable void in all our lives.
    In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Living Free Animal Sanctuary, P.O. Box 5, Mountain Center, CA 92561.

Marie Maybach Eymann
January 2, 2003

    Marie Maybach Eymann, 96, of Palm Desert, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, of respiratory failure in Rancho Mirage.
    She was born Dec. 13, 1906, in Great Bend, Kan. and was a homemaker.
    She and her late husband James were Idyllwild residents beginning in 1967.
    After his death on April 18, 1990, she continued her Idyllwild residency until 2002 but also lived part-time in the Hacienda de Monterey retirement home in Palm Desert for the past seven years.
    Since her husband’s death, she had looked for ways to celebrate his life and leave something behind that would make his memory everlasting.
    Mrs. Eymann donated funds to help build Idyllwild Arts’ library and motion picture studio.
    Her most recent gift was a bequest to fund the Marie and Jim Eymann Sculpture Garden, dedicated in November 2002.
    Mrs. Eymann belonged to the PEO Sisterhood, Alpha Phi and the Idyllwild Garden Club.
    She also was a member of the Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church and the Associates of Idyllwild Arts.
    Memorial services are at 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 at Hacienda de Monterey, 44600 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert. Pastor Art Ihnen will officiate. The Neptune Society is handling arrangements.
    She is survived by her daughters, Carol Moller of Minneapolis and Sally Ketchum of San Francisco; two children; and a great-grandchild.

Randi Fisher
October 23, 2003
 
    Randi Fisher, 55, of Pine Cove, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2003.
    She was born Aug. 15, 1948, in Aurora, Ill.
    Mrs. Fisher was a retired division secretary for GTE and a member of the American Legion Post 800.
    A wake is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2003, at the American Legion Post 800.
    She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Frank Fisher.

Frances Margaret French
Jan. 28, 2003

    Frances Margaret French, 83, of Idyllwild, died at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003, of pneumonia at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    Mrs. French was born Feb. 28, 1919, in East Falmouth, Mass. to Alton E. Baker of Falmouth and Nellie J. Gannon of County Cork, Ireland.
    While training in 1937 to be a psychiatric nurse in Arlington, Mass., she met Milton Russell French. Mr. French said it was love at first sight for them both.
    They were married May 19, 1940, in her mother’s living room in Falmouth.
    With their combined wages of $40 a month, the Frenches raised a family of three boys and a girl.
    Their son, Russell Edward French, retired after 30 years as a warrant officer for the U.S. Coast Guard. He is now the security officer at the Voice of America building in Washington, D.C.
    Their son, John Francis French, is a self-employed carpenter in Lemon Grove and their daughter, Elizabeth Helen French, is a self-taught Realtor associate in the San Francisco Bay area.
    Their son, William Alton French, died as a baby.
    Mrs. French was a housewife but also managed two apartment buildings in Glendale.
    She was honored in Los Angeles for knitting more than 6,000 woolen hats for underprivileged children throughout the West.
    Her husband said, “She was loved by everyone who knew her. May God rest her soul in peace.”
    She bequeathed her body for science to Loma Linda University.
    Along with her husband and three children, Mrs. French is survived by five grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Deano Fowler
June 1, 2005

 Thomas Alvin Fresh
July 25, 2005
    Long-time Idyllwild resident, teacher and artist Thomas Alvin Fresh Jr. passed away Monday, July 25, 2005 in Ojai.
    Mr. Fresh was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Alvin Fresh Sr. of Stone Mountain, Ga.
    He is survived by his daughter, Leslie E. Fresh of Albuquerque, N.M.; a son, Andreas T.F. Fresh of Lakewood; a stepdaughter, Cathleen Valenson of Upland; five grandchildren; a brother, Robert C. Fresh of Snellville, Ga.; and a sister, Mary E. Cushen of Dawnsonville, Ga.
    A private family service is pending.
    Donations in his name may be made to the A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum, 500 North Indian River Dr., Fort Pierce, FL 34950.

Bruce Howard Fry
July 8, 2003

    Bruce Howard Fry, 49, of Idyllwild, died Tuesday, July 8, 2003, in Hemet from cancer.
    He was born Aug. 31, 1953, in Litchfield, Minn.
    He was a welder, mechanic and tool and die maker.
    Mr. Fry was a member of the Southern California Deaf Club, the 4-Wheel Drive Club and the Hobby Train Club.
    He was a member of the Mountain Community Patrol and had served that organization as a board member and graffiti and equipment manager.
    Memorial services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 29 at the Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Richard Olson will officiate.
    Inurnment will be private.
    He is survived by his wife, Marian Fry of Idyllwild and a sister, Carol Burns.

    Herman Garcia, 84, of Baxter Springs, Kan., died Monday, April 21, 2003, in Kansas.
    He was born Dec. 6, 1918, in El Paso and grew up in San Diego.
    Mr. Garcia attended Hoover High School with the famed Ted Williams and graduated in 1937.
    He joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Hawaii.
    He married his sweetheart from San Diego, Alice L. Allen, and they were living on the edge of Hickum Field during the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
    Mr. Garcia was a WWII and Korean War veteran who retired in Decmber 1960.
    He worked in Revenue and Recovery of the San Diego District Attorney’s office.
    After several years, he retired again and relocated to Baxter Springs, home of his current wife.
    He and his wife Shirley were Idyllwild residents for several years before and after their retirement in San Diego.
    Along with his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Janet Mayfield of Alpine and Judie Beran of San Diego; a son, Allen Garcia of Henderson, Nev.; a sister, Ellen Garcia of La Mesa; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Kenneth E. Gooding
April 22, 2005
    
Kenneth Gooding, 82, of La Quinta died Friday, April 22, 2005 in Rancho Mirage of diabetes complications.
    Mr. Gooding was born to Charles and Nellie (Baber) Gooding on Dec. 7, 1922 in Cushing, Okla. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force, flying on 35 missions during World War II. On his first leave, he came home to marry his sweetheart, Norma Wingfield, on Feb. 23, 1944. 
    Mr. Gooding was a long-time resident of Idyllwild and owner of Woodland Park Manor from 1960 to 1975. 
    He was active in Idyllwild’s community affairs, serving as a volunteer fireman, as a fire commissioner and on the Fern Valley Water District board. He was also very active with the Bear Flag Festival, along with other civic duties.
    He is survived by Norma, his devoted wife of 61 years; two sons, David (Sally) Gooding of Port Townsend, Wash., and Roger (Mickey) Gooding of Huntington Beach; two daughters, Becki (Dana) Blackham of Edmonds, Wash. and Gena (Doug) McDermott of Corona; eight grandchildren, Geoff (Shannon) Gooding of Port Orchard, Wash., Casey Gooding of Port Townsend, Wash., Kirk Gooding of Newport Beach, Tricia (Patrick) Gallagher of Costa Mesa, Ken Evans of Incline Village, Nev., Jarred Evans of Santa Monica, and Colin and Evan McDermott of Corona; and two great-grandchildren, Edyn and Lucas Gallagher of Costa Mesa, who will treasure the gifts of his love and life forever.
     In lieu of flowers, the famiy requests that donations be sent to: NTAF S.W. Spinal Cord Injury Program, in honor of Jarred Gooding Evans and in memory of Kenneth Gooding, 3475 West Chester Pike, Suite 230, New Town Square, PA 19073 or The American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 1132, Fairfax, VA 22038.

Dorothea Gorzny
September 15, 2003

    Dorothea Farrar Gorzny, 78, of Idyllwild, died Monday, Sept. 15, 2003, at Hemet Valley Medical Center after complications from diabetes.
    She was born Oct. 19, 1924, in Greenville, Calif.
    She graduated with honors from Mt. San Jacinto Community College in 1972 with an associate’s degree and a certificate in library science.
    In 1974, she graduated from California State University, San Bernardino, earning her bachelor’s degree in humanities and a teaching credential. Her student teaching was done at Idyllwild School.
    She was a librarian at Mt. San Jacinto Community College from 1974 to 1987.
    Mrs. Gorzny also worked at Desert Sun School, Snow White Laundry and Fern Valley Bakery, all in Idyllwild.
    She had lived in Idyllwild since 1953.
    Inland Memorial in Hemet is handling cremation arrangements.
    A small family gathering was held at the Gorzny home on Sept. 18. Mrs. Gorzny had wanted no memorial services.
    Mrs. Gorzny is survived by her husband of 59 years, Francis T. Gorzny of Idyllwild; a son, Ted Gorzny of Idyllwild; three daughters, Rose Geske of Horntown, Va., Kathryn Gorzny of Idyllwild and Kristine Gorzny of Eugene, Ore.; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
    She was preceded in death by two brothers, Fred and Jeff Farrar.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 1833, Merrifield, VA 22116-8033.

Horace L. Hahn
Jan. 31, 2003   
   
    Horace L. Hahn, 87, a longtime Idyllwild resident, died Friday, Jan. 31, 2003, in San Diego of a heart attack.
    Mr. Hahn was for many years a prominent member of the California Bar and a civic leader.
    Born in Colorado in 1915, he was adopted at an early age by Will and Lois Hahn. He grew up in Los Angeles where he attended John Burroughs Junior High and Los Angeles High.
    He attended the University of California, Los Angeles where he was the national forensic debate champion and thereafter worked in films for C.B. DeMille before attending Stanford Law School.
    Following a national speaking tour with Helen Gahagan Douglas, Mr. Hahn joined the U.S. Army in World War II. He was commissioned and became a decorated member of the Office of Strategic Services.
    He also received an award from the Czechoslovakian government-in-exile for his services in capturing a Nazi gauleiter in that country.
    Thereafter, he assisted Justice Robert Jackson as chief attorney in the prosecution of Nazi war criminals at the Nuremberg War Trials.
    Mr. Hahn was a founding member of two prominent Los Angeles law firms where he practiced business law for five decades as well as served on various professional, corporate and civic boards. They included the Maytag Corporation of Newton, Iowa, the Chart House, the Boy Scouts of America and the San Diego Center for the Blind, where he served as chairman of the board.
    He was a founding partner of Hahn & Cazier which merged in 1985 with the international law firm of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius.
    At age 70, he suddenly suffered an almost complete loss of vision while hiking in the Himalayas. He never lost his sense of adventure, however, and continued to visit distant and exotic foreign locales with his longtime traveling companion, Ward Bramhall.
    Mr. Hahn was a 50-year member of the California Club.
    He is survived by no immediate family members.
    Donations in his memory may be made to the San Diego Center for the Blind, 5922 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115.

Robert Richard Hamilton
April 9, 2003

    Robert Richard Hamilton, 70, of San Jacinto, died Wednesday, April 9, 2003 at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    Mr. Hamilton was born Oct. 7, 1932, in Elmira, N.Y. He served in the U.S. Navy during the 1950s.
    He and his wife, Doris, had lived in Idyllwild for 19 years, moving to San Jacinto in 2000.
    While in Idyllwild, the Hamiltons owned the Sugar Pine Shop from 1984 to 1994.
    They also were members of St. Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church in Idyllwild.
    Mr. Hamilton had been a member of the San Gorgonio Masonic Lodge in Banning.
    Memorial services are at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at St. Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church. A reception will immediately follow the service.
    Mr. Hamilton is survived by his wife of 28 years, Doris Hamilton of San Jacinto; his mother, Dorothy Smith of Quartz Hill; his daughter, Gail Hamilton-Strong of Quartz Hill; and three grandchildren of Quartz Hill.

Eunice Emerson Hayton
December 18, 2005
   
    Eunice Emerson Hayton, 82, of Idyllwild, died Sunday, Dec. 18, 2005 at Hemet Valley Medical Center of natural causes.
    She was born May 25, 1924 in Worcester, Mass.
    Mrs. Hayton was a homemaker and belonged to the Mountain Quilters of Idyllwild, the Mile High 12 Club and also sang.
    A memorial service is planned for Jan. 6, 2006 at Inland Memorial’s Harford Chapel at 120 N. Buena Vista Street in Hemet. The Rev. Tom Hicks will officiate.
    Her remains were cremated and will be sent to New Hampshire.
    Mrs. Hayton is survived by her husband of 59 years, Major Robert G. Hayton, retired U.S. Marine Corps; a daughter, Carolyn Passage of Pine Cove; two sons, David Hayton of Long Beach and Thomas Hayton of Idyllwild; two brothers, Yorick and Albert Hurd; and two granddaughters.
    Mrs. Hayton had many friends and will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

'Granny' Lavern Head
April 10, 2003

    'Granny' Lavern Head, 85, died in her sleep Thursday, April 10, 2003, at Valley Christian Home in Hemet.
    Granny was born Oct. 20, 1917, in Barren County near Glasgow, Ky., the sixth of seven children, to James Elbert “Pap” and Flora Bailey Reed.
    When the great influenza epidemic of 1919 came, both her mother and her baby brother died.
    She and her husband, Calvin Albert Lewis, came west to California in 1939 with their daughter, Caralon, surviving the Great Depression in lean times.
    They lived in Lemoore and later that year moved to the Lemon Heights area of Tustin where her husband’s mother had an orange grove.
    Mr. Lewis tended the grove and the family lived in a home of which daughter Caralon said, “That little shack of a house we lived in has been replaced with a million-dollar home today.”
    At the beginning of World War II, the orange grove was sold and the family moved to Santa Ana where they both worked for Douglas Aircraft.
    After Granny and her first husband’s divorce, she married Floyd J. Head while working for him at a machine shop in Hollydale.
    Later, she worked for Ducommon Steel. The family lived in Windsor Hills and Ladera Heights.
    In 1968, she retired and moved to Pine Cove, followed by her daughter and grandchildren.
    Due to declining health, she moved to Hemet in 1999.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 3, in the meadow at Idyllwild County Park. The Rev. Kristeen Bandelin of Shiloh Christian Ministries will officiate. A potluck immediately follows at the County Park.
    Along with her daughter, she is survived by a sister, Christine; three grandchildren, Deidra (Doug) Wood of Pine Cove, Sandra (Jay) Johnson of Idyllwild and Robert (Paula) Allen of Hemet; four grandchildren, Paige, Ashlyn and Rhiland Allen, and Jason Johnson.
    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hemet Hospice, 890 W. Stetson St., Ste. B, Hemet, CA 92543.

John Henze
November 2, 2005
   
    John Henze, 77, of Idyllwild, died Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2005 at Devonshire Care Center in Hemet following complications due to stroke.
    Mr. Henze was born in 1928 in rural Germany. An only child, he came to the U.S. with his parents when he was young.
    Mr. Henze was the owner of Idyllwild Plumbing Service for more than 26 years. Friends say he had a great sense of humor.
    Because Mr. Henze had no surviving family, his remains have been turned over to the Riverside County Public Administrator for arrangements.
    He is survived by his male cat, Shadow, who is in need of a home. 

Grandpa Semu Huaute
November 11, 2004
   
    Grandpa Semu Huaute, 96, died on Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004, in Adobe, Ariz.
    He was born Aug. 8, 1908 in Ventura County.
    Grandpa served in World War II as a gunner’s mate in the U.S. Navy.
    He was a Chumash tribal healer and elder, and traveled the world extensively teaching seminars in cultural education and performing Chumash ceremonies.
    Grandpa was the last full-blooded Chumash, an American Indian tribe.
    He was one of the most renowned and respected medicine men in the nation. Until recently, he regularly visited Idyllwild and performed ceremonies.
    Kay sha nook sha ma (ceremonial burial) will be private.
    He is survived by his wife, Eneke-Alish Huaute; six sons and six daughters (in honor of their mothers); and countless adopted family.
    His family asks that in memory of his life, live in harmony. Tantay (Go gently).

Hodges, Gerry M.
May 18, 2003

    Gerry M. Hodges, 71, of Idyllwild, died Sunday, May 18, 2003, at Ramona Manor Convalescent Hospital after a long illness.
    He was born April 20, 1932, in Boise City, Okla., and lived in Idyllwild for 23 years.
    Mr. Hodges was a supervising probation officer for San Diego County for 25 years working with adult narcotic offenders.
    After retiring in 1979, he and his wife moved to Idyllwild.
    Mr. Hodges was interested in collecting military insignia and belonged to several military collectors organizations.
    He was a master sergeant at the time of the Korean War.
    Mr. Hodges was a member of the Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church.
    A memorial service will be held at the church at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24. Burial is at San Jacinto Valley Cemetery.
    Mr. Hodges is survived by his wife, Robbie; two sons, Michael Hodges of Garden Grove and Mark (Diana) Hodges of El Cajon; and two grandsons.
    In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Community Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 537, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

    Herbert S. Holdridge, 94, of Idyllwild, died Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, in Idyllwild.
    He was born Nov. 21, 1908 in Sand Lake, N.Y.
    He was a farmer and had lived in Idyllwild for 40 years. Mr. Holdridge was a member of the Rotary Club.
    Services are private.
    He is survived by a son, Bob Holdridge of Colfax, Calif.; two daughters, Betty White of Morongo Valley and Mary Riner of Idyllwild; two brothers, Jim Holdridge of Imperial Valley and Warren Holdridge of Los Angeles; two sisters, Gertrude of Reno, Nev. and Ann of Tennesee; 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren.
    He was preceded in death by his wife, Loraine Holdridge.

Crystal Ann Horton
October 5, 2005
    Crystal Ann Horton, 60, of Idyllwild, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2005 at home.
    She was born Nov. 2, 1944 in Kentucky and made crafts.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 at Inspiration Point. The Rev. Kristeen Bandelin of Shiloh Christian Ministries will officiate.
    She is survived by a son, Brandon Schellenberg of Idyllwild; a daughter, Amber Adams of Nevada; a brother, Jack Norton of Mesquite, Texas; a sister, Wanda Norton of Mesquite, Texas; and five grandchildren, Patrick and Molly Schellenberg of Idyllwild, Mark Adams of San Francisco, and Chelsea and Ashley Adams of Nevada.

Sonia Eleanor Horvath
April 16, 2005
    Sonia E. Horvath, 89, formerly of Idyllwild, died Saturday, April 16, 2005 in Klamath Falls, Ore. of natural causes.
    Mrs. Horvath was born Feb. 1, 1916 in Cleveland, Ohio. She completed her education there, earning her registered nurse certificate from St. Vincent Charity Hospital on Sept. 3, 1943. She enjoyed working as a registered nurse until March 17, 1946, when she married Daniel Horvath and moved to Idyllwild where the couple raised their two daughters and operated the Idyllwild Chevron station for more than 20 years. 
    In 1968, the couple retired to Oceanside until 2002 when Mrs. Horvath moved to Klamath Falls, Ore. to be near her daughters.
    She was a lifelong member of the Catholic church, sang in the San Luis Rey Mission Choir and was an active member of the Catholic Daughters. Additionally, Mrs. Horvath was instrumental in the creation of the Idyllwild Elementary School Library and authored several children’s books, some of which she read to the Klamath Elementary students under the smARTS program.
    Mrs. Horvath was devoted to her family and excelled as a homemaker and creative cook. She was also an avid knitter, reader, traveler and life-long learner.
    She is survived by two daughters, Louisa Wistos of Alturas and Martha Waardenburg of Klamath Falls, Oregon; three grandchildren; and one great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Jovick.
    A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 19 at the Mission San Luis Rey Chapel, 4050 Mission Ave., followed by interment at Eternal Hills Memorial Park, 1999 El Camino Real, both in Oceanside.

Mary Howes
July 27, 2003

    Mary Howes, 79, of Hemet, died Sunday, July 27, 2003, at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    She was born Aug. 7, 1923, in Winamac, Ind.
    Mrs. Howes graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in business.
    She lived in Idyllwild for 22 years, was a local Realtor for 15 years and an executive secretary in Idyllwild for 11 years.
    Mrs. Howes lived in Hemet the past two years.
    She was a member of the National Genealogy Society and the American Legion Post 800. She enjoyed arts and crafts and researching genealogy.
    McWane Family Funeral Home handled private cremation services.
    Mrs. Howes is survived by her husband of 53 years, Virgil Howes of Palm Bay, Fla.; a daughter, Michele Walsh of Palm Bay, Fla.; a brother, Dr. William Thompson of Ft. Myers, Fla.; a grandson, James Barton II of Palm Bay Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.
    In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 7130 Magnolia Ave., Suite S, Riverside, CA 92504.

Juanita Bell Hunt
October 12, 2004

    Juanita Bell Hunt, 95, of Hemet, died Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2004 of natural causes following a stroke suffered 2-1/2 years prior. Her family cared for her at home with the help of Ramona VNA & Hospice.
    She was born Jan. 14, 1909 in Dennison, Ill. She was the eldest daughter of Hurley and Alice Sears.
    She moved to Irvine in 1912 where her father was a farmer on the Irvine Ranch.
    Mrs. Hunt graduated in 1927 from Tustin High School and married David Errol Hunt the following year.
    Their first son was born in Irvine in 1928. The Hunts then moved to Modesto where they had three more children and lived there for 10 years. Then they moved to Santa Ana and lived there until 1951 when they moved to Idyllwild.
    The Hunts were the first managers of Camp Maranatha for 20 years and moved to Hemet in 1980.
    They were lifetime members of the First Advent Christian Church in Tustin.
    She was preceded in death by her husband, David Errol Hunt, and a granddaughter, Kristi Yates.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 23 at Harford Funeral Home, 120 N. Buena Vista St. in Hemet.
    She is survived by two sons, David “Bud” Hunt and wife Barbara of Idyllwild, and Stanley Hunt and wife Bonnie of San Jose; two daughters, Carol Hiskey and husband Bud of Idyllwild, and Diane Matthews of Hemet; and 11 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren.
    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to Camp Maranatha.

Lucille D. Johns March 15, 2005
   
    Lucille D. Johns, 94, died Tuesday, March 15, 2005, at Chapman Convalescent Hospital in Riverside of natural causes.
    She was born Feb. 6, 1911 in Breckenridge, Minn.
    Mrs. Johns and her husband, Earl, who passed away March 6, 2002, loved Idyllwild where they would stay in the cabin they owned since 1959 every weekend or more. It was their favorite, happiest and most special place to be.
    They both had many fond memories of Idyllwild and the cabin. They enjoyed working around the yard and working on the cabin. To the end of her life, Mrs. Johns talked about her mountain and her cabin.
    Mr. Johns managed the Calelectric Power Co. in Idyllwild during the 1930s. The couple was married 72 years and both knew much of the history of Idyllwild, their favorite place on Earth.
    Besides living in Idyllwild, Mrs. Johns lived in Riverside for 64 years and also had lived in Hemet and Elsinore.
    She graduated from Riverside City College and had been a nurse. She also worked for the City of Riverside, the City’s Engineers Office and the University of California, Riverside’s Women’s office.
    Mrs. Johns was a member of the Riverside YWCA board and Eastern Star. She also was active in the Calvary Presbyterian Church.
    Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 22 at Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Mortuary in Riverside.
    She is survived by a daughter, Pat Altman of West Covina; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
    Beside her husband, Mrs. Johns is preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and Harvey.
    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice.

Michael Scott Jones
August 14, 2005
   
    Michael Scott Jones, 55, born April 9, 1950 in Van Nuys, died suddenly on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2005 in Hemet. He was the fourth child of Arthur Wyn Jones and Mildred Marie Mills Jones who preceded him in death. 
     Michael graduated from Cleveland High School in Reseda. He worked for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power before relocating to Idyllwild where he worked in construction. In his later years he lived in Hemet. 
     Michael is survived by his siblings, Nancy Wyn Jones Murachanian O’Horo (husband James), Toni Wyn Jones Segoine (husband Richard), and David Allen Jones (wife Carol), many nephews and nieces, and a host of friends who will miss his laughter and smile. He will never be forgotten. 
     Funeral services will be held privately by the Neptune Society. Donations in the name of Michael Jones may be made to the American Legion Post 800, Ronald McDonald House, P.O. Box 800, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

Anna Jorgenson
May 25, 2004
   
    Anna Jorgenson, 99, of Idyllwild died at home in her sleep Tuesday, May 25, 2004.
    She was born April 29, 1905 in Drummon, Wisc.
    She and her late husband, Arnold Jorgenson, moved to Idyllwild in 1947. Mr. Jorgenson collected iron and created the Iron Garden outside of their Idyllwild home which the public enjoyed visiting for years. He died in 1985.
    Miller-Jones Mortuary in Hemet is handling arrangements. Services will be announced later.
    Mrs. Jorgenson is survived by two daughters, Virgil Mae Taylor of Aurora, Ore. and Doris J. Valentine of Lake Tahoe, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Penni Lee Jubera
February 28, 2004

    January 21, 1952 - February 28, 2004.
    She has welcomed us, nurtured us, and held our babies.
    She has lit our birthday candles, cried in our sorrows, and laughed in our joys.
    She was our friend.
    Services will be held Friday, March 5, 2004 at 12 p.m. at McWane Funeral Home, 350 N. San Jacinto, Hemet.
    Please come celebrate her life. Bring your favorite dish and your favorite memories. The Creek House, Sunday, March 7, 2004 at 1 p.m.

Kimberley Krengel
August 13, 2005
   
    Kimberley Krengel, 50, of Idyllwild passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 13, 2005 at home, surrounded by family and friends, after a courageous battle with breast cancer.
    Kim was born in Santa Monica on March 23, 1955 and grew up in the Los Angeles area. She graduated from the Los Angeles Baptist High School and attended California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.
    Kim and her sister Maggie first came to Idyllwild in 1977 when their parents opened the Strawberry Creek Inn. Kim and Maggie later opened Mile High Yogurt in the center of town.
    Kim worked for 13 years at The Chart House and was one of the first women to become a general manager of a Chart House. She was an Idyllwild resident for more than 28 years and will be sorely missed by a multitude of friends from the Idyllwild Cafe.
    Kim was married to Charlie Owen and had two children, Kendra Krengel-Owen, 22 and Kyle Krengel-Owen, 21.
    Along with her children, she is survived by her sisters, Maggie Hegedusch (husband Steve) and Christine Krengel (husband Larry); a brother, Cliff White of San Felipe, Mexico; her mother and stepfather, Gloria and Wayne Conrad; and her beloved companion, Herk McClellan. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard Krengel. Kim was a loving aunt to Cari, Kelly, Duffy, Zoe, Rusty and Cameron, as well as their spouses.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20 at Chapel in the Pines. The Rev. Wally Boer will officiate.
    Memorial donations may be made to the Kimberley Krengel Breast Cancer Foundation. 

Jack L. Kissell
March 17, 2004
   
    Jack L. Kissell, 90, of Hemet, died Wednesday, March 17, 2004 at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    He was born June 6, 1913 in Columbus, Neb.
    Mr. Kissell was employed at Showcase Homes of Anaheim as a construction superintendent and built homes throughout Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties.
    He lived in Anaheim before moving to Idyllwild in 1973 and then to Hemet in 1990.
    Mr. Kissell was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Anaheim, the Church of the Nazarene in Hemet, and the Crossroads Community Church in Harrison, Ark.
    Visitation was from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, March 22 at McWane Family Funeral Home. Graveside services were at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 23 at Anaheim Cemetery.
    Mr. Kissell is survived by his wife of 69 years, Hazel M. Kissell of Hemet; three sisters, Vernel Rankin of Columbus, Neb., Marcie Buford of Denver and Della Rose Steele of San Diego; and two grandchildren.
    He was preceded in death by two daughters, Kaye Reesor and Gerry Wright.

Janetta Landry
July 22, 2005
  
    Janetta Landry, age 80, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, July 22, 2005.
     Janetta was born to Francis and Jessie Butter in Inverness, Scotland on June 8, 1925. 
    Janetta met Canadian soldier Edward Landry during World War II and they were married on June 8, 1945 in Inverness, Scotland. They immigrated to the United States in 1953 and proudly became U.S. citizens in 1963.
     Janetta was the retired owner/broker of Idyllwild Realty. She loved this mountain community. Janetta had been an active member of the Idyllwild Bible Church. More recently, she lived in Oceanside near her daughter.
     Janetta is preceded in death by son Roderick Landry (1977) and husband Edward Landry (1993).
    She is survived by daughter Jane Marstell, her husband Jim and their children Rod and Julia of Oceanside; her brother and sister-in-law, Alastair and Ena Butter of Scotland; and countless dear friends. 
     A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at Idyllwild Bible Church. Pastor Tim Westcott will officiate.
     Memorial donations may be made to Gideon Bibles International, P.O. Box 2304, Hemet, CA 92546.

Lillian Ernestine La Police
November 4, 2004
  
    Lillian Ernestine La Police, 92, of Idyllwild, died Thursday, Nov. 4, 2004 at Manor Care Convalescent Hospital in Hemet.
    Her daughter said she introduced herself to people as “Grandma Lil from atop the Hill.”
    She was born Feb. 20, 1912 in Los Angeles to Edmund and Emma Young Parkhurst.
    She worked for 22 years as a motor vehicle assistant for the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
    Mrs. La Police was a member of the California State Employees Association, Queen of Angels Women’s Guild and the Young Ladies Institute of San Diego.
    A memorial service was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9 at Queen of Angels Church in Idyllwild. Inurnment will be private at Oak Hills Cemetery in Escondido.
    Miller-Jones Mortuary and Crematory in Hemet is handling arrangements.
    She is survived by a daughter, Suzanne Coffer of Idyllwild; a son, Ronald La Police of San Diego; two grandchildren, Nicole Sumrall of Idyllwild and Whitney Coffer of Arizona; and three great-grandchildren, Corey, Hannah and Tyler Sumrall of Idyllwild.

John A. Leaf
July 28, 2005
  
    John A. Leaf, 76, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 28, 2005 due to complications from cancer. He was a former resident of Oceanside and Idyllwild.
    John was born in Wisconsin in 1929 and enlisted in the Navy when he was 17.  He was assigned to the Marine Corps as a Navy corpsman. His tours of duty included Korea, where he saw action in the Chosen Reservoir, and in Vietnam.
    John’s career brought him to Oceanside where he raised his family. 
    After his military retirement, he worked in the food service industry. John was active in the American Legion, holding several offices including post commander at Idyllwild Post 800 and district commander at Riverside Post 79.
    John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dodie; two sons, Clay and Leif Eric Leaf; two daughters, Kimberly Crone and Julieann Garcia; and nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. 
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Visiting Nurse Association of the Inland Counties Hospice Program, 6235 River Crest Drive, Suite L, Riverside, CA 92507 or to the American Legion, 2979 Dexter Drive, Riverside, CA 92501-2049.
    Memorial services will be held at 11:15 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 at Riverside National Cemetery, Staging Area 2, followed by a remembrance reception at American Legion Post 79, 2979 Dexter Dr., Fairmount Park, Riverside.
    Miller-Jones Moreno Valley Mortuary is handling arrangements.

Martin O. Lein
June 5, 2003

    Martin O. Lein, 82, of Idyllwild died Thursday, June 5, 2003, after a short but steep decline in his health.
    Mr. Lein was born July 15, 1920, in Chicago, Ill.
    Growing up, he was a strong swimmer and developed his abilities to fix almost anything, teach creatively, and work effectively with young people as a church-school teacher, youth evangelist and Boys Brigade leader.
    He left high school at about age 15 to help in his dad and uncle’s feed mill, and also worked for a furrier and for Universal X-Rays.
    His family moved to Villa Park, a Chicago suburb, where he met Mabel Obenland, a high school senior and church pianist.
    Mr. Lein served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He and Mabel married in l943 and moved to California in l947.
    He became manager of Tahquitz Pines Christian Endeavor Camp in Idyllwild in March 1948.
    His family wrote, “In this capacity, he lived out his Christian faith and served his Lord using his hands in grounds maintenance work, and his heart and mind as he managed the staff and ministered to the camp’s young people.”
    He joined the Idyllwild Fire Department as a volunteer in the fall of 1949, and served 35 years on the department plus six years on the Board of Commissioners.
    He also studied refrigeration repair and built a small business in that area.
    He enjoyed reading and studying, hiking, swimming and providing water safety instruction, canoeing, participating in first aid and mountain rescue work, teaching adult church school at the Idyllwild Community Church, and serving on the Board of Elders, teaching Sunday School, doing maintenance and greeting visitors at the Idyllwild Bible Church.
    Mr. Lein retired from Tahquitz Pines in l992 after 44 years of service. He continued to be involved in many church activities, including Bible studies and prayer meetings, and delighted family and friends with beautifully crafted homemade greeting cards.
    He and Mabel celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 9.
    Mr. Lein suffered from congestive heart failure during his later years, but managed to remain active.
    His family wrote, “A beloved saint and hero in the eyes of his family and friends, he is missed and cherished by many in the Idyllwild community which he loved and served for 55 years.”
    Three children, Lorelette, Larkette and Lonnie, grandson Martin, and children-in-law Walt and Glenna, visited him during his last days.
    A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 29 at the Idyllwild Community Church.

William Francis McGrath
January 28, 2003

    War hero William Francis McGrath, 82, of Hemet, died of congestive heart failure Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003, at Riverside County Regional Medical Center in Moreno Valley.
    Mr. McGrath was born Feb. 19, 1920, in Philadelphia.
    He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1939 and was discharged in 1946.
    Sgt. “Bud” McGrath served in the Pacific in World War II. He received the Bronze Star, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, a Purple Heart and other decorations for bravery under enemy fire.
    Following his discharge from active duty, he joined the Bechtel Corporation and retired as a senior project safety superintendent in San Francisco after 27 years.
    He was a resident at Royal Pines Mobile Home Park in Idyllwild from 1998 to 2002 and had also lived in Hemet for the past five years.
    He was a member of the American Legion Post 800 and the Queen of Angels Catholic Church. He also was a member of the Elks Club.
    A memorial service is at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21 at Miller-Jones Mortuary, 1501 W. Florida Avenue, Hemet, with Father Huy Q. Dinh officiating..
    Internment will be at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside.
    Mr. McGrath is survived by four daughters, Helen Leach of Dana Point, Teresa Eakle of Orange, Colleen McGrath of Las Vegas and Karen Carpenter of Grants Pass, Ore.; a son, Brendon McGrath of Tuscon, Ariz.; and extended family members.

Mildred McKee
November 25, 2005

     Mildred Geneva McKee, 91, of Hemet, died Friday, Nov. 25, 2005 in Hemet.
    She was born Aug. 13, 1914 in Illinois and lived in Davenport, Iowa until 1931 when she moved to Mentone. She graduated from Redlands High School in 1933.
    She married Kit McKee in 1933. They were married for 60 years before his death.
    The McKees lived in Idyllwild from 1967 to 1979. She was the owner of the Clothes Horse and her husband was part-owner of Village Market.
    Mrs. McKee was a charter member of the Soroptimist International of Idyllwild and the second president of the club.
    According to her wishes, no service is planned.
    She is survived by two sons, Donald McKee of Orlando and Gary McKee of Idyllwild; a daughter, Janet Boss of Hemet; and 11 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. A son, Allen McKee, preceded her in death.

Robert E. Millsap Jr.
June 7, 2005

A. D. Moneysmith
January 2, 2004

    A.D. “Slim” Moneysmith, 80, of Idyllwid, died Friday, Jan. 2, 2004.
    He was born in 1924 in Knoxville, Iowa.
    Mr. Moneysmith had been an electrician and was a 15-year resident of Idyllwild.
    He belonged to the Idyllwild Lions Club, the American Legion Post 800 Honor Guard, the San Diego Asebring Drivers (founding members), the Sports Car Club of America, the San Diego Orchid Society and the Idyllwild cribbage group.
    He also was a loyal San Diego Chargers football fan.
    A memorial service followed by a potluck is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 at the American Legion Post 800. Jim Kent and members of the Legion Post 800 Honor Guard will conduct the service.
    Mr. Moneysmith is survived by his wife, Marilyn Moneysmith of Idyllwild; a daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Robert Mendoza of Temple City; a sister, Alberta Poland of Chariton, Iowa; two grandsons and two granddaughters-in-law.
    In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made in his name to: Post 800 Honor Guard, c/o Rick Foster, P.O. Box 1386, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

James Morrow
February 12, 2003

    James Edward Morrow, 80, formerly of Idyllwild, died from cancer of the throat Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2003, at Pt. Loma Convalescent Hospital in San Diego.
    He was born June 28, 1922, in San Diego.
    He attended Florence Elementary, Theodore Roosevelt Jr. High and San Diego Sr. High schools.
    During his senior year of high school, he commanded the greater San Diego ROTC Brigade as Cadet Lt. Col.
    During World War II, Mr. Morrow worked in the metal-cutting department at Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Company and attended night classes at San Diego State College.
    In 1946, he joined Union Title and Trust Company, starting in the Meets and Bounds Department and rose to vice president.
    In the 1960s, Mr. Morrow joined the Foodmaker Corporation (now Jack-In-The-Box Inc.) where he became director of property acquisition and lease agreements.
    He is listed in the “Strathmore’s Who’s Who of Businessmen” and was National Registered Arbitrator.
    He retired in 1996 and became a full-time resident of Idyllwild.
    As a longtime member of the Kensington Community Church, he served as its financial officer.
    He also was active with his kids in the YMCA Intramural Swimming activities.
    At one time, Mr. Morrow drove British sports cars and was a member of the Sports Car Club of America and the Four Cylinder Club of America.
    He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marjorie Smith Morrow, now living at the Silvergate Suites in San Marcos; his son, James Richard Morrow of San Diego; his brothers-in-law, R. Warren Smith and wife Jean Gilfillan-Smith of Borrego Springs, and Douglas McArthur of San Diego; nephews Bob Smith of Orange, Duncan McArthur of Denver and Bruce McArthur of San Diego; goddaughter Pamela Farnworth of San Diego and godson Craig Burgess of Seattle.
    He is preceded in death by his daughter, Joyce.
    Mr. Morrow’s ashes will be scattered at sea in a private ceremony attended by immediate family and friends for 55 years, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Burgess.
    A memorial is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 9 at the Kensington Community Church, 4773 Marlborough Drive, San Diego.
    In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the San Diego Hospice, 4311 Third Ave., San Diego, CA 92103.

Robert C. Oates
July 16, 2003

    Robert C. Oates, 83, of San Jacinto, former longtime Idyllwild resident, died Wednesday, July 16, 2003, at Hemet Valley Health Care, from complications due to aging. He was born February 23, 1920, in Glendale, California, and graduated from Hoover High School in 1938. He was in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1945, serving as a Yeoman 3rd Class on an LST in the South Pacific during World War II. He owned and operated Oates Products Co., an airline nuts and bolts sorting business, in West Covina from 1950-1960, where he was also active in the Optimist Club. After moving his family to Idyllwild in 1960, as a general contractor he built "Cozy Cottage" cabins during the 1960's, and owned the "Alpine Building" in Fern Valley Corners, home of the Alpine Pantry restaurant and Fern Valley Market. Mr. Oates roots in Idyllwild went back to the 1920's, when his father built a cabin for family use on Fern Valley Rd. Robert and his brother Walter, attended Idyllwild Grammar School part-time in the 1920's. Mr. Oates maintained an active singing career his entire life, as a popular vocalist and church cantor, and as a commercial artist, whistling for the motion picture, The Bridge Over The River Kwai, and yodeling for Italian Swiss Colony Wine television commercials. Memorial services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 24 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church at 630 S. Santa Fe Street in San Jacinto. Internment will be private. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Louisa; three sons, Ronald (Linda) of Newcastle, Robin (Sarah) of Idyllwild, and Timothy (Jackie) of Irvine; a stepdaughter Catherine of Sandy, Utah; a brother Walter of Auburn; 11 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

Richard P. O’Connell
January, 4 2005

    Richard “Dick” P. O’Connell, 74, of Idyllwild, died Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2005 at Loma Linda University Medical Center.
He was born March 14, 1930 in Wilmington, Mass.
Mr. O’Connell was a general contractor and a member of the Idyllwild Lions Club. He attended the First Church of Christ Scientist and was active in the Boy Scouts.
He raised his family in Idyllwild and spent the last 21 years as an interested community member.
Having spent chapters of his life in Massachusetts as a restaurant and canteen truck owner, and finally owning a general contracting business in Colton, he always found joy and education in lending a hand to help, an ear to listen or a voice to inspire.
    He was adored by his wife and admired by his children for his love of storytelling, history, cooking, animals and keeping things simple.
    He was truly self-made and self-contained, sure in his identity and always accepting of others.
    Mr. O’Connell thought Idyllwild was the greatest place in the world. He will remain in his family and friends’ hearts for years to come.
    A memorial service will be held in the spring.
    He is survived by his wife, Kathryn O’Connell; two sons, Lucas O’Connell of Albuquerque, N.M. and Jonathan O’Connell of Riverside; two brothers, Donald O’Connell of Upland and John O’Connell of Tewksbury, Mass.; and one grandchild.

Dorothy Osso-Egbert
October 12, 2005

    Dorothy Osso-Egbert, 81, of Idyllwild, died of cardiorespiratory arrest at Hemet Valley Medical Center on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2005.
    Mrs. Egbert was born July 16, 1924 in Lewiston, Maine.
    She graduated from business college in Virginia. Since she was fluent in French, she was employed by the French Embassy during World War II in Washington, D.C.
    Mrs. Egbert was a bookkeeper who spent 15 years in the accounting and finance field in the entertainment industry.
    This led to her retirement when she and her husband, Morry, moved to Idyllwild to pursue their love of the mountains. Dorothy and Morry finally got married in 2000 after being together for 24 years.
    Mrs. Egbert was a member of the Sierra Club and Living Desert, and was involved in the AARP Tax-Aide program.
    She also loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and, most recently, her great-granddaughter.
    A memorial service was Sunday, Oct. 16 at the Idyllwild Community Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Richard Olson officiated.
    Another service is planned in July 2006 at Saint Peters Cemetery in Lewiston, Maine.
    Along with her husband, Morry, she is survived by two daughters, Jeanne Osso and Arnette Osso of Arlington, Va.; a brother, Jean-Paul Dulac of Chelmesford, Mass.; two sisters, Lucile La Chance of Auburn, Maine and Madeleine Laffredo of Mt. Holly, N.J.; and five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Misty Owens
March 28, 2004

    Misty Morning Owens, 26, of Idyllwild died Sunday, March 28, 2004 in a traffic collision near Mountain Center.
    She was born Oct. 11, 1977 in Austin, Texas.
    She was a homemaker whom her family said was fun-loving, a terrific mom and who enjoyed spending time with her two children, Anna and Joey. She loved fashion, interior decorating and artistry.
    Funeral arrangements are being handled by Miller-Jones Mortuary & Crematory in Hemet. No public services are planned.
    She is survived by her mother, Carola Gay Eastwood-Parkyn of Idyllwild; her father, Edward Lee Owens of Virginia; a son, Joseph Puccio of Idyllwild; a daughter, Anna Puccio of Idyllwild; two sisters, Kristin Camm of San Francisco and Jodie Medeiros; and a brother, Gabriel Spatuzzi of San Diego.

Dorrit Jessie Oyen
March 15, 2003

    Dorrit Jessie Oyen, 89, of Hemet, died Saturday, March 15, 2003, at Hemet Valley Medical Center.
    She was born Jan. 1, 1914, in New South Wales, Wales.
    Mrs. Oyen was wed to her husband, Richard “Scottie,” on Jan. 21, 1944. The couple were married 59 years and were Idyllwild residents 14 of those years.
    Mrs. Oyen was a homemaker.
    The couple had lived in Riverside County for 20 years.
    No services are planned.
    Along with her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Deirdre Butcher of Hemet and Debra Lunger of Solana Beach; a granddaughter, Nicole Picchiottino of Hemet; three grandsons, Jarrod Frahm of Carlsbad, Logan Frahm of San Francisco and Shawn Hoffman of Beaumont; and a great-granddaughter, Keleigh Picchiottino of Hemet.
    Condolences may be sent to Scottie Oyen at 881 North Lake St., Hemet, CA 92544.

Joan Plummer
February 10, 2003

    Joan Plummer, 69, of Idyllwild, died of cancer Monday, Feb. 10, 2003, at Eisenhower Medical Center in Palm Desert.
    She was born Jan. 4, 1934, in Detroit, Mich.
    Ms. Plummer traveled around the states for most of her young adult years working in various nightclubs as a dancer, model and showgirl.
    She settled in the Los Angeles area in the mid-1960s and raised her family. In 1976, she moved her family to Idyllwild from North Hollywood.
    In 1987, she moved to Honolulu to join her youngest daughter where she stayed for 10 years enjoying the beach, the people and the Hawaiian culture.
    Ms. Plummer worked in the tour business and traveled every inch of the Hawaiian Islands.
    In 1997, she moved back to Idyllwild and pursued her interests in garage sales, collectables and vintage clothing.
    Services were private.
    She is survived by her daughters, Julie Plummer of Idyllwild, Holly McCaghren of Mesa, Ariz. and Celeste Deal of Idyllwild; eight grandchildren; and her ex-husband, Bill Plummer.
    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Living Free Animal Sanctuary, P.O. Box 5, Mountain Center, CA 92561.
    A family member wrote, “The family would also like to thank Richard and Marcia, Gary, Grandma Carol, Craig, Barbara, Sue and Don, Sandy, Lois, Bruce, Diana, Jeri Sue and Jim, Pat, Sharon, Bill and everyone else who helped her through the last year by going out of their way to make sure she made it to her appointments or to that yard sale up the street.”

Vincent Paul Pietrok
July 8, 2003

    Vincent Paul Pietrok, 77, of Idyllwild, died Tuesday, July 8, 2003, at home.
    He was born Jan. 21, 1926, in Anaheim and had lived in that city for 74 years.
    He was in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947.
    For the past 21 years, he owned Village Hardware in Idyllwild, a family owned and operated business, and for several years recently owned and ran V.P.’s Collectibles in Idyllwild.
    He also owned Vince’s Machine Co. in Anaheim until three years ago when he retired and moved to Idyllwild.
    Mr. Pietrok wrote articles about the Midget Auto Races for the Pacific Coast Speedway News. He was a member of the Porsche Club of America.
    He met his wife of 55 years, Patricia, while ice skating at the Heinz (now Paramount) Ice Skating Park in Paramount in 1947. They were married in 1948.
    Graveside services are at 11 a.m. Friday, July 18 at the Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery, 7845 Santiago Canyon Road in Orange. McWane Family Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
    Along with his wife, Mr. Pietrok is survived by three daughters, Marilyn Helm of Anaheim, and Shirley Donahoo and Nancy Beechan of Idyllwild; a son, Allen Pietrok of Yorba Linda; two brothers, Marvin A. Pietrok of Anaheim and Theodore Pietrok of Anaheim Hills; two sisters, Lucille Perryman of Newport Beach and Christine Schmitz of North Hollywood; and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Patrick Pietrok, in 1988.

Steven H. Price
August 3, 2004

    Steven H. Price, 64, of Idyllwild, died Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2004 of lung cancer. He was surrounded by his wife of 40 years, Kathy, son Erik Price and son-in-law Steve McPherson.
    Mr. Price graduated with a master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He worked at Northrup in Hawthorne as a management science analyst.
    He later raised avocadoes in San Diego County.
    Mr. Price spent his last 12-1/2 years in Idyllwild where he and his wife hiked every trail in the mountains that he loved so much.
    He almost finished building his dream project of a 1,500-square-foot garage and workshop.
    No services are planned.
    In lieu of flowers, Mr. Price asked that donations be made in his name to Paws and Hearts, c/o Richard Waxman, 74-854 Velie Way, Suite #7, Palm Desert, CA 92260, (760) 836-1406, (www.pawsandhearts.org/P&Hdonationform.htm).

Dorothy E. Reiterman
August 3, 2005
    Dorothy E. Reiterman, 93, of San Jacinto, died of natural causes at home on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2005.
    She was born June 13, 1912 in New Jersey.
    Dorothy was retired from the Los Angeles County Recorder’s office.
    She lived both in Hemet and on the Hill, having purchased a Pine Cove cabin in 1968. She had been involved in numerous Hill volunteer organizations, including the Idyllwild Garden Club and the Idyllwild Master Chorale.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27 at Chapel in the Pines.
    She is survived by a son, Donald R. Reiterman of Pine Cove; two daughters, Dawn M. Reiterman of San Jacinto and Dorothy Ehni of Ft. St. John, British Columbia; and three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald W. Reiterman.

Patricia Louise Richards
December 11, 2004

    Patricia Louise Richards, 63, of Idyllwild, died Saturday, Dec. 11, 2004 at home surrounded by family, following an eight-year fight against breast cancer.
    She was born Sept. 21, 1941 in Pomona and had lived in Southern California all her life.
    She retired with her husband, Norman, to Idyllwild about five years ago.
    Mrs. Richards loved worldwide travel and made many friends from these adventures. She was an ardent needlepointer and crafted canvases from the many cities and ports she visited.
    At her request, no funeral services will be held and inurnment will be private.
    Along with her husband of 43 years, she is survived by a daughter, Lesley of San Diego, son Dwight Richards, daughter-in-law Pamela, and grandchildren Spencer and Hailey of Glendora. She also is survived by a brother, William Harmsen of Pacific Palisades.
    Memorial donations in her name may be made to the Cancer and Blood Institute for Research, Lucy Curci Cancer Center, 39000 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.

Bill Riekert
October 28, 2005

    Bill Riekert, 65, of Idyllwild, died of a sudden and unexpected case of meningitis Friday, Oct. 28, 2005 while vacationing in Costa Rica.
    Mr. Riekert was born Dec. 6, 1939, raised in New York, and worked in the textile industry which brought him to Palm Springs 20 years ago.
    After a short time living at Lake Hemet, Mr. Riekert moved to Idyllwild full-time five years ago where he volunteered his time primarily for the Idyllwild Rotary Club and the Associates of Idyllwild Arts.
    Mr. Riekert’s joyful and giving spirit will be missed by many here in Idyllwild.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17 at Silver Pines Lodge.
    Mr. Riekert is survived by a daughter, Darcie Bakhouche and two grandchildren, Evan and Alec of Utah; and a son, Roth Riekert of Connecticut.

Anthony Kalani "Kal" Roberts
March 21, 2005

    Anthony Kalani “Kal” Roberts, 65, of Wilhort, Ariz., died Monday, March 21, 2005 in Phoenix of prostate cancer.
    He was born July 14, 1939 in Pearl Harbor.
    Mr. Roberts was a photographer, writer and actor, winning the Pulitzer Prize in 1974 for spot news photography.
    Roberts and his family lived in Idyllwild in the mid-1970s and early 1980s. He was part-owner of Home Sweet Home.
    Roberts first worked as an actor in beach movies such as “Monster From the Surf.”
    He later turned to photography. In 1973, he took seven pictures of a woman’s attempted murder in a Hollywood parking lot that ended with the assailant’s death.
    The photographs, published in the Los Angeles Times and distributed around the world by the Associated Press, won him the 1974 Pulitzer for spot news photography and the Society of Professional Journalists’ Sigma Delta Chi Award.
    Roberts freelanced as a news photographer for many years. His photos were published in Time, Newsweek, People and others.
    He photographed Nixon’s resignation, Patty Hearst’s surrender and Bruce Springsteen’s West Coast debut.
    He was buried at 3 p.m. Friday, March 15 in Wapanucka, Okla.
    Mr. Roberts is survived by his wife, Gloria; a daughter, Moana, of Truckee; a son, Jason, of Sausalito; and a granddaughter, Eden. He also is survived by a brother, Michael, of Skull Valley, Ariz. and a sister, Patty.

LeRoy Rubidoux
April 8, 2004
 
    LeRoy A. Rubidoux, 71, of Lakeside, died Thursday, April 8, 2004 at his home from complications associated with a stroke.
    He was born May 10, 1933 in El Cajon.
    Mr. Rubidoux was a Korean War veteran.
    He was retired after 40 years with Sparkletts Water Company.
    Mr. Rubidoux was a lifetime member of the National Rifleman’s Association.
    A rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15 at El Cajon Mortuary.
    Funeral services are at 10 a.m. Friday, April 16 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Lakeside. Graveside services immediately follow at El Cajon Cemetery with a reception afterward.
    Mr. Rubidoux is survived by a son, Robert M. Rubidoux of Idyllwild; a daughter, Debra Rubidoux of San Diego; two brothers, Ben E. Rubidoux of Colton and Joe A. Rubidoux of El Cajon; two sisters, Dolly Nagler and Joanne Brugman, both of El Cajon; and one grandson, Samuel Lee Rubidoux of Idyllwild.

Michael B. Scheffer
February 1, 2004

    Michael B. Scheffer, 67, of Norco, died at his home Sunday, Feb. 1, 2004.
    Mr. Scheffer was born June 11, 1936, in Hollywood and lived his entire life in Southern California.
    He attended elementary and high school in Idyllwild.
    He was an avid pilot from a young age and enjoyed flying until recent years.
    Mr. Scheffer worked at Laura Scudder’s and Mother’s Cookies until his retirement.
    He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Linda; a daughter, Mary of Virginia; two sons, Michael of Oregon and Edward of Florida; and six grandchildren.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the University of California, Irvine Medical Center’s Department of Urology Education and Research Fund, payable to: Urology Research Foundation, UCI Medical Center, Department of Development, 200 S. Manchester Avenue, Suite 710, Orange, CA 92868.

Albert Schoelkoph
November 6, 2003

    Albert Merle Schoelkoph, 76, of Grants Pass, Ore., died Thursday, Nov. 6, 2003, of Alzheimer’s at an adult care home in that city.
    He was born June 13, 1927, in Ogema, Minn.
    Bert and his wife Trudy came to Idyllwild in 1972 when he started his contracting business.
    Mr. Schoelkoph was a member of the American Legion Post 800 in Idyllwild for 20 years.
    After retiring, the Schoelkophs moved from their home in Garner Valley to Grants Pass where he built their second retirement home in 1996.
    The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in September.
    Mr. Schoelkoph enjoyed wood working, building grandfather clocks, gardening and singing karaoke.
    Along with his wife, Mr. Schoelkoph is survived by a son, Merle Schoelkoph of La Quinta; two daughters, Arlene Busher of Idyllwild and Karen Ortega of Santee; two brothers, William Schoelkoph of Boise, Idaho and Ervin Schoelkoph of Williston, N.D.; two sisters, Mary Schafbuch of Foley, Minn. and Ella Pack of Baltimore, Md.; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in his name be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Oregon Trail Chapter, 2860 State St., Medford, Ore. 97504.

Sueo Serisawa
September 7, 2004

    Sueo Serisawa, 94, of Idyllwild, died Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2004 in San Diego of natural causes.
    He was born April 10, 1910 in Yokohama, Japan.
    Mr. Serisawa’s father, the artist Yoichi Serisawa, moved his family to Seattle in 1918 and a few years later to Long Beach.
    His father’s influence led him into a life of art and teaching.
    Mr. Serisawa studied at Otis Art Institute, Scripps College and Kahn Art Institute.
    His early work was mostly portraiture, landscapes and still lifes. But as a leading member of the Modernist school in Los Angeles, his later paintings reflected elements of abstraction and cubism.
    His first major museum exhibition was held, ironically, on Dec. 7, 1941 at the Los Angeles County Museum.
    Because of World War II, Mr. Serisawa had to leave the West Coast. He lived both in Colorado and Chicago, where he studied at the Chicago Art Institute for a year. He then moved to New York in 1943 where his work received wide recognition at various East Coast exhibitions.
    He returned to the West Coast in 1947, later teaching both at the Kahn Institute of Art and Scripps College.
    He continued to exhibit, winning many substantial awards, and his increasing international reputation led to private classes for such Hollywood notables as Edward G. Robinson, Claire Trevor and Frances Marion.
    Mr. Serisawa has influenced many artists internationally and his work continues to be exhibited. Earlier this year, it was featured in “California Modernism: The Legacy of Five Exceptional Artists: Mabel Alvarez, Edward Biberman, Boris Deutsch, Francis de Erdely, and Sueo Serisawa” at the Spencer Jon Helfen Fine Arts gallery in Beverly Hills.
    A special exhibit of his work called “Poetry in Painting” is on exhibit at the Mingei International Museum’s Warren Theater Gallery at Balboa Park in San Diego.
    He married Marsha Davis in the mid-1970s and they moved to Idyllwild.
    No services are scheduled.
    Along with his wife, Mr. Serisawa is survived by a daughter, Margaret Marcotte of Montecito; one grandson, Gregory Geyer; two great grandchildren; and four stepchildren, Steve Davis, Katherine Davis, Judson Davis and Clifford Davis.

Irving Theodore Severtson
March 25, 2005

Irving Theodore Severtson, 80, of Cathedral City, died Friday, March 25, 2005 in Palm Desert.
     He was born Nov. 5, 1924 to Ole Tobias and Inga Tomina Severtson in Milford, Iowa.
    Mr. Severtson married Shirley Andersen on June 13, 1953 in Minneapolis. 
    He was the owner of the Idyllwild Gift Shop for 25 years and previously employed at Business Incentives in Minneapolis. He was a member of Hope Lutheran Church.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, March 31 at Hope Lutheran Church, 45-900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. 
    Private arrangements are under direction of Palm Springs Mortuary and entombment will be at Lakewood Mausoleum in Minneapolis.
    Mr. Severtson was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and four sisters.
     The family suggests donations be made to Hope Lutheran Church, 45-900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, CA 92260.

Anne Silver
October 20, 2005

Harold E. Slater Jr.
February 16, 2005

Craig L. Slawson.
May 11, 2005

    Craig L. Slawson, 60, who had lived in Idyllwild since he was 7, died Wednesday, May 11, 2005 in his sleep.
    He kept this poem framed on his wall and those who knew him would agree that he lived by these words by William Penn:
    “I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good thing, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any fellow human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”
    Mr. Slawson is survived by his mother, Barbara McCay of Idyllwild; two sisters, Carol Owen of Suffolk, Va. and Penny Godlis of Los Gatos; one brother, R. Michael McCay of Hemet; and three nephews, two nieces, and 10 great-nephews and nieces.
    A memorial service was held May 15 in Fern Valley.

Dr. Ralph Smith
May 24, 2003

    Dr. Ralph Nichol Smith, 81, of Hemet, died from colon cancer Saturday, May 24, 2003, at his home.
    He was born July 4, 1921, in Los Angeles, lived in Hemet 19 years and in Idyllwild two years.
    Dr. Smith was a veterinarian for 50 years and was the Pets Vet in Hemet for 19 years.
    He received his bachelor’s degree from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo and his doctor of veterinary medicine in 1953 from Washington State University.
    He was a lifetime member of the Southern Cailfornia Veterinarian Medical Association, the California Veterianarian Medical Association and the American Veterinarian Dental Association.
    A funeral service is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, June 28 at McWane Family Funeral Home in Hemet. A celebration of life service will follow. Inurnment will be private.
    Dr. Smith is survived by his two companions, Claudia and Virginiaa; a son, Nick Smith of Ventura; two daughters, Pamela Velarde of Manhattan Beach and Sharon Smith of Palos Verdes; four grandchildren; a brother, Lyle Smith of Palm Desert.
    In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends, P.O. Box 1965, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

Wilhelmia Solleveld
Mat 19, 2003

    Wilhelmina Solleveld, 80, of Idyllwild, died Monday, May 19, 2003, at Kaiser Hospital in Riverside.
    She was born in 1922 in Amsterdam, Holland.
    She was a homemaker and seamstress, and belonged to the Women’s Club.
    A memorial service is scheduled for 5 p.m. Sunday, June 8 at Oma’s European Restaurant and Bakery.
    She is survived by two sons, Maurits Solleveld of Corona and Ronald Solleveld of Arizona; three daughters, Mary Riches and Trudy Twardowski of Idyllwild, and Wilhelmina Thomas of San Clemente; two sisters, Thea and Net of Holland; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oma’s Memorial Fund at Guaranty Bank, P.O. Box 1097, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

Mark "Moose" Spaulding
May 18, 2003
 
    Mark "Moose" Spaulding, 47, died in his sleep on Tuesday May 18, 2003 at his home at Astrocamp in Idyllwild.
    Moose was born January 1, 1957 in Summerville, West Virginia.
    Moose had been an employee of Guided Discoveries since 1981, beginning at the Catalina Island Marine Institute. In 1991 he moved to Idyllwild to help with the creation of Astrocamp and remained on the maintenance staff at Astrocamp until the time of his death.
     Moose was a much loved and remarkable man. He was a highly valued employee of Guided Discoveries. His more than 20 years working for the organization were characterized by dependability, a great heart, fun, and dedication to the happiness and safety of all kids and staff. He was a pillar of the staff, providing the strength and support of a foundation. He was famous for the way he made kids laugh and their immediate affection for him. Without fail, he kept the best interests of Astrocamp and the children at heart.
     Through his long service to Guided Discoveries and because of the close-knit nature of the organization, he earned a place deep in the hearts of hundreds of his colleagues. His loss is sorely felt and his memory will be along treasured at Astrocamp, and throughout the Guided Discoveries family.
 Moose was also well known and an active member of the larger Idyllwild community.
     He is survived by his parents Richard and Ada Spaulding; two brothers, Richard and Mike Spaulding; his two sisters Lynn Sales and Barbara Spaulding and his dear friends Rachel Haynes and her daughters.

    Michael Joseph Spehar, 53, of Thousand Oaks, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2003 at Los Robles Hospital, surrounded by his family after a six-year battle with cancer.
    Mr. Spehar was born April 2, 1949 in Hancock, Mich., to Joseph and Jean Spehar.
    He grew up in Van Nuys, attending St. Bridget of Sweden School, Crespi High School and graduated from Birmingham High School in 1968.
    Mr. Spehar was employed for 26 years in set lighting for the studios.
    He enjoyed camping and fishing with family and friends. He was a sports enthusiast whether playing, coaching or watching.
    Mr. Spehar also enjoyed cycling and in 1996 completed the Solvang Century (100 miles).
    He married Amy just over 21 years ago on Jan. 16, 1982.
    Family was very important to him. He found his greatest joy and happiness through his daughters Mandy, Megan and Erin.
    Along with his wife and daughters, Mr. Spehar is survived by his parents, Joseph and Jean Spehar of Van Nuys; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Lorraine Spehar of New Hall, and Mark and Heather Spehar of Idyllwild; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Susan and Mike Yetter of Grants Pass, Ore. and Karen and Brad Syverud of Moorpark; his in-laws, Harold and Lois Whitfield of Burbank; a brother-in-law, Barry Whitfield and his wife Pam of Santa Clarita; sister-in-law Kathy Petzoldt and her husband Paul of Burbank; sister-in-law Wendy Saber of Toluca Lake; and numerous nieces and nephews.
    He also will be missed by a large extended family and many close friends.
    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, 50 W. Hillcrest Dr., Ste. 208, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.

Eugene Stegelmeyer
Jan. 8, 2003

    Eugene Stegelmeyer, 85, of Reno, Nev., died Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, in that city.
    He was born Aug. 9, 1917, in Granite City, Ill., to Alfred and Ruby Graham Stegelmeyer.
    Mr. Stegelmeyer married Nadine Goggin on May 29, 1943, in Granite City, Ill.
    He served in the United States Army Air Corp in World War II.
    He had a master’s degree in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles and was awarded Phi Beta Kappa.
    He taught English and social studies at Emerson Junior High School in Los Angeles.
    The Stegelmeyers lived a number of years in Idyllwild before moving to Reno two-and-a-half years ago.
    He was a life member of the Friends of Idyllwild Library and served on the Idyllwild Fire Protection District’s Board of Commissioners.
    Mr. Stegelmeyer enjoyed fishing and reading.
    Inurnment was private and handled by FitzHenry’s Crematory of Carson City, Nev.
    Along with his wife, he is survived by a sister, Velma York of Reno; and a nephew and niece, Randall York and Suzanne Baker of Mammoth Lakes.
    In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Idyllwild Community Fund, 3800 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501.

LeLand Swanson
December 11, 2003
    Leland M. Swanson, 82, of Hemet, died Thursday, Dec. 11, 2003, in Hemet.
    He was born the fourth of seven children to Rueben and Bernice Swanson on April 12, 1921, in Walla Walla, Wash.
    He graduated from WaHi in 1939.
    Mr. Swanson worked for the Walla Walla Union Bulletin as a paper carrier in his early teens, then on the phone in the office taking “kicks,” complaints, etc.
    He moved to Seattle in 1940 and worked for Boeing until World War II when he joined the Army Air Force soon after Pearl Harbor. He was a bombardier navigator in the South Pacific.
    Mr. Swanson left the regular Army soon after the war was over as a captain.
    He married Barbara Hawk of Walla Walla in 1945. They had one daughter, Pamela Jean Swanson Sanchez, born in Walla Walla.
    Mr. Swanson was in the reserves for years. He graduated from Whitman College, earning an Andrew Carnegie scholarship and going on for his master’s degree at the University of Colorado.
    He was city manager of Pendleton and The Dalles, Ore., then city manager of Manhattan Beach, Calif., in the 1940s.
    He attended the University of Southern California, studying and working as assistant director of the Pakistani Project.
    He received his doctorate degree in public administration from USC in 1964, specializing in cybernetics.
    Mr. Swanson was one of the assistant directors for the City of Los Angeles in charge of the “War on Poverty.” He had that position during the Watts riots.
    The last 30 years, he lived in the Hemet and Idyllwild area, was married to Leann Swanson and was in the antique business.
    Along with his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Pamela, and son-in-law Carlos Sanchez; three stepdaughters, Phyllis Kirchner and Robbin Decker, both of Idyllwild, and Heather Bowman; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
    Memorial contributions may be made to Hemet Hospice Inc., 890 W. Stetson, Hemet, CA 92543 or to Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Division of Human Anatomy, Loma Linda, CA 92350.

Darleen Taylor
November 13, 2003

   Darleen Ann Taylor, 47, of Pahrump, Nev., died from pneumonia at her home on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003.
    She was born Aug., 20, 1956, in Mojave, Calif.
    Ms. Taylor had lived in Idyllwild for 18 years and had been a member of the Idyllwild Lioness Club.
    She had worked in the garden center at Wal-Mart in Nevada.
    Burial is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 at the San Jacinto Cemetery.
    Ms. Taylor is survived by her fiance, Greg Chirpka; a son, Landen Taylor of Hemet; a daughter, Lynsi Taylor of Nevada; and three sisters, Donna Stull of Washington, Diane George of Missouri and Debi Young-Sorbel of Hemet.

Ralph E. Todd
January 3, 2004

    Ralph “Jim”E. Todd, 93, died Saturday, Jan. 3, 2004, in Riverside.
    Mr. Todd graduated in 1930 from Elwood High School in Elwood, Kans.
    Mr. Todd lived in Riverside County for 47 years.
    For 35 years, he was a carpenter in Idyllwild. He also built several homes for himself.
    Services were held Monday, Jan. 12 at Pierce Brothers Crestlawn in Riverside.
    Mr. Todd is survived by his daughter, Crystal Todd of Riverside; a grandson and granddaughter-in-law John and Patty Velasquez of Riverside; a granddaughter, Julie Wolff of La Palma; two great-granddaughters; two brothers, Lloyd Walker of Washington and August “Gus” Walker of Santa Paula; and a sister, Shirley Burns of Missouri.

Kimberly "Kim" Dayle Walters
Feb. 7, 2003

    Kimberly “Kim” Dayle Walters, 43, of Idyllwild, died Friday, Feb. 7, 2003, at home after a long illness of AIDS and complications of pneumonia.
    Mr. Walters was born Oct. 4, 1959, in Baton Rouge, La.
    He was a woodburning artist and volunteered at the Idyllwild HELP Center. He was best known for his hot sauce store, Fireworks.
    Mr. Walters loved his animals and his dog Jack was with him when he died.
    Services will be private.
    He is survived by his companion of 15-1/2 years, David Sommerlad; his mother, Judi Parker; his grandmother, Lorraine Exner; and his sister, Kari Rogers.

Joseph Wassell
March 30, 2004

    Joseph Oliver Wassell, 66, of Idyllwild, died of a heart attack at Hemet Valley Medical Center on Tuesday, March 30, 2004.
    He was born May 7, 1937 in Santa Monica.
    Mr. Wassell was a self-employed landscape designer for 40 years in Los Angeles and the Coachella Valley.
    His wife said he was a proud Democrat.
    Various members of the Wassell family were early pioneers in the Idyllwild area.
    Mr. Wassell and his wife, Annette, had their honeymoon in Idyllwild 40 years ago and have been permanent Idyllwild residents for the past three years.
    Among his many artistic interests were jewelry making and ceramics. Mr. Wassell was an avid student of history and was especially fond of the articles the late Dr. William Lumsden wrote for the Town Crier.
    Along with his wife, he is survived by a brother, Desmond Wassell of Alexandria, VA.
    In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Idyllwild HELP Center, P.O. Box 660, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

Harold O. Wickman
May 12, 2003

    Harold O. Wickman, 67, of Idyllwild, died Monday, May 12, 2003, at home.
    He was born Aug. 21, 1935, in Gardner, Mass.
    Mr. Wickman had been employed as a computer systems engineer at Unisys.
    He belonged to the American Legion Post 800 in Idyllwild.
    A memorial service is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, May 26 at the American Legion and conducted by its members.
    Mr. Wickman is survived by two sons, Richard Wickman of Lacey, Wash. and Scott Wickman of Rochester, Minn.; a daughter, Tina Pelletier of Big Bear City; two brothers, Gerald Wickman of Texas and Robert Wickman of Mass.; and five grandchildren.

Carol Dee Williams
October 2, 2005
    Carol Dee Williams, 56, of Pine Cove, died of natural causes Sunday, Oct. 2, 2005 at home.
    She was born Nov. 27, 1948 in Spokane, Wash.
    She was a home health care provider, a massage therapist and a certified emergency medical technician. She also was invovled in hospice care.
    A memorial service is planned for Saturday, Oct. 22 when friends are invited to join Ms. Williams’ family for a celebration of her life and a sharing of stories. For more information, call her brother, Scott Williams, at 659-5559, or her sister, Angie Strohn, at (805) 541-3676.
    Besides her brother of San Clemente and her sister of San Luis Obispo, she is survived by her mother, Lillian Martinez of Modesto.
    Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends, P.O. Box 1965, Idyllwild, CA 92549.

Norma Jeanne Wilson
March 10, 2003

    Norma Jeanne Wilson, 82, of Idyllwild, died of natural causes in Palm Desert Monday, March 10, 2003.
    She was born July 28, 1921, in Saginaw, Mich.
    Ms. Wilson was an occupational therapist working with children.
    She was a member of the Idyllwild Bible Church and was a volunteer of the children’s program at the Wycliffe Bible Translators, formerly in Idyllwild.
    A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 19 at the Idyllwild Bible Church with Pastor Tim Westcott officiating.
    She is survived by two sisters, Miriam Gephart of Michigan and Barbara Houghton of Tennessee.
    Friends said she was a quiet, kind woman with a gentle spirit and a deep desire to serve God as she served children.

Larry Wood
July 31, 2005
    Larry Wood, 91, of Garner Valley passed away Sunday, July 31, 2005. He was born in 1913.
    The Woods have lived in Garner Valley for more than 30 years and were the first permanent residents in the Garner Valley development. 
    Larry and and his wife of 64 years, Jean, have been among the most active of Garner Valley residents. He will be dearly missed by his neighbors and friends. 
    Larry was laid to rest in San Gabriel beside his son who died in the Vietnam War. 
    Besides his wife, Larry is survived by a daughter, Wendy Skean, also of Garner Valley, and two grandchildren.

Margaret Wootton
June 17, 2005
    Margaret Budlong Wootton, 81, died peacefully on Friday, June 17, 2005. She was surrounded by family at her home in Idyllwild.
    Funeral services were held Thursday, June 23 in Hemet. She was buried at the National Cemetery in Riverside. A public memorial was held Friday, June 24 at The Creek House in Idyllwild.
    She was born March 14, 1924 in Long Beach to Edward Hiram and Maud Gridley Budlong.
    She was married to W.M. “Bill” Wootton on July 19, 1947. They were blessed with a daughter, Linda Diane, and a son, Scott Allen.
    The couple were longtime residents of Mohawk Valley in Yuma County, Ariz. For 10 years, Mrs. Wootton taught English as a second language at Mohawk Valley School. She loved teaching literacy to children and adults, and had an ongoing passion for education.
    Upon retirement in 1980, the couple moved to Idyllwild where they had honeymooned 33 years earlier. Mrs. Wootton spent 20 years researching her family. She became involved with The Family History Center as she continued her work in genealogy.
    Mrs. Wootton became interested in photography as a hobby in her later years. She mainly focused on portraits and was especially skilled at taking portraits of children.
    She enjoyed capturing the essence of the Fourth of July and Halloween parades with her photos. She also became the official (and self-appointed) photographer for the Annual Wootton Family Reunion held every Thanksgiving in Arizona.
    Along with her husband Bill, she is survived by a sister, Jean (George) Finley; a daughter, Linda; a son, Scott (Brenda); four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a large, extended family.
    She will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
    Mrs. Wootton was interested in education and through the years, helped many students with financial assistance. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Margaret B. Wootton Scholarship Fund at the Idyllwild Arts Academy, P.O. Box 38, Idyllwild, CA 92549, Attn: Margaret B. Wootton Scholarship Fund.

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