obituaries

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Kathleen Pope Ralston Kaplan, died on May 24, 2023.   Kathleen served Parlier UMC; Smith River UMC; Los Molinos, Community UMC; Gerber, El Camino UMC; Corning UMC; Lodi, First UMC; Salinas, Hillcrest UMC; Forestville UMC; and Hayward, First UMC before retiring in 1994.   Kathleen was born in Red Bluff, CA. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics and later went on to earn a Master’s ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Clarence Wager, died on Monday, May 22, 2023.   Clarence served the Portola UMC; Soulsbyville UMC; Tuolumne UMC; Lincoln UMC; Meadow Vista, Placer Hills Community UMC; and Dutch Flat UMC congregations before retiring in 2005.   Clarence was born in Chico, California. He was a scholar, who enjoyed learning about a wide range of subjects; history, geography, meteorology, geology, and Native ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Robert “Bob” Olah, spouse of Rev. Kristie Olah, died on Monday, May 8, 2023.   Bob was born in Medford, Wisconsin. He was a semi-conductor engineer with 24 patents to his name. He designed the semi-conductors for Commodore 64 computers, which were cutting edge technology at the time.  For the last 14 years, Bob was a vital part of the Congregational Care Ministries of Los Altos UMC.   Bob was a ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Bradford Bryant, died on Friday, April 14, 2023.     Bradford began his ministry with the New England Conference. He transferred to the California-Nevada conference in 1966 and served the Oakland, First and Pittsburg congregations before eventually transferring to the Southern New England conference. In 1981, Bradford returned to the California-Nevada conference, where he served the Tracy, First ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Philip Hall, died on Wednesday April 12, 2023.     Phil served the Byron; Redding, First; Dunsmuir; Chico, Aldersgate; Los Molinos, Community; Petaluma; Pacific Grove, First; and Manteca, St. Paul’s congregations before retiring in 2002.   Phil was born in San Mateo, CA on May 24, 1938. He became actively involved in the Methodist Church as a teenager through the Methodist Youth Fellowship of the...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Sylvia Louise Osman, surviving spouse of Rev. Wesley H. Osman, died on March 19, 2023.   Sylvia was born in Placerville, California in 1926. She had a fulfilling career in the field of social work, serving the underserved, including those in the foster care system. She was always very involved in the ministries of local churches and was particularly committed to those that advocated for peace and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Naoko Henry, surviving spouse of Rev. Frank B. Henry, died on March 14,2023.     Naoko married Frank Henry on November 28, 1977, after he retired from ministry. Naoko was living in Honolulu Hawaii when she passed away.   Frank served for 31 years in the Susquehanna conference, before transferring to the California-Nevada conference in 1968. He served as a member of the pastoral staff at Concord UMC. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Paula Leslie, surviving spouse of Rev. Robert Leslie, died on March 11, 2023.   Paula was a faithful companion as her husband served as a Professor of Pastoral Psychology and Counseling at Pacific School of Religion from 1954 to 1982.   Paula was born in East Weymouth, Massachusetts. She was a “New Englander at heart.” She enjoyed international travel and sabbatical years abroad with her husband ...

It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Velma Thornburgh, surviving spouse Pastor Alfred H. Thornburgh, died on February 15, 2023.  Velma accompanied her husband throughout his ministry as a full-time local pastor; as he served Cone-Los Molinos, Portola, Dos Palos UMC, and Morgan Hill UMC, until his retirement in 1977.  Velma was born in Brownstown, Illinois. As a child, she enjoyed sports and was the captain of her basketball team. She also enjoyed roller skating at the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Marjorie Houser, surviving spouse of Rev. Richard Houser, Jr., died on February 10, 2023.     Marjorie was born in Edgar, Montana on July 30, 1926.   Marjorie was a faithful companion as her husband served the Kerman, Beulah; Stockton, Woodruff Memorial; Smith River; Isleton-Courtland; Clearlake, Highlands; and Kerman, First congregations until he retired in 1980.   She is survived by her son, Neil ...

It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. William “Bill” Birdsey, died on February 9, 2023.   Bill began his ministry in the Nebraska Conference. He joined the California Nevada Conference in 1962, where he served Napa, Church of the Valley; Springville-Pleasant Valley; Battle Mountain UMC; Carlin UMC; Elko County Ecumenical Parish; Fallon, Epworth UMC; Hanford, First UMC; and Portola UMC. He retired in 1995.   Bill was born in Del Norte, Colorado. He was very much a “...

It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Donna Wood, died on Thursday, February 2, 2023.     Donna served Greenville UMC; Taylorsville UMC; Alameda, Twin Towers UMC; Tracy, First UMC; San Francisco, Park Presidio UMC, and Quincy UMC before retiring in 2014. She returned to serve the Greenville and Taylorsville congregations in retirement.   Donna was born on July 17, 1945, in McCamey, TX. Her hobbies and interests primarily revolved around her churches, particularly ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Gerhard Drumm, died on January 25, 2023.     Gerhard served Potter Valley, Community UMC; Fresno, Grace UMC; Oakdale, Community UMC; Eureka, First UMC; and Fresno, St. Paul’s UMC before retiring in 1994.   Gerhard was born on February 2, 1929 in a multicultural city in the former Yugoslavia, now Serbia. He wrote an autobiography called “Like Grounded Swallows”, in which he shared his experiences ...

It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Ardyss Golden died on January 9, 2023.   Ardyss served the Hollister United Methodist Church. She retired in July of 2012.   Ardyss was born on April 25, 1942, in Nebraska. Ardyss had a deep love of working with horses.   She is survived by her husband, George Golden, her children, Richard Golden of Rohnert Park CA, Jeffrey Golden of Sacramento CA, and Eric Golden of San Antonio TX, by 6 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. James Ralph Scott, died on December 10, 2022.     Jim served the Winnemucca UMC; Battle Mountain UMC; Tulare UMC; Fresno, St. Paul’s UMC, and as a Chaplain with the US Navy. He retired in 2006.   Jim was born in Chicago, IL on March 2, 1944. He loved to practice woodworking and traveling extensively through Europe and the Far East.   He is survived by his wife, Teresa K. Scott, his son Timothy ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Gerald Summers, died on December 1, 2022.   Gerald began his ministry in the former Southern California-Arizona Conference and transferred to the California-Nevada Conference in 1969. In our Conference he served the Quincy, Community; Paradise UMC; Montague UMC; Yreka UMC; and Marysville, First congregations. He retired in 1993. Gerald was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where his parents were ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Sang En Han, died on Nov. 15, 2022.     Sang served the Berkeley, Epworth United Methodist Church and as the founding pastor of the Berkeley, Korean United Methodist Church. He retired in 2003,   Sang had many hobbies and interests. Notably, he was a talented saw player. He enjoyed singing tenor with the church choir and participating in numerous other musical endeavors.   Sang is survived by his...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. James D. Lynn, died on September 20, 2022.   Jim began his ministry as part of the Greater New Jersey Conference. He transferred to the California-Nevada Conference in 1969, and served Sacramento, Wesley; Sacramento, First; Farmersville; Palo Alto, First; Sacramento, Asbury; North Sacramento; Marysville, First; Porterville, First; Mendocino UM Cooperative Parish: Ukiah and Philo congregations ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Marit Knutsen, surviving spouse of Rev. Roger Knutsen, died on Saturday, September 3, 2022.   Marit was born in Stavanger, Norway. She met Roger, her husband of 71 years, at a youth conference in Bergen.  While serving as a military Chaplain, Roger and Marit moved 36 times. Marit loved reading, practicing embroidery and other needle arts.       Marit was a faithful companion as her husband Roger began ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John Fugitt, died on July 27, 2022, and that his wife of over 71 years, Eva Fugitt, died on August 19, 2022.     John was born in Riverside CA. He loved reading and writing poetry. He wrote over a thousand poems himself and self-published many of them. He also dabbled in watercolors and enjoyed creating welcome banners at his place of residence.   Eva was born in North Hollywood CA. She was very ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John Fugitt, died on July 27, 2022, and that his wife of over 71 years, Eva Fugitt, died on August 19, 2022.     John was born in Riverside CA. He loved reading and writing poetry. He wrote over a thousand poems himself and self-published many of them. He also dabbled in watercolors and enjoyed creating welcome banners at his place of residence.   Eva was born in North Hollywood CA. She was very ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Ardith Allread, died on July 21, 2022.     Ardith served Concord UMC; Fremont, St. Paul; Rocklin, Cornerstone Community; Woodland UMC; and as the Superintendent for the former San Jose District from 1994 to 2002. She retired in 2013.   Ardith was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 30, 1943. She started school in a one room schoolhouse near Red Bluff, CA near her grandparents’ ranch where her ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Opeti Kalausa, surviving spouse of Rev. Ana Tiueti, died on July 14, 2022.     Opeti was born in American Samoa and loved serving at his local church of San Bruno, First Tongan UMC. Most recently he was an active part of the church remodeling committee.   As the spouse of a clergy-person, Opeti experienced the Christian community and fellowship of San Bruno, First UMC; San Bruno, First Tongan UMC; and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Ellen Gariaeff, died on July 1, 2022.     Ellen served the Freedom UMC; Corning UMC; Gerber, El Camino UMC; and Middletown UMC before retiring in 2001.   Ellen was born in San Francisco, CA on July 4, 1938. She was a “huge dog lover”. She also enjoyed gardening, hiking, and journal writing. Ellen had a deep appreciation for music and was a musician herself, deriving great enjoyment from playing her...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we recently learned that our sister, Claire D. White, surviving spouse of Rev. James Floyd White, died on June 30, 2022.     Claire was a faithful partner as her husband served in ministry settings at the following academic institutions: Ohio Wesleyan University, Southern Methodist University in Texas, Perkins School of Theology in Texas, and at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.   Let us continue to give God thanks Claire’s ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we recently learned that our brother, Rev. Adolphe Bell, died on June 21, 2022.     Adolphe served in the Texas and the Southern California-Arizona Annual Conferences before transferring to California-Nevada in 1969. In our conference he served the Richmond, Easter Hill; Oakland, Shattuck Avenue; and Oakland, First UMC congregations. He retired in 1977.   Adolphe was born in Houston, Texas on April 18, 1939. He loved reading, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Florence Greilich, surviving spouse of Rev. Ronald Greilich, died on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.   Florence was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on October 16,1934. Florence enjoyed being creative; quilting, embroidery, sewing, cross stitch, knitting, and crocheting being some of her favorite outlets. She also enjoyed writing, particularly about her family history. As the spouse of a clergy-person, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Laura Lee Starbuck, surviving spouse of Rev. Harry Starbuck, died on April 4, 2022.     Laura Lee was born on Oct. 19, 1922 in Los Angeles, California. Laura was devoted to her family and to Jesus. She loved singing and leading worship at Christian Family Camps over the years. She also enjoyed gardening, teaching English to second language learners, and volunteering her time and energy to a variety of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Georgiana “Georgie” Summers, spouse of Rev. Gerald Summers, died on March 31, 2022.     Georgie was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on July 2, 1928. She held a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in English and Drama, and authored Sunday School curriculum published by the United Methodist Publishing House. She wrote and directed many religious dramas and children’s Christmas pageants. She was also passionate ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Ronald Greilich, died on Saturday, March 26, 2022.   Ron began his ministry as a full time local pastor in the El Dorado Community Parish. After serving in the Kentucky conference as a student, he returned to the California-Nevada conference where he served Olivehurst; Shasta Dam Community; San Mateo, Hillsdale UMC; Lincoln UMC; Albany UMC; Parlier UMC; Sanger UMC; Lodi, Salem UMC; Yuba City, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. William “Bill” Stegall, died on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.     Bill transferred to the California-Nevada Conference from the NE Ohio Conference in 1963. He served Stockton, St. Peters UMC; Oakland, Shattuck Avenue UMC; Fresno, Sierra Vista UMC; Redding, First UMC; and as Superintendent of the Nevada-Sierra District from 1986 to 1992. He retired in 2004.   Bill was born in Ashtabula, Ohio on June ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. William J. “Bill” Marx, died on Monday, March 21, 2022.     Bill served Kings Beach UMC; Truckee, Church of the Mountain; Corcoran, First UMC; Arcata, First UMC; Sebastopol UMC; Chico, Trinity UMC; and Walnut Creek, Tice Valley UMC before retiring in July of 1997.   Bill was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 19, 1931. He was a talented musician, playing the viola and violin in a number of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Jean Conrad, surviving spouse of Rev. Rolfe Conrad, died on March 20, 2022.   Jean was born in Washington, D.C. She was a fantastic cook and an avid reader. Jean also loved to garden and enjoyed camping with her late husband, Rolfe.   As the spouse of a clergy-person, Jean experienced the Christian community and fellowship of Half Moon Bay UMC; San Mateo, Shoreview UMC; South San Francisco, Parkwood ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John Albright, died on Wednesday, March 9, 2022.     John began his ministry in the Kansas East and Little Rock Conferences. He transferred to the California-Nevada Conference in 1961, where he served Corning UMC; Redding, First UMC; Merced UMC; San Jose, Cambrian Park UMC; and Fremont, First UMC. He retired in 1993.   John was born in Madison, Kansas on July 28, 1926. He was a passionate advocate...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Robert (Bob) Schwartz, died on March 3, 2022.     Bob transferred to the California-Nevada Conference in 1961 from the New York Conference and was ordained an Elder in Full Connection in 1962. He served Alameda, First UMC; Alameda, Court Street UMC; Porterville, First UMC; Los Gatos UMC; Wasco UMC; Saratoga, Grace UMC; Carson City, First UMC; Bakersfield, First UMC; and Carmel, Church of the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Leo Fong, died on February 18, 2022.     Leo served the following churches in California; Chinese UMC, Sacramento; Fellowship UMC, Vallejo; and St. Mark’s UMC, Stockton. He was appointed to ministries beyond the local church as a Child Welfare Worker for the Department of Public Assistance in San Joaquin County, and to Koinonia Productions. He retired in 1996.   Leo was born in Canton, China and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Darrell Darling, died on Thursday February 3, 2022.     Darrell transferred to the California-Nevada Conference from the Central Illinois Conference in 1966. In this Conference, he served congregations in Dublin, Pleasanton, Davis, and Santa Cruz, First United Methodist Church. Darrell retired in 1990.   Darrell was born in Illinois. He was an avid gardener and a lover of poetry, composing a large...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Coreane Marker, surviving spouse of Rev. Floyd Marker, died on January 29, 2022.     Coreane was born in Kansas City, Missouri. She grew up in San Clemente California where her father served as Mayor. She worked in retail all her life, eventually becoming a manager with JC Penny’s where she worked in several different cities.   Coreane was a faithful companion as her husband Floyd served under ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, We recently received word about the death of Bruce Pettit, a retired lay employee of the California-Nevada Conference. Bruce died on January 20, 2022. Bruce served as the Administrative Assistant in the former Golden Gate District office for 11 years until his retirement in 2010. He received a Bishop’s Award for his service to the Church through his work in the Golden Gate District and with the Reconciling Ministries Network. In retirement, he served part time ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, We recently received word about the death of Janet Bailey, a retired lay employee of the California-Nevada Conference. Janet died on January 20, 2022. Janet Bailey, served as the Administrative Assistant in the former Nevada Sierra District office for 17 years until her retirement in 2005. Janet was a founding member of the South Reno United Methodist Church. She actively volunteered with Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts, and her children’s Parent Teacher ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Joseph Parshall, died on January 12, 2022.     Joseph began his ministry in 1963, in what was, the Southern California-Arizona Conference of The Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1978, he transferred his membership to the California-Nevada Conference, where he served the Marina and Seaside, Hilltop United Methodist churches in California. He led the Marina congregation during a building project to ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Glen Otis Martin, died on January 6, 2022.    Glen served in the Minnesota and Holston Conferences before transferring to the California-Nevada Conference in 1968. Among us he served in a variety of appointments beyond the local church: United Christian Campus Minister, University of California Santa Cruz; Chairman, Division of Human Development and Dean of Students, St. Mary’s College; as ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Robert Johansson, died on December 15, 2021.     Robert began his ministry in the New York Conference. He went on to serve in the Methodist Church of Chile for 25 years as a missionary. He began his ministry in the California-Nevada Conference in 1979, and formally transferred his membership in 1982. Robert served the following congregations in California: Morgan Hill UMC; Lodi, First UMC; Fresno,...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,  It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Kenneth Celli, surviving spouse of Licensed Local Pastor Rev. Wanda Celli, died on Wednesday, November 10, 2021.     Ken was born in Alameda California on Nov. 19, 1947. He worked in sales for many years in the automotive and the manufactured home industries. Ken was a veteran of the Vietnam War, and as a result, dealt with chronic health issues for the remainder of his life. He was a car enthusiast and...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Larry Moore, died on October 29, 2021.   Larry began his ministry with The United Methodist Church in the Nebraska Conference as a student local pastor. He also served in the Rocky Mountain and Dakotas Conferences before transferring to the California-Nevada Conference in 1978. In our Conference, Larry was appointed to serve two churches in California; Fresno, Wesley UMC as Minister of Leadership ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Norman Callaway, died on October 11, 2021.   Rev. Callaway served the Freedom, Alum Rock San Jose, Parkside St. Francis San Francisco, Wesley Bakersfield, Oroville, Livermore, Asbury Livermore, First Sunnyvale, St. Marks Sacramento, and Tice Valley Walnut Creek churches. He retired in 1991.   Norman was born in Chicago, Illinois. He was a voracious reader who also enjoyed cross word puzzles, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Rodrigo De Guzman Estrada, died on September 2, 2021.   Rev. Estrada began his ministry in the California-Nevada Conference in 1980, serving among us as a clergy-member  of the United Church of Christ. In 1982, his ordination was recognized by the California-Nevada Conference, and he was received into full membership as a United Methodist Elder.  He served Alpaugh UMC; Oakland, Melrose UMC; ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Lillie Toy Jue, surviving spouse of Rev. Jun Wan Jue, died on August 26, 2021.     Lillie Toy Jue was born Sept 9, 1925 in Sheridan, Wyoming.  At a young age, Lillie’s family moved to San Francisco, California.  After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley she worked as a hospital dietician for a number of years. Reading, traveling, and gardening were some of Lillie’s joys.   Lillie was ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Ruth Ocera Cortez, died on June 9, 2021. She was born on November 4,1935 in San Fernando, Pampanga to Gerardo de Ocera & Elisa Razon Ocera. She was married to Rev. Nathanael L. Cortez, who with Ruth was a beloved and respected elder of The United Methodist Church. Deeply grounded in her Methodist roots, Ruth began her Christian service in the Philippines in young people’s ministry. She was a ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the death of Honorably Located Pastor Kent Savage.  Kent was born on June 4, 1941, in Kimball, Nebraska.  He died on June 8, 2021, just days after his 80th birthday due to COVID.   Kent began his ministry in 1962 in the then Rocky Mountain Conference.  He went on to serve in the Nebraska Conference before coming to serve in the California-Nevada Conference.  He served at our Caruthers church from 1966-1970 and then at ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Pastor Martha Truax, died on Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2021, at the age of 72.  She was licensed and served in ministry as a local pastor in the Missouri Conference of The United Methodist Church but since July 1, 2019, we were fortunate to have her serve among us as a retired part- time local pastor at our Greenville and Chester Community United Methodist Churches.   Martha grew up in Vancouver, ...

Friends,   It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the death of our beloved sister, Rev. Jane Elizabeth (Egeberg) Schlager.  She died on April 7, 2021 after a short but serious illness.  A pioneer among women clergy, Jane came into ordained ministry in the previous two-tier system – Ordained a Deacon and placed in the probationary status on the Elder track in 1976 and then Ordained an Elder and received into Full Connection in the California-Nevada Conference in 1980.   As a clergy member ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. E. Julius Davis, died on March 2, 2021. Julius began his ministry in the New York East conference, transferring into the California Nevada conference in June of 1961. In our conference he served the following churches in California: First UMC Fresno (Associate), Caruthers, Parlier, Orangevale, Marina and Seaside, Rio Linda, Highlands UMC in Clearlake, Greenfield, El Camino and Corning until retiring...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Kevin D. Johnson, spouse of Pastor Marie A. Wilson, died on Sunday, February 21, 2021. While supportive of his spouse, due to illness Kevin was not able to accompany Pastor Marie as she was appointed to serve the Sonoma United Methodist Church in California. Brother Kevin cared deeply for his community and was known as one who always offered help and support to all he met who had a need. He was employed ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John E. Corson, died on Friday, February 19, 2021.     John served the following churches and ministry setting in California: First Oakland (Associate), Wesley Foundation Berkeley (Associate), El Camino, Loomis, Lafayette (Associate), Alum Rock in San Jose, and First Bakersfield.  He was then appointed to serve as the District Superintendent of the San Jose District.  His last appointment prior to...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Peggy Baldwin, spouse of Rev. Donald L. Baldwin, died on Tuesday, January 26, 2021.   Peggy was a faithful companion as her husband Donald began his ministry in 1964 serving El Portal Community Church near Yosemite National Park and then as Resident Minister for Yosemite National Park from 1965-1969.  In 1969, Don transferred to the Kansas East Conference and served there with United Ministries in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Betty Boswell, spouse of the late Rev. Robert Boswell, died on Monday, January 4, 2021.   Betty was a faithful companion as her husband served the following California churches in our Conference: Del Rey, Dos Palos, Hope in Mountain View, St. Paul’s in South San Francisco, and Los Gatos.  Rev. Boswell also served with Betty’s great support as Executive Secretary for the Conference Board of Education, as...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Pastor Geraldine J. Wolfe, died on December 31, 2020.   Originally from Missouri, it was in moving to California that she responded to her call to ministry.  Geraldine served the following California churches in our Conference: Cone, Los Molinos and Trinity UMC in Anderson before retiring in 1997.   Sister Geraldine is remembered as being down-to-earth and easy to relate to.   She was passionately ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. R. Vernice Otto, died on Tuesday, December 29, 2020.  Vernice served the following United Methodist Churches in California: Willow Glen, San Jose (as Associate Pastor) and Citrus Heights before retiring in 1994. Before entering into ordained ministry in The United Methodist Church in 1980, Vernice had a passion for “comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable.” She was a volunteer for ...

UPDATE: You are invited to gather together via Zoom to offer presence, prayers, songs, comfort and care to Debbie and family during this time of sorrow and grief. The date and time is:  January 25, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. (Pacific Standard Time) Please join us through this link: https://tinyurl.com/KDillonMemorialService Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, W. Kent Dillon, spouse of retired local pastor Debbie Dillon, died on Wednesday, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Frederick Baker, died on December 15, 2020. Fred began his ministry in 1957 serving the following California churches in our Conference: Tipton, San Joaquin, and Calwa in Fresno. He then served churches in the Rocky Mountain and the Nebraska Conferences, returning to the California-Nevada Conference in 1969 to serve the Fallon and Lovelock churches in Nevada.  From 1975 to 1979 he worked as an ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Betty Rae Hansen McCormack, surviving spouse of the late Rev. Wendell Hansen, died on Monday, December 14, 2020.   Betty Rae was a faithful ministry companion as Rev. Hansen served the following California churches in our Conference: Aldersgate in Chico, Livingston, Hughson, and Sonora United Methodist churches until retiring in 1983.   Sister Betty Rae was a special education teacher and counselor in the...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Dolores “Dolly” Capuli, surviving spouse of the late Rev. Arturo Capuli, died on Sunday, December 13, 2020.   Dolly was a faithful ministry companion as Rev. Capuli served in ministry in the Philippines, the Illinois Great Rivers Conference, and finally in the California-Nevada Conference to which he transferred in 1980.  In our Conference he served the following churches in California: Melrose United in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Erma Pauline Shartz, spouse of the late Rev. Robert K. Shartz, died on Saturday, November 21, 2020.   Erma Pauline “Paula” was a faithful ministry companion as Rev. Shartz served in ministry in the Pacific Northwest, the Illinois Great Rivers Conferences and finally in the California-Nevada Conference to which he transferred in 1956.  In our Conference he pastored Glide Memorial, San Francisco, CA, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that we have recently become aware of the death of both Rev. Lloyd William Corzine, who died on October 31, 2020, and his spouse and our sister, Virginia Lee Corzine who died on February 6, 2020.  They were married for 71 years. Together Lloyd and Virginia served Christ our Lord through a long appointment journey that Lloyd responded to with Virginia’s full support.  Their partnership in ministry began in the Wisconsin ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Charles “Charley” Lerrigo, died on Saturday, October 10, 2020.   Charley began his ministry in the Troy Conference in New York. In 1974 he was appointed to serve in the Communications Office of the General Board of Global Ministries where he served for a decade.  He transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1988, where he began his ministry among us as a Conference communications ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Local Pastor Rev. Saia Fa’asisila, died on Saturday, September 26, 2020.     Saia served the following United Methodist churches in the state of California: Hillsdale San Mateo, Shoreview San Mateo, Martinez and St. Andrews Palo Alto churches.   Brother Saia was a loving father and doting husband.  He loved to sing and dance and delighted in teaching his children to sing Tongan music at a very young ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Roy Erford, died on Thursday, September 17, 2020. Roy began his ministry as an Evangelical United Brethren pastor in the Pacific Northwest Conference. He then served in the Oregon-Idaho Conference, and after a leave of absence, came to serve in the California-Nevada Conference in 1966. In our conference, he served at W. Lake and St. Francis churches in San Francisco, California before retiring in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Dale Baker, died on Sunday August 30, 2020.     Dale began his ministry in the Nebraska Conference in 1947, then served in the Northern Illinois and Oregon Idaho Conferences before transferring to what is today the California-Nevada Conference in 1963. In our conference, he served at the following United Methodist churches in the state of California:  Grace in Santa Cruz, and First and Forest Hill...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Yer Vang, spouse of Rev. Wang Pao Thao, died on Friday, August 21, 2020. Yer was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry as a Pastor in the Christian Mission Alliance denomination where together they founded the first Hmong congregation in Modesto, CA in 1985.  In 1993, Wang Pao became a local pastor in The United Methodist Church and was ordained a Deacon following completion of the Course...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Amos Cambric Jr., died on Thursday, August 20, 2020.   Brother Amos served in ministry in the Kentucky, Northern Illinois, Western Ohio, and South Indiana Conferences before transferring into the California-Nevada Conference in 1957.  In our Conference he served the following United Methodist Churches in the state of California:  Edison Manor and St. Mark’s United Methodist churches in Fresno and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Lois Clazie, spouse of Rev. Robert Clazie, died on Sunday, August 16, 2020.   Lois was a faithful companion as her husband served the following United Methodist churches in the state of California:  Redwood Highway Mobile Ministry, Courtland, Eureka, St. Luke’s in Richmond, First San Mateo, St. Paul’s in South San Francisco, Central in Sacramento, St. Stephen’s in Oakland, Wesley in Palo Alto, Rockridge...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness, that we recently learned, that our brother, Rev. Donald Rogers, died on August 10, 2020. Donald served the Valley Springs, Olivehurst, Biggs, Downieville, Seaside, and First UMC Fremont churches. After a period of sabbatical he continued his education, and began a teaching career as an elementary school teacher with the Fremont Unified School District for 20 years. He retired in 1992. He is survived by his wife of thirty years, Robin ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Lois Albright, spouse of Rev. John Albright, died on Thursday, August 6, 2020.  Lois and John had recently celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary. Lois was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry in the Kansas East Conference.  He transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1961, where he served the following United Methodist churches in the state of California:  the yoked ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Noreen Marx, spouse of Rev. William “Bill” Marx, died on Wednesday, August 5, 2020.   Noreen was a faithful companion as her husband served the following United Methodist churches in the state of California:  Kings Beach, Church of the Mountain in Truckee, First in Corcoran, First in Arcata, Sebastopol, Trinity in Chico and Tice Valley in Walnut Creek until retiring in 1997.   Noreen was very active ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John J. Auer III, died on Tuesday, July 21, 2020.     John began his ministry in 1972, in the Northern Illinois Conference.  He transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1992 and served the Sierra Vista Fresno, CA, First UMC San Rafael, CA, and First UMC Reno, NV churches before retiring in 2009.   Pastor John was known as a man of strong faith, a loving pastor and colleague, and a ...

UPDATE: We’re encouraging those who are not familiar with zoom to log on early to get one-on-one technical help. To join from a PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android:   Click on this link --> https://stanford.zoom.us/j/97131723689?pwd=SUdKVzhiQ2w3Vv9JUU1WNmpveklvQT09 | Password: 760174 In addition, a guestbook has been created and we invite you to leave a message for the family. Click Here to sign the guestbook.  Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Evelyn Joy Schlager, spouse of Rev. Robert L. Schlager (deceased), died on Saturday, June 20, 2020.   Evelyn was a faithful companion throughout her husband’s ministry which began in the Missouri Conference. He transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1949, where he served as chaplain at the Wesley Foundation at Trinity UMC in Berkeley, CA. She then accompanied him to Argentina from 1955 to...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, John William “Jack” Mueller, spouse of Rev. Janet Mueller, died on Tuesday, June 9, 2020.   Jack was a faithful companion as his wife served as a hospital chaplain in Vacaville, CA and with Yolo Hospice until retiring in 2011.   Jack and Janet met at a summer musical camp in New Jersey while attending high school.  He played the French horn and she played the trumpet.  Music would become a life-long ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Penelope Vorster, spouse of Rev. Arnold Vorster, died on Wednesday, May 20, 2020.  Regretfully, we only recently were notified of her passing.   Penelope was a faithful companion as her husband served the following United Methodist churches in the state of California: Trinity in Berkeley, Turlock, and Mount Tamalpais in Mill Valley, until retiring in 2001.   Sister Penelope was a talented weaver and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Carol Saylor, spouse of Rev. Ronald Saylor, died on Sunday, May 3, 2020.   Carol was a faithful companion to her husband as he served in Canada, in the California Pacific Conference, and then in the California Nevada Conference in which he was accepted by transfer in 1968.  Carol was a gift to the congregation of Durham, California where Ronald was appointed to serve, as well as in his appointment ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. R. James Hutchison, died on Friday, May 1, 2020.     Pastor Jim served the Guinda, Kings Beach, Truckee, First UMC Livingston, Oakdale, Aldersgate San Rafael, and Concord churches before retiring in 1997.   He was born in Ireland and left home at a young age, making his way to London, England.  A kind woman who worked in healthcare took him in and her influence on his life led him into a nursing ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Dr. Thomas P. Grissom, Jr., died on Wednesday, April 8, 2020.   Tom served in the North Georgia & New York Conferences before transferring to the California-Nevada in 1965.  He served among us at Taylor Memorial UMC in Oakland, as District Superintendent of the San Jose District and at First UMC, Sacramento. In 1980, Rev. Dr. Grissom then returned to New York where he served churches in Manhattan...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Adolfo H. Valencia, died on Monday, April 6, 2020.   Rev. Valencia was received into our conference in 1980 by transfer from the Methodist Church of Mexico. He served  La Trinidad UMC in San Jose, and  Selma San Pablo UMC before retiring in 1997.  After retirement he moved to San Antonio, TX to be closer to his daughter Aurora Virginia.  There he was embraced by the Hispanic United Methodist ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Darrell D. Thomas, died on Saturday, March 28, 2020.   Darrell served the Shattuck Avenue Oakland, First UMC Richmond, Earlimart, Wesley Modesto, St. Paul’s Manteca, First UMC San Leandro, First UMC Lodi, and as Director of Church Relations and Alumni Student Recruitment at the University of the Pacific, Stockton before retiring in 1992.   Darrell enjoyed reading and was a big San Francisco Giant...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Theodore “Ted” Jennings, spouse of Rev. Ronna Case, died on Wednesday, March 25, 2020.   Ted was a faithful companion as his wife served in chaplaincy and extension ministries until retiring in 2014.   Ted was an American theologian and accomplished writer.  His scholarly work and publications focused on a broad array of topics including Methodism, ritual studies, LGBT rights and queer theology.  He ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Nadeen Biehler, surviving spouse of Rev. Robert Biehler, died on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Nadeen was a faithful companion as her husband Bob served the Pinole, Arcata, Holy Cross Stockton, and Paradise churches before retiring in 2012. Nadeen was a registered nurse and worked in the area of nursing education and as a public health nurse before retiring.  She was also an amazing hostess and could ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Andrew B. Montgomery, spouse of Rev. Judy Currier, died on Thursday, March 12, 2020. Andrew was a faithful companion to his wife, Rev. Judy Currier, as she served the Kelseyville, Grace UMC Santa Cruz, Petaluma and Tice Valley churches before she retired in 2005.   Andrew was a third-generation Presbyterian minister, serving several congregations including some in the United Methodist church. He ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Roger B. Knutsen, died on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.     Roger began his ministry in the Wisconsin Conference, and transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1965. In our Conference he served the Lake Park and Oakland churches in California.  Over the next 21 years he was appointed to service in the US Military Division of Chaplains.  He then served the Caruthers church in the Central ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Dorothy “Dotty” Dale, spouse of Rev. Alfred Dale Jr., died on Tuesday, March 10, 2020.   Dotty was a faithful companion as her husband Alfred served in the predecessor body of what is today the California-Pacific Conference before transferring to our area in 1954.  Among us he served San Leandro, St. Francis & Wesley churches in San Francisco, and Live Oak church in Santa Cruz.  He also served as UM ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that we have recently become aware of the death of both Rev. Lloyd William Corzine, who died on October 31, 2020, and his spouse and our sister, Virginia Lee Corzine who died on February 6, 2020.  They were married for 71 years. Together Lloyd and Virginia served Christ our Lord through a long appointment journey that Lloyd responded to with Virginia’s full support.  Their partnership in ministry began in the Wisconsin ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Robert “Bob” Biehler, died on Saturday February 1, 2020.   Bob served the Guinda, Arbuckle, Orland, Pinole, Arcata, Holy Cross Stockton, and Paradise churches before retiring in 2012.   Bob was an avid gardener and loved flowers.  His yard, both front and back, were the pride of the neighborhood.  He was also a dedicated husband, traveling each day to feed his wife Nadeen breakfast and dinner in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   As previously shared, it is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Dr. Taniela Haunga, spouse of Rev. Ofa Haunga, died on December 25, 2019.     Taniela was a high school teacher of math and science, then went on to earn his Doctor of Ministry degree from Claremont School of Theology.  He began his ministry in the California Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church, serving several churches there. In more recent years, he served as ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Yon Sil Yu, died on Wednesday, December 4, 2019.   Yon Sil served the Korean UMC in San Francisco (associate); Korean Fellowship in Vacaville; Wesley Korean in San Francisco; Hillsdale UMC in San Mateo; Aldersgate in South San Francisco; the UM Korean Ministry of Western Nevada; and the Korean Ministry of Reno, Nevada before retiring in 2004.     Yon Sil attended the Sung-kewn-kwan University and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Eldora Swedenburg, surviving spouse of Rev. Everett Swedenburg, died on Monday, December 2, 2019. Eldora was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry serving congregations of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Connecticut, Colorado, and Nebraska, and followed with him when he joined the United Methodist church in 1961.  Rev. Swedenburg served churches in the Northern California and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Margaret Ann “Marge” Combs, died on Sunday, December 1, 2019.   Marge was a faithful companion as her husband, Braxton, served the Roselawn UMC in San Jose; Sunnyhills UMC in Milpitas; as minister of Adult Education and Counseling at First UMC Palo Alto; Central San Francisco UMC; as associate pastor at Temple UMC in San Francisco; and as pastor at St. Francis UMC in San Francisco, Holy Cross UMC in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Lillian Bea Cunningham, spouse of Rev. Donald J. Cunningham, died on November 25, 2019.     Lillian was a faithful companion as her husband served as pastor at the churches of Chowchilla, Dairyland, Woodside Road in Redwood City, and First UMC Oakland; as Shasta District superintendent; as the conference program council director; and at the Burlingame church until retiring in 1998.     Lillian was a ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Ardith Callaway, spouse of Rev. Norman G. Callaway, died on Monday, November 18, 2019.   Ardith was a faithful companion as her husband served the Freedom, Alum Rock San Jose, Parkside St. Francis San Francisco, Wesley Bakersfield, Oroville, Asbury Livermore, First UMC Sunnyvale, St. Mark’s Sacramento, and Tice Valley Walnut Creek churches, until retiring in 1991.   Ardith enjoyed doing stitchery and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Virginia Allen, surviving spouse of Rev. Grant Allen, died on November 7, 2019.      Virginia was a faithful companion as her husband served the Sanger United Methodist Church before retiring in 1983.     Virginia was an accomplished seamstress, making fine quilts and wall hangings, many of which she donated to fundraisers in Atascadero. She loved to cook and enjoyed traveling.     She is survived by ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Donald “Eugene” Anderson, died on Tuesday, November 5, 2019.     Eugene served among us at the Tracy (as assistant), Elverta, and Orangevale churches, as well as with the Division of Chaplains as a chaplain in the Dept. of Corrections, then at Jamestown and Orlando Federated before retiring in 1995.   Eugene was a writer and poet who loved nature, especially flowers.  He delighted in taking donuts...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Bonifacia “Bonnie” Estolas, spouse of Rev. Elpidio “Ped” Estolas, died on Monday, November 4, 2019.      Bonnie was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry in the Philippines. In our conference, he served among us at the Livingston, United Oakland and Fellowship Vallejo, Williams and Arbuckle, Faith San Jose and Lakewood Sunnyvale, Wasco, Tuolumne and Soulsbyville, Riverside Sacramento ...

NOTE: Contains updated service information Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Jonah Chang, died on Saturday, November 2, 2019.   Jonah joined our conference through recognition of orders in 1967. He served among us at the Christ Fresno, Buena Vista Alameda churches, then as director of development for Asian American Ministries, as executive director for National Federation of Asian American United Methodists, as superintendent of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Vivien Bruner, spouse of Rev. Richard Bruner, died on Thursday, October 17, 2019.       Vivien was a faithful companion journeying with her husband through ministry in the Western Ohio, Oregon-Idaho, Alaska, Northern Indiana, and Southern Indiana conferences and as he transferred into the California-Nevada Conference in 1979. In our conference he served the Burlingame UMC (associate) and then as ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Pastor John Bosch, died on September 27, 2019. John began his ministry as a Conference Lay Minister in Jackson, then continued there as a Supply Lay Minister. He then became a Part Time Local Pastor, and served the Jackson, Lemoore, Armona, and Valley Springs Community churches.   John loved music and had been a musician since he was a child.  He taught drumming professionally and in recent years, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Charles T. Smith, died on Monday, September 23, 2019.    Charles served the First: Richmond, Weldon, Jackson, Eureka, Nevada City, Crescent City, and First: Turlock churches.   Charles enjoyed writing and was a published poet. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed fly fishing with his wife, Nikki, on the Klamath River. Charles was passionate about people and made deep connections with people at ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Janice Dahl, died on Saturday, September 14, 2019.   Serving first as a Diaconal Minister and later joining the Order of Deacons, Jan served as the director of Sunday school at St. Mark’s UMC in Sacramento, CA until she retired in 2006.   Janice traveled all over the world and was described as “very craftsy”; she enjoyed a wide variety of crafts, such as creating personal greeting cards, crochet, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Alice Litov, surviving spouse of Rev. Tzvetan Litov, died on September 9, 2019.   Alice was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry in Europe, then joined our conference in 1953, serving among us at Portola, Grace UMC San Francisco, First UMC Modesto (associate), St. Mark’s Bakersfield, and San Lorenzo churches before retiring in 1976.   Alice was a professional reading specialist for ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Onelda Letana, spouse of Rev. Reynaldo Letana, died on Monday, August 19, 2019.   Onelda was a faithful companion as her husband served the Kelseyville, Upper Lake, Grace San Francisco, Wasco, Fort Jones, Etna, Georgetown Community, St. Paul’s Stockton, St. Mark’s Stockton, and Wayside Vallejo churches.   Onelda delighted in growing flowers and gardening at every home in which they lived, and shared ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Braxton Luther Combs, died on Monday, August 19, 2019.   Braxton served Roselawn UMC in San Jose; Sunnyhills UMC in Milpitas; as minister of adult education and counseling at First UMC Palo Alto; Central San Francisco UMC; as associate pastor at Temple UMC in San Francisco; and as pastor at St. Francis UMC in San Francisco, Holy Cross UMC in Stockton, and Heavenly Grace UMC in Millbrae before ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Elizabeth Williams, surviving spouse of Rev. Wayne Williams, died on Friday, August 9, 2019.     Elizabeth was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry in the New York conference, then followed him in the California-Nevada Annual Conference where he served the Sonoma; Oroville; and Willow Glen, San Jose churches before retiring in 1988.   Elizabeth loved to paint and had a passion for ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John V. Moore, died on Saturday, July 27, 2019.    John served the Orange Avenue Sacramento, Asbury Sacramento, First UMC Hayward, Trinity Chico, and Glide Memorial San Francisco churches; Davis campus ministry; as Bay View District Superintendent; and the First UMC, Reno and First UMC Sacramento churches. He retired on Dec. 1, 1986.   John was especially appreciated for his quick wit and wisdom....

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Faioa “Faye” Schwarzenberg, surviving spouse of Rev. Carl Schwarzenberg, died on Saturday, July 13, 2019.   Faioa was a faithful companion as her husband served the Windsor, Tamalpais Valley, Shasta Valley, Westwood Community, Greenville Parish, Taylorsville, Gazelle, Mt. Shasta, and Susanville churches.   Faioa was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening, quilting, and knitting. She spent many hours ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Pastor Victor McLane, retired local pastor, died on July 10, 2019.    Victor served the Carlin, Five Points, Calwa, Fresno, and St. Mark’s Fresno churches before retiring in 1987.    Victor was passionate about social justice issues and was a strong advocate for immigration work. Throughout his life he was always active in music, playing trumpet and string bass and singing tenor. In retirement, he ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Brenda McKeithen, spouse of Rev. David McKeithen, died on June 6, 2019.   Brenda loved what she called “the four G’s: God, her five Grandchildren, Golf, and Gym.” She delighted in teaching the four-year-old children at her church, and other kinds of service there and elsewhere.   Brenda is survived by her husband, David; her daughter, Stephanie Kuo of Walnut Creek, CA; and, together with David, her five...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Iesilika Ofahengaue, spouse of Rev. Tevita Ofahengaue, died on Wednesday, May 22, 2019.      Iesilika was a faithful companion as her husband served the Carlin, Greenville, Hamilton, and Tehachapi Valley churches, and the Salt Lake City Tongan United Methodist Church in the Mountain Sky area.      Iesilika was known for her lovely smile and humble demeanor. She loved reading the Bible and spending ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Mary McCollum, died on Tuesday, May 21, 2019.   Mary served St. Mark’s, Sacramento, and Exeter churches before retiring in 1999.   Mary was a holder of life teaching and counseling credentials providing both teaching and counseling services at Rancho Cordova and Red Bluff High Schools.  During her tenure Mary led the International Youth Exchange Program in both Sacramento and Red Bluff and an ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Thomas Chun-Nan Tai, died on Tuesday, April 30, 2019.     Thomas began his ministry in the Presbyterian Church of Formosa. His orders were recognized by the California Nevada Conference of the United Methodist Church in 1975.  He was appointed beyond the local church to serve as a Formosan Indigenous Community Developer of the Formosan Church in Oakland. He then served as pastor of the Formosan ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,    It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Allen J. “Jerry” Carter, died on Sunday, April 21, 2019.    Jerry served Berkeley Trinity (Associate), Fremont First, Sanger, Ukiah, San Francisco Bethany, Aptos, Livermore Asbury, Modesto First, and Saratoga Grace before retiring in 1996.   His family shares that in his service as a Methodist minister, he led his local churches and the annual conference in participating in numerous civil and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Masayoshi Kawashima, died on Sunday, April 14, 2019.    Masayoshi began his ministry in 1972 in the Oregon-Idaho Conference. He went on to serve in the New York and California-Pacific Conferences before transferring to the California-Nevada Conference in July of 1993. He served the Lake Park United Methodist Church before retiring in 2002.   Pastor Mas, as he was affectionately called, was known ...

UPDATE: Condolences may be sent to new address:  Woodworth Family, PO Box 815, Cut Bank, MT 59427.   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Peggy Ann Woodworth, surviving spouse of Rev. Charles Woodworth, died on Monday, April 8, 2019. Peggy was a faithful companion as her husband served the Round Valley, Willits, San Lorenzo, First UMC, Fremont, and First UMC, Turlock, before retiring in 1991. Peggy served as organist, Sunday School teacher and led Bible Study classes in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Winston Cruz, died on Thursday, March 7, 2019.   Winston served the Lindsay, Martinez, and Valley Springs Community United Methodist Churches before retiring in 2010. In retirement he was very active in the new church start in American River Canyon and in our conference’s Filipino-American ministry.   Winston loved to play golf and spend time with his grandchildren. He was a gifted musician and in...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Ronald R. Ray, surviving spouse of Rev. Marilyn Ray, died on Tuesday, March 5, 2019.   Ronald was a faithful companion as his wife served in Los Molinos, Cone, Mendocino UM Cooperative Parish: Point Arena, St. Paul’s, Point Arena, St. Paul’s & Willits, Galt and Sunnyhills, Milpitas churches until Marilyn retired in July of 2000.   He loved reading and creative writing, and had a special connection to ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Kathleen “Kay” Fuller, surviving spouse of Rev. Glenn Fuller, died on Monday, February 25, 2019.   Kay was a faithful companion as her husband served Shoreview in San Mateo; Greenfield; Roselawn; and Almaden Hills Churches; San Jose; Tracy; Los Altos; and Palo Alto First, before retiring in 1988. They also served as missionaries in India and Korea.   Kay was a gifted counselor, writer, and parenting ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Gene Anna Hawthorne, surviving spouse of Rev. Robert J. Hawthorne, died on Friday, February 15, 2019.   Gene Anna was a faithful companion as her husband served at St. Paul in Stockton, First Church in Palo Alto (Asst.), First Church in Tracy, First Church in Redding, Hillsdale Church in San Mateo, as San Jose District Superintendent, and then Almaden Hills Church in San Jose before retiring in 1990. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Jean Baker, spouse of the Rev. Dale Baker, died on Saturday, January 19, 2019.    Jean was a faithful companion as her husband served in the Nebraska, Northern Illinois, and Oregon-Idaho conferences before transferring to what is today the California-Nevada Conference in 1963. In our conference they served Grace Church in Santa Cruz, and Forest Hill and First churches in Pacific Grove, before retiring ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Myra Jane Garretson, surviving spouse of Rev. Alvin Garretson, died on Saturday, January 19, 2019.   Myra was a faithful companion as her husband Alvin began his ministry in the Evangelical United Brethren church.  He then served in the Pacific Northwest Conference followed by service in the California Conference at the Meadow Vista & Placer Hills churches, Grace UMC in Stockton, Porterville and Gridley...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Barbara Cannon-Anderson, surviving spouse of Rev. Booker T. Anderson, died on Friday, December 28, 2018. Barbara was born in Big Sandy, Texas.  We regret that we have just now received notification of her death.    Barbara was a faithful companion as her husband served the Jones Memorial United Methodist Church.   An accomplished pianist and flautist, Barbara began her first formal music training when ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Pastor Heather Wells, local pastor, died on December 28, 2018. We regret that we have just now received notification of her death.   Heather loved to crochet and loved showing her Chinese crested poodle dogs.    Heather served an extension ministry as chaplain at St. Rose Dominican Hospital in Nevada.    She is survived by her husband, Richard Wells of Stockton, CA; her children, Naomi Jeter of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Dorothy “Dottie” Vieira, spouse of Rev. Gilbert Vieira, died on Friday, December 7, 2018.    Dottie was a faithful companion as her husband served as Director of Youth, Hayward, as Associate Pastor at Porterville, and as Pastor of the San Francisco: Geneva Avenue, Jackson and Sutter Creek, Buri Buri, So. San Francisco, Aldersgate (formerly Buri Buri), Mill Valley, Lafayette, and (in retirement) Colfax ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Doris Long, surviving spouse of Rev. Wayne Long, died on Friday, November 16, 2018.    Doris was a faithful companion as her husband served the Santa Cruz: Grace; Orland: Federated; Lafayette; Winnemucca; Dunsmuir; Jackson; Sutter Creek; Oakland: Laurel; Pt. Pleasant; Isleton; Gridley; Downieville; and Sierra City churches before Wayne’s retirement in 1981. She enjoyed a long life serving with Wayne in ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Helen Foster, surviving spouse of Rev. John Foster, died on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.    Helen was a faithful companion as her husband served the San Jose: First; Round Valley; Willits; Walnut Creek: First; Oakland: Elmhurst and Melrose; Delano; Rohnert Park: St. John’s; and Paradise churches, and as he served as District Superintendent of the Nevada Sierra District.   Over the years, Helen taught and...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Linda Kuruhara, spouse of Rev. Dale Kuruhara, died on Sunday, October 21, 2018.    Linda was a faithful companion as her husband began his ministry in the Pacific Northwest Conference, then transferred to the California Nevada conference in 1993, where they served the Berkeley: Methodist United; Patterson: Patterson Federated; Selma: First; and Lindsay: Lindsay UMC churches before retiring in 2009.   ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Joy Lee McGallian, surviving spouse of the Rev. Philip McGallian, died on Monday, October 15, 2018.    Joy was a faithful companion as her husband served the Meadow Vista; Dutch Flat; Porterville: Grand Avenue; Gazelle; and Mt. Shasta churches before Philip retired in 1997.   Joy was a traditional pastor’s wife, always involved in the life of the church, teaching Bible study, organizing women’s ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Young Ok Lee, surviving spouse of Rev. In Suk Lee, died on October 11, 2018.    Young Ok was a faithful companion as her husband worked to plant the Peninsula Korean United Methodist Church in 1970, which later changed its name to the Zion Korean United Methodist Church in Sunnyvale, California. He retired in 1990.   Her passion was her faith in God and singing. She was a gifted pianist and a choir ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother Rev. Sun-Yong Park died on Sunday, September 30, 2018.   Sun-Yong served in the Pennsylvania-Delaware, Southern Indiana, East Ohio, and Minnesota conferences before transferring into our conference in 1997, where he served the Marina: Canaan Korean United Methodist Church before retiring in 2008.   He loved to draw and enjoyed traveling to the ocean for walks on the beach. Sung-Yong had a great sense of...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. William Richard “Dick” Huser, died on Wednesday, September 26, 2018.   Dick began his ministry in the E. Oklahoma conference, transferring to our conference in 1955, where he served the Monterey, Georgetown, Sacramento: First (Minister of Visitation), Sierra Pines, and Grass Valley churches, as well as serving in conference positions beyond the local church.   In his free time, Dick loved to play...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother Rev. Leonard C. Autajay died on Tuesday, September 11, 2018.    Leonard served the Schurz Indian Mission; Anderson Valley; San Francisco: Wesley; San Francisco: Grace; San Francisco: Geneva Avenue; and San Mateo: Shoreview churches before retiring in 1996. Since a young age, his favorite pastime was fishing and when he responded to Jesus’ call to ministry he said God wanted him to “follow me and I will ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Wanda Celli, died on Friday, August 24, 2018.    Wanda served the Middletown, Fall River Mills, Kelseyville, and Upper Lake churches before retiring in 2016.   Wanda was a pianist and had a deep love for music. Her call to ministry came while serving in her role as a Director of Music in her local church. She is remembered as having a beautiful singing voice and she loved singing one of her ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Robert McIlvenna, died on Wednesday, August 22, 2018. Robert began his ministry in Oregon before transferring to the California Nevada conference in 1957. He served the Meridian, and Hayward: Wesley churches, then as Director of Young Adult Work in San Francisco, at the Board of Education, Nashville, Glide Foundation San Francisco, Glide Urban Center San Francisco, Genesis Ecumenical Center, as ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Richard “Rick” Plain, died on Sunday, August 5, 2018.     Rick served the Forestville, Dutch Flat & Meadow Vista, Sacramento: Trinity, Superintendent: Fresno District, Palo Alto: St. Andrews (LFT), and Los Altos churches. He retired in 2010.   Rick loved working with stained glass and had recently donated a beautiful piece to St. Andrews UMC in Palo Alto where it hangs today. He also enjoyed long ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Elizabeth Lint, surviving spouse of the Rev. Lewis Lint, died on Wednesday, July 11, 2018.   Elizabeth was a faithful companion as her husband served in the Iowa and New England conferences before transferring to California-Nevada in 1968. In this conference he served the Fairfield and Redwood City-Woodside Road churches and was for many years a hospital chaplain before retiring in 1995.   Elizabeth had a...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. John M. Schmidt, died on July 11, 2018.     John had a deep faith in Christ and loved ministry.  He strived to connect with people and even in retirement, continued to serve small churches in the conference.  He loved being outdoors, especially fishing and was particularly fond of building things.  Over the years, he remodeled several of his homes and built a dream home northeast of Auburn, CA.   ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Martha Schade, surviving spouse of Rev. Sigmund Schade, died on July 2, 2018.   Always cheerful and kind, she led a full and exciting life, partnering with her husband of 61 years.  Martha was a graduate of Yuba College and Westmont College, earning her master’s degree while stationed with her husband in Iceland and Real Estate license in Yuba City.  She grew an active piano instruction practice, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Ivan J. Ball, died on Tuesday, June 19, 2018.   Ivan served the San Francisco: First (Associate), Freedom, San Mateo: Crystal Springs, Weldon and Highland Chapel, Kelseyville and Lakeport, San Francisco: Calvary, San Leandro: Faith, and Castro Valley churches, until retiring in 1993.    Rev. Ball is remembered as someone that used to be described as a polymath, a person who is knowledgeable to an ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. C. Ray Alderman, died on Friday, June 15, 2018.     Ray began his ministry in the Central Texas and North Texas conferences. He transferred into the California Nevada conference in 1978, where he served Cupertino, Bakersfield: St. Marks, Exeter, and the Fresno: Sierra Vista churches until retiring in 2001.     Rev. Alderman served in the Army before beginning his service to the Lord.  Upon ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Jean Davis, spouse of retired pastor Rev. Beverly Davis, died on Monday, June 11, 2018.   Jean was a faithful companion as her husband Beverly served the Burlingame, Kelseyville & Lakeport and Sacramento: Merwin Memorial churches as well as Extension Ministry appointments before retiring in 1978.   She is survived by her husband, Beverly Davis, and by her children, Kenneth Gettys of Salem, OR, George ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Earl L. Langguth, died on Thursday, May 31, 2018.     Earl served the Elverta, King’s Beach, Livingston, Dinuba: First and Dinuba: Palm, Grass Valley, Sacramento: Faith, Montclair, and Oakland: Laurel churches before retiring in 1997.   After discovering a call from God to the ministry, Rev. Langguth attended PSR where he received his Master of Divinity Degree (cum laude) and served for 47 years ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Robert McCallister died on Friday, May 11, 2018.   Robert served the Tamalpais Valley, and St. Helena churches, and as the Conference Board of Education: Associate Director of Youth and Student Work; as Associate,  Stockton: Central, as Professor at Baker University, and at the University Religious Center of Fresno, as well as various appointments in the Desert Southwest and California-Pacific ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. JoAnn Juniel, died on Sunday, May 6, 2018.   JoAnn has been a light among us, serving and loving for a long time.  She grew up in McCloud, California, where at an early age she loved riding horses.  JoAnn came to Sacramento where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work.  From there she completed a Master of Arts degree at Atlanta University.  After clarifying her call to ministry, she ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Juanita Swedenburg, surviving spouse of the Rev. Romain Swedenburg, died on Friday, April 6, 2018.    Juanita was a faithful companion as her husband Romain served Walnut Creek-Tice Valley before retiring in 1987.   She is survived by five children, Ted Swedenburg of Fayetteville, AR, Ray Swedenburg of Eureka, CA; Cynthia Wolfe of Olympia, WA, Sandra Hilger of Fountain Valley, CA, and Gregory Soghikian ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that I share with all of you the death of Tadesse Samelson, son of Great Northern District Superintendent the Rev. Dave Samelson and Sonia Samelson, who was killed in a tragic rollerblading accident. Please pray for the Samelson family in their hour of profound grief.  Condolences can be sent to them at the Conference Center, P.O. Box 980250, West Sacramento, CA 95798-0250. A memorial service has been scheduled for Saturday, April 28, at...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Lawrence H. “Larry” Doyle, died on Saturday, March 24, 2018.   Larry served the Windsor, Novato, Fallon, Schurz, Fresno: St. Paul’s, Sacramento: Centennial, San Jose: Calvary and Lemoore churches before retiring in 1989.   In retirement Larry made Fresno, Wesley UMC his charge conference and is remembered fondly as being a supportive and integral part of the church. He was very committed to social...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Alpha Takagi, died on Wednesday, March 21, 2018.   Alpha began his ministry in the California-Pacific and Pacific Northwest Conferences. In 1959 he transferred into the California Nevada Conference, where he served the St. Marina, Dinuba, Dinuba: Palm, Palo Alto: Aldersgate churches before retiring in 1984.   Rev. Tagaki spent a num­ber of years attending Lake Se­quoia Retreat, a summer youth camp...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Mary Helen Thomas, surviving spouse of Rev. Larry Thomas, died on Tuesday, March 20, 2018.   Mary was a faithful companion as her husband Larry served the Sunnyvale: First (associate), San Jose: Cambrian Park, and Half Moon Bay churches before retiring in 2011. Mary spent her life as a therapist in California.  She married Reverend Larry Thomas on June 12, 1970 and they were married for 45 years.  Mary’...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Celia Pangan Rodriguez, surviving spouse of the Rev. David De Leon Rodriguez, died on Friday, March 16, 2018. Celia was a faithful companion as her husband David served the Fresno: Fresno Christian Fellowship, San Jose: Faith, and Sunnyvale: Lakewood, Sunnyvale: Valley Faith and Oakland: Chinese churches, before retiring in 2008. She is survived by her children, Davidson “Sandy” Rodriguez of Union City,...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Wayne L. Bouck, died on Tuesday, February 26, 2018.   Wayne began his ministry in the California Pacific Conference as a US Navy Chaplain, transferring into California Nevada conference in 1991. In our conference he served in extension ministry under the Division of  Chaplains, and then in pastoral appointments to Brentwood, Dos Palos, and Orland Federated churches before retiring in 1997.   Wayne...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Sarah Gaxiola, surviving spouse of the Rev. Manuel Gaxiola, died on Saturday, February 17, 2018. Sarah was a faithful companion as her husband Manuel served in two conferences, the Latin American Provisional Conference of the Methodist Church and what is now the California-Nevada Conference.  He pastored churches in Fresno, Flagstaff (AZ), Sonora, Hayden, Mountain View, Sacramento: Emmanuel, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Grace C. Ahn, surviving spouse of Rev. Peter Ahn, died on Thursday, February 15, 2018.    Grace was a faithful companion as her husband Peter was sent to serve the San Francisco: Korean, Woodland, Knight’s Landing, Marina-Seaside and Albany churches before retiring in 1982.   She is survived by her sons, David Ahn and John Ahn of Sunnyvale, CA, by 3 Grandchildren, and by one Great Grandchild.  ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. J. Donald Hougland, died on Sunday, February 4, 2018.  Pastor Don was well loved by his parishioners and is fondly remembered as being an excellent pastor.  In his free time he enjoyed reading and loved the hymn Amazing Grace. Don served the Round Valley, Willits, Coleville, Smith, Gardnerville, Fresno: Grace, Orangeville, Roseville, Santa Cruz: Live Oak, and Bridesburg (Eastern PA conference) ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. C. Holtzman Frazier, died on Monday, January 29, 2018.  Pastor Holtzman was a compassionate and caring person deeply devoted to his family.  During his ministry he was passionate in his preaching, loved his church families, and served on District and Conference committees. In his later years he worked in the insurance industry that served mainly ministry professionals.   Holtzman began his ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother Rev. A. Allen Bryan died on Sunday, January 28, 2018. Pastor Allen is remembered as having a wonderful spiritual presence in all he did.   He began his ministry in Western PA, No. Central NY, and New England conferences before transferring to the California-Nevada Annual Conference in 1999. In our Conference, Rev. Bryan served the Lincoln and Sacramento: Centennial churches before retiring in 2003.   He...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. David De Leon Rodriguez died on Tuesday, January 9, 2018. He was an avid reader, sports fan, and had a love for music and current events. He also had an online ministry in these later years keeping in touch with people, encouraging and advocating. Pastor David was an excellent preacher and very poetic and articulate. He cared for young and old and brought the Christmas Institute youth retreat to the...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister Ruth Darling, surviving spouse of Rev. Steven Darling, died unexpectedly on Thursday, December 28, 2017.   Ruth was a partner in ministry with her husband, Steve serving the Foster City, Los Altos, Novato, Rancho Cordova, Redding, San Jose Alum Rock, Lafayette, and Lodi Salem churches before retiring in 1997.  Ruth was a retired nurse, known for her funny, dry sense of humor and her sweet, gracious ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Lloyd K. Wake died on Wednesday, December 27, 2017.   Lloyd began his ministry in the California Annual Conference, then the Pacific Japanese Provisional Annual Conference. In the California Nevada Conference Lloyd served appointments at Berkeley English Speaking, San Francisco Nisei, San Francisco Pine, and San Francisco Glide Memorial United Methodist churches before retiring in 1990.   Lloyd ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Christine C. Haynes died on Thursday, December 21, 2017.   Christine loved music and singing; she started and directed the choir at Mount Shasta United Methodist Church.  She also volunteered countless hours and played a prominent role helping families recover from the devastation of the Boles Creek fire in Weed, CA.  She was an avid bird watcher and loved spending time with her husband Steve as ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. James Horton died on Wednesday, December 13, 2017. Through his long life as a missionary, pastor, and professor Jim sought to live true to his favorite scripture: “What does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”   Micah 6:8 James served in the Pacific Northwest conference and various ministries in Africa before transferring to the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Dr. John W. Taylor died on Tuesday, November 21, 2017.  John was very involved with Heifer Project, International, and he traveled all over the world delivering animals with them. He once met Mother Teresa, and was profoundly moved by the experience. Later in life, John began a new mission outreach to the Philippines, where he traveled extensively. He established a scholarship fund to help ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Arturo Capuli died on Wednesday, November 8, 2017. Art began his ministry in the Philippines, then the Illinois Great Rivers Conference, transferring into California Nevada Conference in 1980. He served the Oakland: Melrose United, San Francisco: Grace and San Francisco: St. Francis churches before retiring in 2003. Since 2011, in retirement he served as supply pastor at Sacramento: Florin United ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister Louise Hoffman, surviving spouse of Rev. Elbert Hoffman, died on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Elbert and Louise served originally in the Southern California-Arizona Annual Conference before transferring to California-Nevada in 1966.  While in this conference, Elbert served several programmatic organizations, and he and Louise continued their ministry at Central UMC in Stockton before retiring in 1986.   ...

Dear Brothers and Sisters,   One of the Bishops of our church, Bishop Rüdiger Minor of Germany, has died. In The United Methodist Church, bishops are bishops for the whole church.    From 1986 to 1992 Bishop Minor served the Central Conference of The United Methodist Church in the German Democratic Republic and then in the East Germany Central Conference of the unified Germany. He later served Eurasia from 1993 to 2005 after which he retired. He was the president of the Council of Bishops from ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Rev. Susan Berges died on Wednesday, August 9, 2017. Rev. Berges was a champion for the homeless, the lost, and the abused and touched many lives with her compassionate ways.  Outside of her local church, she spent time ministering to inmates at the prison in Ely, and also loved being involved in missionary work that look her all over the United States. For Susan, helping those who couldn’t help ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, William Hartman, spouse of the Rev. Antoinette (“Toni”) Hartman, died on Friday, July 14, 2017.   In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother, Jim Hartman and his sister, Joellen Petlin, both of Chico, CA, and by two step-children, Roselyn Estep and Nick Estep.   Condolences may be sent to Toni Hartman at 104 Green Heron Drive, Yreka, CA  96097.   The memorial service is scheduled for August...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Eleanor Ruth Patton, surviving spouse of Rev. Newell Knudson, died on Tuesday, June 20, 2017.   She is survived by two children, Carolyn J. Friedman of Montclair, CA and Judith Patton of Hanford, CA, and by one Grandchild.  Rev. Knudson died in 2016. Condolences may be sent to Carolyn Friedman, 5426 Denver Street, Montclair, CA  91763.   Date and time for a memorial service has yet to be determined.    ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Joseph C. Hurd died on Monday, June 19, 2017.   He is survived by his two children, Mary Chace of Crowley, TX and Joseph Hurd of Philadelphia, PA; and by 6 Grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Joseph Hurd,  4724  Shelmire Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19136.   A memorial service was held Friday, June 30, 2017 at 6:00 pm at the American Legion Oxley Post 133 in Philadelphia. UMC Pastor Fred Day will ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Vernon M. Visick died on Sunday, June 18, 2017.   He is survived by two brothers: John Visick of Oak Harbor, WA, and Paul Visick of Monrovia, CA, and by 4 nephews and 2 nieces. Condolences may be sent to Vernon’s close friend John Forney at 644 West 8th Street, Claremont, CA  91711.   A funeral will be held on July 12, 2017, at 3:30 pm at Decker Hall, Pilgrim Place, 625 Mayflower Road, Claremont, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Raymond Ralph Fellersen died on Friday, May 26, 2017 at the age of 100.   He is survived by his wife, Shirley Fellersen, and two children: Grant Fellersen of Felton, CA, and Terrie Fellersen Seagraves of Willits, CA; and by 3 grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Shirley Fellersen at (through August) 225 Mt. Hermon Rd., space #3, Scotts Valley, CA  95066.   A memorial service is tentatively ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Dr. Andrew Durwood Foster died on Saturday, May 20, 2017.    He is survived by his daughter Catherine of Berkeley, CA and son Robyn of Kansas City, MO.   A memorial was held on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at Pacific School of Religion chapel.   Dr. Foster came to Pacific School of Religion as Associate Professor of Christian Theology in 1959, and was named Professor of Systematic Theology in 1964. He ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Arleen McLane, surviving spouse of Rev. George H. McLane, died on Wednesday, May 17, 2017.   She is survived by 5 children: Herbert McLane of Mt. Shasta, CA, Beth Wichmann of Santa Clara, CA, Jane Fackler of Seattle, WA, Paul McLane of Chantilly, VA, and Stephen McLane, of Chico, CA, by 6 Grandchildren and 2 Great-Grandchildren. Rev. George McLane died in 2003. Condolences may be sent to Herbert McLane,...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Dianne Winne, spouse of the Rev. Sandy Gess, died on Thursday, May 11, 2017.   In addition to her wife, she is survived by her son, Jason Winne-Gess of Oakland, CA. Condolences may be sent to Sandy Gess at 4301 Geary Blvd. San Francisco, CA 94118.   The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 1:00 pm at Plymouth UCC/The Jazz and Justice Church, 424 Monte Vista Avenue, Oakland, CA  ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Steven Darling died on Tuesday, April 25, 2017. Steve served the Foster City, Assoc: Los Altos, Novato, Rancho Cordova, Redding, San Jose: Alum Rock, Lafayette, and Lodi: Salem churches before retiring in 1997.      Rev. Darling had a beautiful singing voice and was in the Stockton Chorale for many years. He was also an avid reader and took part in a Zen meditation group that met regularly in the...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Jean Peters, surviving spouse of Rev. Warren Peters, died on Saturday, April 15, 2017.   She is survived by two children, Barbara Pierce, of Plainfield, IL, and Helen Mauk, of Watkinsville, GA; by four grandchildren; and by three great grandchildren.  Warren Peters died in 2006. Condolences may be sent to Barbara Pierce, 13480 South Mulberry Street, Plainfield, IL 60544.   A private family graveside ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Marion L. Wendler, surviving spouse of Rev. Herman F Wendler, died on Sunday, April 9, 2017.   She is survived by two children, Margarette Morgan Schoendienst of Vista, CA, and Sharon Marcus, of Portland, OR.  Rev. Herman Wendler died in 2000.  Condolences may be sent to Margarette Morgan Schoendienst, 2056 Camino Cantera, Vista, CA  92084.   The family will celebrate Marion’s life at a private ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Betty L. Chinn, surviving spouse of Rev. Harvey Chinn, died on Sunday, April 2, 2017.   She is survived by three children: Harvey Chinn Jr. of Bozeman, MT, Elizabeth Buford of Salem, OR, and Margaret Chinn of Gaithersburg, MD; by three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Margaret Chinn at 20700 Highland Hall Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland, 20886.   Date and time for a ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Paul R. Woudenberg died on Thursday, March 30, 2017. Paul served churches in Southern California and Arizona churches before entering the CA-NV conference in 1975.  He then served the Carmel church before retiring in 1986.   Rev. Woudenberg had a great love for classical religious music and was known for hiring some of the best choral groups to perform at his churches.  He also loved automobiles ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that Supply pastor Lloyd Ash, spouse of surviving spouse Joan Wheeler Ash, died on Tuesday, March 28, 2017. Lloyd served as a Supply Pastor at the Dixon and Maxwell churches. Lloyd was one of the longest serving CLayMs (Conference Lay Ministers) in the Annual Conference, serving from 1998 – 2008 at Maxwell UMC, from 2008 – 2010 at Dixon UMC, and from 2010 – 2017 again at Maxwell UMC.  Lloyd was an amazing servant of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Donna Tarr, surviving spouse of Rev. Robert Tarr, died on Wednesday, March 8, 2017.    She is survived by her son, Clint Wilson, of Carmel Valley, CA, and by one grandchild.  Rev. Robert Tarr died in 2005. Condolences may be sent to Clint Wilson, 107 Ford Road, Carmel Valley, CA  93924.   A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 24, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church 501 El Dorado Street, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that retired local pastor Rev. Rejean Idzerda died on Wednesday, March 1, 2017. Rajean was very active throughout her life in fighting for both civil and welfare rights and founded the first inter-racial, inter-faith national women’s sorority during her years at Baldwin-Wallace College.  In her retirement she remained active with family, church, AAUW, Sonoma League for Historic Preservation, docent at the Toscano Hotel ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that just recently we were made aware of the death of our sister Barbara Moore.  Barbara was the spouse of Rev. Larry G. Moore.  She died on Tuesday, February 28, 2017.   Barbara was a faithful companion as her husband served the Wesley Fresno, and Los Gatos churches in California and Epworth church in Fallon, Nevada until retiring in 1996.   Barbara was an accomplished and published musician.  She was the music ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Rev. Charles Allen Woodworth died on Friday, February 10, 2017. Rev. Woodworth served the Round Valley, Willits, San Lorenzo, Fremont: First, and Turlock: First churches before retiring in 1991. He also co-founded the Methodist Actors Serving the Church and served as the Executive Director of that group. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Woodworth, of Cut Bank, Montana, four children, four ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister Helen McMichael, spouse of the Rev. Jack McMichael, died on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. Helen and Jack served the Stockton, Atwater, Upper Lake and Alameda churches, as well as appointments beyond the local church, before retiring in 1983.   She is survived by 3 children: Jack R. McMichael III of Seattle, WA, William McMichael of Washington, DC, and Mei Mei Huber of Santa Rosa, CA; by 8  grandchildren; ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, Charles D. DeCamp, spouse of the Rev. Donna DeCamp, died on Friday, January 27, 2017. Charles served alongside his wife’s side at San Jose: Willow Glen, Walnut Creek, and Walnut Creek: Tice Valley churches before Donna retired in 2008. He had a great love for airplanes and spent his career serving in the Air Force and working for companies such as IBM where his technical expertise was utilized.  Charles...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister, Mary L. Hull Lewis, surviving spouse of Rev. Arnold Raymond Lewis, died on Sunday, January 15, 2017. In the church where her husband served, Mary was a member of the choir and even as the choir aged and she aged, she remained a linchpin in that body of praise.  Mary was a faithful companion in ministry to her spouse even after he retired and could no longer hear. After he ceased going to church, she ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, the Rev. Philip Walker died on Sunday, January 15, 2017. Philip was as a gentle spirit who thrived in his work outside of the local church. He was loved by the community and Davis UMC who named a room in his honor. Philip served the Davis church, the Alcohol Drug Abuse Program, and the Yolo County Health Services Agency before retiring in 1993. He is survived by his wife, Carol Walker, of Woodland, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our sister Margaret Pettigrew, surviving spouse of the Rev. William Pettigrew, died on Sunday, January 8, 2017. Margaret served alongside her husband at the Boyes Hot Springs and Walnut Creek: Walnut Avenue churches. Following her husband’s retirement, Margaret served as a Conference Lay Minister at the Sonora and Red Bluff churches. She is survived by Terry Haines, a relative of her late husband, whom Margaret ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, It is with deep sadness that we inform you that our brother, the Rev. John M. Foster died on Saturday, January 7, 2017. John began his ministry serving as an associate pastor at San Jose: First, at Round Valley and Willits; associate at First: Walnut Creek; senior pastor at Oakland: Elmhurst and Melrose; senior pastor at Delano; Rohnert Park: St, John’s; and senior pastor Paradise churches. He also served on the Cabinet as District Superintendent of the Nevada ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Lawrence Hinshaw, husband of surviving spouse Doreen Hart Hinshaw, died on Sunday, November 13, 2016. Lawrence was preceded in death by his first wife Kathleen Hinshaw. In addition to his wife Doreen, he is survived by his children: Laurie Stuebing of Portland, OR, Deborah Ponczko of Maricopa, AZ, and Carol Jones of Jamestown, NY, and by Doreen’s children Gary Hart  of Sacramento, CA, Jim Hart of  Willits, CA, and Jay Hart of Citrus Heights, CA; and by 12 ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Wilma Weber, surviving spouse of Rev. George Weber, died on Wednesday, November 9, 2016.   She is survived by her children, Joel Weber of Clovis, CA, and Julia Kyger of Washington City, Utah; by four grandchildren; and by two great-grandchildren.  Rev. George Weber died in 2009. Condolences may be sent to Joel Weber, 16459 Deer Path Lane, Clovis, CA  93619. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 2, 2016 at 5 pm, at First Congregational Church of ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Joanne Hardman, spouse of the Rev. Robert H. Hardman, died on Tuesday, November 1, 2016. In addition to her husband, she is survived by three children: Sandy Hardman McGee of southern California, Julia L. Hardman of Alameda, CA, and Andrea Hardman of Alameda, CA; by 3 grandchildren; and by 1 great-grandchild.  Condolences may be sent to Rev. Robert H. Hardman at 169 Parfait Lane, Alameda, CA  94502. The memorial service has yet to be determined.   Robert and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Harry John Dutt  died on Saturday, October 29, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Anita Dutt; three children: Kevin John Dutt of Brentwood, CA; Renee Anne Dutt of Santa Barbara, CA; and Karla Marie Dutt of San Diego, CA; and by four grandchildren. His son Kenneth Charles Dutt passed away in 2009. Condolences may be sent to Anita Dutt at 5354 Calle Real #1 F, Santa Barbara, CA  93111. A funeral will be held on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 3pm at the First ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Richard O. McKinsey died on Friday, October 21, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Ellen McKinsey, of Crescent City, CA;  by four children: Kathi McKinsey-Swarts, Richard McKinsey, and Lee Ann McKinsey  of Crescent City, CA and John Wesley McKinsey of Modesto, CA; by fifteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Ellen McKinsey, 430 Alpine Street, Crescent City, CA  95531. A memorial service ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Romain Swedenburg died on Monday, October 17, 2016.  He is survived by his wife, Juanita Swedenburg of Spring Valley, California; by five children, Ted Swedenburg of Fayetteville, AR, Ray Swedenburg of Eureka, CA; Cynthia Wolfe of Olympia, WA, Sandra Hilger of Fountain Valley, CA, and Gregory Soghikian of Bedford, NH; by eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Condolences may be sent to Juanita Swedenburg, 325 Kempton Street, #804, Spring Valley, CA ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Philip F. Whitmer died on Sunday, September 25, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Nailya Whitmer, of Santa Clara CA. and three children: Paul Whitmer of Olympia, WA, Linda Bell near Eureka, CA,  and Glen Blair Whitmer of San Francisco, CA, and two step children, Svetlana Ross of Sparks, NV and Radik Sounougatov  of Santa Clara, CA; by six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Nailya Whitmer at 2384 Shoreside Court, Santa ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Dr. Ralph M. Pedersen, Jr.  died on Saturday, August 27, 2016. He was predeceased by his wife, Marilyn, who passed away on March 2, 2010. He is survived by four children: Earl Pedersen of Tracy, CA, Paul Pedersen of Tracy, CA, David Pedersen of Louisville, Colorado, and Don Pedersen of Tulare CA; by nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Paul Pedersen at 1669 Springhill Court, Tracy, CA 95377. A funeral will be held on ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Ada Alida Schalkers Anker, spouse of the Rev. Charles Anker, died on Wednesday, July 27, 2016. In addition to her husband, she is survived by 2 children: Eric Anker of Whitney, TX, and Michael Anker, of Oakley, CA, and two grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Charles Anker at 27030 Meadow Way, Carmel, CA 93923. The memorial service was held on August 1, 2016 at Paul Mortuary in Pacific Grove. Memorial gifts in honor of Alida may be sent to Church in the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Dwight Lamar Kintner died on Sunday, July 17, 2016. He is survived by three children: Russell Lamar Kintner of San Jose, CA, Avery Charles Kintner of Carlsbad, CA, and  Thomas Willard Kintner of Lafayette, CA;  and by nine grandchildren. Mrs. Eloise Kintner died on October 14, 2010. Condolences may be sent to Avery Kintner at 3305 Corte Cadiz, Carlsbad, CA  92009. The date and time of the memorial is as yet to be determined. Dwight served in the Central ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Margaret Elaine Combs-Schilling, spouse of the Rev. David Schilling, died on Thursday, July 7, 2016. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Jonathan David Combs Schilling. Condolences may be sent to David Schilling at 460 Riverside Drive, Apt. #111, New York, New York 10027. A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 2 pm, at St. Paul and St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 263 W 86th Street, New York, NY. The family has ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, John “Jack” Spilman, surviving spouse of Rev. Marlene Spilman, died on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. He is survived by two children: Diane Giuliani of Colfax, CA and John Spilman Jr. of Mill Valley, CA; and by four grandsons: Anthony Giuliani, Kellen Giuliani, Ian Spilman, and Harris Spilman. Condolences may be sent to Diane Giuliani, 22891 Tiger Lily Road, Colfax, CA 95713. Memorial services will be private. Memorial gifts may be made in John’s name to The Buck ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Sandra A. Hammett died on Tuesday, June 14, 2016. She is survived by three children: James C. Barnes, Jr.  of Pleasanton, CA and Ray Douglas Barnes and Alisha Annette Favorite of Soquel, CA; and by 8 grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Alisha Favorite, 1145 Old San Jose Rd., Soquel, CA  95073. A funeral will be held on Saturday, June 25 2016 at 11 am, at Aptos UMC,  with Pastors Jay Parr and John Dodson presiding. Sandra served the Boulder Creek and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Mary Frances Keller, surviving spouse of Rev. Robert Keller, died on Friday, May 20, 2016. She is survived by two children, Matthew Keller, of San Francisco, CA, and Kimberly Frantz of Denver, CO; and by four grandchildren. Robert died on March 1, 2016. Condolences may be sent to Kimberly Frantz, 910 South Columbine Street, Denver, CO, 80209. Memorial services are currently being planned in Denver, CO and Pacific Grove, CA. Robert and Mary Frances served the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Nieves Velasco, spouse of the Rev. Romeo Velasco, died on Saturday, May 7, 2016. In addition to her husband, she is survived by three daughters: Romini Sembrano, Alodia Gallagher, and Omega Velasco, each residing in Worthington, Ohio; and by 4  grandchildren.  Condolences may be sent to Romeo Velasco at 618 Mawyer Drive, Worthington, Ohio, 43085. The memorial service is scheduled for May 14, 2016 at 11:00 am at Wagram United Methodist Church in Reynoldsburg, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Janna Adamson died on Wednesday, April 27th, 2016. She is survived by her husband, John O’Connell of Willows, CA.  Condolences may be sent to Mr. John O’Connell, 840 North Lassen Street, Willows, CA 95988. The memorial service will be held on Friday, May 6 at 10:30 am at the First United Methodist Church in Willows, CA, 544 North Shasta Street, Willows, CA 95988. Rev. Shim Habte will preside. Janna served the Portola, Chester, Schurz, Yerington, South San ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Ruth Dunagan Wood, spouse of the Rev. Harry Wood, died on Wednesday, March 30, 2016.  In addition to her husband, she is survived by two children: Lee Wood, of Taipei, Taiwan, and Robin Wood, of Miami Beach, Florida; and by 4 grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Harry Wood, 5401 Mission Avenue, Visalia, CA  93277-5171. A memorial service was held on March 31, 2016 at Visalia UMC, and there will be a Service of Committal on April 8, 2016 in Lawrenceville, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Byron Roberts died on Tuesday, March 15, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia Roberts of San Francisco, CA; by his children, Katherine L. Roberts of Sacramento, CA, Walter L. Roberts of San Carlos, CA, John L. Roberts of Truckee, CA, and Audrey L. Roberts of San Francisco, CA; and by 4 grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Sylvia Roberts, 8364 Fittleworth Way, Sacramento, CA 95829, or to byronsylviaroberts@gmail.com . The memorial service will be ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Carolyn Vallelunga, spouse of the Rev. David Vallelunga, died on Saturday, March 5, 2016. In addition to her husband, she is survived by 2 children: Mindy Rose Jett of Scotsdsale, Arizona, and Benjamin G. Jett, also of Arizona. Condolences may be sent to David Vallelunga at 285 E. 5th Street, Chico, CA, 95928. Memorials were private as per Carolyn’s wishes. Memorial gifts may be sent in Carolyn’s name to the John C. Campbell Folk School, One Folk School Road, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Robert Keller died on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Mary Frances Keller, of Denver, CO; by two children, Matthew Keller, of San Francisco, CA, and Kimberly Frantz of Denver, CO; and by four grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Mary Frances Keller, 910 South Columbine Street, Denver, CO, 80209. There will be memorial services in Denver and in California. The first will be held on Saturday, March 19 at Trinity UMC, 1820 Broadway, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Vasitai Setoki, spouse of Rev. Siosifa Setoki, died on Sunday, February 21, 2016. She is survived by her husband, Siosifa Setoki; by two children, Wesley Setoki, of San Jose, and Sarah Setoki of San Jose; and by four grandchildren.  Condolences may be sent to Siosifa Setoki, 3401 Rio Bravo Drive, San Jose, CA 95148. The funeral was held on Friday, March 4 at Fale Hufanga UMC. Siosifa and Vasitai served Palo Alto: Wesley, Lemoore, Sunnyvale: Trinity, and San ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Dr. C. Douglas Hayward died on Saturday, February 13, 2016. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marian, to whom he was married 55 years.   Doug is survived by his his wife, Glenda Hayward of Sacramento, his sons Russ Hayward (Cathy) of Lodi and Lee Hayward (Linda) of San Jose, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to: Russ and Cathy Hayward, 1108 Lakewood Drive, Lodi, CA 95240; Lee and Linda Hayward, 1172 Britton ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Virginia Davidson, spouse of the Rev. John Howard Acton, died on Saturday, February 6, 2016. She is survived by 3 children: Deborah Bastion of Sunnyvale, CA;  Robert Bastion of Indianapolis, IN; and Thomas Bastion of Pioneer, CA.; by 5 grandchildren; and by 2 great-grandchildren.  Condolences may be sent to Deborah Bastion at 1220 Tasman Drive space #392, Sunnyvale, CA  94089. Memorial services were held in Gilroy and San Jose. John and Virginia served Gilroy, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Newell Knudson died on Wednesday, January 27, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor Patton Knudson of Fresno, CA; by his children, David Knudson of Fresno, CA, Poppy Buford of Manchester, CT, Kristin Knudson of Linthicum Heights, MD; by 5 grandchildren; and by 8 great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Eleanor Knudson, 9525 N. Fort Washington Road, #103W, Fresno, CA 93730. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 13 at 11:00 am at ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Harry Everett Wilcock died on Wednesday, January 6, 2016. Harry served at Merrimacport in the New England Conference before transferring to the CNMC in 1967; the Etna, Fort Jones, & Greenview churches; Salinas: Hillcrest, Associate, Walnut Creek: First, and an appointment to secular work, before retiring in 1979. Paul Extrum-Fernandez Executive Officer & CBO Board of Pensions California-Nevada Annual Conference The United Methodist Church 1337 Howe Avenue,...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Alf Christensen died on Sunday, January 3, 2016. He is survived by his children, Kimberly Nair, of Pocatello, ID; Karen Swing of Grand Terrace, CA; Kai Christensen of Kalaheo, HI; Kevin Christensen of Sacramento, CA, and step-son, Shaun Christensen of Porterville, CA; by 10 grandchildren;  and by numerous great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Karen Swing, 12791 Mt. Vernon Ave., Grand Terrace, CA 92313 The memorial service will be held on Saturday,...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Jiro Mizuno died on Thursday, December 31, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Rosenda Urania Mizuno, of Demarest, New Jersey; his daughter, Michelle Mizuno-Wiedner of Germany; and by two grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Rosenda Mizuno, 41 Brookside Avenue, Demarest, NJ 07627-2005. A funeral will be held on August 13, 2016 at the Harris Memorial UMC in Honolulu, Hawaii. Jiro served several churches in the California-Pacific conference before ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Mary Lea Sherrill, surviving spouse of Rev. Shirley Sherrill, died on Monday, December 21, 2015. She is survived by three daughters, Adrienne Cupples of Boston, MA, Shirley Ann Hurley of Santa Barbara, CA, and Linda Lee Sherrill of Ryegate Corner, VT; by four grandchildren; and by four great grandchildren.  Rev. Shirley Sherrill died in 2002. Condolences may be sent to Shirley Ann Hurley, 3162 Calle Fresno, Santa Barbara, CA 93105. A memorial service will be ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Doris T. Moon, surviving spouse of the Rev. Robert W. Moon, died on Sunday, December 13, 2015. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Moon Farley, of Redwood City; two grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to 1301 Himmel Avenue, Redwood City, CA 94061. A memorial service is scheduled for Monday, January 18th, 2:00 pm, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 2391 St. Marks Way, Sacramento, CA 95864. The Rev. Alan Jones will preside. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Evelyn Herrell, surviving spouse of Albert Myron Herrell, died on Tuesday, September 29, 2015. She is survived by three sons: Jim Herrell of Sonora, CA, John Herrell of Jackson, CA and Richard Herrell of Washington, D.C.; by one grandchild; and by five great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to John Herrell, 1 French Bar Road, Jackson, CA 95642. A memorial service will be held next spring at Central United Methodist Church in Stockton, CA. Myron and Evelyn...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Iva Mae Hirschfeld, surviving spouse of Herbert Hirschfeld, died on Wednesday, August 26, 2015. She is survived by two daughters: Janaan Sorenson of Dunlap, CA and Cathy Schurr of Clovis, NM; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Janaan Sorenson, PO Box 245, Dunlap, CA 93621 A private memorial service was held for the family. Herbert and Iva served the San Ramon Valley, Rancho Cordova, Lodi: First, Salinas: First, and Yuba...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Hisako Horikoshi, surviving spouse of Rev. Casper Horikoshi, died on Friday, August 21, 2015. She is survived by four children: Elliot Horikoshi of Danville, CA, Nancy Prather of Marin City, CA, Katherine Horikoshi of Richmond, CA, and Peter Horikoshi of Alameda, CA; by six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Casper Horikoshi died in 2001. Condolences may be sent to Katherine Horikoshi, 6103 Columbia Avenue, Richmond, CA 94804. A funeral will be held on ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Larry Thomas died on Friday, August 21, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen Thomas; by his daughter, Amanda Rand of Pembroke, MA; and by one grandson. Condolences may be sent to Mary Helen Thomas, 1355 Del Webb Parkway West, Reno, NV 89523.    The memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 29 at 1:30 pm at the Community United Methodist Church, 777 Miramontes Street, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019. Rev. Robert Olmstead and Rev. Richard George will ...

Catherine Joseph, CLayM pastor at Cone UMC in the TUMM Co-op Parish, died on August 13, 2015. Catherine is survived by her husband Larry, and her five children:  Stephanie, Jon, Lizzy, Sophie and Abby.    A memorial celebration of Catherine’s life will take place at 10:00 a.m.  Saturday, August 22nd, at Cone UMC.  Rev. David Samelson and CLayM pastor Chris Bauer will officiate.   Memorial gifts may be sent to Cone United Methodist Church, 11220 Highway 99 East, Los Molinos, CA 96055.   Rev. Dr. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Donald Fellers died on Friday, August 7, 2015. He is survived by two children: Pat Casner of Mi Wuk Village, CA and Gary Fellers of Novato, CA; by six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Pauline (Polly) Fellers died on December 4, 2006. Condolences may be sent to Pat Casner, P.O. Box 1227, Mi Wuk Village, CA 95346. A funeral will be held on September 20, 2015 at 2:00 pm at the Napa Community Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1105 G Street, Napa, CA ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Marlene Spilman died peacefully at her home on Saturday, July 25, 2015. She is survived by her husband, John Spilman, by two children: Diane Giuliani of Colfax, CA and John Spilman Jr. of Mill Valley, CA; and by four grandsons: Anthony Giuliani, Kellen Giuliani, Ian Spilman, and Harris Spilman. Condolences may be sent to Diane Giuliani, 22891 Tiger Lily Road, Colfax, CA 95713. The memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at St....

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Latu Eveline Koloto, spouse of the Rev. Maile Koloto, died on Monday, July 20, 2015. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her father Sione Fusimalohi of Tonga; by one sister: Falemei Fusimalohi of East Palo Alto, CA; by two children: Sailosi Koloto of San Carlos, CA and Haualosaia Manuofetoa of San Carlos, CA; and by four grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Rev. Maile Koloto, Fale Hufanga Tongan UMC, 2851 San Carlos Avenue, San Carlos, CA 94070. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Harvey Chinn died on Sunday, July 19, 2015. He is survived by his wife, Betty Chinn; by three children: Harvey Chinn Jr. of Bozeman, MT, Elizabeth Buford of Salem, OR, and Margaret Chinn of Montgomery Village, MD; by three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Betty Chinn, 2820 3rd Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95818.    The memorial service will be held on Friday, July 31 at 11:00 am at  Faith UMC, 3600 J Street, Sacramento, CA ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. John Berger died on Sunday, July 12, 2015.  He is survived by his wife, Ione Berger of San Jose; 4 children: Keith Berger of Sacramento, CA, Theodore Berger of St. Louis, MO, Suzanne Tipton of Doraville, GA and Rebecca Hughes of Lodi, CA; by 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to Rebecca Hughes, 219 South Rose Street, Lodi, CA 95240. The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 21 at 1pm at the Willow Glen...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Rev. Travis Campbell died on Thursday, June 25, 2015.  He is survived by two sons: George Campbell of Santa Cruz and Nick Campbell of Longview, WA; three grandchildren and one great grandchild.  Peggy Campbell died on September 13, 2013. A funeral was held in Vallejo, CA on July 19. Travis spent time in both the Louisiana and Missouri West Conferences before coming to California-Nevada in 1960.  In this Conference he served the Newark, Lemoore, Exeter, San ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Elisabeth Drumm, spouse of the Rev. Gerhard Drumm, died on Wednesday, June 24, 2015. In addition to her husband, she is survived by 8 children: Maria Elhardt of South San Francisco, CA, Aline Allen of Midpines, CA, Angela Cameron of Loleta, CA, Martin Drumm of Naches, WA, Paul Drumm - serving as a missionary in Asia, Margaret Osborne of Spokane, WA, Steve Drumm of Houston, TX, and Marcus Drumm of Eureka, CA; by 21 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Cynthia Gray, surviving spouse of the Rev. Frederick Gray, died on Wednesday, June 3, 2015. Condolences to the family may be sent to Kathleen Christmon, 4501 Perth Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229. Frederick Gray died on September 12, 2001. A funeral was held on June 9 in Cincinnati, OH. Frederick and Cynthia served at Elmhurst United Methodist Church from 1982 until his retirement in 1992. Bishop Warner Brown California-Nevada Conference P.O. Box 980250 West ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Mary McMath, surviving spouse of the Rev. John McMath, died on Friday, May 1, 2015.  She is survived by five children: Ruth Ellen Guinane of Santa Margarita, CA; Joanne McMath Center of Fortuna, CA; John McMath, Jr. of West Linn, OR; James McMath of Sante Fe, NM; Mary Chang of Dinuba, CA; by nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to Joanne McMath Center, 437 10th Street, Fortuna, CA 95540. The family is planning...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Helen Terrell, surviving spouse of the Rev. Olan Terrell, died on Friday, April 24, 2015. She is survived by six children: Richard Terrell of Lund, British Columbia, Barbara Kessler of Oakland, CA, Joan Terrell of Dunsmuir, CA, Pamela Cheaney of Watsonville, CA, Renee Levy of Cuenca, Ecuador, and Douglas Terrell of Mt. Shasta, CA; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.  Condolences to the family may be sent to 119 Monte Vista Ave., Watsonville, CA 95076....

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Carl Schwarzenberg died on Friday, April 17, 2015.   He is survived by his wife, Fai Schwarzenberg; four children: John Schwarzenberg of Auburn, CA, Lynne Birmisa of Mt. Shasta, CA, Jan Wolff of Sacramento, CA, and Nancy Pfiffer of Lake Shastina, CA; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.  Condolences to the family may be sent to 7800 French Creek, Road, Etna, CA 96027. A memorial service is being planned ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Helen Balderson, surviving spouse of the Rev. Donald Balderson, died on Friday, March 13, 2015.  She is survived by her son, Rodney Balderson and her daughter, Carol Gerber.   A private memorial will be held on Sunday, March 22 in Sacramento, CA. Donald and Helen Balderson served at Elverta from 1982 until his retirement in 1991. Don died in 2003. Bishop Warner Brown California-Nevada Conference P.O. Box 980250 West Sacramento, CA  95798-0250  

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, A-Della Sowards, surviving spouse of the Rev. Jesse Sowards, died on Wednesday, February 25, 2015. She is survived by three children: Sam Sowards of Stockton; David Sowards of Bodfish, CA; and Emily Bearnhart of Gardnerville, NV; six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 3011 Admiral Drive, Stockton, CA 95209.  There will be no memorial service.    After three years serving in the ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Fortunata Autajay, wife of the Rev. Leonard Autajay, died on Monday, February 23, 2015.  She is survived by her husband, three sons and numerous grand- and great-grandchildren.  Condolences to the family may be sent to 279 Woodridge Dr., Vallejo, CA  94591.   Funeral services are scheduled to take place in New Jersey on March 6th and 7th, with a memorial service to be held at Fellowship United Methodist Church in Vallejo at a later date. Bishop Warner Brown ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Bryan Randall Wilber died on Sunday, February 8, 2015.   He is survived by his wife, Glennis Wilber of Willows, CA; by two sons: Carl Wilber of Daleville, AL and Glenn Wilber of Elk Grove, CA; and by five grandchildren.  Condolences to the family may be sent to 333 Ash Street, Willows, CA 95988. The funeral is scheduled for Thursday, February 12, at 10 a.m., at First United Methodist Church, 544 North Shasta Street, Willows, CA 95988. Rev. Shim ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, See-Hee Young, spouse of the Rev. Wesley Yong, died on Sunday, February 1, 2015. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 43639 Greenhills Way, Fremont, CA 94539; by four children: Margaret Yong of Fremont, CA; Kenneth Yong of Hong Kong, Ruth Yong of Fremont, CA; and Peter Yong of Pleasanton, CA; and by four grandchildren.   A memorial service was held on Saturday, February 7, at the First Chinese United Methodist Church in Fremont. Wesley Yong and ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Linda Butler, surviving spouse of the Rev. Gary Butler, died on Tuesday, January 27, 2015. She is survived by three children: Cheryl Butler of San Francisco, CA; and Paul Butler of Sacramento, CA; by two grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 316 31st Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94121 The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, February 21 at 2 p.m. at the Loomis Basin Congregational United Church of Christ, 6440 King Road, Loomis, CA 95650. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Wallace Riches died on Friday, January 16, 2015.  He is survived by his wife, Dallas Riches, who resides at 1232 Wellesley Ave., Modesto, CA 95350; by six children: Lyn Frapwell of Valley Springs, Brenda Cooper of Oakland, John Cooper of Los Angeles, Tammy Enos of Richmond, Jill Cooper of Minneapolis and Jeff Cooper of Twain Harte; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.    A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11th, 11...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Jeannine Wells, surviving spouse of the Rev. Donald Wells, died on Saturday, January 3, 2015. She is survived by four children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Donations in honor of Jeannine can be made to the Woodland United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 212 Second Street, Woodland, CA 95695.   A visitation is scheduled for January 22nd from 5 to 7 pm at Kraft Brothers Funeral Home, 175 Second Street, Woodland, CA. A Celebration of Life ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Herbert Donell Miller died on Wednesday, December 31, 2014.   He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Miller, who resides at to 1610 Helena Lane, Redlands, CA 92373; by seven children: Harvey Miller of Surprise, AZ, Beth Singer of Monona, WI, Ted Miller of San Bernardino, CA, Mark Miller of Redlands, CA, Jane Miller of Redlands, CA, Don Miller of Highland, CA and Chantel Baralli of Philadelphia, PA; by ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.   ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Donald Chappel died on Monday, December 15, 2014. He is survived by three children: Ruth Roper of Frisco, TX, Gregory Chappel of Bass Lake, and Elaine McElhannon of Woodland; by eight grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Condolences to the family may be sent to 1729 Tehama Drive, Woodland, CA 95695.   The memorial service is scheduled for Monday, December 29, at 11 a.m., at the Woodland United Methodist ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, William Powell-Walsh, spouse of the Rev. Norma Jean Powell, died on Tuesday, December 2, 2014. He is survived by a son, Michael Walsh, of Atlanta, GA, and by two grandchildren.   Condolences may be sent to 820 Marin Drive, Mill Valley, CA 94941.   The memorial service was held on Sunday, December 7, at the Mt. Tamalpais United Methodist Church in Mill Valley. The Rev. Kim Smith presided.    Norma Jean Powell served the Bakersfield: First, Anderson: Trinity, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Raquel Alvarado, surviving spouse of the Rev. Ezekiel Alvarado, died on Monday, December 1, 2014. She is survived by six children: Ezekiel Alvarado of Bend, OR, Raquel Alvarado of San Jose, Andrew Alvarado of Honolulu, HI, Jonathan Alvarado of San Diego, Dorcas O’Campo of Sacramento, and Rebecca Trujillo of Fresno; by twenty grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to daughter Raquel Alvarado, 406 Avenida Arboles, San ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Carol Lee, surviving spouse of the Rev. Charles Lee, died on Saturday, November 22, 2014. She is survived by three children: Charles Lee of Prince Frederick, MD; Margaret Lee of Durham, NC; and, William Lee of Prince Frederick, MD; by six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Condolences to the family may be sent to 120 Double Oak Road North, Prince Frederick, MD 20678. The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 29 at 1 p.m. at the Mount Olive ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Wayne Williams died on Friday, November 14, 2014.   He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, who resides at 3374 Buckingham Drive, San Jose, CA 95118; by two daughters: Debra Carney of San Jose and Karen Finley of Oroville; by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.    The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 22, at 10:30 a.m., at the Willow Glen United Methodist Church in San Jose.  The Revs. Rebecca Irelan and Larry George ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor C. Melvin Sudderth died on Tuesday, October 21, 2014. He is survived by two daughters: Donna Covington of Loveland, CO, and Diane Runnells of Fort Worth, TX; by two grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 335 W. 12th Street, Loveland, CO 80537.    A private memorial service is planned for the family.    Mel Sudderth originally served in the Northwest Texas and Rocky Mountain Conferences before ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,   Retired pastor Benjamin Fong died on Monday, August 18, 2014.   He is survived by his wife, Margaret Fong; by three children: Leo Fong of Los Angeles, Kester Fong of Los Altos, Fred Fong of Austin, TX, and by eight grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to 13012 Coriander Drive, Austin, TX 78729.     A private memorial service was held by the family.     Ben Fong originally served in the Methodist Church of Hong Kong before transferring to ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Retired pastor Mark Wendland died on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Wendland, who resides at 59 Via Encanto, Monterey, CA 93940.   A memorial service is planned for Saturday, July 5, 2014, 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Pacific Grove.  The Rev. Pamela Cummings will preside.   Mark came to California-Nevada from the Nebraska Conference.  He served appointments at the Sacramento: First, Monterey, Turlock, ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Lee Mellow, husband of the Rev. Judith Pruess-Mellow, died on Monday, May 19, 2014. Condolences to the family may be sent to 529 Linden Avenue, Grass Valley, CA 95945. Lee is also survived by a niece and a sister.   A private service was celebrated by the family.   Memorial gifts may be sent to Sammie’s Friends, 14647 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley, CA 95949. Sammie’s Friends is an animal welfare facility in Grass Valley.    

Donald Hislop, CLayM pastor at Red Bluff UMC in the TUMM Co-op Parish, died on May 3, 2014.  Don worked side by side at Red Bluff UMC with his wife Kare, who directs the church’s music ministry.   They have two daughters, Victoria and Laurel.  Condolences to the family may be sent to Kare Hislop at 246 Beverley Ave, Red Bluff, CA 96080.    A memorial celebration of Don’s life will take place at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16, at Red Bluff First Church of God located at 1005 S Jackson St. (at Luther...

Ella Marie Hunt, surviving spouse of the Rev. William Hunt, died on Saturday, May 3, 2014.   She is survived by three children: Janet Potter of Sarasota, FL, Douglas Hunt of Stockton and Gayle Lieberman of San Mateo; by five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to 2431 North Argonaut, Stockton, CA 95204.     The memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, at 10 a.m., at the DeYoung Shoreline Chapel, 7676 Shoreline Drive, Stockton.   ...

Ann Pudinski, spouse of the Rev. Stephen Pudinski, died on Tuesday, April 15, 2014.  She is survived by her husband, who resides at 1004 Topaz Ct., Roseville, CA 95661; four daughters: Jodi Lynn Burgess of Lodi, WI, Christine Parsons of Apple Valley, MN, Carisa Pudinski of Campbell, CA and Sharon Pudinski of Arroyo Grande, CA and six grandchildren.   The memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday, May 30th, at First United Methodist Church, Roseville, CA.  The Revs. Robert Brazie and ...

Rev. Fleming Kelley died on Monday, March 31, 2014.  She is survived by her two sisters:  Cleola Holgate and Margaret (Mickey) Rowe.  Condolences to the family may be sent in care of Ken Rowe, 299 E. Century Blvd., Lodi, CA  95240. The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th,  1 p.m., at the Lodi First United Methodist Church.   The Rev. Lori Sawdon will preside.    Fleming worked as a psychiatric social worker before attending seminary and becoming a minister.  She served at ...

Retired pastor Chansoo Lee died on Saturday, March 29, 2014. He is survived by three children: Yennie Lee of San Francisco, and Bora and Joni Lee, both of Berkeley. Condolences to the family may be sent to Sarah Kim, 2316 Stuart Street, Berkeley, CA 94705. A memorial service is planned for Saturday, April 19, at 11 a.m., at the Mills College Chapel in Oakland. The Rev. Michael Yoshii will preside. Chansoo Lee served the San Francisco: Korean, Ely, Rancho Cordova, San Francisco: Park Presidio, ...

Retired pastor Sargent Wright died on Friday, March 7, 2014. He is survived by four children, seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to Bill Wright, 6713 Alden Lane, Citrus Heights, CA 95621.    The memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, March 16, at 2:30 p.m., at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Sacramento. The Revs. Alan Jones and David Slorpe will preside.    Sarge Wright originally served in the Northern Illinois Conference before ...

Retired pastor Alfred Dale died on Monday, March 3, 2014.   He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Dale, who resides at 1224 Cornwall Avenue, #323, Bellingham, WA 98225; by three children:  Daniel Dale of Chicago, IL, Ana Gobledale of London, UK, Eric Dale of Seattle, WA, and by four grandchildren.    The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, at 2 p.m., at the First Congregational Church, 2401 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.    Alfred Dale originally served in the ...

Marjean Mott, surviving spouse of the Rev. Bernard Mott, died on Thursday, February 6, 2014. She is survived by two daughters: Stephanie Mott of Soquel and Debora Ow of San Jose; by three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.  The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, February 15, at 11 a.m., at the Watsonville United Methodist Church. The Rev. Robin Mathews-Johnson will preside.    Bernard and Marjean Mott originally served in the Oregon-Idaho and Pacific Northwest Conferences ...

Retired pastor Arnold Vorster died on Wednesday, January 29, 2014. He is survived by his wife, Penelope Vorster; by two children: Karen Vorster of Richmond, Vince Vorster of Discovery Bay and by two grandchildren.    A memorial service is planned for a later time.    Arnold Vorster originally served in the Tennessee Conference before transferring to California-Nevada in 1965. In this Conference he served the Salinas: Hillcrest, Reno: St. Paul's, Sunnyvale; First, Lakewood, Stockton: Central, ...

Retired pastor Charles Hamby died on Tuesday, January 14, 2014. He is survived by three children: Paul Hamby of Juneau, AK, Elaine Hamby of Albion, CA and Jennifer Mann of Calgary, Alberta; and two grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to P.O. Box 22759, Juneau, AK  99802.     The memorial service will be planned at a later date.     Charles Hamby served in the Northern Alabama and California-Pacific Conferences before coming to California-Nevada in 1976. In this Conference he ...

Retired pastor Roy Dunn died on Wednesday, December 18, 2013. He is survived by four children: Allen Dunn of Knoxville, TN, Ron Dunn of Danville, Suzanne Norgard of Fort Bragg, and Sally Doyle of San Francisco; by five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 20172 Merritt Drive, Cupertino, CA 95014.     The memorial service is planned for Saturday, December 28, at 11 a.m., at the Good Samaritan United Methodist Church in Cupertino. The Revs. Dale ...

Retired Local Pastor Herlinda Valencia died on Tuesday, December 3, 2013.   She is survived by her husband, Adolfo Valencia, who resides at 10535 Pemspice Street, San Antonio, TX 98240.  A memorial service is planned for Sunday, December 8, at the La Trinidad United Methodist Church in San Antonio, Texas. The Rev. Jose Palos will preside.   Linda Valencia served the Farmersville and Selma: San Pablo churches before retiring in 2000.    

Ellen Silberstein, surviving spouse of the Rev. Charles Silberstein, died on Tuesday, November 26, 2013. She is survived by two daughters, Jeannie Grider of Orangevale, and Evelyn Lutz of Napa; by four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.   The memorial service is planned for Saturday, December 7, at 10 a.m., at the Pioneer United Methodist Church in Auburn. The Rev. Barbara Smith will preside.    Charles Silberstein served the Elverta, Kelseyville, Byron, Dixon, Elmira, Carson Valley ...

Pastor Horace Wilson DeOcera died on Tuesday, November 19, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, and by two children: Wilson and Andrea DeOcera.     A service is planned for Friday, November 29, from 5-8 p.m., at the East Lawn Mortuary, 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento. The Rev. Schuyler Rhodes and others will preside. A memorial service is also planned for Saturday, November 30, from 10 to 12:30 p.m., at the Florin United Methodist Church in Sacramento.  The Rev. Schuyler Rhodes and others...

Dorothy Johansson, wife of the Rev. Robert Johansson, died on Wednesday, September 25, 2013. Besides her husband, she is survived by three children: Robert Johansson of San Francisco, Wilfred Johansson of Stockton, and Elisabeth Johansson of Lodi; by eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  The memorial service was held on Sunday, October 13, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Stockton. The Rev. Cynthia Stateman presided. Bob and Dorothy Johansson originally served in the New ...

Peggy Campbell, wife of the Rev. Travis Campbell, died on Friday, September 13, 2013. She is survived by her husband; two adopted sons: George Campbell of Santa Cruz and Nick Campbell of Longview, WA; three grandchildren and one great grandchild.   The memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 17th, 3:00 p.m., at the Twin Chapels Mortuary, 1100 Tennessee Street, Vallejo, CA.  The Revs. Darrell Thomas and Michael Brown will preside.    Travis and Peggy spent time in both the Louisiana ...

Retired pastor Douglas Smith died on Saturday, August 31, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Smith, who resides 210 Ash Street, Red Bluff, CA 96080; by three children: Matthew Smith of San Francisco, Audrey Smith of Oakland, Kristen Smith of Fort Collins, CO, and by four grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, at 2 p.m., at the Cone United Methodist Church. David Moss will preside.   Doug Smith originally served in the Rocky Mountain Conference before ...

Mrs. Jane Daily Nicholson, surviving spouse of Sherwood Daily, died on Tuesday, August 13, 2013. She is survived by her son David Daily of Sparks, NV; 2 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 1425 Greenbrae Drive, Sparks, NV, 89431.   

Mary Lee Goodwin, surviving spouse of the Rev. George Goodwin, died on Saturday, June 15, 2013. She is survived by her five children: Bill Goodwin of Placitas, NM, Stephen Goodwin of Alta Loma, CA, Mary Christine Goodwin of Angels Camp, Hughes Goodwin of Santa Rosa and Georgia Stephens of Bend, OR; by nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 132 Diamond Tail Road, Placitas, NM 87043.    A family memorial service is ...

Retired pastor John Broad died on Friday, May 17, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Laurie Broad; by three children: Steven Broad of South Bend, IN, Julie Osterman of Houston, TX, Peter Broad of Auburn, and by four grandchildren.   A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, June 1, at 1 p.m., at the Pioneer United Methodist Church in Auburn. The Rev. Barbara Smith will preside.    John Broad served the Los Gatos, Freedom, Wasco, San Jose: Willow Glen, Lemoore, Escalon and Auburn: Pioneer ...

Retired pastor Arthur Catterall died on Wednesday, May 1, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Carolee Catterall; by four children: Fred Baker of Santa Cruz, Austin Baker of Rio Linda, Karen Baker of Sacramento, Crystal Sevigny of Fair Oaks, and by seven grand-children. The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, at 3 p.m., at the First Covenant Church of Sacramento, 10933 Progress Court, Rancho Cordova.    Art Catterall served the Valley Spring, Ione, Chester, Riverbank, Knights ...

Shirley Read, surviving spouse of the Rev. Stanley Read, died on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. She is survived by six children: Donald Craghead of Salinas, Tera Hill of Salinas, Linda Menesez of Santa Barbara, Bill Read of Auburn; Stanley Read of Northern California and John Read of Lake Bay, WA; by grandchildren and great-grandchildren.      A family memorial service is planned for a later date.    

Susan Crawford, spouse of the Rev. James Crawford, died on Wednesday, April 17, 2013. Besides her husband, she is survived by her daughters: Kathryne M. Crawford and Rebecca S. Crawford.  A memorial service is planned for Sunday, May 5th, 7:30 P.M., at the Willow Glen United Methodist Church in San Jose. The Revs. Shinya Goto, Holly Hillman, and Jonathan Tarman will preside.   Memorial gifts may be sent to the Memorial Fund of San Jose, First United Methodist Church, 204 South 15th Street, San ...

Retired pastor Harry Shaner died on Thursday, April 11, 2013. He is survived by a son, Bryan Shaner, and by one grandchild.   A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, at 1:30 p.m., at the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church. The Rev. Ron Dunn will preside.     Harry originally served in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference before transferring to California-Nevada in 1946. In this Conference, he served the Richmond: First, Lafayette, Hanford and Sunnyvale: First churches. ...

Mary Takagi, wife of the Rev. Alpha Takagi, died on Sunday, March 3, 2013. She is survived by her husband; two sons: Paul Takagi of San Luis Obispo and James Takagi of San Francisco; two daughters: Naomi Yamagata of Templeton and Mary Joyce Yoshimura of San Luis Obispo; six grandchildren and one great grandchild.  There will be two memorial services with the first to be held on April 6, 11:00 a.m., at Centenary United Methodist Church, 300 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90013. The Rev. Mark ...

Retired pastor James Corson died on Monday, February 25, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Jane Corson, who resides at 2833 Peachtree Street, West Sacramento, CA 95691; by two children: Dorothy Winter of San Rafael, Derek Corson of Citrus Heights, and by two grandchildren.   The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 16, at 2 p.m., at First United Methodist Church in Sacramento. The Revs. Glenda Thomas Hayward and Doug Hayward will preside.     Jim Corson served the Farmington, ...

The Rev. John Kimbell, pastor of the Tuolumne and Soulsbyville churches, died on Wednesday, February 13, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Debra Kimbell; two children and three step-children: Shannon Kimbell-Auth of Lakeport, Kimberle Hill of Riverside, David Nickerson of Tuolumne, Daniel Nickerson of Billings, MT, and Philipe Moreno of Santa Ana; by eleven grandchildren and two great grand-children. Condolences to the family may be sent to P.O. Box 927, Tuolumne, CA 95379.   The memorial ...

Retired pastor Robert Hawthorne died on Saturday, December 22, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Gene Anna Hawthorne; by four daughters: Christine Chase of Gilroy, Alison Hawthorne of San Francisco, Joy Burton of Vancouver, WA, Nancy Beyrouti of San Jose, and by four grandchildren.   The memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, February 10, at 4 p.m., at the Almaden Hills United Methodist Church in San Jose. The Rev. Jane Schlager will preside.     Robert Hawthorne served the Stockton: St. ...

Retired pastor the Rev. Glenn Fuller died on Sunday, October 28, 2012. Survivors include his wife, Kay Fuller; three children, Megan Fuller and Cathi Fuller of San Rafael and Mary Hagen of San Francisco; and six grandchildren.   The memorial service will take place on Sunday, November 18 at 5 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto. The Revs. Michael Love and Bob Olmstead will preside.     Glenn Fuller served the San Mateo: Shoreview, Greenfield, San Jose: Roselawn, Tracy, Los ...

Ovidia Brackney, surviving spouse of the Rev. Eugene Brackney, died on Thursday, June 28, 2012. Survivors include a daughter, Kathryn Truex; son-in-law, John Hiscox; and two grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for Monday, October 15 at 1 p.m., at Nevada City United Methodist Church.     Eugene Brackney served in the California-Nevada Conference from 1942 until his death in 1985.    Memorial gifts may be sent to Hospice of the Foothills, 11270 Rough and Ready Hwy, Grass Valley, CA ...

James Vincent, spouse of the Rev. Carole Vincent, died on Sunday, June 24, 2012. In addition to Carole, survivors include one son, Michael Vincent; one daughter, Shelly Vincent Smith; and four grandchildren.   Jim Vincent had served the California-Nevada Annual Conference faithfully for many years as a member of the Conference Communications Commission. We are grateful for his dedication to the ministry of communications and will miss not only his contributions, but also his kind and gentle ...

Retired pastor Dean Moore died on Wednesday, June 20, 2012. Survivors include his wife, Betty; two sons, Dean Moore, Jr. and Cameron Moore; one daughter, Lori McClary; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.  A graveside service will take place on Friday, June 29, 2012 at 11 a.m., at Monument Hill Memorial Park, 35036 County Road 22, Woodland, CA. The Rev. John Sublett will preside.   Dean Moore served the El Camino and Arbuckle-Guinda churches before being appointed beyond the local ...

Retired pastor the Rev. Laurence Morley died on Wednesday, May 30, 2012. Survivors include two sons, Martin Morley of Lafayette, California and Scott Morley of Coon Rapids, Illinois; and two grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Alice. The memorial service will take place on Saturday, July 14 at 11 a.m., at Wesley UMC in Fresno.    Larry Morley served the Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, San Leandro: First, Woodland, Porterville: First, and Tranquility churches before retiring in 1998.   ...

Retired pastor the Rev. Philip Greer died on Tuesday, April 10, 2012. Survivors include his wife, Diana; two sons, Jonathan Greer of Riverside, California and Jeff Smith of Sparks, Nevada; one daughter, Julie Bassett of Sparks; and 10 grandchildren.  The memorial service has been scheduled for Saturday, April 14 at 10 a.m., at the Sparks United Methodist Church. The Revs. Thomas Butler and Karla Bowman will preside.    Philip Greer served the Valley Springs, LeGrand, Merced, Schurz, and Hanford ...

The Rev. Marilyn Ray died on Thursday, February 16, 2012. Survivors include her husband, Ronald Ray; two children, Joy Ray of Hawaii and Erin Ray of Albany, California; and two grandchildren.   A memorial service is planned for Saturday, March 31 at 11 a.m., at the Campbell United Methodist Church. The Revs. James Mishler and Donna Fado Ivery will preside.   Marilyn served the Los Molinos, Point Arena: St. Paul's, Galt, and Milpitas: Sunnyhills churches before retiring in 2000.   Memorial gifts...

Bonnie Whitmore, surviving spouse of the Rev. Richard W. Whitmore, died on Tuesday, January 31, 2012.   Survivors include four children: the Rev. Faith Whitmore of Carmichael (formerly pastor of St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento and now executive director of Francis House), Rick Whitmore of Salinas, Wendell Whitmore of Paradise, and Kathy Whitmore of Linwood, New Jersey; and five grandchildren.   A memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, February 9 at 2 p.m. at St. Mark's ...

Retired pastor the Rev. David MacMurdo died on Thursday, January 5, 2012. Survivors include two children, David MacMurdo, Jr. of Suisun City, California and Deann Henry, who lives in Viet Nam; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his wife, Dorothy, and son Douglas. The memorial service is planned for Sunday, Jan. 15 at 1 p.m., at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, 2391 St. Mark's Way, Sacramento, CA 95864. Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr. and the Rev. Alan Jones ...

Retired pastor the Rev. John Chow died on Friday, November 18, 2011. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Joseph Chow of Fremont and Jonathan Chow of Honolulu; and three grandchildren.  The family will gather for a private memorial service on November 25, 2011.   John Chow served the Oakland Chinese, Chinese Community, and Rockridge churches before retiring in 1994.   Memorial gifts may be sent to your local church.

Alice Morley, wife of the Rev. Laurence Morley, died on Monday, November 7, 2011. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 2408 E. Emilie Avenue, Fresno, CA 93730; by two children, Martin Laurence Morley and Scott Howard Morley; and by two grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for later this month at Wesley United Methodist Church in Fresno. The date and time for the service are currently not available, so please contact the church for details.    Larry and Alice Morley served the ...

The Rev. Paul Williamson died peacefully at 12:20 a.m. on Thursday, September 29, 2011 with his wife, his caregivers, and a parishioner from St. Paul's UMC, Vacaville (California) at his side.   In addition to his wife, Aileen Williamson, of Vacaville, survivors include a daughter, Becky Lambert of Crescent City, California; a son, Matthew Williamson, of Fort Myers, Florida; and two stepsons, Jeff Bruno of Berkeley and Daniel Bruno of Martinez, California.   A memorial service and celebration ...

Dorothy MacMurdo, spouse of the Rev. David MacMurdo, died on Monday, July 25, 2011. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 5612 Ranchero Way, Carmichael, CA 95608; two children, David MacMurdo, Jr. of Suisun City, California and Deann Henry, who lives in Viet Nam; and by six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by a son, Douglas MacMurdo. The memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 30 at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento. ...

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,  Retired pastor Richard Whitmore died on Monday, June 20, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; by four children: Faith Whitmore of Carmichael, Kathy Whitmore of Linwood, NJ, Rick Whitmore of Salinas, Wendell Whitmore of Paradise, and by five grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 6247 Cassady Way, Carmichael, CA 95608. The memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, June 26, at 2 p.m., at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento. The ...

Retired pastor Claude Friesen died on Saturday, June 4, 2011. He is survived by his wife, Alice Friesen, who resides at 761 Fano Lane, Sonoma, CA 95476; by two children, D.J. Friesen of Santa Rosa, California and Carol Friesen of Centreville, Virginia; and by two grandchildren.  The memorial service is planned for Saturday, June 11 at 11 a.m., at the Sonoma United Methodist Church. The Rev. Pam Cummings will preside.    Claude Friesen originally served in the New Jersey Conference before ...

Retired pastor Richard Kendall died on Saturday, May 7, 2011. He is survived by two children: Debbie Burger of Napa and James Kendall of Hudson, Ohio; and by five grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 595 Montecito Blvd., Napa, CA 94559.     A memorial service will be scheduled for later in the year.      Richard Kendall served the Olivehurst, Oakland: Elmhurst, Concord, Los Altos, Orinda, San Bruno, and Redding: First churches, and served as missionaries in the Congo ...

Doris Tuffs, surviving spouse of the Rev. Floyd Tuffs, died on Sunday, February 13, 2011. She is survived by her son, Marvin Tuffs of Chowchilla, California, and by three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Marvin Tuffs, P.O. Box 395, Chowchilla, CA 93610. The family plans to hold a memorial service at a later date.    Floyd and Doris Tuffs served the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference before transferring to California-Nevada in ...

Retired pastor Albert Myron Herrell died on Sunday, February 6, 2011. He is survived by his spouse, Evelyn, who resides at 1841 Golden Rain Road, #3, Walnut Creek, CA 94595; by three sons: James Herrell of Sonora, California, John Herrell of Jackson, California, and Richard Herrell of Washington, D.C.; one grandchild; and five great-grandchildren.  The memorial service is scheduled for Monday, February 28 at 11 a.m., at the Gateway Clubhouse, Rossmoor, 1001 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek. The ...

The Rev. Harry Peelor and his wife, Ruth Peelor, both died in January 2011: Ruth on the 17th and Harry the following week, on the 25th. They are survived by four daughters: Donna of Pennsylvania, and Sue Harris of Petaluma, Judith Stanton of El Granada, and Lauren Casentini of Half Moon Bay, California. Condolences to the family may be sent to Judith Stanton, P.O. Box 2747, El Granada, CA 94018.  A private family service was held for Ruth on January 23rd and a memorial service for Harry was held...

M. Frances Bryans, surviving spouse of the Rev. Alexander Bryans, died on Saturday, January 15, 2011. She is survived by her two children, Glenn Edgar Bryans of Ventress, Louisiana and Judy Bryans Evans of Dallas, Texas, and by one grandson. Condolences to the family may be sent to Glenn Bryans, 14673 Bentwater Court, Addison, TX 75001.  The memorial service was held on Friday, January 21 at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home in Dallas.    Alexander and Frances served in the Rocky Mountain ...

Leila Henderson, surviving spouse of the Rev. Douglas Henderson, died on Sunday, December 5, 2010. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann Henderson-Stoller, of Dayton, Oregon; two sons, Rob Henderson of Tustin, California and Roger Henderson, who resides in The Netherlands; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to Mary Ann Henderson-Stoller at 18215 SE Webfoot Road, Dayton, OR 97114.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 11 at 11 a.m., at the ...

Retired pastor Paul Giddings died on Sunday, November 28, 2010. He is survived by two children: Scott Giddings of Walnut Creek and Heather McMurtray of Brookhaven, Michigan. Condolences to the family may be sent to 2692 Quiet Place Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.  A memorial service is planned for Saturday, December 18 at 3 p.m., at the El Sobrante United Methodist Church. The Revs. Lee Hayward and Gaye Benson will preside.    Paul Giddings served the Caruthers, Stockton: Central, El Sobrante, ...

Retired pastor Elbert Hoffman died on Monday, October 18, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Louise Hoffman, who resides at 1354 Oak View Circle, #126, Rohnert Park, CA 94928; by a daughter, Eileen Dabbs of Santa Rosa, California; and by one grandchild.   The memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 6 at 2 p.m., at the Central United Methodist Church in Stockton. The Revs. David Bennett and Doug Hayward will preside.    El Hoffman originally served in the California-Pacific and Desert...

Eloise Kintner, spouse of the Rev. Dwight Kintner, died on Thursday, October 14, 2010. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 800 Blossom Hill Road, L137, Los Gatos, CA 95032; by three sons: Thomas of Lafayette, Russell of San Jose, and Avery of Carlsbad; and by nine grandchildren.  The memorial service will be held on Monday, November 22 at 2 p.m., at the Los Gatos United Methodist Church. The Rev. Lee Neish will preside.    Dwight and Eloise Kintner served in the Central Texas and New ...

Waunita Walker, surviving spouse of the Rev. Carl Walker, died on Friday, October 1, 2010. She is survived by two daughters: Leila McGowan of Sunnyvale, and Doris Britschgi of Campbell; and by two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 763 Bamboo Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94086.  A memorial service is planned for Friday, November 5 at 1 p.m., at Trinity United Methodist Church in Chico. The Rev. David Vallelunga will preside.    Carl and Waunita Walker ...

Retired pastor William Wheeler died on Thursday, September 30, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Joan Wheeler, who resides at 159 Caldwell Circle, Colusa, CA 95932; four daughters: Lisa Weir of Marysville, Linda Wright of Fresno, and Suzie Hargadon and Nancy Careaga, both of Woodland; and by 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  The memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 16 at 11 a.m., at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Colusa. The Rev. Karen Watson will preside.    ...

Harlean Parshall, spouse of the Rev. Joseph Parshall, died on Sunday, September 5, 2010. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 1092 Highlander Drive, Seaside, CA 93955; by three daughters: Jamie Moore of Palmdale, Lori Gompers of Rocklin, and Diana Cambas of Temecula, California; and by eight grandchildren.  The memorial service is planned for Saturday, September 11 at 11 a.m., at the Church of the Oaks, 841 Rosita Road, Del Rey Oaks, CA. The Revs. Charles Anker and Bob Hellam will ...

Retired pastor Donald Kuhn died on Thursday, August 26, 2010. He is survived by two daughters: Kathleen Prokupek of Pt. Reyes Station and Karen Kuhn of Oakland. Condolences to the family may be sent to P.O. Box 371, Pt. Reyes Station, CA 94956.  The memorial service is planned for Saturday, September 25 at 3 p.m., at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church in Oakland. The Rev. Mary Elyn Bahlert will preside.   A short gathering is planned for 2:30 p.m., before the service.      Don Kuhn originally...

Janet Engle, surviving spouse of the Rev. Irvin Engle, died on Thursday, July 15, 2010. She is survived by her niece, Phyllis Lauper, who resides at 2908 Oxbow Drive, Carson City, NV 89706.  The memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 1 at 3 p.m., at the Los Gatos United Methodist Church. The Rev. Lee Neish will preside.    Irvin Engle originally served in the California-Pacific Conference before transferring to California-Nevada in 1944. In this Conference he served the Redwood City, ...

Pastor Dennis M. Taber died on Tuesday, April 27, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Kay Harrison Taber, and by two daughters: Joanna Taber of New York City, and Caroline Taber of Sacramento. Condolences to the family may be sent to the Taber home at 5840 Da Vinci Way, Sacramento, CA 95835.  The memorial service was held on Friday, May 7, 2010 at 11 a.m., at the St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento. The Rev. Faith Whitmore presided, along with the Rev. Blake Busick and the Rev. Jerry...

Charles Tanner-Dorn died on Friday, April 16, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Susan Tanner-Dorn, who resides at 1201 Woodlawn Avenue, Clinton, IA 52732; by four children: Krista Othon and Eric Krenz, both of Clinton, IA, Rainbow Odell of Fresno, and Gloria Jones of Temecula, CA; and by six granddaughters.   A memorial service was held on Thursday, April 22, at the First United Methodist Church in Clinton, Iowa.    Charles Tanner-Dorn served the Portola, Hanford, Selma: San Pablo, and Armona ...

Marilyn Pedersen, spouse of the Rev. Ralph Pedersen, died on Tuesday, March 2, 2010. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 3400 Wagner Heights Road, #305, Stockton, CA 95209; by four children: Earl Pedersen of Messina, Sicily, Paul Pedersen of Tracy, David Pedersen of Lewisville, Colorado, and Don Pedersen of Tulare; and by nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. The memorial service was held on Friday, March 5 at 11 a.m., at the Central United Methodist Church in Stockton. ...

Dorothy Miller, surviving spouse of the Rev. Melvin Miller, died on Thursday, February 25, 2010. She is survived by three children: John Miller of Pella, Iowa, Richard Miller of Borden, Indiana, and Barbara Olson of Citrus Heights; by a son-in-law, Ralph Gousha of Napa; and by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 6109 Pinecreek Way, Citrus Heights, CA 95610.  A family graveside service will be held in Holland, Indiana.    Melvin and Dorothy Miller ...

Retired pastor, the Rev. James E. Alexander died on Saturday, February 20, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Ann Lacy, who resides at 3 E. Janice, #203, Yukon, OK 73099; by three children: James Alexander of San Diego, Michele Lee of Vacaville, and Marsha Alexander of Vacaville; and by three grandchildren.  A memorial service was held on February 24, at the Mercer-Adams Funeral Service in Bethany, Oklahoma.    James Alexander served the Stockton: Central church; the Board of Discipleship from ...

Hazel Robertson, surviving spouse of the Rev. Thomas Robertson, died on Wednesday, February 17, 2010. She is survived by three children: Charlotte Bertrand of Volcano, California, Carolyn Giuliani of Richardson, Texas, and Dwight Robertson of Bakersfield, California; and by eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to 1510 Jennifer Street, Richardson, TX 75082.    A funeral service was held on Monday, February 22,...

Madolyn Chandler, the spouse of the Rev. Alfred Chandler, died on Friday, February 5, 2010. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 750 Auburn Ravine Road, Auburn, CA 95603; by two children: Stephen Chandler of Auburn and Elaine Chandler of Aurora, CO; and by two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, February 13 at 11 a.m., at the Pioneer United Methodist Church in Auburn. The Rev. Barbara Smith presided.    Alfred and Madolyn Chandler ...

Retired pastor Edgar Nelson died on Saturday, January 23, 2010. He is survived by his wife, Marian Nelson, who resides at 1075 McCollum Avenue, Yuba City, CA 95991.    A memorial service was held on Friday, January 29, at 12 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church in Yuba City. The Rev. Lois Black presided.    Edgar and Marian Nelson served the Oakland: Pioneer Memorial, Del Ray, Sonora, San Jose: St. Paul's, Mill Valley, and Yuba City: First churches before their retirement in 1985.

Elva Busher, surviving spouse of the Rev. Fred Busher, died on Wednesday, January 20, 2010, at age 100. She is survived by three children and three step-children: James Busher of Vacaville, John Busher of San Francisco, Peter Busher of Newburyport, MA, Gareth Busher of Concord, Frederick Busher of Stockton, and Dorothy Carpenter of Oakley; and by 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to 1922 Funston Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94116.    A memorial ...

Seda Suzuki, the surviving spouse of the Rev. Lester Suzuki, died on Saturday, January 9, 2010. She is survived by three daughters: Irene Tekawa of Berkeley, Janet Brockmann of Hayward, and Marisa Suzuki of El Cerrito; by three grandchildren; and by four great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 547 Santa Clara Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94707.    The memorial service was held on Sunday, January 24 at the Methodist United Church in Berkeley. Bishop Roy Sano and the Rev. Naomi ...

Retired pastor Wayne Kessel died on Thursday, December 3, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Gladys Kessel; by two children: Donald Kessel of Morgan Hill, and Linda Kessel Solis of San Jose; and by one grandchild. Condolences to the family may be sent to 359 Mayellen Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, December 12, at 2 p.m., at the Campbell United Methodist Church, the Rev. Alan Jones presiding.    Wayne Kessel served the Burlingame, Gilroy, San Jose: Alum ...

Retired pastor Vernon Gunckel died on Monday, November 30, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Gunckel, who resides at 109 Olde Towne Place, Thornhill, Ontario L3T 4K9, Canada; by a child, Coretta Gotten; and by four grandchildren.    A memorial visitation was held on December 5, at the Ogden Funeral Home in Toronto.    Vernon Gunckel lived in Canada for many years, serving in ministry to the dying and bereaved.    Memorial gifts may be sent to Doctors Without Borders, 333 7th Avenue, 2nd ...

Louise Iles, surviving spouse of the Rev. Dwight Iles, died on Saturday, November 28, 2009. She is survived by four children: John Iles of Phoenix, Arizona, Martha Worcester of Seattle, Washington, Mary Jane Hershey of Sonoma, California, and Sharon Sauer of Richmond, Virginia; and by 17 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.    A memorial service was held at the Haller Lake United Methodist Church in Seattle, Washington.     Dwight Iles served in the ...

Charlene Barnes, surviving spouse of the Rev. Melvin Barnes, died on Friday, November 27, 2009. She is survived by seven children: Cynthia Myers of Sonora, Brenda Trapasso of Shingletown, Bill Barnes of Klamath, Cathy Gill of Linden, and Sandra Wright of Lodi, California, Claudia Kelley of Sisters, Oregon, and Patti Aslakson of Grants Pass, Oregon; by 22 grandchildren; and by 29 great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to Cynthia Myers at 745 Cielo Vista Way, Sonora, CA 95370. ...

Doris Ham, surviving spouse of the Rev. Chester Ham, died on Sunday, November 22, 2009. She is survived by three daughters: Doris Jarvis of Marysville, California, and Marilyn Gnehm and Theo Dumars, both of Wildwood, Florida; and by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 1720 Ellis Lake Drive, #1, Marysville, CA 95901.    The family plans no memorial service.    Chester and Doris Ham served the Escalon, San Jose: Willow Glen, and Richmond: St. ...

Velma Lord, surviving spouse of the Rev. Charles Lord, died on Friday, November 20, 2009. She is survived by three children: Robert Lord of San Jose, Jane Price of Alamo, and Richard Lord of Fresno, California; by six grandchildren; and by four great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 1529 St. Alphonsus Way, Alamo, CA 94507.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, January 9 at 1:30 p.m., at the Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, the Rev. Don Cunningham presiding. A ...

Retired pastor George Weber died on Monday, November 9, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Wilma Weber, who resides at 4869 N. Harrison, No. 104, Fresno, CA 93704; by two children: Joel Weber of Clovis and Julia Kyger of Bahrain; and by four grandchildren.    A private memorial service will be held for the family.    George and Wilma Weber originally served the Kansas West and Oregon-Idaho Conferences before transferring to California-Nevada in 1959. In this Conference they served the Sunnyvale: ...

Jeannette Thurman, surviving spouse of the Rev. Arthur Thurman, died on Sunday, October 4, 2009. She is survived by two children: Rachel Cowden of Citrus Heights and Janelia Thurman of Albany, and by five grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 845 Solano Avenue, Albany, CA 94706.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, October 24 at 2 p.m., at the Epworth United Methodist Church in Berkeley. The Revs. Heather Hammer and Odette Lockwood-Stewart presided.    Arthur and ...

Rita Tanner, surviving spouse of the Rev. Robert Tanner, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2009. She is survived by four children: Susan Tanner-Dorn of Clinton, Iowa, Clark Tanner of Montrose, Colorado, and Fawn Bos and Robert Tanner of Clovis, California; and by 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 10517 E. Cedarwood Court, Clovis, CA 93619.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, August 29, at the New Hope Community Church in Clovis.    Robert ...

Tobina Dalton, spouse of the Rev. William Dalton, died on Tuesday, August 25, 2009. She is survived by her husband, who resides at 2120 Elmwood Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204; by five children: Marianna Al-Jundi of Sacramento, Jan Dalton of Traverse City, Michigan, Suzanne Dalton of Santa Barbara, Kathleen Bracho of Memphis, Tennessee, and George Dalton of Antioch, California; and by eight grandchildren.  The memorial service was held on Thursday, August 27 at 7 p.m., at the Central United Methodist...

Retired pastor Gordon Fairchild died on Friday, August 21, 2009, in Sacramento, California. He is survived by three children: Ginger Stimac of Sacramento, Randall Fairchild of Sacramento, and Martha Fairchild of Citrus Heights; and by four grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 5380 Camellia Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95819.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, September 12 at 1 p.m., at St. Mark's United Methodist Church in Sacramento. The Revs. Faith Whitmore and Jerry ...

Ethel Adams, surviving spouse of the Rev. Kenneth Adams, died on Friday, August 14, 2009. She is survived by three children: Tom Adams of Sacramento, Jon Adams of Fresno, and Beth Bolduc of Salt Lake City; by 10 grandchildren; and by 15 great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to 15 Newell Circle, Napa, CA 94558.    The memorial service was held on Saturday, August 29 at 11 a.m., at the First United Methodist Church in Napa. The Rev. Doug Monroe presided.    Kenneth and Ethel ...

Retired pastor Lee Williamson died on Wednesday, July 29, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Arlene Williamson, who resides at 29179 Delgado Road, Hayward, CA 94544; a son, Roy Williamson of Oroville, California; a daughter, V.J. Williamson of Concord, California; and by three grandchildren.     An informal memorial service with potluck was held on Saturday, September 12 at 11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Hayward. The Rev. John Chamberlin, Sarah Hubinsky Phelps, Katie Kandarian, ...

Retired pastor Robert Clazie died on Thursday, June 18, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Lois Clazie, who resides at 827 Montrose Court, Santa Rosa, CA 95409.    The memorial service was held on Wednesday, July 8, at 2 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church in Santa Rosa, with The Revs. Greg Bergquist and Bill Marx presiding.    Bob Clazie served the Redwood Highway, Courtland, Eureka, Richmond: St. Luke's, San Mateo: First, South San Francisco: St. Paul's, Sacramento: Central, Oakland: St....

Retired pastor J. Donald Zerbe died on Tuesday, May 19, 2009. He is survived by three children: Richard Zerbe of Sutherlin, Oregon, Donald Zerbe of Roseburg, Oregon, and Elizabeth Marias of Kalispell, Montana; and by nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Condolences to the family may be sent to Elizabeth Marias, 1004 Sixth Avenue, East, Kalispell, MT 59901.   At last report, the memorial service still was being planned for a future date.    Don Zerbe originally served in the West ...

Erna Bimson, surviving spouse of the Rev. Richard Bimson, died on Sunday, May 17, 2009. She is survived by five children: Robert Bimson of Napa, California; Richard Bimson and Keith Bimson, both of Davis, California; Kent Bimson of Cape Canaveral, Florida; and Shirley Jake of Granite Bay, California; and by 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.   Condolences to the family may be sent to Robert Bimson, 1126 Deerfield Drive, Napa, CA 94558.    The memorial ...