In Memory Of
If you know details or want to share memories about classmates or faculty who have
passed, please contact us so that we can give a more appropriate memorial to their lives.
Be sure to leave your name with the information. Thank you.
passed, please contact us so that we can give a more appropriate memorial to their lives.
Be sure to leave your name with the information. Thank you.
Dan Adams
Danny Adams died of drowning several years ago.
He lost control of his car. It plunged into the river near Stockton.
Photo from the 1966 Yearbook
Gerald "Jerry" Patrick Aldridge
Jerry Aldridge May 16, 1950 - March 21, 2020
Jerry passed away March 21, 2020 with his devoted wife Mary by his side.
He was 69 years old.
Jerry was born on May 16, 1950 in Pittsburg, CA to his loving parents
June and Bert Aldridge. He was the youngest of 3 children who spent
their childhood in the hills of Walnut Creek, CA.
He attended Del Valle High School where he excelled at football and
baseball. During his senior year, he was named First Team, All-League
most valuable lineman, and co-captain of the 400 club.
After high school, Jerry briefly attended Diablo Valley College before moving with his family
to an almond ranch in Modesto CA. He worked for a short time at Standard Oil before joining
Howard Training Center. His love of helping others drew him to this "work". Here at Howard
Training Center, he was a mentor and coach to special needs adults.
He coached hockey and the Special Olympics team his brother was a member of. He also spent many nights at McHenry Bowl, where he sponsored and coached the bowling team. He truly loved his job at Howard training Center and advocating for the rights of his special needs friends.
On a warm, valley summer night, fate brought a beautiful young woman and her sister to the almond ranch in Modesto to inquire about a convertible green Spider Fiat Jerry was selling. After a quick test drive and a few negotiations, the deal was sealed. Little did they know at the time, this would be the start of their forever. Jerry and Mary were married 4 years later at Carmel Highlands in Carmel, CA on July 9, 1978. Soon there after they welcomed their daughter, Melissa and 14 months later, son, Robin. Having a family was Jerry's new purpose and they made the decision to move to Oakdale, CA. Here, Jerry owned a convenience store on the main street of town, Oak Tree Mini Mart.
Oak Tree served as another location where Jerry could mentor and serve people. He enjoyed quietly teaching his young adult employees the value of hard work, honesty and how to keep a meticulously clean store.
Though Jerry is no longer here physically, his legacy lives on in the family he adored. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 41 years , Mary Aldridge. His daughter, Melissa Couvillion and son, Robin Aldridge. Their spouses Mark and Liz, 5 Grandchildren, Mia and Lucas Aldridge and Amelia, Samantha and James Couvillion. His sister Suzi Smither and her husband Richard, sister-in-law Louise Filighera and husband John. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, both here in the U.S. and in Ireland.
He was preceded in death by his parents, June and Bert Aldridge, brother Rob Aldridge and several special black labs that held a special place in his heart. Jerry was a gentle man who couldn't hurt a fly or smash a spider. The simple and pure nature of his presence and love is what we all will miss.
Information courtesy of Robin Aldridge
Bob Allen
Bob Allen was a friend of my family. I found in him a considerate and sensitive person. He served in Vietnam War and died in a motorcycle accident after returning home. It hit my mother especially hard, as she considered him a second son. Shari Dyer with the help of Bill Price.
Debbie Anderson
Debbie Anderson Hartman died February 8, 1989 of cardio-myopathy. She went to the doctor with flu-like symptoms. They sent her home and she died within days. She had two small boys at the time-Ben and Matt, now grown with children of their own. She was my sister-in-law and good friend. She was so full of life and vitality. Our classmate, Leona Page Anderson, was also Debbie's sister-in-law. Leona is still married to Gary, one of Debbie's older brothers.
submitted by Debb Maurer
Greg Briody
Greg Briody died August 7, 2016 of a cardiac arrest. He was born on June 20, 1950. He graduated from University of California, Berkeley with a degree in criminology, and received a master's in recreation administration from San Francisco State. He met and married his wife, Carolyn in 1979. They worked together as counselors at CCC Juvenile Hall. He relocated to Mt. Shasta with his wife and 3 daughters. He pursued his teaching credential through Chico State University and taught at Big Sptings Elementary for the next 15 years.
Don Caziarc
Don Caziarc
Information courtesy of Mike Farrell and the Acalanes Union High School District Directory
Vicki Eggers
Vicki Eggers Johnson passed away. I don’t know the details but I believe it was cancer. So sorry as she was a good friend in high school and we had only recently reconnected. Since she lived in Nevada and I in California we weren’t in close touch and I found out from someone else that she passed.
Information courtesy of Margaret Schultz Georgie
Eileen Farrell
Eileen Farrell
Information courtesy of Mike Farrell
Jeff Fowler
Jeff Fowler d. 1968 or 1969
Information courtesy of Bob Russell
Tom Fowler
Tom Fowler died of exposure, after getting lost on an outing.
Information courtesy of Brian Eukel
Glenn Frechin
Glenn Frechin passed away in June 2005.
Information courtesy of Gene Frechin
Jim Gibbs
James Eugene “Jim” Gibbs, having lived a life full of love, service, hard work, and faith, has returned home to the God who gave him life.
On April 26, 2022, Jim was traveling home from an extended vacation with his sweetheart, Mechel. After a brief stop to rest in Laramie, WY, he peacefully moved on to his next adventure, one that included a reunion with beloved friends and family.
Jim was born on July 5, 1950 in Berkeley, CA to Wanda Purser Leishman and Eugene Jens Gibbs. He grew up in Springville, UT. As a young boy, he had a life-threatening accident by ingesting lye. Thanks to the doctors and staff at Primary Children’s Hospital, he survived and thrived against the odds and grew to fulfil the legacy that you see today. He moved back to Walnut Creek, CA during his teenage years. He graduated from Del Valle High School.
He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in the Texas Dallas Mission, as well as various callings later in his life. He loved serving as the ward clerk and fulfilled that calling for over 25 years.
The woman who forever won his heart is Mechel Montgomery. After a brief courtship, they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on June 25, 1975. They raised four children together.
He lived most of his life in Ogden, UT. He received an AS in Accounting from Stevens-Henager College and was employed at Hone Oil, Thiokol, and Kimberly-Clark, until he retired in 2017.
Jim was a hard worker. He was meticulous in all of his projects. He taught that doing a job well the first time was the best way to reach success. Safety was a top priority. His kids all knew that the van wouldn’t start until their seatbelts were latched. He performed random fire drills in the wee hours of the morning by testing the smoke detector to make sure his kids would wake up if there were ever a house fire. He used this passion for safety and preparedness to volunteer on the Safety Committee and First Responders Fire Brigade at KC for 20 years.
Jim loved the ocean and loved to SCUBA dive. For many years he was a SCUBA Divemaster and instructor at Dive Utah. He used this talent to volunteer on the Weber County Underwater Search and Recovery Dive Team. His service helped many families receive closure when a loved one had drowned. He also volunteered for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). After retirement, he volunteered at the Weber County Sport Shooting Complex where he built cherished friendships.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and by one special grandson, Kaisen James Gibbs, of whom he was really looking forward to getting to know.
Up until the very end, his positive outlook on life and his sense of humor stayed with him. Even though he had many physical challenges in the last year of his life, he never missed an opportunity to crack a subtle joke or to photobomb a picture, even while riding his scooter.
Jim lived life to the fullest until the very end. He was a fighter, but also a peacemaker. He had a gift to diffuse contention or gloominess with a little jest. The world is a better place for him being in it. He is already deeply missed and we look forward to seeing him again.
Information courtesy of Mechel Gibbs and Lindquistmortuary
Gavin Gretchen
Gavin Gretchen It is with great sadness that I inform you that our classmate Gavin Gretchen passed on November 23, 2022. It was unexpected and I don’t know all the details. But his kidneys failed and he had sepsis, pneumonia, and some sort of cancer that had just been diagnosed. He passed peacefully with his wife Traudy and his daughter Julia by his side. As you know, Gavin was one of my best friends in junior high, high school, and thereafter. I’m devastated. Hayward Kaiser
Sue Harper
Susan Lynn Harper Capozzo
November 30, 1950 - January 5, 2016
Susan died peacefully and unexpectedly in her sleep in Las Vegas. She was born in the Bay Area where she was called by some of her closest friends, "Sweet Suzette of Lafayette." Sue was always the life of the party. Quick with a quip. Quick to laugh. Everyone loved being around her. She moved to Honolulu, Hawaii for one year with her parents as a teenager. She thought she was Gidget. After graduation, she moved back to the mainland, where she graduated from the University of Nevada in Reno. Sue Harper, as she was known then, met many lifetime friends and eventually the love of her life, Don Capozzo, who played on the football team along with quarterback Chris Ault. Sue was attracted to his good looks, his football physique and the fact he was named lineman of the year! Don and Sue moved around the country, following his career in the hotel business, going from Los Angeles to the Chicago area to Orlando, Florida. After Don passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, Sue moved back to Reno to be closer to her college friends. She was a teacher, real estate agent, but most importantly, she was a terrific wife and mother to her three children, Bart, Brian, Kim and her husband Dana Wagner. She also leaves behind brothers Steve and Jeff and the light of her life, granddaughter Kathryn. Sue and 10 year old Kathryn had many sleepovers and movie dates. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Mary and William Harper. Sue will be dearly missed by her family, taken too soon. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to our local Make A Wish organization in the name of Susan Capozzo.
Bob Harris
Bob Harris died in a motorcycle accident in May 1992 on his way to the Calavares County Fair. He very popular. One of the local pubs, Mr. Lucky, shut down and threw a huge memorial party after the service. Later that summer the motorcycle club put on a benefit barbeque to raise funds for his son and daughter's education.
Greg Harris, class of 1970
Clay Heatley
Clay Heatley Sorry to inform the reunion committee that Clay Heatley has passed away from cancer on Friday Feb 1, 2008. Tim Campbell
I'm so very sorry. I remember Clay as a person with gentle humor, integrity and having an easy-going nature. I instinctively liked and trusted him. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and friends. Shari Dyer
I was able to talk with Clay about a month before he died. He told me he has a wonderful wife and two sons. He saw alot of the world and is at peace. Such a wonderful person. Debi Barrett Miller
Clay was my best friend while I was at Del Valle. I had been looking for him for a couple of years and to miss connecting by just a month or so is regrettable-he was such a great guy. Joe "Pepe" Walker
Don Howard
Don Howard passed away in 2016 from cancer. Don had been homeless in Los Angeles. His older sister, Kathy, helped Don in his final days.
Information courtesy of Ken Lowe.
Jim Huff
Jim Huff passed away March 2014 from complications from a stroke. Eulogy written by Mark Hull.
MARK'S BLOG--Eulogy TO THE ROCKET MAN--------------
" I read (heard) the news today, oh boy, about a man..." who died before his time. The ROCKET MAN lost his battle YESTERDAY......"now there's a shadow hanging over me".....oh I will grieve for yesterday. Yesterday we were classmates and he was a man among boys. He was James Dean, Elvis Presley, the Fonz, and Nolan Ryan wrapped into an enigma of cool talented confidence. Quarterback of the championship football team, stud p...itcher on the championship baseball team, he came to be known as "The Rocket" during his college days, so dubbed by his opponents who had to face the fastball, which was clocked by New York Yankees scouts at 100 MPH! Following college at Cal Berkeley he pitched for a number of years in the Yankees farm system, though he never made the big show. Like many classmates I lost track of him after high school, but never forgot his enduring image on the landscape of my youth.
Years later I'm hanging and singing at Mr. Lucky's in Walnut Creek, and a muscular guy with a full head of white hair is singing "Love Me Tender" "real good for free" (as Joni Mitchell sang). When he's done he takes up the stool next to me at the bar, and I realize....it's THE ROCKET MAN! Though we shared a lot of the same spaces years before, we were never close, but now we were "brothers in arms" at the microphone, and started a conversation filled with reminiscences of our lost youth and school days. I would see him fairly often and there was always good conversation and mutual respect for someone else who got up and sang in public. Eventually, he stopped turning up and sadly I never saw him again. YESTERDAY, a phone call came from his brother with the news that "THE ROCKET MAN" had passed away. I will never forget and always admire my classmate.............JIM HUFF
Mark Hutchins
Lodare Mark Hutchins
Apr. 15, 1949 ~ Nov. 28, 2015
Resident of Walnut Creek
Mark was a fifth generation Californian born In Oakland, Ca. to Darwin F. and Elizabeth P. Hutchins and raised in Walnut Creek with his 2 sisters and 2 brothers and all attended Walnut Creek Christian Academy.
After taking one year to recover from extreme injury from an auto accident when he was 11 years old, Mark completed his education and graduated from Del Valle High School. Mark became a licensed barber, living and working in San Francisco. Mark was fortunate to meet Jesusa Paraguya a pharmacist from the Philippines. They were married at Old St. Mary's church in San Francisco. They have lived their 35 year married life in Walnut Creek. Following retirement Mark and Jesusa travelled extensively including numerously to the Philippines. Also, they have done considerable volunteer work for their church St. Stephen's.
Mark became ill several months ago with heart trouble. Sadly, there was no possibility for surgery. Mark was cared for in his last days by hospice and his loving family.
Mark is survived by his wife Jesusa, his mother Elizabeth Hutchins, his brothers Daryl and John Hutchins, sister Suzanne and husband Stephen Jacobus, sister Janne Hutchins and husband Jeph Thompson and nieces Erica Cassidy and Molly Thompson. He is also survived by Jesusa's extended family of brother's sisters, nieces and nephews here and abroad.
Information courtesy of Mike Farrell
David Krueger
David Krueger passed away before the last reunion. (50th) I don't know the details.
Susan Mathis Ferstler
Ernie Lawrence
Ernest (Ernie) Fredrick Lawrence, PFC, US Marines Corps born 11/21/1949, who was killed in action in Vietnam. Start of tour 01/15/1968-End of tour 02/16/1968. Lawrence was the 18 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ted Lawrence of Walnut Creek. He is survived by a sister Karen Raab and brother Fred Lawrence, and was the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Gallup of Felton, and Mr. and Mrs. Wenest Vecky of North San Juan.
Thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Information courtesy of Mike Farrell
Photo is from his Junior year, 1967 yearbook.
Mark Mallicoat
Mark Mallicoat, my daddy, passed away last Saturday (Sept. 11, 2021). He gave it a good fight. He found out his cancer had returned with a vengence and then only 16 short days later he passed. My brother, my step-mom and I were all able to hold his hands and be with him until the end. Hardest thing I've ever gone through but I'm so glad I was there. We were hoping for time. Time for new memories and fun. Unfortunately we weren't given that time. Just another reminder to live every day like it is your last.
I love you Dad! You’ll be in my heart forever! See you again in heaven
God bless you, Mark. Thank you for everything. Rest in Peace, my friend.
Shari Dyer
Susan Mathis Ferstler
Sue Mathis Ferstler passed away on Friday, April 23, 2010.She was our classmate, a hard worker on the reunion committee, and a friend. She lived her first 30 years of life in Walnut Creek. She received her AA Degree from DVC in 1970. She worked at John Muir Hospital for 33 years as a Unit Secretary. She lived in Antioch for the last 30 years of her life. She was known for her great abilities to get treasures and bargains at garage sales. She had a heart of gold and would help any and all. She was so organized and frugal and loved working with power tools. She was preceded in death by her husband of 17 years,Tom Ferstler and son Eric Charron and her brother Terry Mathis. Debb Maurer
Bill Mitchell
Bill Mitchell passed in September, 2016.
Craig Modderno
Craig Modderno died in early December 2018.
"He was a writer and celebrity interviewer in Los Angeles. While a 19-year-old part-time Rock Music Correspondent for the Oakland Tribune, he was backstage at the historic Rolling Stones Concert in Altamont, Callifornia. Mister Modderno filed a front-page bylined first-person account of what became known as "The Hippie Apocalypse", in which an audience member was stabbed to death by a Hells Angel "Security Guard" while camera recorded the event (released by Gimme Shelter, the the Maysles briothers in 1970)
In time, Mr. Modderno worked for gossip queen Rona Barrett, as writer and talent coordiator for The Merve Griffn Show, filmed a lengthy interview with Dustin Hoffman which appeared in the documentary and re-release of The Graduate, and published interviews with celebrities from film, television, and sports., from John Wayne to Paul Newman to But Reynolds to Shaquille O'Neal to Natalie Wood.
A longtime friend of Los Angeles Lakers owner Jerry Buss, he was frequently in the Owner's Box at The Forum and Staples Center with friends and colleagues, or sports events and concerts; his sports enthusiasm led him to the press box at Dodger Stadium, where he often wroe for Dodgers Magazine, and when Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra attended a ball game on the same day, he got them both to sign a baseball, one of his most cherished momentos."
A solitary man, he never married, and leaves no surviving relatives.
Obituary by the Los Angeles Times, courtesy of Hayward Kaiser
Merry Morris
Merry Morris passed in February 2023.
Excerpts from her obituary:
It saddens us to announce the passing of Merry Lou Pelletier of Clayton, California. Merry became an angel at the age of 72 at home surrounded by loved ones.
Merry grew up in Walnut Creek, CA graduating from Del Valle High School and contunued her education at Cal State Hayward, earning her degree in accounting.
She met the love of her life, Gary Pelletier, in Walnut Creek at the age of 18 and the two were married for 52 years. They have three daughters who they adore: Nicole Judd, Noelle Gould and Natalie Wray.
She was an amazing grandmother, lovingly called Mimi, to her 5 grandchildren. Many other kids throughout her life were welcomed into her heart and home.
The city of Clayton will not be the same without Merry. She touched many lives as a city employee for 12 years and was an active member of the Clayton Community Church, serving faithfully as an elder and passionate prayer leader. Her big smile and open heart will be missed by so many.
Information courtesy of Debb Maurer
Linda Nargang
Linda Nargang. She died from breast cancer a few years ago. Such a waste. She was a doctor in Clovis (she was my brother's doctor ). I am sorry to add her name.
I really liked her around school, always friendly and positive. I knew her better as I was close friends with Mike Nargang. He passed away a few years ago as well. He died from living his life too hard. He was exceptionally smart as was his sister (Mike was from class of 69).
I miss them both. Bryan Coleman
Chris Noleroth
Chris Noleroth
Information courtesy of Susan Mathis Ferstler
Richard Otto
Dick Otto passed away on Jan 13, 2013. Information courtesy of Mike Farrell
Paula Palmer
Paula Palmer-Kain died in 2013. Information courtesy of Nancy Lupton
Patty Parsons
Patty Parsons
With a breaking heart I have sad news. Patty Parsons Emry passed away early Monday morning, February 12, 2018. Her daughter said Patty apparently passed away from a heart attack in her sleep. She said Patty looked peaceful and out of pain. Patty was the very first friend that my sister, Janine and I made when first moving to Lafayette in 1964 right before freshman year. We kept our horses at the same barn and little did we know what a 50-plus year friendship that would become. I will miss her warm heart, feisty optimism and joyous laughter. Joan (Doe) Clingman Foster
Joyce Peterson
Joyce Ann Peterson Jarrard-
October 26, 1949-Feburary 22, 2009- Resident of Danville. Joyce was a very special, tender hearted, kind person who touched the hearts of all who knew her. She was an active member of her church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Joyce's absolute joy in life came from being a wife, mother and grandmother. She was a mother of 4 and grandmother of 9. She was married to her husband Craig for 39 years. She received an award at our 40th year reunion for having the most grandchildren. Inspite of being weak from cancer she was so happy to be able to attend the 40th and so proud that her hair was growing back. She fought a hard fight. She will be greatly missed.
Submitted by Debb Maurer
Lori Peterson
Lawreen (Lori) Ann Peterson passed 6/2/16.
Lori was born in San Francisco to parents Lawrence and Kathleen Peterson. The family then moved to the Saranap area of Walnut Creek in the early 1950s. She graduated from Del Valle High School in 1968 and attended Diablo Valley College majoring in Business. Lori worked for Greyhound Lines West when she met and married Dave Agazzi (Del Valle class of 1966) in 1972. They became the proud parents of Danielle Andrea Agazzi in 1982. Lori enjoyed shooting sports, bingo, cooking, and attending wonderful family events. She enjoyed cruise vacations, trips to the wine country, Monterey, and the desert. She also had a passion for cookies! Lori worked as a braillist for a local school district for nearly 20 years before retiring. In retirement, she became interested in collectible Teddy Bears and opened a business selling her bears to customers around the world. She loved her bears and the friendships she made with customers. Lori is survived by her loving husband and daughter, brother Mike (Laurie), sister Kathy (Phil) and extended family and friends. She left us way too soon. We will meet again somewhere down the trail. Until then, we love you and always will miss your warm smile, soft voice, and subtle sense of humor.
Information courtesy of her husband, David Agazzi (DV 66) via Debb Maurer and Hull's Mortuary.
Paul Ramey
Paul Ramey
Rick Raynes
Richard Earl "Rick" Raynes Dec. 7, 1949 - August 29, 2016
After Del Valle, Rick joined the Navy, saw action in Viet Nam, and later went to DVC and Chico State, where he earned his B.S. degree in 1976. He was hired by the Navy, and worked for them at Treasure Island.
He received four Special Act awards from the Navy for his "expertise, motivation and perserverance in demanding situations".
He also worked for the Marine Corps at their Logistics Base in Barstow, retiring in 2001. For the next three years he enjoyed family, trips to Tahoe, and fishing and target shooting with his friends.
Rick suffered a massive stroke in April of 2004 and spent his last twelve years at Bayberry Convalescent Care in Concord.
Barb Shirey
Barb Shirey Hansen died of a brain tumor at least 5 or 6 years ago. Debb Maurer, 2011
Dee Smithers
Dee Smithers was fun to be around. I always looked forward to seeing her, and still carry sadness that she chose to leave us. Shari Dyer
I enjoyed spending time with Dee. She taught me to savor words, to find inspiration in them, to find a philosophy of life, to begin to develop an inner life. I was totally captivated by the intensity with which she questioned, she explored, she wrote. She was extremely sensitive and extremely aware of herself in her world. Bronwen Heuer
Dee was my best friend in high school. I spent memorable time with her and her parents. Dee was extraordinarily creative, passionate, capable and fun - I learned much from her. I lost touch with Dee during college, but I am certain she continued a search for meaning, always with great kindness and generosity. Dee was very, very special and we miss her. Win Sale
Dee Smithers was one of my very best friends. We remained close and saw each other in Sacramento, often. We talked on the phone and said how much we love each other two days before she left us. My heart is still sad. Debi Barrett Miller
Dee and I were together for my Freshman and Sophomore years before I moved to Napa. She was the light of my life and my first love. She has been on my mind ever since. I only found out about her passing when I found this site last fall (2008) and I'm still struggling to deal with it. She was such a beautiful person inside and out and it's truly a loss for all of us. - Pepé
Mark Uhrenholt born July 28, 1950-passed away September 3, 2020. Mark resided in Walnut Creek with his beloved wife, Linda of 35 years. Mark was an outstanding athlete
and fierce competitor. Mark went on to graduate with a degree from the University of California, Davis. He pursued a long and successful career as a high school educator, administrator and dedicated head football and wrestling coach in the Williams, San Ramon Valley Unified and the Acalanes Union School Districts. Retired life allowed him to mentor young school administrators and continue coaching football a Las Lomas High School in Walnut Creek. Mark had a favorite saying and in his memory; "Do the right thing. Treat others how you want to be treated. Help make the world a better place."
Information courtesy of Debb Maurer.
Cindy Whittet
Cindy Whittet passed away unexpectedly from a stroke on 2/8/2014. Born 10/04/50. She lived in Colfax for more than 30 years. She as an owner of Basic Building Materials from 1981-1994. She was a home builder and remodeler as well as care giver. She had a love for learning, plants and animals. She was known to be a friend to all, with upbeat and boundless energy. She had a son, daughter and 2 stepdaughters and grandchildren. Information courtesy of Susan Shalit and the Auburn Journal. Debb Maurer
Greg Williams
Greg Williams - I was told by a friend of mine that Greg Williams had passed away several years ago of an incurable disease. His parents owned Shakeys Pizza Parlor. Susan Mathis Ferstler
Alan Wirth
Alan Wirth passed away about ten years ago of a heart attack.
Information courtesy of Mark Richards
Faculty
June Anderson
June Anderson - Office
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
James Barber
James Barber - Industrial Arts
Information courtesy of Mike Farrell
Jimmie Dean “Jim” Barber, 83, a retired teacher, passed away July 5, 2023, at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. A niece & nephew-in-law were with him.
Jim has said, “I’ve fought illnesses and struggled. But I’ve also been healthy, had accomplishments, lived raucous adventures, and lived my life with humor. I have a deep sense of wonder, seen through the lens of a camera, a fingerprint in clay or the stroke of a brush on canvas.”
Jim was born Dec. 18, 1939, in Tulare, CA, the fourth child born to JD Barber and Maggie L. Pennington. He grew up in Reedley, CA. Jim survived childhood polio and played high school football. He graduated from Reedley High School and Fresno State College - the first college graduate in our family. Jim served in the US Army in S. Korea. He worked at a Napa, CA, winery for a year and then taught high school fine arts and math for 37 years in the East Bay Area. Jim supported various charities with his donated time and/or financial donations.
Jim was also an artist. He drew, painted, worked with clay, made jewelry and was an avid photographer. He loved taking photos at Monterey, Mt. Diablo and Heather Farms Park. He loved computers. In younger years, Jim enjoyed camping and fishing with his father.
As a teenager, Jim worked at the family drive-in on the King’s River in Reedley. He helped care for his mother for many years after her Parkinson’s diagnosis. After his father had a stroke, Jim managed his nursing home care for 17 years and his probate for 3 years.
Jim traveled to Switzerland, Mexico and many US states. Many of his US trips included visiting family in OK, TX, AZ, MD and CA’s Central Valley.
Don Black
Don Black - English
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Ronald Blakeman
Ronald Blakeman - Industrial Arts
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Clare Carroll
Clare Carroll - Library
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Gail Clark
Gail Clark - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Iris Cavagnaro
Iris May Cavagnaro - Counselor. Passed Feb. 23, 2017.
Found online.
Joe Daly
Joe Daly - Science
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Barbara Doering
Barbara Doering - Math
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
John Dosky
John Dosky - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Robert Ehrlich
Robert Ehrlich - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Craig Gregorson
Craig Gregorson - Math
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Bruce Handley
Bruce Handley - Counseling
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Jack Howard - Art
Jack Howard - Art
(February 25, 1931 - July 1, 2021)
Jack was born in California and passed away peacefully in his sleep in Linctoln on July 1, 2021 at the age of 90.
Jack's parents were Charles and Doris Howard. Jack was a descendent of pioneer families that came to CA during the Gold Rush years. He grew up in Roseville, graduating from Roseville High in 1949.
He married his high school sweetheart Joyce Edgar in 1951. He served in the Army in Alaska during the Korean War. After discharge he attended the Ca College of Arts, earning a Masters Degree in Fine Arts and a teaching credential in 1959. He began his teaching career as an art teacher in the first year of Del Valle High School. He remained there until 1968 when he accepted a position in Sacramento City Unified School District as the Art Curriculum Specialist. He retired after 19 years of being Vice Principal from Sacramento High School.
Information courtesy of Debb Maurer
Mr. Hoy
Walter Hoy - Boy's Vice Principal, Coach, Counselor
1930 ~ 2021
Resident of Walnut Creek, CA
Walter passed away peacefully on March 31. He was surrounded by family at his home in Walnut Creek. Walter was born in San Francisco as one of eight children. He spent his childhood in the City attending local schools and graduated from Polytechnic High where he was a three sport letterman and class valedictorian. After high school Walter enlisted in the Marine Corps and served a tour of duty in Korea. Upon his return he married Marlene, his high school sweetheart and then attended college, graduating from the University of California at Berkeley. They were married in 1954 and soon after they started their family of four children.
Walter was a career public school educator. He was fully committed and dedicated to supporting the growth and development of children. He believed teaching was a calling. He began his teaching career at Burbank Junior High in Berkeley and then moved the family to Walnut Creek and began teaching at Del Valle High school. During his time there he coached multiple sports, served as a class advisor and ultimately became a counselor and Assistant Principal. Walter's final professional role was as Principal of Campolindo High School in Moraga where he served for seventeen years. During his tenure the school was considered one of the top performing schools in California. Additionally, Walter was one of the founders of recreational swimming in Contra Costa County. He served as coach and Director of the Walnut Creek Swim Club and his insights and experience were highly sought after by programs throughout the county.
Upon his retirement Walter supervised student teachers and administrators who were earning their credentials and he also served in multiple interim positions as a site and district administrator. After Marlene's passing in 2014 Walter volunteered at both Kaiser hospital in Walnut Creek and Vitas Healthcare.
Walter's life and the challenges that he faced and overcame would make for an epic Hollywood movie. His perseverance and internal strength were unmatched and yet he was incredibly gentle and compassionate as well. He was always reaching out to connect with people and despite his many life accomplishments and recognitions, he was a man with a humble heart and spirit. Walter was a man of faith and he is now with the Lord, reunited with Marlene and other family and friends. Walter touched many lives and he will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Walter is survived by his children Sandra Hoy, Brad Hoy (Carol), Kirby Hoy (Laura) and Melissa Hoy Tatum (Sean); siblings, Ruby Wong, Martha Chan and two grandchildren, Sean Hoy and Kelly Hoy Kim (Isaac) and three step grandchildren, Christy Reams, Sandy Freethy and Brittany Boyd and their families. Walter also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
Walter was predeceased by his parents Lok Sing and Nellie Hoy, his brothers William, Eugene, Herbert, and sisters Betha and Christina.
The family is truly grateful to the loving and professional care provided by the doctors and staff of Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Walnut Creek and the loving support of his neighborhood community. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Walter's name to VITAS Healthcare at 365 Lennon Lane, Suite 140, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.
Family and friends are invited to attend Walter's Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday, September 25th at North Creek Church, 2303 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek, beginning at 11am. Reception to follow.
Information courtesy of Debb Maurer
Phillip Huff
Phillip Huff - Industrial Arts
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Harry Innocenti
Harry Innocenti - Science. Born 1939 and passed away March 25, 2023 at 84 yesrs old. He
graduated from Fortuna High School in 1956 and went on to study Biology at Saint Mary's College and graduated in 1960. He attained a Masters degree in Biology from Humbolt State University in 1962. He had a 37 year career as a high school teacher and coach in the Acalanes School District. Harry was married to his high school sweatheart Diana Lark, for 62 years. He had two sons Zac and Jeremy and five grandchildren.
Information courtesy of Debb Maurer.
Edward Kellog
Edward Kellog - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Robert King
Robert King - Spanish
information courtesy of Bryan Wade:
Just received this from Dave Agazzi -
Wanted to let you know that sadly Bob King passed away peacefully at home today (6/30) at approximately 11:00 A.M. He was (I think) 85 or 86.Bob taught Spanish at Del Valle for many years and was the head of the Language Department for some years. My brothers and I kept in contact with him all these years helping him when we could. Cab Bond and I built retaining walls, fences, and painted at his home in the Walnut Creek hills back in the late 60's. Bob was a devoted Buddhist and hosted many religious get togethers at his home. For a guy who contracted polio as a kid he never was down or negative about life. Always smiling and joking around every day. Polio hit him hard as he got well into his senior years and he became bedridden Through the years former students and my brothers Bob and Steve visited and stayed in contact with him, He read more books than I would ever hope to and maintained a library in his home.A very interesting guy with outlooks and opinions that made you think.He loved to repeat the story about when I was his class assistant and an unruly student (Bob Pulford) stuck his head in the lower open drop window and proceeded to disturb the class. I don't know what came over me but I closed the window on his head and neck giving poor Pulford some pain. As I released my grip on the window and Pulford took off I turned to hear Bob King roaring with laughter, a laughter which spread to the whole room. Bob Pulford became a friend for life visited Bob over the years. Such was Bob King. I will miss him and always treasure our friendship,
June Luhks
June Luhks - Math
Information courstesy of Mr. Hoy
Frank McDonnell
Frank McDonnell - Language
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Joan Nogueda
Joan Nogueda - English
She passed in April 2017.
Information courtesy of her husband, Paul.
Her classes were wonderful. When she related the Canterbury Tales in Old English, I was enchanted. Shari Dyer
There is a tribute to her here.
Joan Nogueda was such a deep and beautiful soul for us to be graced with growing up.
She understood me in a way I don't know if I understand myself to this day. Blessings to her forever. Love, William Shirley
Gene Oliver
Gene Oliver, Counselor
Douglas Pederson - Physical Education
Carl Douglas Pederson - Physical Education
Information courtesy of Bill Wagoner, Class of '69
Donna Riley
Donna Riley - Vice Principal (girls)
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
William Ross
William Ross - Principal
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Clint Russell
Clint Russell - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Clint Russell made sure I graduated by giving me the inspiring push that I needed. He further told that I could not get through life on charm alone. And so I applied my gifts, made tangible achievements and found spiritual happiness. Thank you with all my heart Mr. Russell. Commentor's name not given
Forrest Russell
Forrest Dale Russell - Physical Education. May 8, 1918 - March 28, 2006 Beloved husband of Norene Russell caring brother of Ruth Westfall. Preceded in death by his first wife Darleene, sister Harriet and brother Howard Russell. Devoted father of Rick Russell and Nancy Russell Gerber, cherished step-father of 4. Loving grandfather of Kristin Mortensen, Katie Gerber, Jason Wells, Stacey Weber, Jessica Reiswig, Daniel Hohman, treasured great-grandfather of Spencer and Joey Weber and Kayla Wells. Forrest was devoted to his students as a teacher and as a football coach. He was born in Yankton, SD and graduated from Nampa High School in Nampa, ID. He received his Bachelors Degree from College of Idaho and his Masters Degree from the University of Oregon. Forrest was a WWII Veteran and member of "The Big Red One." After retiring from teaching, Forrest had another career in real estate. He enjoyed skiing until the age of 82. He built a log cabin where he spent many wonderful summers water skiing with his family and friends. He loved football and he loved travel and cruising. He was a faithful member of Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church.
Published by Contra Costa Times
Debb Maurer
Debb Maurer
Rod Sharretts
Rod Sharretts - Music
Mr. Sharretts was by far and away my favorite teacher, and his A Cappella choir my favorite class. RIP Mr. Sharretts, and thanks. Shari Dyer
Dee Silva
Dee Silva - Physical Education
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Jack Sturgeon
Jack Sturgeon - Social Studies
Information courtesy of Mr. Sharretts
Leslie Underhill
Leslie Underhill - Physical Education
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy
Robert Wignot
Robert Wignot - Math
Information courtesy of Mr. Hoy