Santa Clara Magazine

Timothy William Reed ’77 passed away on Aug. 23, 2010. A fourth generation Californian, with ties to Santa Clara Valley Pioneer Families, he was born in San Jose to William and Jane Reed. He was raised on the family ranch in Sunnyvale and grew up picking and drying fruit. He graduated with honors from Homestead High, De Anza College and Santa Clara University, receiving his Bachelors of Science Degree in Chemistry. Reed worked in the electronics industry prior to undertaking a major career change. Over the years he worked as an Independent contractor, Property Manager before settling in on a career as an Accountant. His passion in life revolved around his interests and hobbies and his favorite team the Forty-niners. He loved to search out unique experiences and tasting foods from different cultures. He was an avid reader and collector of books and periodicals. Other interests included martial arts, history, politics, music and movies. He is greatly missed by his surviving family, loving parents Bill and Jane, brother Patrick with his wife Roseann and family, along with his many cousins, their spouses and extended families. He will be fondly remembered for the attributes which made him shine. His thoughtfulness, generosity, loyalty, dedication and work ethic, his good nature, humor and of course his trademark grin. 

Steven Emerson Curtis M.S. ’77, our wonderful husband, father, Papa, and hero, passed away on January 5, 2013 after a courageous eight-year battle with cancer. He valiantly inspired others and proved that this is still a day of miracles. Steve was born in Salt Lake City on March 16, 1948 to Reuben Emerson and Alice Call Curtis. He graduated from Highland High School and served an LDS mission to Northern Germany. He married his eternal sweetheart, Janice Derrick in the Salt Lake Temple. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in electrical engineering and received a master's degree from Santa Clara University in California. He spent the majority of his career designing medical imaging equipment and managing research and development departments. He loved solving mathematical engineering problems and was granted many patents. Steve was a man of absolute integrity. He had sound judgment and great wisdom. He possessed charity for all and so appreciated the love and prayers offered for him during his health struggles. He left a legacy of love, service, humor, and devotion to his family. He endured to the end with steadfast faith in the Savior and a testimony of the gospel. He was without guile and was a true disciple of Christ. Steve loved gardening and his beautiful flowers were legendary. He passed on his love of camping and hiking in the mountains and national parks to his family. He loved music and sang every chance he had in choirs, quartets and duets with Jani and was an excellent choir director. He enjoyed traveling and saw much of the world. He delighted in the scriptures and was continually immersed in them. He had an extensive knowledge of the gospel and lived its principles with exactness. He served faithfully in many callings, but his favorite was teaching, where he constantly bore his testimony of the love, kindness, and mercy of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Jani, their children Michael (Rochelle) Curtis, Matthew (Brooke) Curtis, Alisa (Kevin) Bolander, Jennifer (Alan) Stout, and 14 grandchildren. 

Richard F. Lee JD '77 died peacefully on January 9, 2012, after living bravely and valiantly with frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and ALS. Rick never complained or felt self-pity about his diagnosis. Instead, he accepted it and committed himself to staying active and serving others. Until his final month, he volunteered at the Unity Shoppe and Central Office of AA, and loved walking long distances sharing hope with everyone he met. He participated in a research project at UCSF so future families will not experience this devastating disease.

Rick was born in San Francisco to Bruce P. Lee and Barbara L. Lee (Pierce), and raised in Millbrae, California. From the time he was a toddler he was the consummate jokester. In his own inimitable way he was also a leader. He was captain of the safety patrol at his elementary school, and senior class president at Mills High School. He was on the debate team at UCSB, and graduated summa cum laude from Santa Clara Law School in 1977. He returned to Santa Barbara as an associate at Schramm & Raddue where he later became a senior partner.

He was married to Barbara Conway from 1976 to 1990 and they had three wonderful children: Allison, Andrea and Adam. In 1993 he married Diana Jessup and together they adopted Diana's foster daughter Lorraine Monroy. Rick loved being a father and grandfather.

He also loved being a lawyer and helping people. When Schramm & Raddue dissolved, he opened his own office where he enjoyed representing a wide variety of clients. In 2007 he joined Reicker, Pfau, Pyle & McRoy LLP where he practiced until his medical retirement in 2010. He had a passion for correcting injustices, whether the cause was worth millions of dollars or none at all.

Rick held leadership roles in many civic organizations, including Legal Aid, Santa Barbara County Bar Association, Alano Club, Barristers' Club, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church and Teen Court. Rick was a role model in dealing openly and candidly with the challenges he faced in life. He was proud to have 29 years of sobriety and to have survived prostate cancer. Rick had amazing stamina and always strove to see the best in people. His commitment to enjoying life and helping others will live on in the many people he mentored and loved. One of the greatest gifts Rick received in his last year was the loving care of his son-in-law Nathan who was his full time caregiver.

Rick is survived by his wife Diana; his children Allison in San Francisco, Andrea (Nathan) Ridgell in Santa Barbara, Adam in San Francisco, and Lorraine (Marcus) Haynes in Las Vegas; his brother Steve in Santa Barbara; his sister Janet in Lincoln; his grandchildren Kaden and Kashton Ridgell, Anthony, Monique and Chauntal Monroy, and Brooklynn Haynes; and his aunt and cousins in the Sanfillipo family. His parents and sister Joanne predeceased him.

Mimi Murray Meriwether ’77 died on September 28, after a very long struggle with cancer. Born in Pittsburg, PA in 1955, Mimi' s early schooling was at The Trinita dei Monti in Rome, Italy, where her family resided for a number of years while her father pursued business interests in Europe. Returning to the United States, her family settled in Pebble Beach, California in 1966. Mimi entered Santa Catalina School in Monterey, and remained there until completing her high school years. After her freshman year at Santa Clara University, Mimi transferred to Georgetown University, where she graduated in 1977. Mimi's marriage to John Meriwether brought her to New York City living and then to their home in North Salem, NY. In later years Mimi found great serenity in her cherished Taos, New Mexico. Mimi was beloved by friends beyond number. The charity in her heart was unrestrained, and often found exercise in her generosity to friends in need. The parade of visitors to the hospital from near, far and very far was remarkable. How she was loved! Mimi was a profoundly spiritual person whose virtue was evident to all who knew her. Many times she traveled to Medjugorje, a place of pilgrimage in the former Yugoslavia, where she often brought friends as her guests. From childhood, Mimi loved horses, and she became a very accomplished competitive horsewoman. She achieved international success in the demanding sport of three day eventing, which has been likened to competing in a triathlon. Arrestingly courageous in coping with her illness, Mimi was small of frame and had an extraordinary sweetness and magical delicacy that captivated all who had the great grace of knowing her. Mimi's parents, Mr. and Mrs James G. Murray, Jr. are deceased, as is her sister, Pamela Murray, who was a nun. She is survived by John Meriwether, her sisters Joan Murray, Judy Allrich and Patricia Huse and by her brother James G. Murray, III. She leaves three nieces, five nephews and an enormous number of friends, particularly Heather Croome-Carroll and Diane Summers, who were so good to Mimi in her sickness as were so many others.

Lisa Marie (Regalia) Weekes '77 passed away on July 30, 2011 from complications from a recent surgery. Born in San Francisco on August 8, 1955 she was a true City Girl having attended St Stephens and the St Rose Academy before graduating with a BA from Santa Clara University. Lisa travelled the world and lived in Los Angeles and Chicago before returning home to the Bay Area to live in San Ramon. Lisa was an incredibly kind and talented woman whose grace and humor touched everyone who had the pleasure to know her. Her beauty and generosity to others will be remembered for many years to come. Her courage and dignity during her medical challenges were both inspiring and humbling to her family and dearest friends. Lisa is survived by her husband of 31 years Terry Weekes '76 and her two treasured sons Connor and Kienan; her brothers Andrew Regalia (Judy Regalia) and Chris Regalia '74 (Kathryn Regalia); her aunts and uncles Elvira and Barney Lindemann, Don and Susan Sheehan and Joan Parina; her sister and brother-in-laws, cousins and many nieces and nephews who she cared for greatly; her dearest friends and her beloved golden retriever Woody!  Lisa was preceded in death by her father Andrew Mario Regalia and Eleanore Marie Regalia of San Francisco.

Joan Marie Vellequette M.A. ’77, a resident of Los Altos, Calif. for 51 years, passed away peacefully on Nov. 13, 2012. Joan is survived by her loving husband, Murlin Vellequette MBA '68, her sister Margaret Bouthillier (& husband Conrad), her brother-in-law Roger Vellequette, her sister-in-law Bernadette Hall, and her eight children: Joseph Vellequette (& wife Suzy), John Vellequette, David Vellequette (& wife Mary), Mary Singleton (& husband D.J.), Ann Frates, Mark Vellequette '86, MBA '91 (& wife Mary Beth), Michael Vellequette (& wife Kim), and James Vellequette. Joan was blessed with 21 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren - all of whom she loved deeply. Joan had a knack for remembering everyone's birthday, graduation, and anniversary - while making it all look easy. Born Joan Marie Lynch in Chicopee, Mass., her family later moved to Michigan where she attended the University of Detroit as a Chemistry major graduating in 1951. Joan dated Murlin Vellequette in college and they married in 1952. Over the next 9 years, they lived in Huntsville, Detroit, Fort Wayne, Cincinnati, and then moved to California in 1960 when Murlin accepted a position with Fairchild Semiconductor. In Los Altos, they bought one of the first homes in the Highlands area, where they made many close friends in that great neighborhood. Recently, with family and some long-time friends, Joan and Murlin celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, a true milestone of enduring love. Early on, Joan worked as a Chemist for Ethyl Corp., and then devoted herself to the whirlwind of raising eight children. Joan returned to college and obtained a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University in 1977. She also volunteered for many years with the St. Simon Catholic Parish ministries, the El Camino Hospital Auxiliary, and for St. Francis High School. Later on, she enjoyed being the office manager and psychological testing coordinator for the Behaviordyne Pyschological Corp. in Palo Alto, and she also acted as the bookkeeper for the family business. Joan's personal interests varied from celebrating and quietly helping her family, to frequent travels, to being an extremely avid reader. Her travels included India, Europe, China, Australia and many trips with family to destinations all over the US. Annual summer trips to Myrtle Beach were a favorite, and no one will ever forget seeing Joan and Murlin parasailing together way up in the sky during one terrific Vellequette & Bouthillier Family Reunion. Joan was always selflessly full of life and love, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and cherished her.

Janet C. Winter MA ’77, of Folsom, Calif., passed away peacefully Nov. 28, 2011, at her home. Janet was born Nov. 1, 1940, in Pinckneyville, a daughter to John and Elizabeth (Emling) Winter. She was a 1958 graduate of Pinckneyville Community High School, did her undergraduate studies at SIU Carbondale, earning a bachelor of science, and then attained a masters degree in arts and education from Santa Clara University. Janet was an avid gardener, was artistic, adventurous, loved painting and was skillful and handy in making home repairs for herself as well as her family. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother, loved spending time with and caring for her family and will be dearly missed by all her knew her. Janet is survived by one daughter, Pippa (Andy) Austin of Folsom, Calif.; one granddaughter, Stephanie Austin of Folsom, Calif.; three sisters; and two brothers, Bonita Knight of Du Quoin, Lyle (Debbie) Winter, Merle (Shirley) Winter, Delores Higgerson, all of Pinckneyville, and Joyce (Sam) Stine of Tremonton, Utah; her caregiver for the last year and great-niece, Melissa Knight, and numerous other nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers-in-law, Roy Knight and Ross Reel.

James M. Rhine JD ’77 of Rohnert Park, Calif., passed away Oct. 6, 2010.

Ivan Pesic M.S. ’77, founder, president and CEO of Silvaco, passed away from cancer at 61 in October 2012. He is survived by his wife Kathy ’74, M.S. ’80, daughter Yelena ’05, M.S. ’07 and son Iliya ’03, who now assumes the role of chairman of the board of Silvaco, a provider of TCAD, circuit simulation, and IC CAD software tools.

Pesic obtained a bachelor’s in electrical engineering from SCU and continued his education at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan where he obtained a master’s in electronic engineering under the guidance of Professor Fujio Masuoka, the inventor of Flash memory. Prior to his appointment as chairman of Silvaco, he worked for many years in the TCAD, semiconductor, MEMS and biomedical industry, most recently as a senior process engineer of a fabrication facility.

Carol Sue Moore MA ’77 of Sun Lakes passed away on May 21, 2012, surrounded by family. Carol was born in Colton, Calif., on May 11, 1938 to Virgil and Anna Hawelka Pinson. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Gerald Moore, and sons, Paul Brown (Tammy), Keith Moore (Jodi), and Michael Moore (Allyson), as well as 10 grandchildren and her sister Betty Pinson Harbin. She was preceded in death by her father and mother. After high school Carol went to beauty school and became a cosmetologist. After her cosmetology career Carol worked in the advertising department of the local newspaper, The Colton Courier. Carol received her AA degree from Gavilan College then continued on to achieve her bachelor's degree in English from San Jose State and furthered her education receiving her teaching credential and master's Degree from Santa Clara University. Carol completed her student teaching at Live Oak High School in Morgan Hill, Calif., and taught there for 28 years. During that time she was a mentor teacher and department chairperson, but her final and most rewarding position was heading the academy as lead teacher. The academy was a program that helped students with academic problems in their middle school years to graduate from high school. After retirement in 1996, Carol and Jerry moved to Sun Lakes, Ariz., where Carol learned to play golf. Carol volunteered at Chandler Regional Hospital in the Immunization Clinic and Volunteer Board. She served as vice president of community outreach, vice president of fund raising and president of the board for three years. Carol was also president of Arizona Association of Healthcare Volunteers. At her church, Carol worked with the Mission's Committee helping to improve the lives of homeless veterans and there she made the congregation aware of the need for special bicycles for the children afflicted with Spina Bifida. She and Jerry purchased a 1956 T Bird and belonged to the Arizona Classic Thunderbird Club. Carol wrote the New Members column for the newsletter and served as secretary, activities chairman and president of the club. Carol found great joy in the ladies she met in Sun Lakes, The Red Hat Ladies and the Gourmet Gals.

Thomas O'Neill M.Div '78 on September 9, 2009.

Theresa Louise Pfeiffer '72, J.D. '78 on Feb. 25, 2010. She died peacefully in her home surrounded by her family and friends. The cause of death was brain cancer. Terry is survived by her husband, James Jeffers, her daughters, Emily and Rachel, her parents, brothers and sisters and their families, as well as many other family members and friends. Wife, mother, daughter, sister, lawyer, friend, and adventurer. Terry was the eldest child of Jack and Louise Pfeiffer. She was a fifth generation Californian from the Almaden Valley. She cherished her family all her life. Family and friends will always remember Terry for her good nature, her optimistic and energetic spirit, her warm smile, and her kindness. Terry was a modest person. She spoke softly and never uttered an angry word, yet managed to speak honestly and directly. She always wore a genial smile on her face and was filled with warmth, compassion, and a true love of life. She was a role model and devoted mother to her two daughters, and was immensely proud of their achievements. Terry enjoyed reading, world travels, pancakes, camping, working on the Tree Farm, learning the names of birds and plants, and all aspects of the outdoors. She loved languages and had a passion for the opera. Above all, Terry rejoiced in being with her family. For over 30 years as a lawyer, Terry was an advocate for the "little guy." Terry's keen intellect and sense of justice allowed her to speak candidly for the underprivileged and put others before herself. Terry responded to challenges with poise and equanimity. She struggled with a dreadful disease with the same grace, courage, and good cheer that characterized every aspect of her life and personality. She will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune to meet her. The family wishes to express its deep appreciation and thanks to Hospice of the Valley. Services were held March 6th at St. Anthony's Church in San Jose. Donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 4850 Union Ave, San Jose, CA, 95124.
 

Terry Chadha '78, resident of Albany, Calif., passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2009 in Berkeley, at 52 years of age. Terry was a native of the Bay Area and devoted her life to her daughters Sashi, Nisha, Tara, Kumari, her son, Krishan, and her husband, Jagdish. She was a graduate of Santa Clara University, a lifelong teacher, and a friend to everyone she met.

Salvatore “Sal” J. Sunseri '75, J.D. '78 died suddenly and unexpectedly on October 2, 2010 after 57 wonderful years in San Jose. Beloved husband of Barbara, who loved him dearly. Loving father of Samantha and Scott. Cherished brother of Jim Sunseri '71, JD '74 (Anita). Special cousin to Joe, Pat, and Gary Sunseri. Beloved nephew of Aunt Kay Sunseri. Loved son-in-law of Sue Small and brother-in-laws Jon and Jim (Caroline) Small. Adored uncle of Mary Anne Sunseri '05, Emily, Colin, Audrey, Rachel, and Elizabeth. Preceded in death by Sam and Mary Sunseri. A San Jose native and graduate of Bellarmine College Prep, Santa Clara University, and SCU School of Law. Sal was an outstanding trial attorney and passionate baseball and soccer coach. Sal loved his family more than anything. He loved life, loved to laugh, and loved the Giants. He was a true friend to all who had the good fortune to know him, especially to Joe and Mike. Thoughts of Sal bring to mind his compassion, zeal for life, and true friendship. He always took a genuine interest in everyone he met, whether he knew them well or not. He was always ready to extend a helping hand or heartfelt note if you were in need of love and support. Sal had a passion for all sports, but especially baseball. He loved watching Giants games with Samantha. He reveled in coaching Scott and his teammates. His positive outlook on life was an inspiration to all the boys he coached.

Richard Eldon Ford '78 passed away peacefully after a 15-month struggle with glioblastoma on Friday, June 17, 2011, in San Jose. He was born in Oxnard, Calif., on June 5, 1956. During his active life, Ford, always known as "Rick," was a mortician and funeral director, real estate broker, attorney and accountant. When not engaged in his various professions, Ford obtained his private pilot license and flew a Beech Bonanza all over the West. He rode off-road motorcycles, loved to camp, explore, cook, whitewater raft and travel. A sense of adventure imbued Ford. There was nothing he didn't do, and everything he did was done well. Ford was both a resident of San Jose and Cambria, where he and his wife, Donelle Morgan, had owned a beach house since 1998. They divided their time between their two homes as their professional lives allowed. From 2004 to 2007, Rick lived in Cambria full time, while Donelle commuted to the Bay area via their Bonanza. After graduation from Santa Clara University in 1978, Ford became employed by the Lima Family Mortuary in Santa Clara. With a degree in Mortuary Science from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science, Valedictorian, Class of 1979, Rick became involved in all aspects of funeral home management and operation. During that time, Rick also obtained his real estate broker''s license and took classes at San Jose State to become an accountant. Eventually, his desire to improve himself lead to enrollment in Lincoln University Law School in 1987. He graduated magna cum laude in 1991 and joined the law firm of Atwood, Knox, Anderson, Uzzi & DiNapoli as an associate attorney. In 1994, shortly after becoming an associate of Olimpia, Whelan & Lively, Rick was admitted as a partner and did civil and family law litigation with gusto. Despite his success in the legal arena, or perhaps because of it, Rick took a break from the demands of the profession and resumed his prior employment in the funeral business and became a funeral director with Chapel of the Roses in Atascadero from 2004 to 2007—he considered himself semi-retired. Ever restless, in January 2008 Rick returned to his professional life in San Jose and joined the accountancy firm of McMahan Helfrick Thiercof & Butera to do litigation support. He used his family law certification and accounting background to great advantage. It was a job he loved. He used his considerable vacation time to travel with Donelle to England, New Zealand, Canada and Mexico, along with many weeks of camping and motorcycling in his beloved Southern Utah. Rick's spirit, intelligence, and love for life were enormous. He will be greatly mourned. Rick is survived by his loving wife, Donelle Morgan.

Michael Terence Gibbons '78 on November 14, 2009.

Mary Davey MBA ’78 died October 2, 2010 at the age of 80.Though known widely as a co-founder of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District and a former Los Altos Hills mayor, Mary Davey is best remembered as an infectiously enthusiastic advocate for environmental and social causes. Friends and family of Davey recalled the positive and supportive spirit she brought to the numerous nonprofit organizations she worked with, including the Committee for Green Foothills, Hidden Villa, the Sempervirens Fund and the Midpeninsula Citizens for Fair Housing. She frequently addressed others by exclaiming they were "wonderful people," her friends said, and she called everyone "the world's greatest" family, staff or friends. "Mary loved people," said Steve Abbors, general manager of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. "It's just her view of the world. She was just consistently supportive and everyone appreciated it." Brian Schmidt, a legislative advocate for the Committee for Green Foothills, described Davey as "somebody who's been involved in so many issues throughout our county and our region. I think she's going to have an influence even when we don't even know about it." Davey was born in Chicago and grew up in Columbus, Ohio. She took classes at Ohio State University, where she met her husband Jack, and later graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from Smith College in English and government. Later, she earned Advertisement a master's degree in business administration from the University of Santa Clara. She served on the MBA Alumni Board Emeritus and the MBA Corporation Alumni Neteowrk. Davey moved with her family to Los Altos Hills in 1961. Jack Davey was in the U.S. Air Force, their son Curtis Davey said, and came to California for a job opportunity after he finished his service. "We grew up going camping," said Curtis Davey, who now lives in Montana. "Whenever we could we spent a lot of time outdoors and I think she found a lot of serenity in the wilderness. ... Now I find myself living in the Big Sky country because of her influence." Curtis Davey said his mother was always politically active and originally a Republican. He remembered helping her stuff political envelopes as a child, and said she was one of the first female convention delegates in the 1960 presidential election between Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy. In the mid-60s, though, she began to champion more liberal causes, he said, and had a "willingness to stand up for the underdog." She served on the Los Altos Hills Town Council from 1966 to 1973, but was recalled because she wanted to see low-income housing built in Los Altos Hills, Curtis Davey said. "There was a heated and ugly campaign," he said. "There were literally phone calls late at night with people threatening her, saying 'I know where your kids get on the bus.'" Nonetheless, she continued her work with social and environmental organizations, winning numerous awards and recognitions for her work. In 2001, she received the Josephine and Frank Duveneck Humanitarian Award and U.S. Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Palo Alto, described her accomplishments to Congress. Eshoo called her an "exceptional voice and a passionate advocate for improving the quality of life in our community." She was the current president of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District's board of directors, which she joined in 1994. "It would be wonderful if everyone on the planet had a small amount of Mary Davey in them," said Lennie Roberts, a legislative advocate at the Committee for Green Foothills. "The world would be a better place."

Martha Schwarting '78 died August 22, 2010 of a coronary arrest. She was 61. She was born Oct. 22, 1948, in Detroit, Mich., to Albert and Nancy Day Rogers. She married Stephen Schwarting on June 23, 1967, in Annapolis, Md. He died April 12, 1973. She graduated with a bachelors degree from Santa Clara University in 1978. She worked as a middle school teacher for 20 years, the last 19 years in Cottage Grove. Survivors include a daughter, Amy Perimon of Portland; a son, Thomas of Eugene; a sister, Katie Day Lutz of Morgan Hills, Calif.; and two grandchildren.

Linda Castaneda Valdez '78 died Nov. 29, 2009. A native of San Jose, she was born May 12, 1956. Linda leaves her husband Frank Valdez; parents Thomas and Frances Castaneda; children Solomon Castaneda, Olivia Rodriguez and Dominic Rodriguez; daughter in-law Sabrina Castaneda; and grandson Aidan Castaneda. Linda was born and raised in San Jose and attended Willow Glen High School. She graduated from Santa Clara University and earned her BS in sociology. Linda was a dedicated mother and paralegal. Linda is survived by her brother Robert, sister Sue Severe, nephews, nieces, in-laws and many friends. Linda was an attribute to her community and to her family. Linda loved Jesus Christ and her family with all her heart and will truly be missed.

Lillian Herlich Nerenberg J.D. '78, teacher, author, and attorney, on November 2, 2011, in Los Gatos, Calif. Loving wife of 55 years of Ben Nerenberg, whom she outlived by 12 years. Born Aug. 16, 1920. Beloved mother of Lewis T. Nerenberg and Alan V. Nerenberg of California, Mark E. Nerenberg of New York, and Nancy R. Nerenberg of Oregon. Loving sister of Joseph Herlich of California and Milton Herlich of New York. Grandmother of Mara, Renee, Devin, Maya, Miles, Kiara, Elliott and Marrin Nerenberg. Honorary Lifetime Member of American Association of University Women, charter member of Los Gatos League of Women Voters. Co-author of high school text American Government in Action. Lil started law school at age 54, completing the University of Santa Clara program in four years while continuing her 25-year career teaching political science at West Valley College. As a charter member of the California State Bar’s Dues-exempt membership contingent, she spent her entire legal career doing pro bono work for Senior Adult Legal Assistance. The Nerenberg children extend a special thank you to Pasepa Tuineau and her family for their care of our mother and their friendship and loving kindness. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to Senior Adult Legal Assistance of Santa Clara County or a charity of your choice.

Laura Orosco Austin '78 died Oct. 24, 2009. A native of Santa Clara, she was a caring daughter to her mother, Sally Austin. She is preceded in death by her father, Manuel R. Austin, and her grandparents. She will be missed by her brothers, Manuel Austin Jr., Dr. David Austin, Charles Austin, and niece, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. She was a graduate of Santa Clara University and was employed by Legal Aide Society of San Jose. Laura was a very passionate advocate for the Hispanic community. Those who knew her were blessed by her sense of compassion and warm heart.

Kathryn "Kay" Mae Sproul Gardner MA ‘78 died on November 6, 2010. As a retired Reading Instructor at West Valley College, Kathryn helped develop the WVC Learning Services program, and served as Department Chair during most of her career at WVC and was President of the Northern California College Reading Association. She held a BA in English, San Jose State University; was a Ford Fellow at SF State University and held an MA, Education, University of Santa Clara. She attended Santa Clara High School, where she was active in debate and theatre, and made many life long friends. Kay volunteered with League of Women Voters, Partners in Reading, Volunteer Exchange. An avid reader, excellent writer, nature lover, she enjoyed the arts, and followed politics and current events. She left many good friends, colleagues and former students who appreciated her strength, intelligence and deep friendships. Survived by loving daughter and son-in-law Barbara and Tim Oertli, Santa Clara, CA. Step-daughter Judith Gardner, Maumelle, AR; Grand-daughter Eyren Mills, Charleston, SC. Cousin, Nancy McDowell, San Martin, CA. Loving wife of Arthur S. Gardner, San Jose, who pre-deceased her.

Jennie Rykoff ’78 died on August 23, 2010. She was a resident of Santa Clara. On October 28, 1922 a little girl was born to Ben and Sarah Karabedian. Her name was Jennie. She filled her own life and those around her with the joie de vivre. She grew up with her older brother Patrick (Pat), and later was followed by two younger sisters Bergie and Babe. Her looks turned heads. Her talents took her to singing with a band at the Breakers in Long Beach until her brother Pat found out and pulled her from the stage. After all, nice Armenian girls at that time didn't sing in public. After high school she became a baby photographer and moved to Phoenix, Arizona. No one was ever more taken with babies than Jennie. One day while walking in Phoenix, George Palumbo saw Jennie. His first words to her were, ""I thought all the movie stars were in Hollywood." They married in 1942 and moved back to Los Angeles. They had one son Bruce. He was showered with love. As in every life, strife entered Jennie's life. And in 1964, Jennie and George parted. Richard Rykoff, her gallant gentleman, came into Jennie's life. Richard Lee, as she called him, and Jennie were married in May 1966. Richard's teenage daughters Deborah and Joanna then became Jennie's daughters as well. In 1972, Richard transitioned from his active law practice in Beverly Hills and became a full time professor of law at the University of Santa Clara Law School. Jennie went back to school and obtained her B.A. Later, Jennie's love of art took her to the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco where she entered their extensive training program and became a docent. After 1994, when she lost her beloved Richard Lee, Jennie stayed in the Bay area and remained very active in the community, helping many to look at their lives with the same joy she brought to her life. After a stroke in 2005 that fortunately only affected her short term memory, Jennie came to live with her son Bruce and daughter-in-law Penny. As time passed, Jennie's loving care giver Evelia Coreas came to live with Jennie, Penny and Bruce. Jennie was once again with the people who loved her most and remained with Penny and Bruce until her death on August 23. She is survived by her daughters Deborah Bennett and Joanna Rykoff, by her daughter-in-law, Penny and son Bruce, by her sister Bergie Corey, and by several nephews and nieces and by the many close friends whose lives were made so much better by having known her. She was always fair and loving, but also firm. She brought solidity and certainty to those many confused by life's clouds of uncertainty. She will always be loved and always missed.

Jack Nellany MA '78, a resident of Santa Cruz Passed away peacefully at his beloved home overlooking the northern California coast on Jan. 3, 2012. He had a wonderful life with an abundance of friendships, love and laughter. His wit and warmth touched all who knew him. He saw the best in everything and befriended most everyone he met.

A third generation Santa Barbaran, he was born April 8, 1931. Jack served honorably in the Air Force during the Korean war. He married Pat (Beckom) and enjoyed 57 years together. They settled in San Jose in 1954 and while there, raised a family, earned a college degree (first in his family) and later retired from years of service with the City of San Jose. At age 45 he enrolled at the University of Santa Clara where he obtained a masters degree in family counseling.

Jack had a great love of gardening and treasured his orchid and dahlia flowers to which many prizes from the Santa Cruz orchid and dahlia societies will attest.

He is survived by his wife Pat, sons Paul and Michael, daughter Carol (Thom) Sawicki and six beloved grandchildren: Devin, Janae, Autumn, Ruby, John and Ryan. He is preceded in death by his daughter Kim (Mike) Shields. He will be missed by all who knew him.