Obituaries
Spring 2023
Terence Cox J.D. ‘77
Terence Cox (Terry) passed on from this world on January 19, 2023, at home with his loving wife, Kathryn, and his daughter, Chaya by his side. He was primarily a private person and most people who knew Terry had only a small glimpse of his broad-ranging passions and accomplishments. Terry graduated from Redwood High School in 1969. His father died suddenly when Terry was 15 years old, and Terry readily accepted that it was time for him to become self-supporting. He worked as a construction laborer on the weekends to help pay his mother’s rent and left home a year later when he was 16, hitchhiking to Breckenridge, Colorado, where he worked over the next three summers as an apprentice carpenter. Terry worked side by side with carpenters from over a dozen states. He loved their spirit, their hammering nails to the rhythm of country music, and quickly adapted to their hard-work ethic. Terry’s experiences over those three summers led him to seek more adventures that would help him better understand people from diverse backgrounds and deeply embedded values. He learned from listening to their banter that every person has a story to tell. And that listening closely was one of the better ways to understand the best secrets of life. In the fall of 1969, one week before he began his studies at U.C. Berkeley, Terry hitchhiked from Marin to Monterey. He’d learned from meeting an avid jazz fan in Breckenridge that the night before every Monterey Jazz Festival (MJF), its musicians would enjoy a private barbeque together. Terry introduced himself to the backstage crew, many of whom were young and from all over America. They were an eclectic, highly talented crew. They shared his love of adventure and welcomed him to join them as a backstage hand that year. Terry was hired on the spot by the MJF’s two founders, Jimmy Lyons, and Paul Vierrege. Years later, Terry was promoted by Jimmy and Paul to become the MJF’s artist liaison because he related well to musicians. He held that position over the next 25 years, as he hung out backstage with most of the world’s greatest jazz musicians. After 30 years working backstage, Terry decided that he simply wanted to enjoy the music which he did for another twenty-three years with Kathryn by his side. The last MJF Terry attended was in September 2021 his 52nd year at the Festival.Terry graduated from U.C. Berkeley in late 1973 as a U.S. History major. Unsure whether he wanted to undertake graduate studies to become a history teacher, or refine his skills as a carpenter to make it his career, or apply to law school which some of his Berkeley professors had urged, Terry decided to take off for another year of travel. He’d dreamed for years of visiting Kathmandu, Nepal, and sensed that another year of experiences would lead him to his best path into the future.Terry flew to Istanbul in January 1974. A particularly severe winter storm dumped over 10 feet of snow upon his arrival in Turkey, stranding him in Istanbul along with thousands of travelers hoping to head overland to India and Nepal. He finally left by slow train to Tehran, Iran, from where he took an even slower train headed toward Afghanistan. Reaching the border, he rode by bus to Herat, where piles of high snow drifts were more severe. During those two winter months in Afghanistan, Terry reflected upon the horrendous treatment of the citizens that he’d seen in many parts of the world with no freedom or any individual rights. Terry applied to law schools that winter while he was bogged down by snow in Herat. The village’s electricity had been down for days, with no end in sight. No one could locate a pen. Terry had no choice but to write his applications to law schools in pencil by candlelight. In his applications, he described his recent experiences, his increasing awareness of how precious the rights of American citizens are in our world, and how too many Americans take their rights for granted. Three months later, after hitchhiking from Kathmandu back to Istanbul and flying home, Terry began law school. He graduated from Santa Clara University Law School in 1977. The day the California Bar Exam results were announced in November 1977, when Terry learned that he had passed, he bought a one-way ticket to Bangkok. Terry took that trip to spend time: (1) reflecting on his best career path going forward, which he pondered while living in a Thai fisherman’s straw hut on Karon Beach, a then remote, spectacular, three-mile, pearly beach at the southern tip of Phuket, Thailand; and (2) exploring the most magical and wondrous Bali, having been encouraged by his first law professor to stay with a Balinese family who had offered to host him in their beautiful Balinese losmen (guesthouses) where he could immerse himself in the Balinese culture. Those two experiences were invaluable to Terry and led him to embrace the value that guided him for the rest of his life: always take time to appreciate the art, beauty, and grace of life. After his early years practicing maritime law with Derby, Cook, Quinby & Tweedt, Terry started his own law firm, Cox Wootton, in the mid-90s. He and his partner Richard Wootton slowly grew their firm to become one of the best-respected maritime law firms in America. Their firm evolved into representing the largest tug & barge fleet in the world, the best dining cruise fleets of vessels on the West Coast, the best marine repair yard in America, the best marine salvage diving teams on the West Coast, the Port of San Francisco, the owners and operators of some of the fastest sailboats in the world including America’s Cup syndicates and Hollywood studios producing movies filmed on open waters, such as The Flags of our Fathers and Below Deck. Terry was never happier as a lawyer than when he was in a jury trial. Terry proceeded over the next decades to try high-visibility maritime cases throughout the greater Bay Area, the Los Angeles area, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Boston and attended maritime arbitrations in New Orleans, London, and Paris.When Terry met Kathryn in 1988, her life as a musician and being a lover of operas could not have meshed better with his. They both loved France and bicycling, particularly in Provence where they had each spent time in their earlier years. Kathryn and Terry were married in Aix en Provence, France in 1991 with a group of friends and relatives joining them. Their European and American friends continued to join them in Aix on each fifth anniversary of their marriage, extending over the next 30 years. Terry and Kathryn’s daughter Chaya was born in 1999, and prior to moving to San Anselmo, the three of them lived for many years on their houseboat in Waldo Point Harbor in Sausalito, overflowing with large wooden carvings they’d found in remote regions of Thailand, Bali, and Cambodia. They camped throughout Chaya’s younger years exploring the mountain states, including Montana where they bought a small piece of property in Red Lodge, Montana. They spent many summers enjoying the beauty of the Beartooth Mountains and the Red Lodge Rodeo in July. Terry was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Thomas and Una Cox, and sister Carolyn Cox. He is survived by his wife Kathryn, daughter Chaya and brother Tom Cox (Sandy). Terry passes on being eternally grateful, knowing that he accomplished more than he could have ever dreamed and that Kathryn and Chaya will carry on his spirit. Terry always much enjoyed George Bernard Shaw’s quote: Life is a splendid torch which I have got hold of for a moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to the future generations.Along with Bob Weir’s more recent quote: Death is the last and best reward for a life well lived. Terry encourages everyone to listen to: (1) George Strait’s It’s a Love Without End, Amen (Live at the Astrodome, January 19, 2013); (2) his favorite piece of music Nessum Dorma, sung by Pavarotti (June 7, 2019); and (3) the grand fair well, Halleluiah (K.D. Lange, Vancouver 2010 Opening Ceremony Olympic Games).
Keith R. Gillette LL.M. ‘08
Keith Randall Gillette, loving husband, father, brother, and friend died on July 22, 2022, at his home in Auburn after a battle with cancer. Keith was born on May 3, 1963, in San Pablo, California to Randall and Donna (Gillette) Eads-Vidal and was raised in Marysville, California. Keith completed his bachelor’s degree at the United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, in 1987. He then went on to obtain a law degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 1997 and a master’s degree in Patent Law from Santa Clara University School of Law in 2008. He had a decade of sea-going service with the Merchant Marine Fleet as an Engineering Officer aboard many deep sea vessels and served during Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield conflicts. He was a member of the United States Naval Reserve for 12 years. After his time at sea, Keith had a fulfilling law career starting in Maritime law in San Francisco. He was a successful trial attorney and achieved Partner at Archer Norris in 2015. He worked for firms Bullivant Houser Bailey, and Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, and he ended his career in insurance defense with Intact Insurance. Keith is the devoted father of Jack and Jessica Gillette and loving husband of Noel Gillette. He is survived by his brother Scott Gillette, sister-in-law Donna Gillette, sister Michelle Gillette, sister Ericka Gillette, sister Jennifer Brand, favorite aunt Lois Davis, his mother Donna Eads-Vidal, stepfather Michael Vidal, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews, whom he loved dearly. Keith had a deep love of his favorite hobby, model railroading. The sound of a Western Pacific engine horn in the distance traveling to and from Marysville was something that he loved. His model railroad was based on the Western Pacific operations near Marysville. He also liked nothing better than to gather with friends or family and enjoy his excellent ribs or a really good steak.
Hon. Robert A. Glusman J.D. ‘76
Robert Alan Glusman passed away peacefully in Chico on March 6, 2023. Rob was born in Philadelphia, PA in 1951. At age nine, his family moved to California. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of California Santa Barbara and a Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law. Rob opened a law practice in Chico in 1977 and was appointed as a Butte County Superior Court Judge in 2002. Rob taught at Chico State University and Cal Northern School of Law. Rob was involved with Legal Services of Northern California, served on the Work Training Center board, and was an active member of the Rotary Club of Chico. He served on the California Bar Associations’ Ethics Committee and as President of the California Judges Association. Rob was a long-standing member of the Underdogs softball and baseball group, a century bike rider, and a lifelong backpacker and day hiker. He enjoyed travel, gardening, reading, and walking in Bidwell Park with his dog Jack. Rob was married in 1974 to Marsha. Together they raised three children, Noah, Ellie, and Sam. Rob is survived by his immediate family, including his brothers, Paul and Micheal, his daughter-in-law Michelle, son-in-law Paul, and his granddaughters Natalie and Abby. Rob’s family would like to thank the doctors and staff throughout Butte County, at Sutter Sacramento Medical Center, and UCSF Health. Thank you for your kindness and respect.
John L. Gorman III J.D. ‘89
John Lawrence Gorman III died on August 22nd, 2022, in Modesto, where he had lived and worked as an attorney for more than 30 years. Big John, as he was known to family and friends, was born in southern California and attended Mater Dei High School, where he played basketball and made life-long friends. He received his bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton, a master’s degree in psychology from Chico State, and his law degree from Santa Clara University. He married the love of his life, Bethany Ann Martus, in 1977, who stood by him as he worked in student housing while pursuing his higher education goals. They loved to travel together, often finding adventures in their RV. They have three children, Hallie, John, and Claire, and have five grandchildren. He loomed large, not only in his height but also in his generosity and kindness. He was known to love “dad” jokes, sharing them on a daily basis. He was a prior Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus. He was voted Modesto’s Favorite Lawyer several times and was a member and performer with Townsend Opera Players. John is survived by his wife and three children; their spouses and significant others, Ryan, Natalie, and Jasmine; grandchildren River, Chloe, Evangeline, Marigold, and Augustine; and his sisters Julie and Jan.
Stephen Hayes J.D. ‘77
Stephen William Hayes, 84, of Silver Spring, MD passed away peacefully at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the company of his wife, son, and daughter-in-law on Sunday, June 19th. Stephen William was born September 18, 1937, in St. Joseph, MO to Stephen David and Mary Ellen Hayes (nee Mooney). He was a graduate of Christian Brothers High School (valedictorian); the University of Missouri; and the University of Santa Clara Law School. The eldest of four siblings and known for his gentle and unassuming nature, Stephen William remembered his hometown fondly and regularly shared stories of its charm ranging from delivering the newspaper to Coleman Hawkins’ mother, his father’s years as a foreman in the stockyards, to seeing Mickey Mantle play minor league ball. Stephen William left St. Joseph for San Francisco in the late 60s where he built a life around the extensive music scene, book collecting, friendships, and travel. In 1982, he moved to Frankfurt am Main. In 1985, he met his wife, Marina Torres del Aguila of Lima, Peru, while vacationing in Rome. They were married in 1988 with ceremonies in Frankfurt; Lima, Peru; and San Francisco before welcoming their child, Stephen Juan, in 1990 in Frankfurt. After returning to the States in 1991, Stephen William and family settled in Montgomery County, MD while working as legal counsel at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in D.C. Stephen William was an able attorney whose legal mind earned him professional awards and the enduring respect of his colleagues. He retired from the Corps in 2013 after more than 40 years of federal service. Stephen William was an avid concertgoer worldwide and spent countless hours in the Alte Oper in Frankfurt, War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, and the Kennedy Center in D.C. A lifelong traveler, Stephen William regularly frequented Lima, Peru; Paris, France; and Frankfurt, Germany with trips to India, Turkey, Brazil, and moreover his 84 years. Stephen William was a kind and generous father who openly shared his interests with his son and lovingly supported his every pursuit. His extensive collection of books and music thoughtfully collected over a lifetime fostered a spirit of intellectual enrichment and curiosity that lives on. A humble and gentle soul to all he met, Stephen William shared his extensive knowledge of literature, music, history, art, and baseball with all. His lifelong love of learning continues in the many who knew him well. His humility and commitment to justice inspire those fortunate to share in it. Stephen William leaves behind his devoted wife, Marina T. Hayes; and his loving son, Stephen Juan Hayes, and daughter-in-law Allison LaCroix. He is also survived by his brother Michael Hayes of Kansas City, MO; sisters Mary Ellen Wolfe of Faucett, MO; and Johannah Hausman, of St. Joseph, MO.
Mary Ann M. Herlihy J.D. ‘97
Born in Chicago, Mary Ann moved to Southern California with her parents at the age of 1, first to Bakersfield and then to Los Angeles to escape earthquakes. Yes, we realize the irony. She spent about six years there before moving to the Bay Area, where she would live the rest of her life and become an integral part of the community. She attended St. Joseph of Cupertino School and would become a dedicated lifelong parishioner, volunteer, Early Childhood Program coordinator, and art teacher and eventually send her own daughters to school there. After graduating from Mother Butler High School, Mary Ann attended San Jose State University, where she majored in history, minored in Spanish, joined the prestigious Black Masque Honor Society, and met her future husband of nearly 51 years, John. Mary Ann and John had two daughters, Shannon and Jennifer, and Mary Ann relished being a mother. She dedicated her life to teaching and volunteering at the girls’ elementary school (St. Joseph’s) and being the best mother, cooking and baking the most delicious food, and attending every game and theater performance there was. And there were a lot. When she was eventually blessed with three grandsons, Hunter, Jax, and Dawson, she continued her outstanding culinary skills and the boys knew, “Nobody cooks as well as Grandma does.” Throughout her life, Mary Ann excelled in several careers, including teaching at several schools in California and Mexico, running her own antique store, and working at Apple. Never content to stop learning, Mary Ann decided to make a career change when her daughters were in high school and pursue her passion for law, returning to school to earn her JD at Santa Clara University. After earning her degree and passing the bar, Mary Ann enjoyed a new career as corporate counsel at various tech companies and taught intellectual property at De Anza College. Mary Ann’s volunteer work was also extremely important to her, dedicating her time to St. Joseph’s, the Cupertino Library, the Red Mass, the St. Thomas More Society, the Saratoga Echo Shop, and her grandsons’ school, St. Frances Cabrini, to name a few. Mary Ann truly enjoyed many things in life, including a well-known lifelong love of rabbits. She was a voracious reader (who we guarantee read more books than you have), loved having tea with her girlfriends, enjoyed watching HGTV and Hallmark (even when the movies were terrible), was a master at sewing, quilting, and Sudoku puzzles, and took excellent care of her garden, filled with delicious fruits, vegetables, and herbs. She also loved to travel (even if she hated flying), making several trips to Hawaii, Europe, the East Coast, the Midwest, Mexico, and Alaska, as well as a few cross-country road trips, and enjoyed spending time at La Selva Beach and Lake Tahoe. Although she leaves behind a heartbroken family (husband John, daughters Shannon and Jennifer, son-in-law Jake, grandsons Hunter, Jax, and Dawson, and brother John), we are grateful that she is no longer in pain and is celebrating in heaven with a glass of Veuve Clicquot and her parents Mary and Vince and brother Michael, all of whom preceded her in death.
Hugh F. Jackson III J.D. ‘73
Our beloved husband and father, Hugh, passed away peacefully with his wife Cecilia and children by his side. First of four children, Hugh was born to the late Hugh and Arlene Jackson in Arlington, Massachusetts. The family settled in the Cupertino area, and the summer after he turned 15 he helped his dad and grandfather build the family home on San Juan Road. Hugh never ventured far from the “compound” and lived in Cupertino for most of his life. He was the Senior Class President of the first graduating class of Homestead High School in 1964 and maintained friendships with his classmates throughout his life. Hugh attended Willamette University for a year before returning to the Bay Area to graduate from San Jose State College in 1969. Following graduation, Hugh worked at Lockheed while attending Santa Clara University Law School and became a member of the State Bar of California in 1974. His career spanned over 45 years and he was regarded as one of the preeminent family law attorneys in the county, well respected by his peers and the judiciary. Hugh was a decades-long member of the Santa Clara County and Sunnyvale-Cupertino Bar Associations, and a two-time named “Super Lawyer”. He continuously maintained a Martindale Hubbell AV rating and was often sought by judges to help settle complicated cases as a settlement conference officer or a Judge Pro Tem. He shined in the courtroom and was a tenacious advocate for his clients, but Hugh’s self-proclaimed “greatest accomplishments” were his four children. He was so proud of the kind, compassionate, intelligent, and fun adults they became. His greatest sadness was the death of his oldest daughter, Karen. His greatest joy was bragging about his kids to his friends. Hugh loved to fish, especially with son Glen, taking annual trips to Alaska and the Chetco or Smith Rivers. He loved a good poker game. Daughters, Paige and Grace, learned to play on the laps of his poker buddies at the dining room table during the weekly Wednesday night games. Often accompanied by his pal Jack, Hugh rode 1 of his 4 bikes almost daily, racking up thousands of miles over the last 20 years. A 2009 biking accident resulting in a shattered hip didn’t stop him. He would say, “I’m slow, but I go.” He spent his retirement years with his wife and best friend Cecilia, reading, having lunch with friends, traveling, enjoying his “great backyard”, watching his hummingbirds from the “pavilion”, and of course fishing and playing poker. Hugh’s last week was peaceful and relaxed, even as his giant, generous, fun-loving heart gave out. He will be greatly missed. Hugh is survived by Cecilia and their daughters, Paige and Grace, son Glen (Talita) and granddaughter Juliette, Glen’s mother Jenny Fawcett, siblings Eleanor, Tom (Liz), Harlan (Barbara), and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws. In honor of Hugh, the family encourages everyone to take a friend to lunch or fishing or to share an amazing story about Hugh.
Steven D. Jacob J.D. ‘08
No information is available.
Barry F. McCarthy ‘70, J.D. ‘76
Barry Francis McCarthy passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Barry had been suffering from Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) for six years. Barry was born to Vince and Virginia McCarthy on the south side of Chicago, IL, the third of five children. Most of his childhood was spent in Cleveland, OH, where he graduated from St. Dominic’s Catholic School in Shaker Heights, and St. Peter Chanel High School in Bedford. He was an accomplished caddy at Canterbury Golf Club in Beachwood, OH. After two years at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI, he moved to California with his family in the late ’60s, where he completed his undergraduate work and law degree at Santa Clara University. Barry’s law practice spanned several decades and included extensive work in energy law. He initially worked for the Contra Costa County Legal Services Foundation providing legal assistance to those of low income. He was then hired as an attorney at the City of Santa Clara and went on to become a partner at Duncan, Weinberg, Genzer & Pembroke. He later started his own firm and eventually established a longtime law partnership with Susie Berlin. Barry counseled and advised publicly-owned utilities across the state, guiding them through a changing energy regulatory landscape and helping to usher in a new era of utility regulation. Barry was widely lauded as an expert in the area and was instrumental in mentoring others on legal issues in this field. Barry delighted in telling people he met his wife Carol/CJ McCarthy at a City of Santa Clara hydroelectric dam dedication (this is true) as he did the legal work for the project, and CJ was there representing the city. Former City Manager Jennifer Sparacino took responsibility for this ‘meet cute.’ After retirement from the law, Barry began volunteer work with the Clemency Project and the Pro Bono Project before he became ill in 2017. He was diagnosed with MSA, a rare progressive and degenerative neurological disease. He faced MSA bravely and appreciated the support of family, friends, and caregivers Hannah, Miriam, and, most recently, Julie. Barry was a loving father, husband, brother, and fiercely loyal friend to many. Much to his wife’s chagrin, he charmed many widows at the Westmont of Morgan Hill assisted living facility where he and his wife of 32 years resided for the last 4+ years. In addition to wife CJ, Barry is survived by son Brendan and grandsons Aidan and Robbie, daughter Katie (Plaza), her husband Jakub, and granddaughters Charlotte and Sydney. Barry’s first wife Kris remained close with Barry and CJ. All will miss him terribly. Whether on the playground, in the classroom, on the golf course or in the courtroom, Barry’s talent, creativity, and integrity allowed him to shine. Everything he did, he did well. Along the way, he earned the never-ending love of his family and the unconditional devotion of his numerous friends.
Mary Elaine Mielke ‘73, J.D. ‘76
Mary Elaine Mielke passed away on July 17, 2022, at the age of 71 after a long illness. She was born in Easton, MD on July 16, 1951, the daughter of the late Herman F. Mielke and Dorothy Williams Mielke. Elaine graduated with the class of 1969 from Easton High School. She continued her education at the University of Maryland, the University of Paris and graduated with honors from the University of Santa Clara, majoring in Political Science. She graduated in 1976 from the University Of Santa Clara School Of Law. After practicing law in California, Elaine moved to Washington, D.C. in 1980, serving as General Counsel to the House Judiciary Committee. Before returning to the Eastern Shore to be with her family, she called Washington, D.C., and Chevy Chase, MD her home, where she had many friends, especially those in the “Book Club”. Elaine treasured her friends and considered them family. She leaves behind her brothers; Allan Mielke (Ellen), and Robert Mielke (Mandy); as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces/nephews, goddaughters, and her dear friend Suzanne Daughters.
Frank Murphy Jr. ‘55, J.D. ‘57
Frank Murphy passed away peacefully, surrounded by family after a short illness at the age of 88. Frank was born to J. Frank Murphy and Marjorie Leibrandt in Santa Cruz, California. Frank graduated from Holy Cross High School and Santa Clara University where he went on to graduate from the law school in 1957. In his youth, Frank enjoyed 2-man beach volleyball and playing as a member of the baseball team at Santa Clara University. An accomplished golfer into his 80s, Frank was also a Life Master bridge player until his last days. Following his graduation from law school, Frank served as a legal specialist in the U.S. Navy and subsequently joined his father’s law firm. Frank practiced family law until he was elected to the District 31 State Assembly Seat, representing his hometown of Santa Cruz and surrounding counties from 1967 through 1972. Frank served as Caucus Chair under Governor Ronald Reagan and held several leadership positions in the state legislature. Following his tenure in the California Assembly, Frank worked as a Legislative Advocate representing numerous clients over the next 30 years. Clients included The California Court Reporters, California Physical Therapy Association, and Golden Gate Fields. Frank wrote the bill that legalized wine to be carried home from restaurants. Frank is a past President of Del Paso Country Club where he enjoyed golf and time with friends and family. Frank retired to Bend, Oregon with his wife Sally in 2004 where they remained until moving to Tucson, Arizona in 2020. Frank is preceded in death by his brothers Peter and Dennis Murphy. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Sally Murphy, sisters Mary Schuttinger (George, deceased) and Ann Janlois (Mark); Children Michel Murphy, Katie Murphy Foster, Erin Brayer (George), Lisa Buoy (Scott); stepchildren Holly Alexandre (Chris Rowley) and Michael Linn (Anne Remmers) and fifteen grandchildren whom he adored.
Joseph R. Panetta ‘55, J.D. ‘58
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Joseph Robert Panetta, on December 19, 2022. Joseph was born on August 2, 1933, in Sheridan, Wyoming to Carmelo and Carmelina Panetta, who preceded him in death. He has one brother, Leon E. Panetta. Joseph spent part of his childhood in Monterey, followed by a move to Carmel Valley with his family where he spent the remaining part of his childhood. He attended San Carlos Elementary School and Monterey High School. Joseph then continued his education at Santa Clara University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1955. Continuing his education at Santa Clara University, Joseph completed law school and passed the bar on his very first try, beginning a long and prestigious career in law. He practiced law in Santa Clara, then moved to Monterey to work in the District Attorney’s Office, followed by many years in private practice. In all, Joseph’s career spanned over 60 years. He gained the respect and admiration of not only those clients he was able to serve, but of the entire law community, including judges, attorneys, and members of the court system. One of the many awards that Joseph received (attesting to this career) was the Chief Justice Phil S. Gibson Award presented to him in 2005. He was also inducted into the Fr. William C. Gainera Society of Santa Clara University that same year. Joseph met the love of his life Anna Chiantelli when they were in high school. They were married on June 25, 1955, and shared 61 years of marriage until Anna’s untimely passing in 2016. Although broken by her passing, he always kept positive and wanted to keep moving forward. Joseph and Anna have three children who survive him: Joanna (Anastacio), Joseph (Julie), and John. Four grandchildren added joy to the family: Anna (Chad), Stephen (Jillian), Brittnie, and Gianna. Five great-grandchildren completed the family: Zander, Kyah, Ella, Miles, and Theo. Family meant everything to Joseph, something he gained from Anna. Besides his career in law, Joseph had many loves including golf, reading, travel, and his love of food. He and Anna traveled to so many places together and he spoke of them often after her passing. Joe was a lifetime member of the Compari Club, a member of the Italian Catholic Federation, the Sons of Italy, and the Jaycees. In addition to his family, Joseph is survived by his brother, Leon (Sylvia) Panetta, nieces, and nephews, as well as cousins in Italy. Joseph also leaves behind many friends and colleagues. We would especially like to thank Steve, JB, Rick, Michael, and Margo. Their friendship, weekly visits, and phone calls, during his illness, meant the world to Joseph and brought him much joy. We would also like to thank Hospice of the Central Coast for the invaluable help and support, with special thanks to Dee, his home health aide, who brought him such joy and comfort with each visit.
Paige R. Parrish J.D. ‘81
Paige passed away peacefully at his home in San Marino, CA on July 28, 2022, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who shared his big smile and love for life with everyone he met.
Walter T. Shimoda ‘53, J.D. ‘55
Walter T. Shimoda, son of Toshio and Katsuyo Shimoda, died on November 4th, 2022 at age 93. He wrote his obituary when he was diagnosed with cancer. He is survived by his wife, a University of Hawaii graduate, and former school teacher, Nancy K. Kawaharada Shimoda, and also by five children; Cari Lee Kojima, Kevin Shimoda, Michael Shimoda, Carol Kawabata, and Jane Becker; 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his close friends and spiritual guardians, Reverend Kevin and Dermott Coleman of Ohio. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Jerry and Mike, and is survived by five sisters; Lois Akichan Uehira, Ruth Akie Oshiro, Jane Toshiko Nakatani, Charlotte Kayo Tomooka, and Naomi Kemble. The deceased posthumously expresses his appreciation: to the Island of Maui for the privilege of being born, raised, employed, retired, and of dying here in Hawaiian island paradise; to my wife for unselfishly en-during the burden and the rest of my family for sharing in that burden; to Kahului school for the basic education and St. Anthony High School, John Carroll University and Santa Clara University for a Catholic education, culminating in a law degree; to Len, Spud, Terry, and George for their lasting friendship, all of whom predeceased the deceased; and the County of Maui, State of Hawaii, and U.S. government for preserving the freedom guaranteed by law and unequaled in the world. The family held a private service at St. Anthony Church and request no “koden” and flowers. The Shimoda Family sincerely thanks Islands Hospice for all their love, tender care, and spiritual support.
Spring 2022
Dr. Robert “Robby” B. Beyers JD ’00, MBA ’01
On Monday, April 12th, 2021, Dr. Robby Beyers passed away at the age of 62 from complications of ALS.
Robby was born on June 20th in Ann Arbor, MI to Bob and Alice M. Beyers and grew up in the suburbs of Washington D.C. Being one of the most hard-working, intelligent, and stubborn people you’d ever meet, Robby worked his way to having five degrees: an MS, BS, and PHD from Stanford University and an MBA and JD from Santa Clara University.
For many years Robby worked as a material scientist at the IBM Almaden Research Center, years where, amongst other accomplishments, he co-invented single-wall carbon nanotubes and developed microscopy techniques which are now used throughout the semiconductor industry. His knowledge of material science leant itself well to his next career as a patent attorney, where he authored hundreds of patents, including the “iPhone Patent” (U.S. Patent No. 7,479,949) for the iPhone’s user interface. As a partner at Morgan Lewis LLP he mentored over a hundred aspiring law students.
The job Robby loved most was being the unofficial photographer for the Stanford Marching Band. For over 40 years he captured the RTFO antics of Stanford University’s famous scatter band. Even after his diagnosis of Lou Gehrig’s Disease in 2018, Robby continued to work on new projects. Despite his growing paralysis, he photographed two more seasons for the band alongside his son Danny, wrote and published a self-help book, compiled decades of band shots into photo books, and even managed to travel across the country to visit his beloved summer home in Vermont. At the time of his death he was participating in an experimental brainwave mapping study through UC San Francisco which will aid future ALS patients and others by allowing computers to directly translate brainwaves into communication. His signature dry humor never wavered throughout his treatment and he was known to claim “ALS Privilege” whenever a situation arose that required him to get preferential attention or an extra serving of his beloved Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.
Robby was preceded in death by his father, Bob. He leaves behind his mother Alice, wife Elena, sons Bobby and Danny, brother Bill, sister Amy and her husband Craig, nephews Kurtis, Kris and Nik, stepson Will, and countless friends, mentees, caregivers, coworkers and band members.
Philip S. Bianco ’55, JD ’60
In the courtroom of life, Philip Steven Bianco, Attorney at Law, has rested his case. Following a brief illness, he died peacefully surrounded by family on December 28, 2021, at the age of 88. Phil was born in Visalia, CA, on November 13, 1933, to Luke and Goldie Bianco, owners of Bianco Fine Foods and later, Bianco Wine and Roses. Growing up in the thirties meant struggles for Phil that translated to things like pumping his older (and much bigger) sister, Elinor, to and from school on the handlebars of his bicycle, along with helping in the grocery store every afternoon. He attended George McCann Memorial School, where he was voted class clown, followed by Visalia Union High School, where he medaled in shot put, and graduated with the class of 1951. Anxious to spread his wings, Phil went to college at Santa Clara University where, in addition to his studies, he joined ROTC. He graduated in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. After serving two years in the army, he went back to Santa Clara University for law school, and earned his law degree in 1960. Moving back to Visalia, he initially worked for McKinney & Jordan before hanging the shingle on his own private law practice in 1968. While in law school, Phil met Maureen O’Hara at one of those dances the all-boys’ schools organize to meet women from the all-girls’ schools. They danced that evening and the two started dating. They dated and danced and eventually married on September 12, 1959. They continued to dance through life and marriage for 62 years. Phil is survived by Maureen and his six children, Lisa (William) Marich, Luke (Elie) Bianco, John (Suzanne) Bianco, Deirdre (David) Mangine, Yvonne (Theo) Papanickolas, and David (Megan) Bianco, along with 15 grandchildren. He is also survived by his younger sister, Gloria Bianco. As a father, Phil instilled in his children the value of hard work. Sunday mornings started with church, followed by a hearty breakfast, and then it was get your work clothes on, and everyone headed out to do yard work and chores. In the evening, wages earned that day were recorded in the red book. Very few of his six children ever remember receiving a payout from said red book brilliant from a parent’s perspective. Education was also very important to Phil, and he worked hard to provide each of his children with a college education, fully supporting their individual career endeavors. As a young family, Phil, Maureen, and the kids spent summer vacations at Huntington Lake, often hosting family and friends (most notably, cousin/babysitter Dave Franey). There Phil enjoyed sailing, biking and tennis. Later in life, he caught the travel bug, so he and Maureen took their vacations abroad, visiting several countries over the course of many years. Aside from spinning Maureen on the dance floor during their regular dancing club events, another passion of Phil’s was cooking. His father used to brag that by the time Phil was ten, he could make an entire meal from soup to nuts. Dinner at Phil and Maureen’s was always special, whether they were hosting their gourmet group or cooking Christmas dinner. Phil even taught David Vartanian of the Vintage Press how to make braciole, and he joined him in presenting a master cooking class at the restaurant. Phil looked forward to his Saturday morning coffee with Basil and friends, and enjoyed working in his yard, the occasional football game, and doling out treats to his poodle Mitzi. Never interested in retirement, Phil wanted to die with his boots on. He was a fixture in the Tulare County Superior Court for six decades. He mentored young lawyers, always willing to give advice about their case. He was an old school lawyer, courteous and professional to the other side, and had a true passion for the law. When asked the type of practice he had, he would say that he practiced people law, and that all God’s children need legal representation. He was actively practicing law when he passed away, going into the office five days a week and appearing in court as often. Ask anyone who practiced in Tulare County, and they’ll gladly share a Phil Bianco story, which the family would love to hear.
Philip T. Bird JD ’75
Philip T. Bird, law school cum laude grad of 1975, died June 17, 2021. No further information is available.
The Hon. William “Bill” F. Brown Jr.’55, JD ’60
William F. “Bill” Brown was born on September 1, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York. He lived in a three flat house with extended family until the family decided to move to San Jose, California in 1947.
Bill attended Bellarmine and paid for his tuition with a paper route. After high school he attended Santa Clara University where he met many lifelong friends.
He aspired to go to Law School, but first served as a 2nd lieutenant for two years in the Army in order to finance Law School at Santa Clara. In 1959, Bill married Donna Lou “Lou” Brown, a teacher. In short order his children Liz and Greg arrived.
Bill practiced law for eleven years before he was appointed to the Municipal Court by Governor Ronald Reagan in 1975. In 1983, he was appointed to the Superior Court in Santa Clara County by Governor George Deukmejian.
Bill died on October 12, 2021. He was pre-deceased by his parents, William F. Brown, Sr. and Jean Brown, and his sisters Dorothy and Kathleen.
He is survived by his wife, Lou, his children Elizabeth (Ron) and Gregory (Anne), his granddaughters Nicole (Alex), Corinne (Dennis), Catherine, Hannah, and Claire, and many nieces and nephews.
Richard S. Carlone JD ’71
Richard was born in Napa, CA June 22, 1946 to Salvatore and Elaine Calone. He passed away peacefully on May 21, 2021 in Stockton, CA. His youth was spent in Pittsburg, CA and upon graduating High School, he went on to attend the University of Norte Dame where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Rich continued his education and went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara School of Law and a Master’s Degree in Taxation from Golden Gate University. He was also a Certified Specialist in Taxation in the state of California and worked as an attorney for the IRS before launching his own law firm, Richard S. Calone, Inc. in 1989.
During his continued education, Rich was involved in ROTC and served in the Army Reserves as a Tank Captain. He was an avid bird hunter, enjoyed trap and skeet shooting, loved the San Francisco Giants, good food and absolutely CHERISHED the time he spent with his family and friends. He loved life and all its challenges, and will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.
Rich is survived by his loving wife Sharon, daughters, Heather Coldani (Troy), Charise DeCoito (Daniel), son Salvatore Calone, step sons, Blake and Eric Alley, brother Robert Calone, sister MaryAnn Ingram and his dogs Buddy and Molly and his cat Elvis.
William P. Cummings JD ’76
William P. “Bill” Cummings, 73, passed away in the late evening of Tuesday, October 26, 2021. Bill was born in San Diego, California to the late Guy and Angela (McDermott) Cummings on July 5, 1948 A huge baseball fan, Bill graduated with a Juris Doctorate law degree from the Santa Clara University Law School, in Santa Clara, California. Bill practiced the art of law for many years. He was an active member of the Kentucky Bar Association. Bill leaves to mourn, the love of his life, his devoted wife Betty Ann (Paruch) Cummings and his sister, Mary Virginia “Ginny” Garelick of Morro Bay, California.
The Hon. Anthony “Tony” De Cristoforo Jr. JD ’58
Sacramento, California – Anthony DeCristoforo, Jr. passed away on May 1st at the age of 90. He was the son of Italian immigrant parents, Antonio and Anna DeCristoforo. Antonio immigrated alone in 1906 at the age of 14 from the province of Abruzzo. His only formal education was third grade in Italy. Anna was born in Barrafranca, Sicily, and came with her family to Chicago where she met and married Antonio after his discharge from the United States Army in 1919. She never attended school. Their first born, Joseph, was an Army Captain in World War 11 and in Korea and was chief deputy district attorney in Sacramento before entering private practice with Anthony for ten years. Joseph went on to become a Superior Court Judge and then Justice of the Third District Court of Appeal.
Anthony, known as “Tony” was born in Lodi, California on March 27, 1931 and moved with the family to Sacramento in 1933. He attended Washington Grammar, Sutter Jr. High, Sacramento High and graduated from the University of California in Berkeley and Santa Clara University Law School. He played high school Manhart Legion and Cal baseball briefly and was senior class president, student body boys’ vice president and represented Sac Hi at California Boys State. Before his graduation from law school, he served two years in the U.S.Army and was with the Staff Judge Advocate in Austria and Italy.
After practicing law for 26 years, Tony was appointed Superior Court Judge in 1985 where he handled virtually every civil and criminal assignment available to judges. He had an impressive track record for settling cases and bringing parties together. After retirement in 1999, he continued to preside over jury trials as an assigned judge until he devoted his time exclusively to arbitration and mediation before enjoying total retirement. During and after his practice of law he became involved in various community service activities including Mercy Hospital Foundation Board, U.C. Davis Hospital Leadership Council and Jesuit High School Board of Trustees. He was a member of the International Academy of Trial Judges and California Judges Association. He belonged to Del Paso Country Club for many years and achieved lifelong membership in the Sutter Club. He was a member and past president of the Grandfathers Club and enjoyed the comradery of the Over the Hill Gang. In addition, he was elected to the La Salle Club Baseball Hall of Fame.
Of greatest importance to him, however, was his wife and family. He considered himself the most fortunate man alive for the happiness he shared with his beautiful wife of 57 years. He married Elinor Templeton on June 29, 1963. And they were blessed with four wonderful children and five grandchildren: Lora (Cindy) and Max, Cara, Tony (Michele) and Elise and A.J., and Joe (Theresa) and Reese, and Joe’s daughter, Cathy. The family met often and regularly and agreed those occasions were the best and most fun gatherings of all their activities. Tony cherished all of his friends-old and new and lived by the mantra “the more the merrier” and was always a gracious host.
Tony loved to cook, grow tomatoes and travel. He and Eli, and at various times their children and grandchildren, traveled extensively in various parts of the world, measuring stays from India, Dubai, Singapore, Tahiti and Hawaii, to Rio and Buenos Aires, to Ireland, Scotland, England, Scandinavia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Eastern Europe, Russia, Greece, Turkey, Morocco and of course Italy which they visited over twenty times staying with dear friends in Viareggio.
Among the expected elements of enjoyment brought by travel, Tony and Eli appreciated the great fortune we have by living in America. His parents came to this country penniless and uneducated. They succeeded in retail business only to lose everything to Chicago hoodlums when their house was blown up and their lives threatened at gunpoint. They came to California and again were successful raising grapes in Lodi only again to lose everything to the Great Depression. Resiliency and determination again prevailed in Sacramento when his father, by now working and tending his own bar, built and established low cost housing units now known as Loaves and Fishes. All was accomplished without financial assistance from outside sources. They were too proud to accept charity and too determined to make it on their own. Tony’s parents instilled the values of dignity, kindness, character and education to their sons. Both boys became judges.
August summers at Lake Tahoe were a highlight hosting friends of all ages, water skiing, barbecues, wine and tall tales. Fall Saturdays brought out the Blue and Gold starting with tailgates and ending at Club Pheasant. Whether it was coaching little league or timing swim meets, Tony was the proud and enthusiastic father and grandfather. His family and friends and most of all, the love of his life Eli, brought him immeasurable joy. Tony and Eli’s deep and abiding love for each other has been a beacon to their family. May our Tony, magnificent Husband, Father, Papa, Grampa rest in peace until we meet again. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Donald “Don” J. De Geller JD ’52
Donald Joseph DeGeller of Novato died peacefully of natural causes August 9, 2021, with his wife Maureen by his side. Son of Joseph and Marguerite DeGeller, he was born at Fabiola Hospital, Oakland, January 12, 1926. Don spent his early years in Ukiah and Tulare, California, and Nampa, Idaho, where his father was employed as a manager of Montgomery Ward stores. The family settled permanently in Redwood City where Don graduated from Sequoia Union High School. After serving as an Aviation Radioman Third Class in the United States Navy during World War II, he was honorably discharged in 1946. He graduated from San Jose State College (now San Jose State University) in 1950 and received an L. L. B. degree from the University of Santa Clara School of Law in 1952. He practiced patent law for IBM in San Jose and was a patent lawyer and partner at Townsend and Townsend, San Francisco.
In 1975 Don and artist Joseph Neary opened “The Gallery” to sell paintings in the Montecito Shopping Center in San Rafael. Don and Maureen expanded the business to two separate locations in the Montecito Shopping Center, one devoted to needlework supplies and the other to art sales and custom picture framing. In 1985 they closed the needlework shop and relocated the art and custom framing business, renamed as Frame Crafters, to locations in the Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, and on Grant Avenue, Novato. They retired from the business in 1989.
A highly skilled still and motion picture photographer, he wrote, produced and filmed a 22-minute, 16MM color film on the U. S. Patent System, “Incentive to Progress,” as well as “Olympic Footprints,” which focused on the 1960 Winter Olympics held in Squaw Valley (now Palisades Tahoe), California.
Don’s family had a cabin at Homewood, California and throughout his life he spent many summers boating on Lake Tahoe and winters skiing at resorts in the Tahoe region.
As owner of the classically built wooden 36-foot ketch “Sea Waif,” for many years he sailed the waters of San Francisco Bay, the San Joaquin River Delta and off the coast of California, as well as participating in several Master Mariner’s Regattas on the Bay. He earned his private pilot’s license in 1972, eventually becoming a certificated flight instructor while flying his Grumman/American airplanes out of Gnoss Field, Novato.
Don is predeceased by his parents and his daughter Marguerite Spear. He is survived by his wife, Maureen, and sons Gregory (Marla) and Phillip (Valerie Edwards), grandson Martin Hamilton (Martha), granddaughters Kathryn DeGeller, Sarah DeGeller, Shannon Defoor and Kristina Spear and great-granddaughters Stella and Sofia Hamilton, as well as his ex-wife, Florence Diepenbrock Stronck.
Michael P. Diepenbrock JD ’66
With loving family and friends by his side, Michael Philip Diepenbrock, born November 22, 1941, died February 12, 2022, after battling cancer. The eighth of nine children, Michael was born to prominent San Francisco physician Dr. Anthony Bernard Diepenbrock and Genevieve Claire McCarthy in San Francisco. Michael grew up on the San Francisco Peninsula, attended St. Catherine of Siena School in Burlingame, Bellarmine College Preparatory in San Jose, and received his law degree from Santa Clara University in 1966.
In July 1966, a month after law school graduation and a student draft deferment, Michael was drafted to serve in the United States Army in the Vietnam War. He started as an NCO Private and was stationed at Fort Ord on Monterey Bay. There, he performed military legal services under the supervision of Captain James (“Jim”) P. Hargarten, who would later become his brother-in-law and lifelong friend. While stationed at Fort Ord, Michael and Jim would go visit Michael’s sister, Patricia, who was in a graduate program at the nearby Monterey Institute for International Studies. Patricia’s roommate, Viorica Marian, quickly became the love of his life and the two married on November 30, 1968 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Boulder Creek, CA. Shortly thereafter, Jim and Patricia also married, and the close friendship between the two couples flourished throughout the half century that followed. Michael was discharged from the Army in November 1969, as NCO E6, Army Specialist 6.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife Viorica of 53 years, to whom he was deeply devoted, and their five children: Ted of Sammamish, WA, Michelle (Jeff) Egan of Windsor, Phil (Andrea) of Mill Creek, WA, Ann (Adam) Eberts of Santa Rosa, and Paul (Nicole) of Vallejo. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Laura, Claire, Mary, Caroline, Bernadette, Jakob, Clara, August, Damian, Jesse, and Andrei.
Michael is also survived by sisters Claire Diepenbrock of San Francisco, Florence (David) Stronck of Union City, and Patricia (James) Hargarten of San Francisco. He was preceded in death by parents Dr. Anthony and Genevieve Diepenbrock, sisters Mary (Frank) Draeger, Clotilde Diepenbrock, Rebecca (Lawrence) Del Santo, and brothers Melchior “Hubert” Diepenbrock and Anthony (Marjorie) Diepenbrock.
Michael was gifted with a keen intellect. He had an enduring interest in theology, philosophy, and the law, and could often be found deeply immersed in literature pertaining to these topics. Following in the footsteps of his big brother, San Francisco lawyer Anthony B. Diepenbrock (d. 2009), Michael was admitted to the State Bar of California in 1966. As a lawyer, Michael’s polished and persuasive writing skills were well-employed. He was eloquent, gentle-spirited and soft-spoken; he enjoyed light-hearted banter and clever word play. He loved food and cooking, especially preparing feasts for his large extended family. Michael was a devout Roman Catholic who loved his faith and the Blessed Mother. Through his longstanding parishionership at The Cathedral of Saint Eugene’s, he was a member of the Catholic fraternal service order, The Knights of Columbus. Michael loved to visit Monterey, Carmel, Santa Cruz, and Lake Tahoe with his family, as he often did growing up as a child.
Joseph W. Di Leonardo ’65, JD ’68
Joseph Wright DiLeonardo, 78, husband of Sharon Purcell DiLeonardo, of Abbeville, South Carolina died Sunday, November 7, 2021, at his residence. He was born in Palo Alto, CA to the late, Anthony and LaVina Sartain DiLeonardo. Mr. Joseph W. DiLeonardo graduated from University of Santa Clara in 1965 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. At the same time, he was commissioned as a Reserve Officer in the United States Army. In 1968 Mr. DiLeonardo graduated from University of Santa Clara with a Juris Doctor degree. He commenced active duty in 1968 completing infantry and intelligence training before being ordered to Vietnam in May 1969. Joseph was assigned Chief Order of Battle Section for the 635th MID of the America Division. In June 1970 he was returned to the United States having been awarded the Bronze Star Medal with first Oak leaf; the Army Commendation medal; two Gallantry Crosses from the Republic of Vietnam. Joseph practiced law upon return from his service in the Army. He authored two books, Vietnam War and Red Wave Task Force 2020. Following his retirement, he and his wife, Sharon moved to Angel Fire, New Mexico, where Mr. DiLeonardo worked various jobs and enjoyed helping with the Veterans Parade. From Angel Fire, New Mexico to Elizabeth, Colorado where Mr. DiLeonardo was an active member of the Elbert County, Colorado Republican Party and the Elbert County VFW. Later he relocated to Abbeville, SC. His love of horses, Republican Party, Veterans organizations and his family were well known. He has been married to his wife, Sharon since 1979, they have one daughter, Christina Ann DiLeonardo and her husband Aaron Gravit; one grandson, Harrison Finn Gavit; four brothers, Anthony, Gregory, Christopher and Carl DiLeonardo; two sisters, Elaina Williamson and Maria Casey.
James J. Egan JD ’83
Law school friends of James recall several group adventures in Ensenada and Jamaica. He is missed by his friends and clients. James died on May 22, 2021.
He practiced with several defense firms in San Jose before striking out on his own. James relocated to Hawaii, where he continued his practice. In 2001 he returned to continue his family law and civil litigation practice in Santa Rosa.
James was a sports fan, especially of basketball, and he loved his chocolate lab Kona. James is survived by his brother Tim.
Eugene “Gene” E. Feltz JD ’51
Gene was born in Portland, Oregon, Oct. 29, 1927 to parents, Emil and Anna Feltz. He attended Sacred Heart grade school in southeast Portland and Columbia Prep High School in North Portland.
With a strong sense of patriotism and duty, Gene joined the Navy immediately after high school graduation in May 1945 and was assigned to the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier. World War II ended while the USS Intrepid was docked for repairs in the San Francisco Bay and Gene humbly testified that the majority of his Navy career was therefore spent scraping, painting and guarding the vessel in the bay until his discharge from active duty in August 1946. Despite the menial work, pride of service and love of country was firmly etched into his character.
After Navy service, Gene attended the University of Portland for two years until 1948 when he enrolled in law school at the University of Santa Clara in California. Gene graduated law school and became a member of the Oregon State Bar in 1951. He returned to the University of Portland to complete additional courses in accounting before joining the law firm of Jacob, Jones, and Brown in 1953. In 1963 Gene joined the firm of Casey, Palmer & Feltz (now Smith, McDonald, Vaught & Rudolph, LLP) where he practiced estate planning and general law until his retirement in 2001. The legal profession was a natural fit for Gene as he relished a vigorous debate and loved to dispense advice, solicited or not.
Gene met and married Elizabeth “Betty” Louise Altstock in 1952. Together they raised nine children, traveled extensively, and enjoyed an active social life both in Portland and their beloved Cannon Beach. Gene and Betty were married 66 years at the time of her death in 2018.
During his lifetime, Gene served on the boards of many local charitable, religious, and civic organizations. He was one of the founders of the Blanchet House of Hospitality in 1952 and remained a member of its honorary board until his death. He received an honorary degree, Doctor of Public Service, from the University of Portland for his work for the Blanchet House of Hospitality. Other charitable and religious boards included: Holy Family School Endowment Fund, Catholic Charities, Catholic Youth Organization, Camp Howard, Serra Club, Providence Child Center, LaSalle Catholic College Preparatory, Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows Inc., Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, Mt. Angel Abbey and DePaul Industries. Civic boards included the City of Portland Planning Commission and the Portland Zoo Commission.
Gene was predeceased by his wife, Betty; infant daughter, Mary; daughter, Carol Lee Feltz Bluhm; and brother, Tom. He is survived by his brother, Paul; and his children, Dan, Joe (Marguerite), Steve (Kim), Marianne Gunderson (Dave), Sharon Schlechter (Joe), Laura (Gar), Maureen Cortopassi (Tom) and Diane Slaughter (Tim); and son-in-law, Jim Bluhm. Grandpa Gene will be dearly missed by 20 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren who enjoyed his gruff humor and many pearls of wisdom.
Arthur “Art” J. Gemmell LL.M ’05
Dr. Art Gemmell grew up in New York and after graduating from Hunter College, he entered the business world. He worked for companies such as Fujitsu America, Warner Communications, and PepsiCo. After his retirement, he entered Lincoln Law School of San Jose. Upon receiving his JD in 2004, Dr. Gemmell was named the class Valedictorian. In 2005 Dr. Gemmell obtained an LL.M. from Santa Clara University and in 2007 a S.JD (Doctor of Comparative and International Law) from Golden Gate University of Law. Dr. Gemmell has studied law at Oxford, Strasbourg, France, Geneva, at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, and in Beijing and Shanghai, China. Dr. Gemmell also received a Practice Diploma in International Arbitration from the College of England and Wales; received a Fulbright nomination, and was also named a Fellow in the Chartered Institute of Arbitration. In addition, Dr. Gemmell has had a book published on Chinese arbitration and had a number of articles dealing with comparative law matters appear in leading legal publications and Law Review. Dr. Gemmell has also delivered speeches on International Affairs at Berkeley Business Club, University of San Francisco, Harvard Business Club, and the Commonwealth Club, among others.
Dr. Gemmell is survived by his wife, Barbara, and his three sons Keith, Kenneth (Darlene), and Kevin (Rebecca). Dr. Gemmell was blessed with four grandsons.
John S. Gerhardt JD ’63
John Gerhardt passed away peacefully surrounded by love on Nov 10. John was raised in Spokane, WA where he graduated from Gonzaga Prep. Son of Vera and Charles Gerhardt a Law School graduate of Georgetown. John had 11 siblings: Arthur, Evelyn, Charles, Margaret, Louise, Vera, Carolyn, Nancy, David, Ann & Jim. John obtained both his BA and Law Degree from Santa Clara University. John practiced law for 57 years and proudly owned Gerhardt Law Firm at the Pruneyard Towers. John and Sandra loved traveling to Hawaii, spending weekends in Carmel and visiting their children and grandchildren for weekly dinners, sports events and costume parties.
A devout Catholic, John was an active parishioner of St. Catherine’s in Morgan Hill and at St. Anthony’s in Almaden. He believed in giving service to all by volunteering at Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen and at Kaiser, where he escorted new moms and babies to their cars. In 1973 he began 50 yrs of volunteering first at South Valley YMCA and later at Mount Madonna YMCA where John was the founding member and received the Heroes Award for 50 years of service. Above all, he loved his family, his beloved wife Sandy, his 8 children: Chuck, Julie, Paul, Tim, John, Alisa, Stephen &Teri and his 15 grandchildren, Rhiannon, Rachel, Olivia, Pablo, Gianna, Tiger, Mateo, Tej, Asha, Anik, Shrayes, Phoebe, Kai, Mason & Rhylan. He adored his grandchildren with whom he assigned a specific song and story to each, individually. By all accounts, John was witty, fiercely intelligent, compassionate and larger than life. He will be missed beyond measure as he was one of a kind.
Mark B. Hames JD ’73
Resident of San Jose. Mark Hames passed away peacefully on October 2 , 2021 in San Jose, California after a courageous struggle with multiple health issues.
Mark was a proud native Californian, born in Oakland, California. He moved to the South Bay in 1968 to attend Santa Clara University Law School. While in law school he met his wife Joanne, his wife of 48 years. Law school was interrupted for a time when Mark joined the Army National Guard of California and spent 6 months of active duty. After graduating from the law school Mark joined the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. He was especially proud of his work in consumer protection and prosecution of elder financial fraud. Mark remained with the District Attorney’s Office until his retirement in 2002.
Upon his retirement Mark became an avid tennis player until an injury limited this. However, he discovered that he could now devote more time to two of his greatest passions—computers and photography. He volunteered with an Almaden Valley senior group teaching and developing a variety of classes. He made several friends here and became a popular teacher in part because of his wonderful sense of humor. He continued with this until the pandemic forced the closure of classes.
Mark’s greatest passion, however, was his family. He was dedicated to his family and family always came first. He was a devoted husband and father. He was always a supportive husband and always played an active role in the lives of his children. If there was a high school tennis match or theatrical performance he was always there, cheering for them. In recent years, his greatest pride and joy have been his 6 grandchildren.
In addition to Joanne, he is survived by his loving children, Kerry Erickson (Craig) and Brian Hames (Rosie) and his 6 grandchildren, Tenaya, Ella and Alex Erickson and Will, Henry and Brynlee Hames.
Brian N. Lawther JD ’68
Brian Lawther loved a good story, especially when he was telling it.
A respected attorney specializing in Workers’ Compensation, Brian often played David to wealthy companies advocating for the unjustly injured. “He loved being able to make a difference in people’s lives,” says his wife, Jill, who benefited firsthand from Brian’s superior litigation skills. In February of 1975, then Jill Alario, who suffered an industrial accident, recalls meeting Brian when, “I hobbled into his office on crutches” in the Boccardo Law Firm. The day Jill’s case was settled, Brian invited her to dinner, and the two were together until his death on May 27.
Brian Nicholas Lawther was born in Norfolk, VA. The Lawther family moved to San Jose when Brian was four. He graduated from Lincoln High School; earned his degree in philosophy at the University of Georgia in Athens; and went on to Santa Clara University law school. Upon graduation in 1968, he joined the distinguished Boccardo Law Firm. Becoming a partner, he spent his entire career at the firm, retiring in 2008.
Brian was an outstanding golfer. He became a member of the San Jose Country Club in 1975. He won the club championship in 1988. Brian was also a member of the prestigious Olympic Club in San Francisco. “Brian was a first-rate golfer, a tough competitor, a smart dresser, and he had a truly fine Hoganesque swing,” says his brother, Christopher, who often joined him on the links.
Brian and Jill purchased a home directly facing the Rose Garden in 1982, and Brian was a familiar figure there walking their King Charles Spaniels. Brian had been fighting Parkinson’s disease for several years. While walking around the Rose Garden, Brian fell, sustaining a severe brain injury, which led to his death.
In addition to his beloved wife, Brian is survived by his sisters Marcia Lawther of New York City and Jean Lawther of Lafayette; his brother, Christopher Lawther and his wife Marianne of Norwalk CT., and many nieces and nephews.
Rodney “Rod” L. Levin JD ’93
Rodney “Rod” Lawrence Levin, 52, loving husband of Christine (Monahan) Levin and father of Lily Kate Levin, passed away peacefully at his home in San Jose on Jul. 10, 2021. Rod was born on Sept. 8, 1968 in Lompoc, CA where he was raised by his loving parents Alvin and Ann Levin. Rod looked back fondly on his time in Lompoc where he enjoyed spending time with his brother Monty, playing golf and baseball, and attending Lompoc High and La Purisima Mission school.
Rod graduated with honors from both UC Riverside in June of 1990 and later from Santa Clara University where he received his Juris Doctorate in May of 1993. After passing the Bar in December of 1993, he clerked for several judges and practiced civil litigation until 2000. Upon formation of McArthur & Levin, LLP, he focused exclusively on representing public agencies in special education. His intelligence, knowledge, and empathy were ubiquitous, and his focus on social justice in every aspect of his work and personal life was unparalleled. In 2001, the Santa Clara Bar Association recognized Rod for his outstanding contributions in pro bono work.
Rod married the love of his life, Christine Marie Monahan. They welcomed their precious daughter Lily Kate in December of 2010. Rod cherished his time with his family and together they enjoyed hiking, going to concerts, taking in the local county fairs, and walking their beloved dog, Jet. He was an avid reader and history buff, and his sharp and intelligent sense of humor will be missed by many. If you didn’t pay attention, you could miss his subtle yet cleverly crafted wit.
In 2015, Rod was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and subsequently, fought a courageous battle for almost 6 years. He never gave up hope and continued to work with the same clarity, care, and compassion throughout his illness. He is predeceased by his parents, Alvin and Ann Levin and his father-in-law, Warren Monahan. Rod is survived by his wife, Christine and daughter, Lily of San Jose. He is also survived by his loving brother, Montgomery “Monty” Levin, his dear mother-in-law, Patricia Monahan, and many siblings-in-law as well as nieces and nephews.
Robert A. Loeher II JD ’75
Robert Allen Loehr, II, Stanford, (1968), Biological Sciences; Santa Clara University School of Law, (1975), LLB, of San Jose Calif., passed away on May 16, 2021, after a long battle with multiple myeloma. Bob was the in-house attorney for the San Jose and Great Oaks Water
Companies. He loved to play bridge and golf, travel with his family, grow vegetables and cook. He especially enjoyed the family vacation home in Pacific Grove. He had a wonderful sense of humor; friends always loved hearing the new joke of the day. He is survived by his wife Claire, stepsons David and Darren, granddaughter Harlow, siblings Mary Margaret, Rich and Jim Loehr, and multiple nieces and nephews.
Robert J. Mertz JD ’47
Bob tidied his desk and departed this life on February 1, 2022. He was born on June 3,1923 and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he would later meet his wife, Gwen, whom he was happily married to for 78 yrs.
Bob married his childhood sweetheart, Gwen Klein, on September 2, 1944, and was discharged from the US Army at Ft. Ord on December 16, 1944. He later attended Marquette University and graduated from Santa Clara Law School in 1947.
After graduation, Bob and Gwen explored the central valley for possible sites to establish his law practice from Madera to Marysville. After several offers, they decided Lodi was the ideal place to start a family and build a practice. With the encouragement and support of Attorney Robert Rinn, Bob commenced his career of some 68 years. He served many families in Lodi during this time while he and Gwen raised four children. Paul, Steve, Wendy, and Tom all survive their father, including seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
During the last 12 years of his practice, he, with the able assistance of his long-time administrative assistant and family friend of 50+ years, Haru Oga, concentrated on trusts and estate cases. Bob served as City Judge for three years in 1952, and he and his wife were active members of Woodbridge Golf and Country Club for many years.
The Mertz’s have had a fulfilling life traveling with Ben and Geri Schaffer throughout Europe, the UK, Spain, and Portugal, all while never forgetting to bring their golf clubs. They golfed in many countries during their travels, including Hong Kong and Japan.
For over 30yrs, Bob and Gwen lived in Ione, CA, overlooking the North Shore of Lake Camanche, where they enjoyed many holidays and Sundays full of swimming, family, and sun. They also shared with the Mardee, Kidd and Podesto families, a beautiful condo on the ocean at Poipu on the island of Kauai.
Paul A. Pelosi JD ’73
Paul Pelosi passed away after a year-long battle with Lymphoma. He was the son of Anthony and Aline Pelosi who predeceased him. He was a devoted father and grandfather. He leaves behind his best friend and wife of 40 years, Karen, his children; Julie Malech (Tom), PJ Pelosi (Tazia), John Pelosi (Janine), his grandchildren; Hudson, Presley and Harry Malech, Merrill and Sofia Pelosi and Ella Pelosi. He also leaves his siblings; Diane Harrington (Joe, deceased), Marilyn Brady (Ed, deceased), Tom Pelosi (Iris), John Pelosi (Birgit) and Chris Deppmeier (Tim) and a large extended family.
Paul grew up in Cupertino, attended St. Josephs, Bellarmine College Prep, Princeton University and Santa Clara University School of Law. He is a member of the State Bar of California, Santa Clara County Bar Association and has practiced law since 1970. Paul was involved in the Diocese of San Jose. He was a member and past president of the Catholic Professional and Business Club. Paul was an avid sports fan and coached all of his children’s teams in Almaden Valley. His greatest joy was going to his grandkid’s games and school performances, family get togethers and holidays. Nothing will be the same without him.
John B. Rasche JD ’82
John Bernard Rasche, 75, passed away due to heart complications the afternoon of Monday, May 17, in Richmond, Kentucky. John was born in Bronx, New York, and earned degrees from St. John’s University, Duquesne University School of Pharmacy and the University of Santa Clara Law School. He was an active member of the Richmond Lions Club and St. Mark Catholic Church. John was a devout Catholic, and he tried his best to instill those values in his only child John Rasche Jr. He is preceded in death by his parents, August and Theresia Kaeppler Rasche. He retired from a long career as a pharmacist in 2016 and enjoyed regular visits to Hillsdale College in Michigan, his son’s alma mater. John was a loving father and a friendly stranger, always greeting new people with a large smile and a jovial demeanor. He is deeply missed by those who knew him best. He will be laid to rest at Madison County Memorial Gardens on Monday, May 24. Public viewing will be held at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mark, followed by a funeral Mass. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to Leader Dogs for the Blind, a nonprofit that trains service dogs and provides them forever homes after their retirement. Thanks to this organization, John was able to care for Annie, an affectionate black lab, during his decline. It is only fitting to end with the final line of his favorite sitcom Cheers: “Sorry, we’re closed.”
Delbert M. Siemsen JD ’72
Delbert M. Siemsen died peacefully on the evening of July 4th after a battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Heart Disease. Del was born on June 14th, 1937 to Nellie and Albert Siemsen of Holyrood, Kansas and was the fourth child of six, having four brothers and one sister. He was raised on a farm near Holyrood and graduated from Holyrood High School in 1955. After studying at the University of Kansas and serving in the US Army where he attained the rank of Sergeant in 2 years, Del received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wichita (the predecessor to Wichita State University) in 1963. After graduating, he moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin where he worked as a computer programmer for AO Smith Corporation. During the time he lived in Milwaukee, he met and married his wife, Margaret Gould. He and Margaret were married on July 1st, 1967 in her hometown of Saratoga, Wyoming. Shortly after they married, he and Margaret moved to California, spending time in Sunnyvale and Santa Clara before moving to Oroville and finally to Durham where they resided for over forty years. Two significant events marked the Bay Area years. The first was the birth of their daughter, Shannon (1971) and the second was Del earning a law degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. The move to Oroville was prompted by a job offer from the County Counsel’s Office for Butte County. Del served several years as Assistant County Counsel and one term as County Counsel before moving on to private practice. But Del discovered his true calling was farming. Over the years, he and Margaret farmed two orchards and were early adopters of the Chandler variety of walnuts. Del devoted increasing time to the orchards, beginning with evenings and weekends and eventually farming full-time, doing nearly all of the work himself. About a year ago, due to his failing health, Del and Margaret moved from the Durham farm to Chico. Del is survived by his wife of 54 years, daughter Shannon Cross (Robert) of Short Hills, NJ, two grandchildren, Tyler and Sidney of Short Hills, NJ, two brothers Donald (Carol) and Harold (Patsy) Siemsen of Holyrood, Kansas, and his sister Marilyn Smith (Dennis) of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was predeceased by his parents, two brothers, Albert and Gerald and an infant son. He is also survived by a large extended family.
Mark A. Solomon JD ’75
Mark Alan Solomon, of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on Sunday, April 18, 2021, at the age of 70. He was born on August 30, 1950 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and was predominantly raised in San Jose, California.
Eric K. Spangenberg JD ’85
A long-time resident of Portola Valley and Palo Alto, Eric Karl Spangenberg passed away at his home on November 28, 2021. A proponent of life-long learning, he enjoyed practicing simultaneous careers during his lifetime. He graduated with a Masters in Physics from San Diego State in 1969, and worked with the injection group at Stanford Linear Accelerator. He completed a Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering and Management from Stanford University in 1979 and earned his Juris Doctor, School of Law from Santa Clara University in 1985. He was licensed as a Real Estate Broker, Civil Engineer and a Member of the Bar. He applied his broad background to Real Estate Construction and to practicing law from Portola Valley over the last three decades. Eric Karl Spangenberg was born in Palo Alto on October 31, 1945, the loving son of Karl Rudolph Spangenberg and Ruth Beahrs Spangenberg and brother to Kristin L. Spangenberg (John E. Gilmore), Karen Spangenberg (Gloria D’Alessandro), Karla Lane (Bix Lane and family and Cleo Lane-Bailey and family), Kathy Spangenberg (Kimberly Aldinger) and Rudolph (Rudy) Spangenberg.
The Hon. Michael G. Virga ’78, JD ’81
Sacramento, California – Michael G. Virga was born March 26, 1956 in Santa Clara, CA. He passed away peacefully in his home in Sacramento on Father’s Day, June 20, 2021. He is preceded in death by his father Michael James Virga. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Debbie Virga, adoring Mother, Betsey Virga, daughters Nicole Bautista (Jayme) and Natalie Panagotacos (Gus), siblings Julie Virga (Todd), Gregory Virga (Laura) and David Virga (Shawna), grandchildren Avery and Benicio Bautista, Michael, Leo and Marcus Panagotacos, nephews Michael Virga (Michelle), Jake Virga and Nico Virga, Uncle John Virga (Wendy), and cousins John Virga (Alicia) and Megan Virga (Sam), as well as several other relatives of his large Virga family.
Michael graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 1974 where he played varsity baseball. He was an avid baseball player playing Pacific LL., Land Park Pony and Colt, Kennedy High school and American Legion. Michael followed his father’s footsteps and attended Santa Clara University for both undergrad and Law School.
Despite both attending Kennedy High School, Michael and Debbie didn’t meet until he was in college. When they met, it was love at first sight. They were married on December 28, 1980 in Sacramento at St. Anthony Parish where they established strong ties to their faith community and raised their two daughters, building a life full of love and joy.
Michael began his legal career with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office in 1981. Michael was elected to the Municipal Court in 1993, and was elevated to the Superior Court in 1994, filling his father’s seat. Michael served as the Presiding Judge of the Sacramento Courthouse from 2004 to 2005 and received a number of accolades as a judge, including recognition as the “Judge of the Year” by ABOTA, CCTLA, and the Sacramento County Bar Association. Michael served on the bench for 23 years until he retired in 2016 and started a successful career as a mediator with Judicate West.
Michael grew up in a home rich with love and laughter, and the Virga family home was the hub of the neighborhood with family and friends gathering often. It was here that he learned about the importance of family, kindness and character. This strong family bond has shown over the years, and became evident as Michael’s siblings supported him through his cancer treatments. His brother Greg was his constant companion and attended nearly every appointment and provided tremendous support for Michael during his valiant battle with Lymphoma.
Michael was an involved father staying active in all of his daughters’ events. He enjoyed playing tennis at Park Terrace and played softball for the DAs office softball team, “G Street Blues”. He enjoyed playing golf; his favorite partner being his mom Betsey. Debbie and Mike were 49er season ticket holders for many years and sat alongside Michael’s lifelong friend Kevin Wright. Despite his many accolades and accomplishments Michael’s most cherished role was being “Paw” to his five grandchildren. He spent as much time as possible with them and delighted in being a grandfather.
Michael and Debbie’s strong faith and deep love for one another helped fortify them through Mike’s courageous battle with Lymphoma; Debbie and daughters were by his side when he drew his last breath.