Class Notes

Lowell "Dwight" Anderson '53 passed away December 15, 2023. It was said of Dwight: He was the consummate gentleman. After Dwight moved into Samarkand Retirement Community, Pam and I saw him almost every week at the Sunday afternoon worship service. He was a wonderful, kind and gracious man and a great follower of Christ who will be truly missed. Dwight lived in Santa Barbara for more than 90 years. He was a proud Santa Barbara Don and Westmont Warrior, excelling in athletics and music. He married Doris ’53, his chapel seatmate, and together they raised three children to honor God by serving others. Dwight taught elementary and junior high school locally before switching to academic and career counseling at Santa Barbara City College. He then returned to Westmont as the first-year adviser. Throughout the years, he shared his love for music as a soloist and director of church choirs. The lifelong inspiration he derived from his time at Westmont kept him close to his savior and following the call to keep a song in his heart and to serve others for God’s glory.

Carol (Sherwood) Luce '59 passed away December 2023 (Day Unknown)

Syvilla (Oyer) Cripe '55 passed away June 29, 2023

Eleanor (Lewer) Courtney '45 and Retired Westmont English Professor Emeritus, passed away, August 4, 2023. 

Jonathan Kong '49 passed away, May 17, 2023.  Brother Jonathan was a resolute and faithful steward of God, who was one of the original preeminent spiritual patterns to us in this country. Our brother’s going to be with the Lord leaves a sense of deep loss to us personally and corporately. But there is also a feeling of great appreciation for the portion he has left with us. There is a quiet assurance of the triumphant grace of God reigning in a man who put his whole trust in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  His living and his dying are a simple but profound testimony echoing the apostle Paul’s declaration, “To me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” Jonathan was one of the first elders appointed by Brother Lee in the mid-1950s in San Francisco until he moved to Sacramento around 1960. In those early years in Sacramento he brought in a good number of local seeking ones into the recovery.  Brother Lee’s visits to Sacramento during that period of time gave him much confirmation to remain in this country and begin the work in 1962. Brother Jonathan gave himself and his entire life to serving the Lord, the saints, the churches, and the Lord’s recovery.  His steadfast faithfulness to the ministry and to the recovery as well as his pureness and genuineness are truly a pattern to all of us. 

Wilhelmine "Willie" '52 passed away, August 25, 2023.

Frances "Fran"  (Johnson) Sturgis '54 passed away, September 15, 2023. Frances Corinne Sturgis, more commonly known as "Fran" or "Frannie", 90, of Keizer, Oregon, slipped away peacefully to meet her Savior face-to-face just after midnight, September 15, 2023. Frannie, along with her beloved twin sister, was born in Portland, Oregon, March 1, 1933, to Dr. Walter & Corinne Johnson. Frannie grew up in Portland's Laurelhurst neighborhood, attending Laurelhurst Elementary and Grant High Schools. Fran began her higher education at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, then transferred to Whittier College, and finally Lewis & Clark College. Upon graduation, she advanced to her career as a Home Economics teacher. Mrs. Sturgis went on to teach at Thurston High School in Springfield, Oregon, Madison High School in Portland, Oregon, and after a brief hiatus, spent the remainder of her career at Clinton Kelly Elementary School in the Lents District of Portland. In July 1956, Frances married Richard (Dick) Sturgis of Tigard, Oregon. Once he finished his education at U of O, they moved back to Portland, and lived there until 1993. At that time, they moved to a home on the banks of the Willamette River in Milwaukie, Oregon, where they lived for the next 25 years. They were married for 66 years. Fran is preceded in death by her husband, Dick, her parents, her brothers Walter Johnson and Robert Johnson, and her twin sister Janice Bishopp. She leaves her daughter, Jan (Kevin), sons Jeff (Kathy), and Eric (Lynette), 25 grandchildren (and spouses), and 13 great-grandchildren. Fran's story would not be complete without highlighting her extraordinary gifting, heart for service, and obsession for Santa Barbara, California. Fran attended Hinson Memorial Baptist Church in southeast Portland from the time she was born until she could no longer attend. Over the years she served in various capacities including Sunday School teacher/superintendent, Women's Mission Society, and The White Cross to name a few. She also helped organize and decorate for numerous events. She was a gifted seamstress, crocheter, and knitter. Not only did she sew her own wedding gown and all the dresses for her own bridal party, she also constructed a number of ensembles for her friends' weddings. She always had one or more projects in the works, and loved teaching sewing as well. She taught cooking and other Home Ec. skills, but sewing was her favorite. She loved to entertain, and often hosted gatherings for family and friends. Fran and Dick often traveled with her sister and brother-in-law. They explored many regions outside of California, but Fran would gravitate back to Santa Barbara any chance she got, and still had the nagging desire to travel there up until the end of her life. In her final years, while declining with Parkinson's, regardless of her communication challenges, she would often insist "Let's go!" While her family struggles to grasp the reality that she's gone, and misses her terribly, she finally got her wish. She has gone, only to a place where Santa Barbara pales by comparison.

David "Dave" Amstutz '56 passed away, October 2, 2022.

Leslie J Howatt '52 passed away, August 9, 2023. Leslie James Howatt, born Feb. 3, 1930, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior Wednesday morning, Aug. 9, 2023, at his home in Portland, Ore. Les was married for more than 65 years to Nina Anene Howatt, née Fisher, in a life together characterized by faith, generosity, and service. Lifelong residents of Oregon, Les and Nina were active in the Christ-centered ministries of Eastgate Bible Chapel, Eagle Fern Camp, and Portland area Young Life and also supported many others. Les served on the Boards of both Multnomah University in Portland and the philanthropic Steward's Ministries. Les was an excellent golfer-as a very young man on the course at Neskowin, on the Grant High School team (Class of '47), and even in the All-Army golf championship while serving his country during the Korean War. His enthusiasm for the game culminated in ownership of the Quail Run Golf Course in La Pine, Ore. Les and Nina also enjoyed boating and RV travel with family and friends and made many happy visits to Kaanapali on Maui-golfing, relaxing, and making dear friends. Les held degrees from Lewis & Clark College, the University of Oregon, and Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Calif., where he formed many important lifelong friendships, including one with his then future brother-in-law, Tom Fisher, DMD. Following a distinguished professional career in real-estate including sales, brokerage, appraisal, management, and building- including construction of the family home, Les and Nina owned Campbell Norquist, an industrial heating company, and continued in many successful real estate investments.
Les was preceded in death by his father, Frederick James Howatt; mother, Florence Bingley "Josie" Howatt, née Taylor; and brother, F. Frank Howatt. He leaves his beloved wife, Nina; brother, Clarke T. Howatt of Los Angeles; daughter, Janis Howatt, MD, (William Mildenberger); sons, Donald Howatt (Drenda) and Clarke J. Howatt, all of Portland; grandchildren, Marcus and Lilly Mildenberger, Anna Stephens, Rachel Howatt Augustine, Eleanor Rogers, Josie and Audrey Howatt; and great-grandchildren, Emerson, Alice, and Hamilton Stephens.

Grace [Danielson] Pittman '49 passed away, August 14, 2023. Grace Pittman was born on April 22, 1927, in the parsonage of First Baptist Church in Westbrook, Minnesota. Her parents were Alfred and Ruth Danielson. When she was four, her parents piled her and her 3 siblings into a Model A Ford and drove across the country to Bend, Oregon where her father had been called to pastor a church. They lived in Bend for 13 years and all her life the town held a special place in her heart. She graduated from high school in Portland, Oregon, and then moved with her parents and younger sister to San Francisco, California.
She attended Westmont College and later enrolled in Fuller Seminary for a training program. It was there that she met Sam Pittman, a student from Missouri who shared her passion for missions; they were engaged six weeks later and married in Portland, Oregon on April 2,1953. In 1956, with their 6-month-old daughter Janet in tow, they boarded a ship in New York City bound for Karachi, Pakistan, arriving 6 weeks later. They would serve as missionaries there for 17 years. Upon arrival in Pakistan their first assignment was to learn the local language, Urdu. After completing their language studies they moved to a remote town in the desert where their 2nd daughter Joann was born. In 1962 they moved to Pakistan's largest city, Karachi. In addition to supporting Sam as he trained pastors, Grace played the role of mom to her two daughters, driving them and their friends to and from school and to weekend outings at the beach. She also had a wonderful ministry among expat wives and local Pakistani women. In 1973 Sam took a teaching position at Northwestern College (now University of Northwestern-St. Paul) in Roseville, MN. They settled into their new lives in Roseville and Grace began work as the Office Manager for the World Venture regional office. In that role she served as a liaison between missionaries and churches and as a missions mobilizer. She also had a special ministry discipling young women preparing to be sent out as missionaries. There are dozens of people serving all over the world today because of Grace's encouragement and cheerleading. Grace loved opening her home to any and everyone, and in 1985 she wrote a book titled Hospitality with Confidence. After retiring in 1996, Grace continued her discipling ministry with young women. She was also an accomplished pianist and used her gift by playing at churches and nursing homes, and as an accompanist. In the last three years of her life she even had a YouTube channel called Sunday Morning Hymns with Gracie, that allowed her to minister to people all over the world. Gracie loved traveling, especially road trips that in her 96 years of life included drives across Pakistan and Afghanistan, Europe, the U.S. and Canada, and even a road trip in China where her daughter Joann worked. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandson passionately. Most of all, she loved Jesus, and devoted her life to pointing people to Christ. Grace passed away on August 14, 2023. She is preceded in death by husband Sam Pittman, parents Alfred and Ruth Danielson, siblings Paul Danielson, Faith Finlay, and Marilyn Stevenson. She is survived by her daughters Janet Wachter (Jeff), (Rosemount MN); Joann Pittman (Roseville MN); granddaughters Kari Khalil (Pierre) (St. Paul MN), Heidi Ash (Marty), (Austin TX);and Alissa Wachter (Mark Muchura) (Nairobi, Kenya); and great-grandson Cohen Ash.

Grace [Vial] McCutcheon '49 Grace Lorraine McCutcheon, 95, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed into the presence of her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ on March 3, 2023. Grace was born in San Gabriel, California on January 6, 1928. She graduated from Mark Keppel High School and attended Westmont College for two years. Grace met Bob McCutcheon in 1941 at San Gabriel Union Church and they married on March 13, 1948. They lived in Santa Barbara until Bob's graduation from UCSB. During this time, they welcomed their first child, Cyndie. They moved to Santa Maria in 1950 when Bob was asked to play basketball with the Santa Maria Golden Dukes and took his first teaching job at SMHS. They had two more children, Rick and Jan. Grace was a devoted wife, mother, gramma and great-gramma, homemaker and caregiver to her paraplegic sister, Dorothy Vial, for twenty years. Grace enthusiastically supported her husband's athletic pursuits (as well as her son's) whether he was playing basketball or coaching. Grace was a member of Grace Baptist Church from 1951 until moved to Phoenix in 2016. Her life was a testament to her unwavering faith in the Lord. Grace enjoyed studying the Bible and serving the Lord faithfully in numerous ministries. She served in Women's Ministry, on the Missions Board and in the choir. She also enjoyed being the wedding coordinator for many years. Grace's hospitality was one of her gifts. She loved entertaining and cooking for family, friends and missionaries from all around the world. Grace is preceded in death by her husband, Bob McCutcheon, her parents, Ethel and Bert Vial, and her sister, Dorothy Vial Grace will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her family. She is survived by her daughter Cyndie (Dave) Norfleet of Littleton, CO, son Rick (Peg) McCutcheon of Phoenix, AZ, and daughter, Jan (Rich) Koval of Santa Maria, CA. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren; Kim, Jed, Brad, Kari, Kristen, Kyle, Kory and Michelle and 15 great-grandchildren.

Richard Stowell '54 passed away April 8, 2021

Maralynn "Marni" [Honaker] Frasure '54 passed away June 17, 2023

Anna [Dayian] Cooper '55 Mrs. Anna Mae (Dayian) Cooper slipped away from us on Wednesday evening, June 14, 2023, and stepped into the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ as a forgiven sinner and beloved daughter. She trusted Jesus completely to save her, change her, and lead her, and He did. She "opened her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue was the law of kindness" - Proverbs 31:26. Her children rise up and call her blessed (and gentle, consistent, and patient). Janice (Stephen) Green, David (Diane) Cooper, Daniel (Beth) Cooper, Steven (Rita) Cooper, and Joy (Garry) Geer all survive her, while her youngest son James Jr. passed away in 2002. She loved being grandma to 13 (and their spouses) and great grandma to 17. Anna Mae was born August 17, 1932 in Los Angeles into a loving Armenian home to her parents Harry Sarkis and Johanna (Lenko) Dayian and her older brothers Harry, George, and Ted, who all preceded her in death. She graduated from Lincoln High School and attended Westmont College before marrying her handsome young seminary student, James David Cooper (her "Jim") on May 30, 1952 and moving to the Midwest. Theirs was a love story that held each other strong and created a home where tranquility and good food met and sheltered many souls over their 63 years together. Anna would patiently "add more water to the soup" whenever Jim brought home an unexpected guest or two, making everyone feel welcome and often while humming a quiet song. They planted and ministered in churches in Wisconsin, Indiana, and Illinois, including 25 years in Paris, IL. Pastor Jim preceded her to Heaven in 2016, after which she made her home with her daughter Jan and family in Danville, IL. She loved music, watching birds (especially bright cardinals), writing encouraging letters, and letting other people have the spotlight. Hers was a genuine faith in a real God lived out in a fallible human life.

Lauren "Larry" McCracken '54  1930 - 2023 Larry McCracken is now face to face with Jesus! (March 10, 1930-April 28, 2023) For sometime dad has wanted to be home in Heaven—often expressing his wish with these endearing words, “Lord Jesus…please send the bus!”“The bus arrived” early in the morning of April 28, 2023 and dad is now face to face with the One who “touched him” and made good on his promise with these words, ”I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me (and dad did) will live even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me (and dad did) will never ever die!”Today, the Bible’s words written by another Jesus servant (The Apostle Paul), became Larry McCracken’s words as well, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me— the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me, but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing!”

Nancy [Quentel] McCracken '54  1931 - 2021 Early Sunday morning Nancy McCracken slipped into the secure arms of her Savior Jesus Christ. She is now home...happy, healthy, whole and more alive than she's ever been! (John 11: 25-26).
Nancy was born and raised in Portland, OR. She graduated from Fremont High School and then attended Westmont College where she met and married Larry McCracken! They were blessed with 3 children, 5 grandchildren and 2 great grands! Nancy was married to Larry for almost 70 years!
 

Nancy [Tyler] Salverda '46  1924 - 2023 With sad hearts and joyful spirits, Nancy's family informs you that she went to her heavenly mansion Palm Sunday, April 2, 2023. Born September 12, 1924, in Garden Grove, CA, she is survived by her children, Doris (John) Chovan, Sue (Gil) Mellis, John (Annie) Salverda, Paul (Pam) Salverda, and Beth (Jim) Mitchell, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Her husband, Bill, predeceased her in 2009. Nancy grew up on an orange ranch and worked hard helping her family cultivate the land by driving the tractor, which she loved to do! She attended HS at Culter Academy in LA, and graduated from Westmont College, Santa Barbara, CA, in 1946. She then studied at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, in PA from 1947-48, where she met her husband, Bill. The couple married in 1948 and spent 61 years together. Bill and Nancy followed God's calling into ministry and pastored churches in Shipbottom, N.J; Tarzana, Long Beach and Hacienda Heights, CA. Moving to Diamond Bar in 1966 they attended First Baptist Church, Pomona, and she began teaching a 4/5 combination class at the church's school. The following year she became principal of the school and served 18 years until 1985. She was loved and respected by students and staff, always had a radiant smile on her face, and was well-known for her special "Candle Chapels." In her retirement years she enjoyed traveling, Elder Hostel retreats, crocheting, crafts, sewing, organizing pictures, writing in her journals, making and eating strawberry ice cream, and spending time with her family. Nancy's family will celebrate her life and her love of the Lord every day knowing that one day we will meet again in heaven. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path." Proverbs 3:5-6

John "Colgate" Clark '49 J. Colgate Clark went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 21, 2020, one month away from his 100 birthday. Colgate was born in Eaton, CO, On July 21, 1920. After high school , Colgate served in the Navy, worked in shipyards just prior to WWII, operated a gas station, and worked as a machinist. In 1949, Colgate graduated from Westmont College with a degreed in Psychology, and married the love of his life, Norma Trabue, the day after graduation. He earned his teaching credential at Westmont College and went on to teach junior high school for almost 30 years in El Rio, Oxnard and Camarillo. Colgate's vast work experience over the years made him a jack-of-all trades, highly skilled and knowledgeable. His hobbies included woodworking, finding deals at garage sales, restoring old furniture, using his talents to help others. Sharing Jesus was one of Colgate's greatest passions, and he did so faithfully through teaching Sunday school, leading Bible studies, doing mission work, and pastoring rural churches. He is survived by his wife, Norma, daughters Nanci Drake, Dianne (nick) Dibiaso and son Dave (Jayne) Clark and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gerald "Jerry" Smith '55  Gerald Ray "Jerry" Smith passed away on April 25, 2023 in Kent, Washington at the age of 90. He was the fourth son of Ola Belle and Larry Smith. Jerry grew up in Los Angeles then later went on to Westmont College in Santa Barbara where he met his future bride, Caroline Joy. After they married, Jerry and Caroline settled in Clayton, CA where they raised a family and lived for 20 years. They eventually retired up to Gig Harbor, WA in 2004. Jerry was a beloved high school choral music teacher at Ygnacio Valley High School where he expertly led the award winning Madrigal group as well as the concert choir, & the men's and women's ensembles. He was a respected director for many years of the Cathedral and High School/College choirs at the First Presbyterian Church of Concord. His career eventually led him to Los Medanos College in Pittsburg where he taught voice lessons and class piano. Jerry's favorite hobby was fishing which he enjoyed immensely with his son, son-in-law, and grandchildren. He was an avid boater, building his first boat in his carport in Clayton fittingly named "Home Aid". He also enjoyed golfing and creating things with wood, including helping to build two of his own homes as well as the homes of friends. He was a gifted baritone, performing many solos at weddings as well as singing in the traveling quartet known as the Covenant Four. He was also an accomplished pianist. During his summers off from teaching Jerry enjoyed spending time with family and friends at their second home in Lake Almanor, CA where they fished, boated, played games and enjoyed evening golf ball hunts. Jerry and Caroline enjoyed a robust retirement in Gig Harbor where they immediately joined the Welcoming Club and started making friends wherever they went. Jerry's musical ambition followed him to Washington where he led the singing group known as the Soundsations. Jerry was a true disciple of Christ, always willing to make or give time to his family, friends, or students when needed. He will be truly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Jerry is preceded in death by his two parents and his three brothers. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Caroline, their three grown children, Cathy Robare (Glenn), Laurie Milano (Mike), and Steve Smith (partner Destiny Jensen). He is also survived by seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

William "Will" Rose '57 died January 19, 2023

Leonora "Sue" [Borge] Pruner '53 died March 19, 2023. San Luis Obispo, California - Leonora Suzanne "Sue" Pruner passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at the age of 91. Sue was born in Dubuque, Iowa, the only child of John and Irene Borge. After attending John Muir College, she attended Westmont College where she received her B.A. in Biblical Studies in 1953. In July of 1953, Sue married Darryl Pruner. Together they had two children, Mark and Debbie. Throughout their schooling years and beyond, Sue pursued her interest of writing historical fiction. Over the next decades she had four books published, Love's Secret Storm (1986), Love's Silent Gift (1987), Close to His Heart (2010) and In the Aerie of the Wolf (2011). During the decade she lived in the Maldives Islands, she taught Economics and also published a series of Maldivian folktale booklets, Finiashi 1 thru 5. Sue also received her MBA from Pepperdine University in 1981. Beginning in the early 1950s, Sue had deep roots in the San Luis Obispo Community, and was very active in the life of San Luis Obispo United Methodist Church. With steadfast Christian faith, Sue faithfully prayed and unconditionally loved each member of her family as it grew throughout her life. A wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Sue is survived by her children, Mark (Vicki) Pruner and Debbie (Andy) Allen, nephew Rodger Borge, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. 

Delbert "Del" Golike '50 died December 29, 2009

Sam W Burton '50 died November 12, 2022

Richard "Dick" Bohrer '47 died December 21, 2022.
June 17, 1926 - Dec. 21, 2022
Richard "Dick" William Bohrer, age 96, of West Linn, Ore., passed away peacefully Dec. 21, 2022. He was born in New York City June 17, 1926. Dick graduated with a BA in music theory from Westmont College, a MS in Education Administration from University of Southern California and an MA in English from California State University. He taught fifth grade in Haile Selassie Elementary School in Gondar Ethiopia from 1947-1950 and held various teaching positions in California from 1950-1963.
He married Elizabeth "Betty" Spencer July 8, 1955. In 1963 he moved his family to Portland, Ore., where he started the Journalism department at Multnomah School of the Bible. During his time in Portland, he led the choir for Central Bible Church, sold real estate through Dick Bohrer Realty, was a board member at Portland Christian School and an active and involved father. He and his wife Betty, moved to Chicago in 1979 where he was editor of Moody Monthly Magazine. In 1983 Dick and Betty moved to Lynchburg, Va., where he taught journalism and English composition at Liberty University until his retirement in 1994. While at Liberty, he was nominated for Virginia Teacher of the Year in 1987. Dick and Betty moved back to Portland to their beloved house on the Tualatin River where he spent many years writing books (19 published*) and teaching at writers' conferences. He was a devoted follower of our Lord Jesus Christ and used his gift of writing to encourage other believers in their Christian walk. Dick was predeceased by his beloved wife, Betty, May 17, 2022. He is survived by his two children, Joel (Susan) Bohrer and Janice (Mark) Pruitt; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

George Otto '53 George Otto, 93, of Pismo Beach, passed away Dec. 27, 2022.

Lillian Stone Adney '51 died March 9, 2017. Lillian was born July 1, 1929, in National City, Calif., where she grew up, married Eric Bryan Adney, Jr., and raised their family. She graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1947. She asked God into her life at an early age and served Him until her death. After 21 years, she retired from the National School District in 1989. She was a very busy lady, involved in numerous activities. She served on the Teen Challenge Ladies Auxiliary, was Reservations Coordinator for Christian Women’s Connection and was active in a seniors Bible study and the ladies ministry at her church. She loved people and had the “gift of helps.” She enjoyed scrapbooking, gardening and watching the birds at her feeders; she was also an avid Padres fan. Her favorite way to relax was to sit at the Coronado Ferry Landing sipping mocha, reading and watching the bay’s activities. She loved San Diego but even more, she loved her family. She was a kind, gentle, elegant lady who loved her family and God with all her heart. She was preceded in death by Eric, her loving husband of 59 years. She is survived by three daughters, four granddaughters, seven great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Donald "Don" L. Obendorf '52 died March 28, 2021

Carl A. Jensen '53 died June 8, 2020, in Bellingham, Wash., at the age of 94. He was born to Carl and Amalie Jensen on May 21, 1926, in Madera, Calif. The family moved to Reedley, Calif., in 1932 and then to Selma, Calif., where Carl went to elementary and high school. He graduated from Central California Commercial College in Fresno in 1945. He then entered the Lutheran Bible Institute (LBI) in Los Angeles, graduating in 1950. Carl then enrolled at Westmont. On June 21, 1953, he married Hazel Haugness. The same year, he enrolled at Trinity Seminary in Blair, Neb. In 1954, he transferred to Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., graduating in 1957. He was ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church and began serving two rural congregations in Webster, Minn. The Jensens adopted a son, Steven, and a daughter, Susan, as infants. In the following years Carl served parishes in Watford City, N.D.; Nelson, British Columbia, Canada; Seattle; and Eugene, Ore. From 1976 to 1987 he served as a preaching evangelist for the Lutheran Evangelistic Movement of Minneapolis, Minn. Following retirement from active parish ministry, Carl and his wife Hazel moved to Richland, Wash., in 1990 to take over as managers of the Luther Senior Center apartments. Hazel died suddenly of a heart attack in 1992, and Carl married Ruthann Hutchins on April 26, 1997. She joined him as co-manager of Luther Senior Center until their retirement in 2002. Carl continued to serve as interim pastor in several Tri-City Lutheran churches before he and Ruthann relocated to Bellingham, Wash. Carl is survived by his wife Ruthann; his two children, Steven and Susan Jensen ’82; and two granddaughters.

Wandalee [Smith] Fullerton '54 died August 3, 2022

Robert "Bob" Runyun '55 died November 5, 2022

Bob Runyon lived in the Carriage Square area of Walnut Creek most of his life. At the age of 89, he passed away peacefully Saturday, November 5, surrounded by family. After years of hospice and palliative care, he succumbed to COVID symptoms despite being vaxxed and partially boosted. That said, it was time. Despite many limitations brought on by declining health for many years, Bob maintained a sweet demeaner, consistently thanked his care givers and adjusted with grace to the many changes that came his way. He was a faithful friend who maintained relationships relentlessly and was beloved by many because of his ability to listen, demonstrate kindness and openness to everyone. Bob spent half his career as a Young Life staffer and the other as a psychotherapist. He attended study groups and participated in centering prayer, leading prayers at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Walnut Creek and exploring creative, non-traditional forms of worship. For a period, he produced recordings under the label Discovery Records which often featured Marj Snyder. Bob earned his bachelor’s degree from Westmont College, his Master of Divinity from California Baptist Theological Seminary and his Master’s in psychology and counseling certification from JFK University. He was an ordained American Baptist minister, attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church as well as Shell Ridge Community Church and practiced centering prayer at Christ the King Catholic Church in Pleasant Hill. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Mary Runyon of Nipomo and his son and his husband, Chad Runyon and Jody Black of Danville.

Sharren Southam Nagy '55 died August 3, 2020 at age 87. She was born to Romaine and Luella Southam on July 1, 1933, on Southam Road in the Colusa County town of Princeton, Calif. Sharren grew up and attended school in Princeton before moving to Santa Barbara to attend Westmont. However, she fell ill while at school and ended up returning to the North State. It was at the age of 19, at her aunt's home in Chico, where she met her future husband Thomas Corwin McHatton. They were wed in 1952. The two settled down on the family farm in Princeton and raised their four boys: Russell, Max, Lee and Jake. Sharren became active in the Methodist Church in Princeton, the very church her grandmother, Cora Southam, helped found. Sharren taught and played piano as well as teaching Sunday School there. She also worked actively on the family farm. She was known for driving the harvester while working the prune harvest. Her sons describe her as the hardest-working person they have ever known, and credit her for instilling her work ethic to them. In 1976, Sharren moved to Chico, where she began working as a secretary at Chico State. This is where she met her final husband, Paul Nagy. The two were married in 1978. She is survived by her four sons, five grandchildren and twin great-grandsons.

Phyllis [Kreps] J Dow '56 - Passed away on July 18, 2022.  She was at that time in a care home in Temecula.   Phyllis was born in Buena Park, California, to Homer and Millie Kreps, on February 11, 1934.  The family moved around southern California, and in 1948, with three children, made a decision to go to the Philippine Islands to aid in the building and start of a new Christian Radio Station (Far East Broadcasting Company).  After she turned 16 there were no educational facilities for a teenager Phyllis’ age.  She returned to Montebello and lived with a family from the First Baptist Church, finishing her high school.   When the family returned to the U.S. in 1952-53, Phyllis stayed with them until she got settled in her dorm at Westmont.   The Kreps went to Japan, and after Phyllis’ graduation in 1956 she came to Japan and taught a second grade class at the Christian Academy in Japan, rooming with her family and sister until she became engaged to a serviceman she met there.  There was a fine wedding celebration, and that next year a child, Judith Joyce Dow, was born in the summer.  Then the Dows returned to the “States”, following the rest of the Kreps’ family.  For some years her husband Jack’s military had them living in a number of states, finally ending in Florida. With four children, and her marriage ended, Phyllis went on to get her teaching certification, while holding a number of jobs.  One favorite was designing for an all occasion notecard company.  Eventually she taught in the Buena Park School District, and many parents strove to have their child in her class!   She could cook, sew, decorate a home, and pinch a penny.  Her old friends from Westmont were her treasure.  They gathered whenever possible, traveled abroad when they could, and came to Westmont for annual gatherings when feasible.  Phyllis loved Westmont and talked many times of teachers and students she met there.   As she got older the group of women dwindled, but they kept in touch when they could. ( Both her brother and sister were able to spend time at Westmont.) Phyllis leaves three children in the Southern California area, Scarlett, Jennifer and Elwyn.  Her eldest daughter Judith passed away due to cancer the previous year.  Phyllis was the greatest of grandmothers to eight grandchildren, who still lovingly refer to her as “Mousey Grandma”, because of her penchant for all things “mousey”.  She is loved and missed so much.   

Dale Frederick Myers '57   - Dale Frederick Myers of Santa Barbara, California, passed away on September 13, 2022, after a brief illness. He was 87. Dale was born on July 21, 1935, to Albert Eugene “E.E.” Myers and Katherine Minch “Grandma Gucci” Myers in Jordan Valley, Oregon. As a young child, his family moved to San Ramon, California, where he graduated from San Ramon High School in 1953. His education continued at Westmont College in Montecito where he graduated in 1957. While attending Westmont, his best friend, Ralph De la Vega, introduced to him to his future wife, Roberta Paulin, whom he would marry and raise two children with in Santa Barbara. He remained best friends with Ralph until his passing. After college, Dale joined the Navy, where he completed officers’ training and went on serve his country as a pilot (flying P2Bs) and a commander for 10 years — eventually going into the Navy Reserve for an additional 12 years. After the Navy, Dale worked in the public sector using his leadership, communication and writing skills in the advertising industry and eventually worked with and in the development of the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission programs. He genuinely believed in the work of the mission and was passionate about his role.Dale is survived by his wife, Roberta Myers; their son, Michael, and daughter Nancy; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made on his behalf to the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission.

Bernice Mae (Zahler) Tescher '52 died August 19, 2020, at age 93 in Hillsboro, Ore. Bernice was born July 8, 1927 in Portland, Oregon to her parents, Abe & Martha (Rohrbach) Zahler. She was preceded by her husband, William Tescher. She is survived by her daughter, Susan.

Walter Paullin ‘53 died on September 26, 2020. He was born in Kalispell, Mont. and moved to California as a young boy. Despite dealing with many years of health challenges, he lived a remarkably productive and vibrant life. Walt had a lifelong love of aviation, learning to fly while he was a student at Westmont College. His passion for flying led him to become a flight instructor, eventually serving as President of Santa Barbara Aviation, a corporate pilot for Lear Jet, and a demo pilot for Cheyenne 400. Flying was Walt’s career and hobby; over his lifetime he owned several planes, including his prized Bonanza B35 V-Tail. Walt intensely loved his family; he showered them with care and displayed his affection by giving generously of his time and spirit. He was rooted in his faith and was a longtime member of Community Covenant Church in Goleta. Walt is survived by his wife Dorine, his three children, his 4 grandchildren, and his four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his grandson Todd.

David A. Iverson '55  - Pastor David A. Iverson of Winnett completed his earthly calling and went on to his heavenly home on September 19, 2022. He was born on February 8, 1932, the second child and eldest son of Andrew and Helen Iverson. When David was very young, his family lived near his grandfather’s homestead in the Dovetail area north of Winnett. In 1936, they moved to western Montana to escape the worst of the “Dirty Thirties”, but returned to Petroleum County in 1941. At that time, Andrew leased a place on Flatwillow Creek and moved his family there.

David completed his elementary education at Lone Prairie School, a couple of miles from his home, and later graduated from Roundup High School. He received a Bachelor’s degree from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, and a few years later, he earned a Master of Biblical Literature degree from Wheaton College near Chicago. In 1954 he leased the William Arganbright place about five miles from his parents’ home and started a band of sheep of his own. That leased property became the base of his present day ranch. In 1956, David married Ella Dover of Buffalo, Montana. They both became teachers in area schools. David taught math and science in Grass Range and Winnett, and Ella taught in Windham and used her salary to furnish their home and expand their flock of sheep.

David and Ella’s first child, Daniel arrived in 1958 and that same year David became an ordained minister. He began pastoring a group of people in Winnett that met in the old school building. In 1960, he designed the First Baptist Church of Winnett, and the congregation helped complete its construction.

With the Winnett church well established, David and Ella wanted to reach even more people with the Gospel message. They built and started a church in Sand Springs in 1962. Their daughter Janelle was born in 1965 and they began holding regular services at the historic Forest Grove Church in 1968. He continued pastoring people at all three churches to the end of his life. He officiated at many weddings, funerals and baptisms over the years. Some area families have continued to request his services for two or even three generations.

He liked nothing more than talking to people about big ideas. In his mind, interesting topics were wide ranging. They might include engineering a water line, leading someone to the Lord, current events, cattle prices, philosophical or theological questions or anything else that mattered to the person with whom he was talking. His faithful service to others left a legacy that will not be forgotten. He is survived by Ella Iverson, his wife of 66 years; his son and daughter-in-law Daniel and Dixie Iverson; his daughter and son-in-law Janelle and Dave Spainhour; his four siblings: Louise Baldridge, Thomas (Diane) Iverson, Edwin (Paula) Iverson and John (Pat) Iverson; four grandchildren, Delight (Josh) Howley, Davey (Ashley) Iverson, Danny (Marisa) Iverson, and Drew Iverson; along with seven great grandchildren. He experienced immense love, and many hours of joy and laughter with his family and considered himself a man most blessed in this regard.

Bonnie Leigh Allen Hansen ‘56 died at the age of 85 on January 25, 2020. She was loved and cherished by many people including her parents, Walter Allen and Byrdea Allen; her husband John S. Hansen ‘56; and her children, Donna Wood (Michael) ‘84, David Hansen, and Mark Hansen (Donna). She was also cherished by eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Angie Brunemeier ’48 died on June 4, 2016, in Huntsville, Ala. Angie was born into a Dutch farming community in southeastern South Dakota in 1924. Her family lost almost everything as a result of drought and the Depression, and they relocated to California in 1937. After graduating from high school in Redlands, CA in 1942, she was employed by the US Army Quartermaster Corps and moved to the Los Angeles area. September, 1943, she was enrolled at Westmont College with a major in Christian Education. She also met her future husband Byrd Brunemeir there. Both Byrd and Angie had a strong desire to spread God's Word to the entire world, and in December, 1949, they arrived in the Philippine Islands as missionaries with the goal of using radio to spread the good news of Jesus Christ around the world. Byrd and Angie had 2 children, Musette and Mark, in the early 1950's and served as missionaries in the Philippines until June, 1976. During this time Angie was involved with the education of missionary kids for 20 years. With the assignment of building a new, missionary radio station in the Mariana Is., Byrd and Angie relocated to the island of Saipan in July, 1976. Seven years later, July 1983, Byrd was killed while working on a radio transmitter. Angie relocated to Florida and served with New Tribes Mission from July, 1984 to June, 2003. Angie moved to her daughter Musette's home in Huntsville, Ala., June, 2003 until her health began to deteriorate late in 2015. Angie is survived by her daughter Musette, her son Mark, her sister Nadine, 3 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Byrd.

Paul William Preddy ‘56 passed away on November 18, 2020.

Elizabeth “Bettye” June Loofbourrow ‘49 passed away on Dec. 11, 2014, in Grass Valley, Calif., due to heart and kidney failure. She was 89. Elizabeth was born on June 10, 1925, in Mattoon Ill., to parents Byrl (Jack) and Cora Stifle in California. She is survived by Perry, her husband of 71 years; two sons James (Linda) of Lompoc, Calif., and David of Grass Valley, Calif.; and grandsons Ethan and Evan.

Marilyn Sue Ozzella Ellison ‘52 died on February 13, 2021. Sue was born in Santa Monica, Calif. to Joseph and Marie Ozzella on November 5, 1930. After high school, she attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara and graduated with a degree in Sociology. She loved her four years there where she grew in her Bible knowledge, had many dear friends, and gained a love for working with children. Sue also met her future husband, Ray, while in college. They married on December 15, 1951 during her senior year at Westmont. Sue's highest priority was walking in and living out her faith in Jesus Christ. This enabled her to be a Godly, wise, supportive and present wife and mother. Sue was also humbly generous. She not only gave of her time, but of her resources. She loved clipping newspaper articles about organizations in need and frequently responded anonymously. Sue was preceded in death by her brother, father, mother, great grandson and husband Ray. She is survived by her sons Mark Ellison (Erin), Matt Ellison (Kerry Lynn), daughters Denise Sponseller (Jeff) ‘80, and Debbie Hill (Jeff) ‘82, Sister Sandra Westover ‘58, niece Toni and nephew Erik. She leaves her ten grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren.

Pastor Charles Henry Ashman ‘47 of Grace Village Retirement Community, Winona Lake, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, March 21, 2012. He was born on June 1, 1924, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to Charles H. Ashman, Sr. and Flora (Brown) Ashman. He met Frances M. Bradley, his wife to be, at youth rallies and summer church camp. They were married on July 12, 1946, in Compton, California. Charles graduated from Westmont College in 1947 (BA), and he and Frances (a graduate of the Bible Institute of Los Angeles) headed to Grace Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana, where Charles graduated in 1950 (MDiv., Magna Cum Laude). His first pastorate was in Rittman, Ohio, and it was in Rittman that their children were born. The family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1955. In 1962, Charles became pastor of the Winona Lake Grace Brethren Church. In 1969, he was asked to teach part-time at Grace College and Seminary as well. He taught mostly seminary courses in the pastoral theology field, English Bible, and beginning Greek. Students appreciated his insight and experience. He leaves behind his two sons, one daughter, six grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Frances Ashman, parents, three sisters, and three brothers.

Willetta “Willie” Edmiston '47 of Warsaw, Ind. passed away Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019.

James “Jim” Downs '47 passed away on September 22, 2020. Jim was born in Fullerton, California in 1925, the second of five children to Agnes and Elwood Downs. He graduated from Whittier High School in 1943 where he left a legacy as an accomplished swimmer and water polo star. He then enrolled at Westmont College in Los Angeles where he met the love of his life, Joann. After Jim completed his service in the Navy, he and Joann settled in Whittier, California. There they welcomed their son in 1948, followed by their daughter in 1950. Jim was a long time manager at Carburetor Sales & Service in LA, eventually owning the business. After he and Joann retired, they moved to Dana Point where they lived out the rest of their lives together until Joann's death in 2015. Jim was an integral part of their beloved South Shores Church, selflessly serving and contributing to the ministries and deep relationships they developed and enjoyed for many years. Jim is preceded in death, by his brothers Dick and Ron, and sister Mary Carmen. He is survived by his sister, both children, 5 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as innumerable loving friends and extended family.

Elaine Walker Rhodes ‘47 passed away on November 10, 2016 after a brief illness. Elaine was born to Howard and Esther Mae Walker on January 22, 1927, in Pasadena, Calif., where she grew up. It was on vacation with her family in Big Bear Lake, that Elaine met her husband, Don. Married in 1947, Elaine and Don lived in Altadena where they raised two daughters. During the next years, Elaine was active as a teacher, choir member and deaconess at Lake Avenue Congregational Church and with the Women's Auxiliary at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena. Later when she and Don moved to the Bay Area, Elaine influenced women of all ages through her teaching and advising ministry in Bible Study Fellowship. Even in her later years, she was passionate about encouraging others in their journey of following Jesus—at High Street Community Church and at Mount Hermon. Her winsome and joyful spirit garnered many friendships through the years including Aegis Living in Aptos where she and Don resided in their final years. Throughout her life, Elaine delighted in making sure that each person knew that he or she was important, known and loved by God. Elaine and Don were always a team enjoying sailing with friends, motorcycle rides or playing golf. Elaine is survived by two daughters, five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one brother. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Don.

Nancy Ruth Couch Roberts ‘58 passed away on March 15, 2021, in Fort Collins, Colorado. She was born on July 17, 1936, in Portland, Ore., to the late Lloyd and Ruth (West) Couch. Her early years were in Oregon and California, and her college years were at Westmont College and the University of Oregon. As an elementary school teacher, she accepted a position with the military-dependent school system in Germany in 1961. There she met her future husband, a U.S. Army officer, William Mather (Bill) Roberts. They were married in Laguna Beach, Calif. on November 23, 1963. Upon retirement, they settled in Fort Collins in 2001. Nancy is survived by her devoted husband Bill, one daughter, and two grandchildren.

Dr. Alberta (Bertie) M. Hanson ‘47 died on March 26, 2020 at the age of 92 years. Bertie was born on March 11, 1928 in Long Beach, Calif. to Albert Hanson and Blanche (Tahash) Hanson. She was a life-long educator. She received her diploma in Christian Education from the Bible Institute of Los Angeles (1950), a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Education from BIOLA College (1952), a Masters of Arts (MA) from Grace Seminary, Winona Lake, Indiana (1961), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Christian School Administration from Grace Graduate School, Long Beach, California (1981). Bertie served as the Director of Christian Education in Southern Calif., and a board member of both the Greater Los Angeles Sunday School Association (GLASS) and the San Bernardino- Riverside Association of Sunday Schools (BRASS) for 30 years. She supported foreign missions with extended trips through Central and South America and by developing educational material for these missionary efforts. She was involved in multiple church ministries, taught home-schoolers as well as children in both Christian and public schools, including the Apple Valley School District in Apple Valley, Calif. She published a number of articles and a book, Abundant Adventures with Alberta . . . Across America and Around the World. Bertie used her artistic creativity to bring her classrooms alive with interest and knowledge. Bertie is preceded in death by three sisters and survived by six nephews and four nieces.

Arthur Wayne Nelson ‘52, beloved father and grandfather, died on March 23, 2021. Arthur was born September 16,1928 to Harry and Edith Nelson in Kingsburg, Calif. The family later moved to Santa Maria, Calif. where he attended local schools and worked in his father’s auto shop as a mechanic. He graduated from Santa Maria High and Santa Maria Junior College earning an Associate of Arts Degree in Natural Science. Arthur came to Santa Barbara, Calif., to attend Westmont College and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Science in 1952. He met his beloved wife, Martha Patterson Nelson, at Westmont. Immediately after graduation, he was called to serve with the Armed Forces and entered the U.S. Army Vehicle Mechanics School at Fort Ord, CA. where he graduated with honors. He served as a corporal with the U. S. Army, 28th Infantry Division, 110th Regiment until May, 1954, during the occupation of Germany. Upon his return, Arthur Wayne and Martha married in July of 1954. He then obtained his Master’s Degree in Social Welfare at UCLA in 1957. Their daughter Catherine was born in 1959. He began his career in 1957 with the Santa Barbara County Welfare Department (now known as the Department of Social Services), and also held part-time positions at UCSB and Westmont College for 30 years, teaching classes in social and child welfare. In addition, he served on numerous boards and committees, co-authored published articles and State Legislative recommendations, and was active in the community and his church. He also was the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions including a Letter of Appreciation from Governor Ronald Reagan in 1972, the Honorary Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Santa Barbara Rotary Club in 1997, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NASW, CA Chapter, and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition in 2010. Even into his 90’s, Arthur enjoyed walking Shoreline Park, riding his bike at the beach, attending musical concerts at Westmont College, gathering weekly for Sunday church services, dining with family, friends, and former colleagues, and line dancing at The Samarkand. He lived life fully and humbly, and was a great example to so many. He is survived by his daughter and grandson. 

Lucille Ann (DeBoer) TeSelle ‘55 passed away on March 19th, 2021. She was born December 15, 1929, in Bozeman, Mont. to Charles and Anna DeBoer. She received her grade school education at the Baker Creek School near Belgrade and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1947. She started her piano lessons at the age of 7, played for church services at age 13, and played for her first wedding, also at the age of 13. She graduated from Multnomah Bible College in Portland, Ore., then transferred to Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Calif. Lucille married Ben TeSelle on February 13, 1953 in Bozeman, Mont. She taught piano lessons from 1953 to 2017. She was an active member of the Bozeman Piano Teachers Association, the Montana Music Teachers Association, and the National Music Teachers Association. Lucille played the organ and piano for Grace Bible Church for over 50 years, and she played for hundreds of funerals and weddings. For years, Lucille volunteered with many organizations throughout the Gallatin Valley. Lucille is survived by two daughters, one son, five grandsons, three granddaughters, and three great-grandchildren.

Virginia Evelyn Farwell (Butcher) '53 died on July 7, 2021 in Sandpoint, Idaho. She was born in Arlington, near Riverside, Calif. In 1939, the family moved to Notus, Idaho, where her father established a dairy farm. Virginia returned to Calif. to attend Westmont, and married her husband of 62 years, Clyde Farwell ‘53, in 1952. In 1953, they moved to Othello, Washington, to farm new ground opening up in the Columbia Basin Project. Virginia was no stranger to hard work. Their first home, only 16x24 feet, boasted tar paper for siding and lacked running water. In 1956, they built the home where they raised their four boys. Virginia opened her heart and home to many people, and served the Lord faithfully for nearly 60 years at First Baptist Church. Clyde Farwell died in 2013 and Virginia moved to Sandpoint, Idaho in 2015. Failing eyesight did not discourage her from caring for others in her later years. She is survived by three children, 10 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Carleda May Hutton '53 died on June 28, 2021 at the age of 88. Her passion for music began when she started violin lessons at age 5. She graduated with a music degree from Westmont where staging plays and musicals with the campus literary society helped prepare her for her career. Carleda served as a music teacher at Brethren Christian High School in Huntington Beach, Calif., for 52 years and influenced thousands of students. In recognition of her faithfulness to Christ in her vocation, the Christian Association of Senior Adults honored her with the Heritage of Faithfulness award. Carleda earned a master’s degree at CSU Long Beach, and did graduate work at the University of Southern California, UC Los Angeles, and Occidental College. In 1972, she helped establish an annual choir festival that attracts up to 20 choirs from around the state. She chaired the two-day Musicale for the Association of Chrsitian Schools International for 30 years. The Western Association of Christian Schools named Carleda teacher of the year. Carleda served as choir director at Grace Brethren Church in Long Beach, Calif., for 20 years and Los Altos Grace Church, also in Long Beach, for 24 years. She loved to fish and regularly planned trips to Mammoth, Calif. She is survived by her sister Gladys (Hutton) Fullford ‘62.

Clark E Rawson '54 died on June 23, 2021 in Augusta, Maine. He was born in Los Angeles, Calif. to Charles Lawrence Rawson and Henrietta Linn Rawson, and grew up in Carlsbad Calif. After graduating from Oceanside-Carlsbad Union High School, he worked various jobs, including the Irwin Kelly Ranch and Wilson Ranch where he learned important life lessons from his Aunt Ruth and Uncle Charlie. During this time, Clark professed faith in God. Clark earned a degree in Natural Sciences/ Chemistry from Westmont. While in college, he was drafted into the military. He served in the 6th Army Infantry Division between November 1950 and October 1952 during the Korean War. Clark received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, and a purple heart. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Tech Sergeant. He married Ruth Meeker in 1954, who died that same year. On December 31, 1955, Clark married Beverly Joyce Pratt of Auburn, ME. The couple lived in California for five years where they started a family. They traveled frequently and lived in several other places, eventually settling in Anson, Maine, for 25 years. Clark served actively as a member of many different churches and Gideons International. He is survived by his five children and four grandchildren. His daughter, Rebecca Anderson (Rawson) graduated from Westmont in 1976.

Jean Marie Wilson (Colvin) '56 died on January 25, 2021 in Hayward Calif.. She was born in San Francisco, California on September 25, 1934 to Russell and Evelyn Colvin. She married Eugene Wilson on June 18, 1952. The couple had two sons, Steve and Michael, and settled in San Leandro, Calif. Jean served as a Sunday school choir member at San Lorenzo Baptist Church, a room mother at Halcyon Elementary School, and a den mother for Cub Scout Pack 518. She helped and chaperoned the San Leandro High School band on various trips and performances. Jean was a loving homemaker to her children and husband of 49 years. She is survived by her two sons, four grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Barbara Surette (Wiley) '59 died on July 22, 2021 in Caldwell, Idaho. She was born April 4, 1938 to William Allen Wiley and Ellen Miller Wiley in Nampa, Idaho. After graduating from Caldwell High School in 1955, she attended Westmont in 1955-1959, and graduated at age 20 with degrees in History and English. Barbara formed lifelong friendships at Westmont. She taught school in Idaho and Calif. during her twenties. In 1968, she married Leonard Thomas Surette, an Electronics Engineer with Raytheon Company in Santa Barbara. They lived in Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez, Calif. until Sept 2018 when they moved to Arock, Ore. and Caldwell, Idaho. Barbara loved sharing the Bible with others at her weekly Bible Study. She enjoyed visiting England and the Middle East. She loved collecting and reading books, doing needlepoint, collecting artwork, and gardening. Her deep love for her family and friends meant that Barbara never forgot a gift for a birthday or other occasion. She is survived by her husband, Leonard, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Malcolm Alvin Hughes '59 died on July 6, 2021 after a battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born in Los Angeles, Calif., on March 15, 1933 to Benjamin F. and Amy M. Hughes. Malcolm grew up on an almond and tomato orchard in Los Angeles, and graduated from Beverly Hills High School, where he played brass and ran track. He eattended Arizona State University, Westmont College, and Pasadena Christian College. Malcom served in the honor guard in Tokyo in 1954-1955, worked at Librascope in the early days of computers, and worked as a night supervisor at a boys’ correctional facility. He and his wife, Barbara, of 57 years, served with Wycliffe Bible Translators for two and a half years in Bolivia, where Malcolm used his mechanical abilities in a support role. For 29 years, Malcolm serviced several Iowa communities as postmaster. Malcolm’s faithful love for Jesus Christ as his redeemer fueled hours of volunteer work: serving in a care center ministry, leading Boys Brigade, serving in the Lions Club and Rotary, building a church in Maui, Hawaii, working with the Gideons, and serving as an elder at Fellowship Bible Church in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He is survived by his wife, four daughters, 35 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Marian Jean Groff ‘59 died on August 20, 2021 in Santa Barbara, California. She was born on September 4, 1937, in Clinton, Iowa, to Ruth and Merill Lorenz. The family moved to California in 1951, the family moved to California. Marian’s favorite memory was seeing the ocean for the first time in her life. Marian participated in Westmont’s first summer mission trip. Students went to Hawaii to work with churches and Youth for Christ .“That experience gave me a heart for missions,” she said. Marian married her second husband, Jerry, in 1984. The couple volunteered with Potter’s Clay for eight years. Jerry worked as an optometrist and traveled to Mexico with Westmont students for 11 years to provide free eye exams and pass out donated glasses.They were active members in Santa Barbara Community Church (formally Trinity Baptist Church) and Oaks Bible Church where they sang in the choir, performed in plays and musicals, led and attended Bible studies, and counseled engaged couples. Marian was an active leader in Royal Family Kids Camp where she shared the love of Jesus with disadvantaged children from the Santa Barbara community. She helped start a preschool for low income families in Santa Barbara. In 2008, the Groffs lost their home in the Tea Fire. They were overwhelmed by the love and generosity of friends from church and Westmont as they rebuilt. Shortly after the fire, the couple took advantage of a new law to roll over part of their IRA to the college. Marian celebrated her 50th reunion in 2009, and marched as a Golden Warrior. The Groffs contributed to the Westmont Annual Fund and belonged to the President’s Associates. They provided for the college in their estate plan, making them Wallace Emerson Society members. “We want to make Westmont available to all students,” they said. Marian’s son, Michael Thompson, also attended Westmont. She is survived by two children, two grandchildren, and two step grandchildren.

Kenneth Paul '59 died on July 2, 2021 in Palo Alto Calif. He was born in San Francisco, Calif. on December 26, 1932. He grew up in a Marin County orphanage until he was reunited with his family as an adolescent. Kenneth graduated as valedictorian of Calistoga High School and served in the navy during the Korean War. He is remembered as the wood sculptor of Half Moon Bay. Every day, Ken sat at the entrance to Main Street and hand-chiseled wood sculptures that reflected a lifetime of dedication to education, athletics and the arts. He attended Westmont College, Simpson Bible Seminary, received a B.A. from Oakland College of Arts and Crafts, and a masters from the University of Hawaii. Ken practiced martial arts, enjoyed running marathons, and taught track and field at high schools for many years. During the 1960s and 1970s, Ken was known for his pen-and-ink illustrations of San Fransisco Victorians. He dedicated the 1980s to rendering drawings of Peninsula landmarks for the local history museum. Ken focused his last 30 years on wood sculpting, writing, and hand drumming. Coastide communities remember the wood sculptor’s strong handshake, warm smile, and willingness to listen to every individual’s story.

Irene Mansfield ‘54 died on May 17, 2021 in Grand Rapids, Mich. She was born on May 1, 1921, in Benton Harbor, Mich. to Dean and Marie Danneffel. The family moved to Calif. when Irene was three years old. She graduated from Los Angeles High School in 1939, entered the Nurse Cadet Corp. during World War II, and graduated in 1947. Irene worked in nursing for 10 years until she felt led to work for Child Evangelization Fellowship in Pacific Palisades, Calif. She moved to their new headquarters in Grand Rapids, Mich. in 1959, where she met and married her husband, Richard E. Mansfield, in 1961. The couple were married happily for 32 years. Irene served faithfully as a member of Trinity Christian Reformed Church.

Lyla Wiley (King) ‘49 died on October 24, 2021. She was born to Edgar Ray and Marjorie King in Tustin, Calif. Lyla always said she was a princess because her daddy was a king. Lyla was the oldest of five girls. She met her husband Paul Wiley at Westmont College and they married six months later. Lyla loved the Lord. She was a frugal home economist and said that her proudest accomplishment was “raising four responsible adult children who are caring and loving.” She is survived by her children, 10 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. 

Donald Eugene Ledbetter '55 died on January 2, 2022 in Ottawa, Ill. He was born in St. Louis, Ill. on May 14, 1931 to Alden K. and Alice Ledbetter. Donald marred Carole Lone Hassley on June 27. 19598. Donald attended Murphysboro Grade and High Schools and Southern Illinois University. He served in the Illinois National Guard from 1951 to 1953, attended Westmont College for one year, and graduated from Wheaton College in August, 1955 with a bachelor's degree in education. He received a masters degree in educational counseling and guidance from Northern Illinois University in 1965. Donald served as Chaplain at the LaSalle County Correctional Center for 20 years. He played football for Murphysboro Twp. High School, Southern Illinois University, and a semi-professional team, the Peoria Rockets. Donald as a member of Grace Baptist Church, the River Valley Church, and Gideons International. He is survived by his wife Carole, three sons, and six grandchildren.

David "Dave" Holcomb '55 died on October 10, 2021. He was born in San Francisco on August 17, 1930, to Herbert and Nancy Holcomb. The family relocated to Reno, Nev. where Dave spent most of his childhood. They moved back to the San Francisco Bay area when Dave was in high school, and he graduated from Hayward High school in 1948. Dave met and married Erma Beavers while attending Westmont College. He immediately received a draft notice from Uncle Sam, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, and served three years in England where his first two daughters were born. Upon returning to the U.S., Dave settled his family in Santa Barbara and began his career as an engineering draftsman. He worked for the Santa Barbara Water District for a few years, and hen moved to the Bay Area here he worked for the Bechtel Corporation for eight years and helped with the plans for Bay Area Rapid Transit. He worked for a few smaller engineering firms before branching out on his own with Dave's Drafting Service. Dave and Erma enjoyed vacations at their cabin at Pine Mountain Lake resort in Groveland, Calif., and moved their permanently in 1994. The couple had seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. 

Raymond Hayes '50 has passed away peacefully on March 12, 2019 in Modesto at the age of 92. Ray was born June 15, 1926 in Modesto to George and Silvia Hayes. Ray was a lifelong resident of Modesto. Ray served in World War II in the US Army and after being discharged came home to work on the family ranch which he continued to do his entire life. He was very active with church and belonged to First Baptist Church of Ceres, Grace Baptist Church in Modesto, College Avenue Baptist Church in Modesto and finally Escalon Christian Reformed Church. Ray was also a board member on the Sylvan School Board. Ray leaves behind his children, Lynda Hersman (Russ) and Allen Hayes (Luann) along with 6 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Mary Louise and his son, Jerry Hayes and daughter, Virginia Hayes.

Leola May (Kreiman) Dothage '55, 88 went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 6, 2021 at her home under the care of her family and Compassus Hospice. She was born in Glendive, Montana on November 11, 1932 to Walter Henry Kreiman and Velma Leola Patterson Kreiman. She attended 1st-8th grades at Ten Davis School and she always said she had to walk home a mile everyday. She graduated in 1951 as Valedictorian from Parma High School in Parma, ID. She graduated from Westmont College in 1955 with her teaching degree and started teaching 6th grade in Castro Valley, CA in fall of 1955. She married Joe Dothage on December 28, 1956 in her home church in Notus, ID. They lived in Oakland, San Leandro and Livermore California before moving to Columbia, MO in 1965. Leola taught Kindergarten at Rock Bridge Elementary School for 24 years. Many of her students still say she was their favorite teacher. Leola and Joe were charter members of Open Door Baptist Church in Columbia MO. She has always been an active member of the churches she belonged to by playing the piano, organ, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School and teaching in the AWANA program. Leola and Joe had many friends that they met while traveling with the Airstream Club after retirement. Leola loved gardening and definitely had a green thumb. Her favorite times were time spent with family which included Sunday dinners at her house and game nights with her daughter and granddaughters. She is survived by her children, Kenneth (Lynn) Dothage and Karen (David) Crawford of Columbia and Keith (Andrea) Dothage of Sturgeon, her 4 granddaughters, Heather, Adeana, Erica and Kathryn and her 4 great grandchildren, Adelaide, Knox, Camdyn and Haydn. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe Dothage, her mother and father and her only sibling, Howard Kreiman. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Open Door Church or Coyote Hills Children's Home c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, MO 65202

Carroll D. Cone '58 was born on November 3, 1927 near Hot Springs, South Dakota, to Ivan and Maud (Freer) Cone. Carroll passed away into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 26, 2021 in Lebanon, Oregon. Carroll grew up in South Dakota and Washington, and graduated from Tenino Union High School in Tenino, Washington. He attended college at Biola in California, was drafted into the Marine Corps, attended Rockmont College in Colorado, Westmont College in California, and Southern Oregon State College. He worked in sawmills in his early years, pastored a Presbyterian church in Meyers Flat, California, then taught elementary through high school at Dora, Imbler, then Sitkum, Oregon. He went on to receive his Masters in School Psychological Services and became Director of Student Services at North Bend High School for 23 years, from 1963 until his retirement in 1986. In his early retirement years, he enjoyed working with his portable sawmill. He always loved hunting, diving, woodworking, and music, and taught guitar to a granddaughter. For many years he taught Bible studies, adult Sunday school at North Bend Presbyterian Church, was a backup crisis line professional in Coos County for a few years, and was on the Board at South Coast Gospel Mission for a few years. Carroll was a beloved husband and best friend of his only love of 64 years, Jacquelyn Jay (Witt) Cone, whom he married on June 2, 1955, in Briggsdale, Colorado. Together they raised a family of four daughters, Chyril, Lorie, Kaylyn and Gaylee. He will be greatly missed by his daughters, as well as many other family and friends. Carroll is survived by all four daughters, Chyril Walker of Carlton, Lorie Kuckuck of Lebanon and her husband, Don of Centralia, WA, Kaylyn Fierro and her husband, David of Goleta, CA and Gaylee Cone of Orange, CA; grandchildren, Lindsey Mason and her husband, Carl, Vasili Walker, Joshua Walker, Larraina Erland and her husband, Jeremy, Natasha Colson and her husband, Jay, Nikita Kuckuck, Nicholas Kuckuck, Philip Kuckuck, Britta Kuckuck, Annika Kuckuck, Alaina Kuckuck, Steven Fierro and his wife, Miranda, Jackie Fierro, Quinn Fierro and Chase Fierro; and great-grandchildren, Ellory and Mateo Fierro, and Scarlett Erland. Carroll was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Maud Cone; wife, Jacquelyn “Jackie”; brother, Ken; and sister, Lorene.

Dana Hawkes '59 was born March 22, 1937, and died September 21, 2021, in Encinitas, California. Dana Hawkes of San Marcos was a husband, father, beloved Papa, college professor, and devoted man of faith who served part of his career as a Baptist minister. But his wife, after his death on September 21, 2021, gave him the most appropriate title of all: "he was the greatest man I ever knew."Hawkes, 84, passed after a quiet struggle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Karen Jensen, daughters Julia Hawkes Reece and her husband Kevin Reece of Dallas, TX, Lisa Hawkes Peck and her husband Randall Peck of Virginia Beach, VA; and granddaughters Aubrey Reece of Chicago, IL, Jessica Peck Knocklein, and her husband Oliver Knocklein of Washington, D.C., and Shelby Peck of Virginia Beach currently a student at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.Karen Jensen's children also welcomed Dana into their family when they married in 2013. He is also survived by daughters Jennifer McCullough Ziegler and her husband Geoff Ziegler of Hinsdale, Illinois, Joy McCullough-Carranza and her husband Mario Carranza of Seattle, and grandchildren Timothy Ziegler, Daniel Ziegler, Joel Ziegler, Cordelia Carranza, and Joaquin Carranza.Dana is preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Shirley Scoggins Hawkes, whom he met while they were students at Westmont College in Santa Barbara in the late 1950s. They were married for 51 years until Shirley's passing in 2010.Dana Hawkes attended the University of Southern California, completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at Westmont, obtained his Master of Divinity degree at California Baptist Theological Seminary in Covina in 1964 before pursuing graduate studies in Telecommunications at USC and then receiving a Master of Arts degree in Radio and Television at San Diego State University in 1979. His pastoral assignments included Fountain Valley First Baptist Church and University Avenue Baptist Church in San Diego before his career transitioned to educational instruction in radio and television.After serving as an instructor and lecturer at the University of San Diego, San Diego State, and California Baptist Theological Seminary, in 1973, he became the founding professor of the Radio and Television program at Palomar Community College in San Marcos. In a career that saw him serve as professor, Director of Educational Television, Chairperson of the Palomar Community College Department of Communication, and eventually as Professor Emeritus, he was recognized in 1998 as a Silver Circle Award recipient by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for "over 25 years of outstanding service to the San Diego Broadcast community."But throughout his educational career, he was continuously active in pursuit of his Christian faith and the desire to lead others to Christ. He served in multiple capacities as teacher, mentor, deacon, counselor, and lecturer in churches throughout Southern California, including Solana Beach Presbyterian Church, where he also served as an Elder, and Emmanuel Faith Community Church in Escondido.In his final years, Dana Hawkes persevered through a variety of physical ailments. But in that struggle, he only cemented his legacy as the "greatest man" his wife Karen ever knew.Spinal ailments forced the reliance on an electric scooter for most of his transportation. But there were still Sunday school lessons that needed to be taught, a world of European and Alaskan cruises he wanted his new wife to experience, granddaughter high school and college graduations on the East Coast that he needed to attend, and trips throughout the Midwest to witness a granddaughter on stage in multiple musical productions. He made the sometimes-difficult journeys to see them all and let his family know that Papa was their biggest fan.

David Imbach '52, passed away on February 14, 2021. A friend shared the following words: "Giving this offering at the end of year in memory of Rev. David Imbach who went to be with the Lord Feb 2021. Great man of God!! He was my Pastor for 30 years. Praise the Lord!!!" * 1955 Leona J. Eppert Leona Jeanne Eppert '55, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed peacefully in her sleep and went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on January 15, 2022 at the age of 87. Leona was born in Fresno, California on May 19, 1934. She attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara, majoring in voice. Leona's voice was a blessing to many weddings and occasions through her life, including singing her children to sleep every night. She minored with a teaching degree and later received her Master's Degree in Elementary Math. She taught many grades, her favorite being Kindergarten. She was a perpetual student, which made her a very creative teacher who was remembered by her students years after they graduated. She met Ray Eppert while serving with the Navigators at the Cedar Avenue Baptist Church in Fresno and married him in 1960. They attended the Mennonite Brethren Church in Fresno, and then the Living Word Church in Clovis. They lived in Fresno, CA for 30 years and raised their 2 children, Tom and Robyn. They moved to the Burbank Hills in the San Fernando Valley, north of Los Angeles for 5 years and Leona taught in their church school. Then in 1994, Ray and Leona retired and moved to Colorado, to the small, peaceful town of Monument. There, they attend the Ascent Church (Tri-Lakes Chapel) on Woodmoor Drive. Leona is being welcomed in heaven by her parents, Yervant and Victoria Thomas, and her elder sister, Doreen Rettig. She is survived by her husband Ray Eppert, her daughter and son-in-law Robyn and Kemit Millheim, who cared for them in their old age in Monument, her son and daughter-in-law Tom and Lisa Eppert, and her grandchildren Amy and Jonathan Eppert who live in San Diego, California.

Richard (Dick) Patty '52 was born in Amity, Oregon, and was honored to be raised on a third generation farm. He was known to say, "I love the dirt so much, I keep a little under my fingernails to keep me company." Dick didn't get to live his dream of being a farmer, as God called him to be a missionary to the military, which he also loved. Dick was one of the founders of OCSC/Cadence International. After serving in the Philippines for ten years, he and his wife, Margaret, moved their family of four children to Englewood while he served as the second president of Cadence International. During those years, the family gardened nearby vacant lots (up to five acres) and sold fresh vegetables (bushels of corn and hundreds of pumpkins) from their back porch. In 1979 the family moved to Germany where Dick was the Europe Field Director for Cadence. Many new ministries to military personnel and their dependents were formed and grew under Dick's leadership. Having rented out their home while overseas, the Pattys were able to move back to Englewood in 1992. Dick continued his tradition of gardening and blessing the neighborhood with fresh produce. In fact, his giant pumpkin crop this season on Mariposa Drive is one of his best. Dick was active at Bethany Evangelical Free Church, involved in Bible studies with friends and neighbors, and hospitable with Margaret in sharing their home. He was devoted to his wife and delighted in his four children (Joyce, Dave, Steve, and Josh), daughters-in-law and son-in-law, eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. He was hard-working, generous, tech-savvy (texting on his smart phone at age 95), and kind. But what mattered most to him was that he knew Jesus Christ personally and longed for everyone else to also have a personal redemptive relationship with Jesus.

Harold Al Franklin '59, age 84, of Paso Robles, California, passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. Harold was born June 12, 1937.

Lynn Deryl Berntson '53 of Jacksonville, Oregon, passed away on Friday, June 18, 2021. He was born on April 5, 1929, in Logan, Utah, the son of Hyrum and Lorraine Berntson. He married Della Mae Robertson on September 11, 1951. Lynn received a B.S. in Psychology from Westmont College, a B.A.in Education from Southern Oregon College and an M.A. from Oregon State University. He worked in education as a teacher, a counselor, and a testing and measurement consultant with Houghton Mifflin Publishing. Lynn enjoyed his time as an elder at Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto. Lynn and his wife Della had a home which was always filled with people. They were known for their generous hospitality. He enjoyed travel, chess, ice cream, banjo music, playing the piano, sailing, rafting, and studying the bible with small groups in his home. Lynn was preceded in death by his parents; Lorraine & Hyrum Berntson, siblings Edward Berntson, Eileen Patterson, and Holly Buehling, and son Daniel Berntson. He is survived by his wife, Della, daughters Holly (Brent) Freeman and Becky (Rob) DeGeorge, daughter-in-law Debbie Berntson, grandchildren (Tyler, Jordan, and Paige Freeman) and great granddaughters (Della and Ryder Freeman.)

Dr. Leigh Forsberg '59, beloved husband, brother, and Papa, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2021, at the Emerald Care Home in Walnut Creek, California. After leaving Ethiopia by mule, plane, train and ship, expectant parents, Malcolm Iver Forsberg and Enid Hattersley Miller, welcomed their first child, Peter Leigh, on June 5, 1937, in Milwaukee, WI. He grew up in Sudan and Ethiopia, where he attended Bingham Academy in Addis Ababa. He played rugby and hockey at Collingwood Collegiate Institute in Ontario, Canada. He completed his undergraduate studies at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA and Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He married Gertrude "Trudi" Kuhn in 1959. He earned his medical degree at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago. In 1963 the couple moved to San Francisco where Leigh continued his medical training at San Francisco General Hospital Medical Center and UCSF School of Medicine. He did his residency in Radiology at Stanford University Medical Center. Starting in 1968, he worked as a radiologist at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Berkeley and later in private practice. He retired in 2007. He married Nancy Taylor Mattick in 1977. Leigh was an avid runner and hiker with a special fondness for Mt. Tamalpais. A passionate patron of the arts, he also enjoyed travel and scenic photography. His family fondly remembers vacations at Bodega Bay, the chocolate safe, Ethiopian ululating, ball games, ballets, the Christmas train, and the waving of the pink section of the Chronicle at Stern Grove as the Preservation Hall Jazz Band played "When the Saints Go Marching In." His family's hearts were ululating and marching with him as he took his final voyage beyond the Golden Gate. His ashes were scattered by the Nautilus Society on January 6, 2022 in the Pacific Ocean. He was preceded in death by his brother Dr. Malcolm "Kim" Forsberg, Jr. He is survived by his wife Nancy Forsberg, brother James Forsberg (Linda), sister Dorothy Forsberg, former wife Trudi Forsberg as well as his children and step children: Karen Wilk, Karl Forsberg (Quinn), Anita Forsberg, Dinah Mattick (Erik), Ben Mattick (Kristin), Nicole Forsberg (Josh). Grandchildren include Hailey Forsberg, Claire Forsberg, Brennan Forsberg, Koen Miller, Malcolm Mattick, Micah Wilk, Beatrice Miller, and Esther Leigh Andrews.

Leonard "Len" Sunukjian '64 passed away on November 28, 2023.

Calista "Betsy" (Schuler) Barry '61 passed away in 2020 (date unknown)

Kathryn [Shaver] "Kathy Stolzfus '69 passed away September 19, 2023. Kathryn Lynn Stoltzfus was called home by the Lord to be with her beloved husband and departed friends and family on September 19, 2023. Born on May 11th, 1947 in Lansing, Michigan, Kathryn was the eldest of three siblings, and traveled with her family to Arizona before settling in Goleta, California. After graduating from San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, Kathryn attended Westmont College in Montecito. She then took to the skies and served as a flight attendant for 30 years, first with Western Airlines, then with Delta. Despite her busy schedule, Kathryn remained a proud lifelong learner. She earned two masters degrees: in Marriage and Family Counseling and later in Business Administration. Kathryn’s heart of service knew no bounds. She helped innumerable people as a marriage and family therapist, as well as fostering many children during times of need over the course of many years. Kathryn’s education, innately kind heart and generosity of spirit afforded her a unique ability to be an amazing listener and confidante to clients and friends alike. On December 7, 1991, Kathryn married her true love, Richard Lee Stoltzfus. They moved from Hubbard, Oregon to Salt Lake City, Utah, and finally to their true home in Cordova, Alaska in January of 2000. In 2010, Kathryn was called back to Goleta to help her mother Elizabeth Ann Shaver and sister Karen Ruth Hall, who were both experiencing health challenges. She remained there until 2011, when Richard tragically passed away in an airplane accident. Kathryn, her beloved foster daughter Salina and pets moved back to Goleta in August of 2022. There, she enjoyed a wonderful, laughter- and craft-filled year with her niece Kristin, and other niece Jessica when she would visit. Kathryn treasured family bonds, and particularly enjoyed her role of stepmother to Justin and Jeremy, and grandmother to Jeremy and Stacy Stoltzfus’ sons Lucas and Nathan. She was exceptionally proud of them and their accomplishments. Kathryn put her airline perks to great use, and took many trips to Europe with her beloved mother. She was the ultimate adventure buddy, with humor and adaptability to make any trip an enjoyable one. Kathryn’s exceptional talents in crafting are the stuff of legends. The backside of her many cross stitch pieces and quilts are as tidy and flawless as the front, a testament to her eye and capacity for excellence. She enjoyed knitting, weaving, quilting, jewelry making, baking and numerous other disciplines and dove into any art form with abandon. She shared this passion for art with her nieces, and many others. When Kathryn shared news of her husband Richard’s passing, she wrote:
“From the Bible that Richard loved, I take comfort in the words from 1 Thessalonians 4:13 that says we have hope in our grief. I know that Richard is with his Lord, is probably enjoying a conversation with his Dad, Grandpa and beloved first wife Flossie sharing all the wonderful events that we shared together as a family. I also know that I will see him again someday when my purpose on earth is over and I too am told, ‘Welcome HOME.'” Kathryn is home, but will be forever missed by those left behind. A service may take place in Cordova, Alaska at some point in the future, to be determined. Kathryn is survived by her stepsons and their families: Jeremy, Stacy, Lucas, and Nathan Stoltzfus of Grantham, Pennsylvania, Justin Stoltzfus and Tracy Bacon of Wenatchee, Washington, and Joel and his wife Julie Stoltzfus of Canby, Oregon; nieces Jessica Hall (Jeff Bayer) of Portland, Oregon and Kristin Hall of Goleta; foster daughter Salina; many cousins and extended family, and uncountable friends of the heart.

Anthony "Tony" Sanford '69 passed away on September 9, 2023. Anthony (Tony) Leon Sanford 77, passed away peacefully September 9, 2023 while sleeping. Tony was born in McMinnville, TN in May 1946, to Army Captain Leon Franklin Sanford and Mildred Louise. Before retiring, his parents purchased a home in Glendale, AZ where Tony attended Glendale High School. It is believed that he was the first to "Letter" in all four sports all four years. He excelled in the track high hurdles and was preparing to run in the Olympics before he suffered a lifelong knee injury. He attended college at Illinois University, Westmont College in California and later the University of New Mexico where he obtained his Doctorate Degree. Tony was an extraordinarily dedicated athlete. He taught sports at the University of New Mexico when he wasn't playing sports. He worked for a time at a local gym, then tried his luck in commercial real estate. He enjoyed working for the Juvenile Justice System as a Juvenile Probation and Parole Officer climbing to the Supervisory level where he later retired. He was a Past Master of the local Masonic Lodge #6 and served on the Board of Directors for Ashlar Assembly #58 Rainbow Girls. Other hobbies included attending antique auto shows, camping and fishing with his wife/partner and friends. Tony is survived by his wife and partner, Kim Sanford (Lusk) of Albuquerque, a sister, Barbara Coleman Parish of Roy, UT and a son, Michael Sutton of Mesa, AZ. He also has a niece, Michelle Locke (Roy, UT) and her daughter, Alaina Hopkins Locke (Mesa, AZ) with 5 children. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Kenneth Sanford, and a nephew, Michael Locke.

Nancy [Smith] Scarper '67 passed away on November 10, 2021 after 56 years of marriage. She was faithful to God and to her family.

Malcolm Collins '68 passed away on September 4, 2023. Malcolm Barnett Collins died on September 4, 2023, in Clermont, FL.  He was born on July 23, 1946, in Sollihul, England and adopted by the late Tom and Ruth (Barnett) Collins. He was raised in Kenya, formerly British East Africa. He graduated from Rift Valley Academy in 1964 and Westmont College in 1968. He was honored as the 100th graduate of the Fuller School of World Mission in 1989.  Malcolm was known for his gentle spirit and love for everyone he met.  His commitment to welcoming people into the “great big love of Jesus” led him to the front lines of building cross-cultural community and inter-racial connections with Africa Inland Mission in Kenya from 1977 to 2001, then with East African immigrants in the U.S.  More recently, he took great joy in joining his friends via Zoom or in person to celebrate and pray for the work of God around the world.  Malcolm saw the image of God in those around him - as an editor with Gospel Light Publications in California and beginning the Rendille Bible translation work in Kenya. He helped found the AIC Missionary Training College which equipped African pastors and their families for cross-cultural ministry, and when he returned to the U.S. he taught ESL and supported many individuals through their U.S. citizenship journey.  Malcolm loved the U.K., the land of his birth; Kenya, the land where he spent much of his youth and adult years, and the U.S., where he met his wife, Barbara and spent the last 20 years of his life.  He is survived by Barbara (Miner), his loving wife of 47 years; his children: Shawn (Kristine), Gregory (Jenny), Michelle, David (Shannon), Daniel (Nicole), Stephen Deion, and Joanne, and his grandchildren: Cassia, Charis, Clare, Elise, Jonah, Luce, Madison, Nathan, and Reagan. In addition to his parents, Malcolm was predeceased by three “angel baby” grandchildren in 2004 and 2010. 

Karen J [Voget] Lawson '65 passed away on September 1, 2023. Karen Jean Lawson, 79, wife of 52 years to Ronald Paul Lawson, went to be with the Lord on Friday, September 1, 2023 as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and lover of the Lord Jesus. Born in Bethesda, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Julius Abraham Voget and Bertha Slonaker Voget. Her mother helped her pray to receive the Lord as her Savior as a young girl. Karen received her BA in Education from Westmont College (Santa Barbara, CA) and began teaching with Los Angeles City Schools. She was a gifted educator who continued teaching in early childhood settings for 40 years.
She and Ron were married in 1970 and shared a joyful married life in Los Angeles, Baltimore/DC, Boston, Phoenix, and Athens.
Karen dedicated her life in faithful service to Christ and the Church – pouring out through children's services, summer camps, college student Bible studies, hospitality, gardening, cooking, and opening their home for various gatherings. She loved her family deeply and enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and extended family.
We rejoice that she is resting with Lord whom she loved and served. We treasure her as a pattern of one who loved the Lord in all things. Survivors, in addition to her husband, include three children: Laura (Brad) Langford of Watkinsville, GA, Aaron (Elisabeth) Lawson of Irmo, SC, Lynee (Micah) Boswell of Conway, AR; siblings; JoAnne (Dan) McCarrell of Mankato, MN, Elizabeth (William) Lawson of Storrs, CT, Jon (Kim) Voget of Avila Beach, CA and Terri Voget of Newington, CT and seven grandchildren: Ashley, Aaron, Susanna, Lydia, Charlotte, Apphia and George.

Donald "Joe" Zottnick '65 passed away on August 21, 2023. How do we wrap a summary around an iconoclast with a rapier wit who dived deep into archeology, historical linguistics, ancient migrations, the Social Gospel and its historical-critical method for interpreting the Bible and the historical Jesus, all the while holding down his day job as an accountant for OPM in Washington, D.C.? That was our Joe, the much-loved Unca Joe, noble, committed to his causes, to justice, and forever in pursuit of the truth. A lover of books. On his final trip to the hospital, he was told to pack one bag. It was filled with books. He leaves behind his partner in life, Rosalia (Sally) and son Erik of Annandale, Virginia, his favorite (and only sister), Maryln Zupicich of Bigfork, John Zupicich, his best friend, most loved niece Aimee Zupicich of Bigfork, nephew Joel Schick of Munich Bavaria, grand nephews Isaak Winkelman (Bigfork), Johnny and Niklas Schick (Munich), and grandniece, Emma Zupicich, Missoula. As a descendent of Germans from Russia (near today's Odessa in Ukraine), he felt enormous gratitude toward his grandparents who made the agonizing decision to immigrate and who came to the United States through Ellis Island in 1906. They left their homeland and loved ones without the foresight to know that their sacrifice would save their future generations from either the 1921 Red Famine or the death camps of Siberia. In 1925, they settled in Missoula where Joe's father, Herman, with only a fourth-grade education, put his talents and skills into his business as a barber and with considerable insight and acumen invested in commercial real estate. From these humble beginnings and with the encouragement of his Missoula County High School teachers, Joe developed a passion for education, particularly math, science and history. After graduation in 1960, he went on to receive a BA from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Ca, before returning to Missoula where he worked on the Green Chain at the Bonner Mill until he enlisted in the Army in 1966. His education was never complete, he obtained two Masters' Degrees, was working on a third before his final illness. He was a life-long learner with an unquenchable curiosity as he continued his studies and challenged professors.His traumatic upbringing left deep scars that never quite healed, however, he strived to excel wherever he put his efforts with integrity and caring. Like his hero, Teddy Roosevelt, he suffered from chronic asthma and bronchitis but would not let it define or confine him. He became a long-distance runner, an effort he would continue for 35 years. The practice began when he lived at the house on Strand Avenue and from where every day he ran up to the "M" and on to the top of Mount Sentinel before running back down. He was most proud of the recognition he received as Soldier of the Month in 1967 chosen from 6,000 soldiers on the base at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. It was his honor to serve his country and to be recognized for that effort. In the last few weeks of his life, and still with the belief that he could prevail over the many illnesses that plagued him, he vowed to take up again his teenage hobbies of fly tying and chess. "I'm going back home in 8 days," he promised from the rehab facility. He did go home, and we hope he was met by his beloved lab, Pal, the dog he trained to climb trees. He and Pal are probably busy planning a day of duck hunting up the Nine Pipes, or a hike on a propitious morning up to Finley Lake, the second Finley Lake, where the mountain trout practically jump on the line.

Robert "Bob" Lewis '64 passed away on July 21, 2023. 

Kenneth "Ken" C. Olson '64 passed away on June 23, 2023. Kenneth Charles Olson, a biochemist best known for his work in the field of recombinant DNA, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2023 in Stockton, CA. He lived independently until three months prior to his passing at age 80 from complications of acute kidney failure and sepsis. As a scientist during the genetic engineering revolution, Ken contributed to the biopharmaceutical field with multiple patents in protein purification and human growth hormone. He was known for his love of God, family, church, and friends, welcoming any to his home for talk, laughter, dining and music. Ken’s interest in science and chemistry began at an early age with his first basement chemistry set. He went on to have a productive career in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries when “gene-splicing” was in its infancy, and he contributed widely to the science world. Among his multiple patents in drug development, his most notable contribution is the first Human Growth Hormone synthesized and approved for human use. Ken joined Genentech, considered the world's first biotechnology company, in 1979, before it had a product on the market. He was part of an early team of scientists hired by Robert Swanson, who co-founded Genentech in 1976 with Herbert W. Boyer. Ken's work on human growth hormone led to the approval of Genentech's first drug, Protropin, in 1985. Ken grew up in Longmont, Colorado, where he played on the high school tennis team and played trombone in band and orchestra. The first in his family to attend college, Ken attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA and received his BA in Chemistry in 1964. During his college years he enjoyed competing on the tennis team, tutoring in chemistry, working on the grounds crew, and playing the trombone in the college pep band. Ken earned an MS in both Biochemistry and Microbiology from Oregon State University in 1967. He then moved across the country to launch his career as a Biochemist at Hoffman LaRoche (Nutley, NJ) in nucleic acid enzymology, from 1967 to 1979. His career path took him to Genentech (South San Francisco, CA) from 1979 to 1997, as a Scientist with a focus on recombinant DNA technology. He was one of the original 50 employees that had a vision to change the way that drugs were produced. One of his longtime colleagues stated, “You are a real icon in the biotechnology business” and “you turned a page of history.” He developed novel methods of protein purification and helped develop manufacturing processes for recombinant protein drugs, including Protropin (human growth hormone), Nutropin, Interleukin 12, and Somavert (PEG-Growth Hormone Antagonist).After Genentech, from 1999 to 2008 he served as Director of Research and Development at Allergan Pharmaceuticals in Fremont, CA. He led the development program for human collagen using fibroblasts from cell culture to the FDA-approved drugs, CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast. In 2008 he began consulting services for multiple biotech companies in product development, process, and regulatory support. In his early retirement he continued to share his expertise, mentoring the next generation of scientists. Ken applied his expertise in many ways, including presenting at professional scientific conferences. For over 50 years he was a member of ASA, the Christian Scientific Affiliation, a community of Christians who are scientists, engineers, and scholars. He served on the ASA Executive Cabinet, and developed many contacts and friendships over the years that allowed him to combine many of his passions: Science, God and travel. His commitment to God and his ministry was widespread and lifelong. Over the years, as a member of his home church, he served as a church deacon, served in youth ministries, taught men’s Bible study, and, most recently, was involved in Seniors’ ministry at Quail Lakes Baptist Church. He supported many missionary families and organizations globally. He took his role seriously and lived a lifetime of stewardship. He was always willing to share a meal and open his home for missionaries as they traveled, with his wife, Eunice, graciously hosting. He coordinated singers and concert opportunities at his church home. His was a quiet and kind presence that spoke to others of God’s grace and love for his neighbors. He was consistent in providing for his family and was well known for being the father of 5 girls. He allowed his silly side to come out, with his mischievous grin, dry humor and Dad jokes. Ken loved to travel, and instilled this in his family as they would navigate across the country, from coast to coast. He visited all 50 states and traveled overseas for conferences and for tours, such as The Holy Lands and the Wesley Heritage and Hymns Tour in England. Later in life, he and Eunice enjoyed taking cruises, especially when they were able to hear some of their favorite gospel groups sing and to join up with fellow church friends. In addition to travel and tennis, Ken enjoyed biking, attending and watching sporting events, gardening (especially tomatoes and oranges), wildlife and photography, stamp collecting, concerts, and singing in church choirs and the Woodbridge Singers. He participated in Bible studies and made every opportunity to spend time with his family and grandchildren. He is survived by his siblings: Paul Olson (Linda), Ron Olson, and Ruthann Baysdorfer; his 5 daughters: Wendi Olson Crocker (Laramie), Tammi Foster, Lauri McInnis (Ron), Nanci Olson Gundry (Mark), and Marci Barta (Rob); 9 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Eunice (Boldt) Olson.

Joyce [Davison] Huteson '62 passed away on February 25, 2023.Joyce was born on August 11th, 1940 in Whittier, California to parents, Orval Davison and Blanche Davis Davison. She grew up in California and Missouri. Joyce attended Bethel College, Westmont College and the University of Hawaii, and she graduated from Chapman College in 1962.
Joyce was a loving wife. With her husband Traff, she lived in Las Cruces, New Mexico; Dugway Proving Ground, Utah; Pennsville, New Jersey; Willingboro, New Jersey; Phoenix, Arizona and eventually in Austin. She has resided in Austin since 1972.
Joyce and Traff had four children: Mark Huteson, Greg Huteson (Bonnie), Sean Huteson (Robin) and Stephen Huteson; eight grandchildren: Charlotte Huteson, Rebecca Huteson, Tabitha Huteson, Benjamin Huteson, Tyler Huteson, Brianna Tomkivits (Travis), Reagan Edwards and Seth Huteson, and three great-grandchildren: Blair Huteson, Naomi Tomkivits and Noelle Tomkivits. She is preceded in death by her parents and her loving stepfather Vernon Slayden. Joyce has always been very involved in church activities, serving as a Sunday School teacher for 60 years at various churches around the country. Her Christian faith was the central focus of her life. Joyce worked at many jobs, including as cake decorator, library page and personal caregiver. She was a longtime member of the Gideons Auxiliary.

Kennth Olson '64 passed away on June 23, 2023

Carole Martin '61   Carole passed away on April 15, 2023 and now is with the LORD!

John Beck '67  December 20, 1945 - June 6, 2023
Kenmore, Washington - John N. Beck, age 77, of Kenmore, Washington, died Tuesday, June 6, 2023, after a long illness, at Overlake Medical Center, in Bellevue, Washington. He was born December 20, 1945, in Sacramento, California, the son of Romaine and Beth (Gage) Beck. He graduated from C. K. McClatchy High School in Sacramento in 1963; from Westmont College in Santa Barbara in 1967; and earned a Master of Public Administration from Golden Gate University in 1974.
He married Sondra M. Lucht on March 24, 1967.
John spent the majority of his career as a legislative advocate representing various healthcare professions. He successfully shepherded several important health care laws through the California legislature. He later served as Executive Director of the California Date Growers Association and of the California Raisin Growers. John was an accomplished musician and avid golfer.
In addition to his wife, Sondra, he is survived by three children: Christopher and wife Christy of Portland, Oregon; Erik and wife Leilani of Placentia, California; and Amanda Lopez-Solis and husband Ruben of Santa Barbara, California; seven grandchildren and one great grandson; as well as a brother James and wife Virginia of Manhattan, Kansas, extended family, and devoted friends

Beth [Songer] Smith '69   - Beth Ellen Smith passed away April 2, 2023 at 0433 am with her family at her side at her home in Elk Ridge, Utah. She was 75 years old and was born on April 19, 1947 in Long beach California to Robert K and Myrtle R Songer. Her parents preceded her in death. She is survived by her Husband of 51 years Michael L Smith and two children, Sara M Saylor (of Mocksville, NC) and Ethan M Smith of Draper Utah. She is also survived by her sister, Lynne A Ditsch of Fox Grove, IL. Beth’s parents moved from southern California to the Central Valley of California where her father taught High School English. Beth attended the same High School in Turlock California. Eventually Beth graduated from Westmont College in Santa Barbara California with a Bachelors in History and the following year her California Teaching Credential. She is blessed to have 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren living in three different states. Beth has long professed her Christian Faith and was able to be involved in children ministries teaching Sunday School Classes She enjoyed this greatly and it kept her busy along with raising the family. She also enjoyed participating in Women’s Bible Studies throughout her life. Daily reading the Holy Bible was important to her as she felt renewed by the scripture. Her hobbies included reading and of late fiction history focused on Israel. Her other hobby was Watercolor painting of which we have several around the home. A friend of hers, Bonnie Evans, once penned a note that read,” Beth is respected and admired for her quiet wisdom, understated optimism, hard work ethics, her calm demeanor, and her uplifting spirit. Though she isn’t loud or assertive about her faith, many lean on her stability or look to her for assurance when chaos threatens to break loose. She is always a voice of reason and a constant encourager.

Truman "Ted" Bergman '60  Ted Bergman passed away in October of 2020, due to a fast-acting cancer. He is now united with his wife,  (Gwen Smith Bergman) in the presence of our Lord. 

Wesley "Wes" D. Schraeder '61  - Wesley Dean Schraeder passed away in his sleep on March 15, 2023. Wes was born in Greeley, Colo., on Feb. 24, 1939. Shortly after graduating from Westmont College in Santa Barbara in 1963, Wes took a teaching position at Hayfork Elementary School. He stayed on to teach two generations in Hayfork and was a well-known and beloved member of the community. Wes retired from Education in 2000 and spent his free time gardening, traveling and enjoying his dogs. Wes is survived by his wife Kathy; and his five children: Larissa, Gwynn, Jonathan, David and Marshall.

William "Bill" Reed, Jr '66  - William Turner Reed Jr. (Bill) was born on October 5, 1944, raised in El Centro, CA, at 1056 Brighton St., and left us on March 14, 2023, in Tacoma, WA. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Turner Reed Sr. and Evelyn Jean Martin Reed; and half-sister, Marilyn Reed Burkhardt (Ray).  He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Linda Tieman; daughter, Jeanne Tieman-Reed McCool (Jon); and granddaughter, Fiona Reed McCool. Bill loved El Centro, with its clear desert skies, the moon and shooting stars, picnics in the desert, the roadrunners, and his friends, some of whom he kept all his life. He developed his love of baseball playing Pop Warner ball in El Centro. His spirit broke a bit when the family moved to San Diego in 1958 after his father had a dispute with his employer, but he learned to love the beach, though he never learned to swim. He lettered in baseball and football at Mission Bay High School, graduating in 1962. He played baseball at Palomar Junior College and Westmont College before transferring to San Diego State University, where he graduated with a BA in history, English, and social studies in 1968. He worked at a variety of jobs, took up running, and nished the San Diego Marathon in 1975. Bill began writing poetry and short stories early. He spent time in Micronesia (Chuuk) in the early years of the Peace Corps. He and Linda were together since the night they met in 1974; they traveled the US for a year and, later, Europe for 10 months. His pride was their daughter Jeanne, born in 1981. Bill and Jeanne had a special bond, loving language, cooking, literature, and humor. When the family moved to Upper Arlington, OH, Bill began writing daily, creating a series of mysteries. He wrote occasional pieces for the Columbus Dispatch and worked for Warner Cable Co. Moving to University Place, WA, he worked at North Pacic (now Heritage) Bank for 20 years. He continued to write daily and achieved his goal, publishing "Expatriates in Paris," a historical mystery about Paris in the 20's. Bill had been an avid jazz fan since he was a teenager. He also loved classical music, opera, cowboy ("not country"), and Hawaiian music. He appreciated art, museums, live music performances, spicy kimchi, walking at Chambers Bay, and hugs. Bill was a handsome, sweet, and kind man, initially shy but quickly warming to people. An extravert waiting to get out of the introvert's persona. Humor and laughter were important to him. While he liked to read, he had an undiagnosed reading disability that made reading challenging all his life. The family thanks the staff at Kaiser-Permanente-WA for excellent, kind, coordinated care; the staff at the Weatherly Inn in Tacoma for their special care for Bill's nal years, and the expertise of Wesley Hospice Services. No services are planned, but Bill would want you to raise a glass at sunset and be happy for having had a good life, good friends, and love. And he'd say, "Keep walking."

Nancy [Smith] Scarper '67 Passed away, November 10, 2021. after 56 years of marriage. She was faithful to God and to her family. 

Sylvia Parlee '61 Passed away, November 19, 2019

Dale Johnson '60 Passed away, June, 2022

David Leonard Bergman '60 died May 28, 2020, at the age of 81. David lived in Alpharetta, Ga. He was born to Dan Welty Bergman and Gertrude Leonard Bergman on August 6, 1938, in Tulare, Calif. Growing up, David worked on the family farm and Bergman Dairy. At Westmont, he majored in engineering for three years before transferring to UC Berkeley where he earned a BS in physics in 1961. In 1967 he took a year of sabbatical leave and earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at UC Santa Barbara. David began his career with Boeing Airplane Co. in Seattle. Two years later he returned to California to begin a 30-year career as an electrical engineer working on military systems for the Navy and Air Force, including working at the Pentagon. In 1980 David recognized the electrical character of natural phenomena and began active research on elementary particles. In 1990, he published his first paper on electrons and in 1997 he founded Common Sense Science, Inc., a non-profit corporation providing research and education in fundamental physics. He published over 44 research papers and a book, Science and Rationalism. He was a constant reader, and he grew to love tennis. After his college years he taught himself guitar. David maintained a committed relationship with Jesus Christ and wherever he lived he was always an active member in his church. David was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Gema and their son, his former wife Susan and their two children and his two sisters, including Edie Bergman Burckhardt ’66.

Betty [Coon] Obendorf  '60 Betty was born Feb 12, 1938 in Caldwell, Idaho to Jim & Zola Coon and died April 15, 2020 in Chicago. She is survived by her husband, Chuck and children: Timothy Obendorf (and spouse Becky), Heidi Baumgaertner (and spouse Martin) Steven Obendorf (and spouse Gary Leger) Dean Obendorf (and spouse Karen) and Roberta Howry and four granddaughters: Katie & Amy Obendorf, Zola Baumgaertner, and Brianna Howry. Betty lived in Boise Valley in her early years, graduating from Notus Idaho High School in 1956. She attended Westmont College in 1956-58 and University of Redlands in 1958-60. In August, 1960 she married Chuck Obendorf, whom she had known all her life. They settled in Anchorage, Alaska, where Chuck was working with a CPA firm. Betty taught school for two years and then became a full-time mom as they had adopted two Aleut children by then. In 1961 they made their first trip to Europe which started their love of travel. In their next 59 years they traveled to Europe six times, including four trips to the passion play at Oberamagau, Germany. Through the years, Betty also traveled to Japan, China, South Korea, South America, Thailand, Russia, and Africa. In 1964 they experienced the great Alaskan Earthquake. Other scary incidents include being burned out of their apartment in Anchorage, surviving a Lassa fever epidemic in Africa, being covered with ash from the eruption of Mt. Redoubt in Alaska, and the current corona virus pandemic. In 1966 they joined the mission, SIM (Sudan Interior Mission) and went to Nigeria for four years. While Chuck did accounting work, Betty substituted in the school, and was the dietician at the mission hospital. In 1970 they returned to Alaska where Chuck joined a CPA firm. Betty was very active in the church and kept busy taking care of five children. In 1979 they moved to Soldotna, Alaska. While living there, Betty served on several boards including: KDLL, the local public radio; Soldotna Chamber of Commerce, Kachemak Heritage Land Trust, Performing Arts Society, Soldotna City Council, and Kenai Watershed Forum. In addition, she was on the Kenai Peninsula School Board for 9 years, including 6 as president. This school district is the largest in the US, covering over 25,000 square miles (larger than the ten smallest US states). In 1994 she was named as the outstanding school board member of the State of Alaska. While doing this, she also ran a B&B out of their house, managed the local visitors center, and worked in the local bookstore, as well as her usual church activities. In 2013 they moved to Chicago to be near their children and grandchildren. She adored her grandchildren and they became the center of her life. She also kept busy as a member of the Ebenezer Lutheran Church council, and on the board of the condo association. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed. She wanted to be remembered as one who loved and trusted God, one who deeply loved her husband, and one who dearly loved her children and granddaughters.

Shirley Gilliatt King '61 died June 13, 2020, at 80 years old in Roseburg, Ore. She was born in Coalinga, Calif., on December 11, 1939, to Dr. Henry William and Lena May Gilliatt. She spent her youth in Coalinga. Shortly after coming to Westmont, her mother died, so Shirley returned home and received her AA degree at Coalinga Community College in 1960. She then moved to Oakland, Calif., to live with her aunt and uncle, where she received her nurse's training at The Alameda County Medical Center from 1962-65. She also worked as a hostess at the Oakland Christian Serviceman's Center where she met her husband of 55 years, Gene King. They married on December 12, 1964. In 1966 they moved to Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan, where she worked as a nurse. In 1967 they adopted their daughter, Aeja, from Korea, after sponsoring her at an Open Doors Orphanage for nine years. Their first son, Allen, was born in 1967, and their second, Paul, was born in 1968. The King family returned to San Diego in 1970, and they settled in Chula Vista, Calif. In 1972 Gene and Shirley adopted their son, Alan ("Al"). In 1973, their son Steven was born. They attended the First Baptist Church (The Refinery) in Chula Vista for over 30 years. Gene and Shirley moved to Roseburg, Ore., in 2003, where Shirley was a vital part of the prayer team at New Life Church. Shirley was involved with Child Evangelism Fellowship for over 50 years. She is survived by her husband; sister, Nancy Gilliatt Young ’58; brother, Jim; four children;10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Carolyn Finn '62  Carolyn Rose Finn was born March 30, 1938 and passed into the presence of her Lord at the age of 84 on September 22nd, 2022. She was the daughter of John and Rosalie Finn who preceded her in death  and  is survived by a brother Daniel Finn of Denair, CA and a sister Beverly Gist of Manteca, CA and several other family members. Carolyn graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, CA in 1956.  She attended Sterling College in Sterling, KS and Westmont College in Montecito, CA receiving an  Elementary Teaching Credential and taught for several years.  Later she served with Wycliff Bible Translators in Papua, New Guinea for two years teaching missionary children.

Lanny "Stewart" or "Lan" Farley '62  - Stewart (also known as Lan or Lanny) Farley was a Renaissance man who left this world on October 5. Stewart’s last retreat was his own chosen version of desert solitaire: a night sky full of beautiful stars and surrounded by nature. “His suffering has ended, and for that, his loved ones are grateful,” his family shared. He was born in Worland, Wyoming on February 10, 1940, to Bob Farley and Jeanette Dawson Farley. He started life on a homestead farm near Manderson, Wyoming, and progressed to the small town of Basin, Wyoming. Much of his childhood included exploring the Big Horn Mountains while riding his palomino, Blondie. Stewart attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara and Claremont Graduate University, where he earned his master’s degree in teaching. In 1993 he earned his Ph.D. in training and learning technologies from the University of New Mexico. He was a devoted and creative teacher, and later served as an education administrator. Stewart worked in education for most of his career, and his commitment to youth was a contribution that positively impacted numerous lives. Stewart’s talents were used in many ways. He opened a restaurant/bed and breakfast, launched a solar and construction business, started a school, and created video productions for the Eight Northern Pueblos in New Mexico, among other careers. He raced motorcycles, flew small planes, restored cars, built homes, collected tools, created fabulous meals, and cultivated beautiful vegetable and flower gardens. Not just a man of action, but also a true intellectual, Stewart always sought knowledge and deeper meaning in life. He enjoyed thoughtful discussions in the hot tub both day and night. He also particularly loved mountain and desert camping with his longtime partner, Paula McGee, and their dog, Atti. “Stewart was known for his initiative (there was nothing he couldn’t start!), his versatility (he was good at nearly everything he tried), and his breadth of knowledge,” his family shared. “He had incredible luck, both in smaller matters like finding parking spots, and in much larger daredevil pursuits. His antics were legendary. Those who knew him well have many stories to tell! “Perhaps Stewart will be best remembered for his incredible generosity and soothing hugs. He reached out a helping hand to those he cared about, and he gave deeply of himself. His love and sense of adventure were a gift to this world, and he will be greatly missed.” Stewart is survived by his partner, Paula McGee; ex-wife Elisabeth (Merriam) Farley; daughter Alicia Johnston and family; and sister, Janis Smith.

Thomas "Tom" Englund '62 Concord, NH - Thomas Howard Englund, 82, of Dunbarton, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2023. Born on August 13, 1940 in Rockford, IL, he was the son of the late Howard Hjalmar and Mildred Magdalene Englund (nee Carlson). Thomas spent his early years in Rockford, IL until he was 14 when his family moved to Burlingame, CA. He met his wife, Susan Yulich, when they were both juniors and active in the same church youth group despite attending rival high schools. Tom graduated in 1958 from Burlingame High School, then attended and graduated from Westmont College, Santa Barbara, CA in 1962 with a BA in Chemistry. Sue and Tom were married at Millbrae Baptist Church in Millbrae, CA in June of 1963, then they both attended Michigan State University to further their education. Tom graduated in 1967 with a PhD in Higher Education Administration. After earning their degrees, Tom and Sue settled in Topsfield, MA where they lived for 10 years and their two children were born. In 1977 the family moved to Chevy Chase, MD where they lived for 6 years. In 1983 they purchased an old farm house in Dunbarton, NH where they settled down permanently. In addition, they enjoyed spending time at Lake Ossipee in New Hampshire, generously sharing the lake house they purchased there with lifelong friends. Tom's gift was administration, loving to work towards solutions to difficulties, excited by the expansion and betterment of higher education, especially within Christian schools. Tom held many positions over the years in higher education administration from the Dean of Students at Gordon College, to being the Director of a Federal Grant in Washington, D.C., to the Dean of Faculty at Franklin Pierce College, to the President of the consortium of 13 Christian colleges across the US. An early love of Africa led to long term work toward the establishment of a Christian university in Nairobi, Kenya named Daystar. He helped in the development of the faculty there by supplementing with individuals from the US and Canada. Additionally, he helped develop an exchange program of students between Daystar and US schools. He served on Daystar's support organization of the US board of trustees for many years as well as serving for a short time as interim chairman. Being an amateur photographer himself, his interest in photography was invigorated by his many trips to Africa and the thousands of photographs he took of African wildlife while on safaris. His interests included early American photographers, particularly of the American West. Another fascination was following and collecting early American pewter and antique furniture. He is survived by his loving wife Susan Margaret Englund (nee Yulich); son Brent Thomas Englund; daughter Jessica Margaret Jones (nee Englund); grandchildren Tyler Philip Jones (age 12), Emma Margaret Jones (age 9), and Gabriel Thomas Jones (age 7). He is predeceased by his beloved brother Philip James Englund.

Dorothy "Sue" [Falkner] Wood '63 passed away at home in Astoria on July 22, 2022. She requested no funeral service. Sue was born in Oklahoma on Aug. 2, 1941. She grew up in Pomona, California. She graduated from Ganesha High School in 1959, and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Pomona. She attended Westmont College. She married and divorced Paul DeYoung of Pomona. She moved to Visalia, California, with her two young children in 1973, where she returned to college to become a registered nurse. She married James P. Wood in 1978. They moved to Astoria in 1998. She is survived by her husband, James P. Wood, of Astoria; her son, Jeffrey P. Wood, and daughter-in-law, Julie F. Burns Wood, of Keller, Texas; and her daughter, Karina Beth Wood Newenhof, and son-in-law, Jeffrey E. Newenhof, of Astoria. She is also survived by her six grandchildren, Benjamin W. Wood, Zachary S. Wood, Daniel M. Wood, Shealynn G. Wood, Gerald W. Newenhof and Sadie O. Newenhof. She was preceded in death by her parents, William T. Falkner and Dorothy M. Reed Falkner; and her sisters, Norma Falkner Gallagher, Leona Falkner Hays and Billie Falkner Israel. Sue suffered with an autoimmune disease for more than half of her life. She was a well-known and well-respected writer of a blog on chronic pain on EverdayHealth.com, and her own blog, “Weekly Dose of Sue.” She wrote several published prose and poetry pieces for varied newspaper and magazine publications, and aspired to be a young adult literature author.

Stephen "Steve" L. Janzen '64 - Stephen Lee Janzen was born in Wasco, California on February 16, 1942. He went home to be with the Lord on September 2, 2022. He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 He was the oldest child of Darrell and Ruth Janzen who raised him in the First Baptist Church. Steve attended Wasco schools where he excelled in academics and track. After graduation, he went on to Westmont College, Bakersfield College, and graduated from USC with degrees in political science and pharmacy. After college, Steve returned to Wasco to work alongside his father at Janzen Drug. Active in his community, Steve served on the city council and was elected mayor. In June of 1969, Steve married Linda Campbell to whom he was married for over 53 years. About 1980, they moved to Yucca Valley, then Lancaster, finally settling in Atascadero until 2017 when they moved back to the Valley and resided in Bakersfield. Steve was an avid reader and spent most mornings reading scripture and spiritual literature. In the afternoon he read fiction, news items, and other secular material. He was a fan of USC football and spent many Saturdays watching college football. Steve was preceded in death by both his father and mother. He is survived by his wife Linda, sister, Donna Cooley (Mike), brother, Keith Janzen (Carol), nieces and nephews, Sara, Jeff (Heidi), and Chris Cooley, and Natalie Lehmann (Curtis), Jonathan (Ashlee), and Kara Ayler (Eric), along with 9 great nieces and nephews. A special thank you to the caregivers at The Pointe for caring for Steve and Linda for the last 5 years.

Frank Ramsey '65 Died September 7, 2022

David Gustafson '68 passed away Sept. 23, 2022, in his home with his loving wife by his side.David was born in Grand Junction, CO, on Oct. 20, 1946. His parents, Rev. Clifford Gustafson and Ruth Gustafson, predeceased him. His son Kevin also predeceased him in 2017. David is survived by Dianna, his wife of 54 years. He is also survived by daughter Shannon Tunnell, her husband Ross, granddaughter Elise Ruth, daughter-in-law Roberta Gustafson, and grandson James Gustafson. David is also survived by sister Anna Grotenhuis, her husband David, sister Christine Kobayashi, and brother Dan Gustafson and his wife Pam. He also leaves eight nieces and nephews as well as many cousins and dear friends. David led a wonderful, deeply fulfilling life with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by his side. He had a beautiful voice and loved to sing gospel music in choirs and with his family. David graduated from Weed High School in Weed, CA. He went on to graduate from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA. There he met the love of his life, Dianna, and they married shortly after graduation. They continued to be involved in the Westmont community. David began his varied and accomplished career by teaching Music and Math in Long Beach, CA. He later became Vice President at Olga Lingerie and at Wacoal America. In 1990 David joined his brother-in-law, Tom Kobayashi, and together they started the company Entertainment Digital Network. David was an amazing optimist with a brilliant mind. His joyful, vibrant, hopeful, gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Dale Opp '69 died Thursday, October 27, 2022 in Eureka, his father’s hometown. Dale Allan Opp was born July 14, 1947, in Aberdeen. The first-born son of Allan and Eunice (Gross) Opp, Dale spent his early years in South Dakota, picking up snippets of German from his many relatives in the area. In the early 1950s, his family moved to Sunnyside, WA. There, his father, a builder, and his mother, a homemaker, raised their three children. In 1963, the Opp family moved to Kent, WA. Dale discovered a talent for running and joined the school track and cross-country teams. Graduating from Kent Meridian High School in 1965, he set school track records that remained unbeaten for decades. Dale attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA, on a track and cross-country scholarship. He treasured the years he spent running at Westmont and would often regale folks with tales of various victories. Of particular (repeated) glory was Westmont’s cross-country team winning third in the nation at the NAIA National Championship in 1969. He graduated from Westmont in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Dale was offered a teaching position in Corcoran, CA, where he taught government and social studies at the high school. While he enjoyed the subjects he taught, it allowed him to do his real love—coaching cross-country and track. Only a few years older than his runners himself, Dale coached with competence, humor, and genuine care. In 1974, Dale was set up on a blind date with Nancy Gaskill by her sister, a teaching colleague of Dale’s, as a deal to get him to chaperone a field trip. Dale and Nancy married on January 10, 1976, in Sanger, CA. Dale continued to teach and coach until he recognized that, as much as he loved coaching, teaching was not his calling. He wanted to work with his hands. He wanted to build. In 1980, Dale and Nancy moved to Issaquah, WA. With his father, Dale built his family home on the side of a mountain surrounded by cedars and pine trees. This was where he and Nancy raised their two children. In 1981, Dale started his own construction business—and he held a hammer for the next 40 years. His dining room table and floor were always covered in blueprints. He disdained architects and could spot an error or “overbuild” by sight. With unimpeachable business ethics, Dale built countless homes and remodeled just as many. His crew, subcontractors, and customers valued his honesty, building acumen, and forthrightness. A particularly dear project to Dale was building his home church with his father. Together, they built First Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Renton, WA. After his father’s death in 1995, Dale and his crew built the church’s later additions and, eventually, the engineering and architectural feat of its large new sanctuary. Dale would often point out that the sanctuary contained “not one single 90-degree angle!” Dale’s daughter was married in that sanctuary in 2007. His final large project was a vacation home for his son and his family in early 2021. Like building, coaching was Dale’s other passion. In the early 2000s, Dale coached Liberty High School’s cross-country and track teams. He strongly believed that sport was its most heartfelt and pure at the high school level. In Eureka he returned a final time to coaching, leading the Eureka-area schools’ North Central Thunder cross-country-team. Coaching this team was one of the greatest joys of his later years. It was hotly debated whether he loved his runners or his grandchildren more. Throughout his life, Dale’s coaching was not limited to high school sports. He saw potential and goodness in people that most had written off. He gave them jobs, encouragement, tough advice, and his faith in them. No one was a lost cause. Dale was a true outdoorsman, fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking. Moose hunts in Canada with his brother, Dwight, were particularly special. He enjoyed hours and hours spent around the campfire in Sedro Wooley, WA, with dear friends. For 50 years, every March Madness, Dale trekked to Las Vegas with his buddies from the Corcoran days. Dale eventually fulfilled a lifelong dream, building a homestead in Eureka. Summer thunderstorms and winter blizzards on the prairie made him giddy, laughing at his own good luck to live in such a wild, beautiful place. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Allan and Eunice, and his brother, Dwight Opp. He leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Nancy; daughter Ashley Hofmann (Christopher) of Poolesville, MD; son Tyler Opp (Christine) of Redmond, WA; sister Jane West (Jim) of Lake Tapps, WA; and four adored grandchildren, Charlotte, Lorelei, James, and Nathan.

Diane Dunlap Craig '69 died February 25, 2020, after a two-week battle against an undiscoverable and untreatable cancer. Born to Clyde and Jean Dunlap in Lakewood, Calif., on March 20, 1947, she spent her young years in Southern California and on buying trips to New York with her parents for the Dunlap's Department Store chain. After moving to Modesto at age 15, she graduated from Downey High School before attending Westmont, where she received a degree in Communication Arts. While at Westmont, she met Wayne Craig ’68, who was to be her husband for 51 years. They moved to Lodi in 1969 and she taught English at Lodi High School for a few semesters before leaving to raise two children, Jorie and Zachary. For the next 50 years Diane contributed her time to her family and her community, supporting Lodi schools, Hutchins Street Square Foundation, Lodi Memorial Hospital Auxiliaries, Omega Nu Sorority, PEO and countless other efforts supporting those in need. She also worked with women at the Salvation Army center for over ten years and helped young people feel supported and find balance. Diane will be remembered for her sense of humor and being a lady that truly cared about you. She was selfless, always trying to improve others and her family. She had a special gift of connecting with people in a way that made you feel like you could tell her anything. Her generosity was founded in compassion and service. Her kindness will be remembered by those she touched. She is survived by her brother, husband, two children and three grandchildren. She was preceded by her parents.

Barbara Gregg Burner '69 died October 11, 2019, at her home in Thousand Oaks, Calif., surrounded by family after a brief struggle with cancer. She was 72. Barbara was born on July 24, 1947, to Marian Winnifred (Anderson) and Jesse Franklin Gregg, Jr. in Panamá City, Panamá. Barbara's faith in Jesus was a central focus of her life since childhood. She grew up in Hollywood, Calif., where her parents owned and operated a Foster's Old Fashioned Freeze store and both she and her sister worked. She attended Westmont before transferring to UCSB to pursue a career as a dietician. After graduating in 1971, Barbara spent a year's internship in dietetics at the New York Hospital followed by working as a dietician at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric (NPI) hospital for 10 years until she began a 46-year career as a top real estate agent in the Conejo Valley with Lamb Realty, Century 21 Rolling Oaks, and Aviara Realty. Barbara was active in the Fountain Avenue Baptist Church while growing up, then attended the Church on the Way in Van Nuys, Calif. for 47 years, where she married Robert (Buzz) Russell Burner on August 8, 1980. Barbara was an avid skier and loved visiting their condo at Mammoth Lakes with Buzz. She loved good coffee, champagne and mimosas, and Sunday brunch at The Cheesecake Factory. She enjoyed scuba diving and watersports. Barbara especially enjoyed traveling. Anyone who knew Barbara knew at least one thing about her: she loved cats! She is survived by her husband, sister Marjorie, step-daughter and two step-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother and father.

Coral (Swickard) Corsaut '62 died on December 29, 2020, in San Luis Obispo, Calif., after a year-long battle with reoccurring cancer. She was 80 years old. Coral was born on November 24, 1940, to Sheldon W. and Lois C. (Pierce) Swickard in Tiffin, Ohio. At a young age, Coral's family moved to California. She attended West Los Angeles schools and graduated from University High School where she enjoyed her studies and singing in the school choir. Outside school, she loved her Girl Scout friends and activities. She attended Santa Monica City College and Westmont, where she graduated with a major in education and a minor in math. Later, post graduate classes were taken from UCLA, UCSB and Cal State Northridge. She taught secondary math from 1962-1977 in Santa Barbara, Beverly Hills and Exeter, followed by teaching at Cuesta College and then being director of the Central Coast Math Center in Arroya Grande until 1987. In 1987, Coral was hired as an academic instructor at the California Men's Colony (CMC) in San Luis Obispo. She was a conscientious and dedicated teacher. During her almost 20 years career at CMC she was chosen "Teacher of the Year" for the 1992-93 school year and selected as a finalist for the Correctional Education Association (CEA) Region VII Teacher of the Year. At CMC, she established "Project Change", a program for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Coral loved music, singing, the outdoors, camping, hiking, and watching home and garden shows on TV. Her greatest joy was connecting with family, friends, and neighbors. She looked for those who needed a smile, a word of encouragement or someone to listen to them. She is survived by her brother, Ernie; sister-in-law, Jan; sister, Arlene; four cousins; and many nephews, nieces, and their children.

Victoria (Viki) Jones died June 8, 2018, in Bothell, Wash., at age 70 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Viki was the youngest of six children born to Judy and William (Bill) Jones on February 27, 1948 in Nicaragua. While Viki enjoyed reading, studying the Bible, and playing cards with her friends at Woodcrest, her true passion was to be with people. From her elementary school teaching days in Illinois and California, to helping to take care of her mother, Judy, to being a nanny to her grandchildren Ben and Sean, to volunteering at many organizations and schools, Viki was one to always put others before herself. She was preceded by her brother Paul and her parents. She is survived by her brothers Bill and David; sisters, Cindy and Vivian; five children, Tim, Kristi, Jennifer, Jamee, and John; and 11 grandchildren.

Thomas William Henry Mills ’64 passed away surrounded by his family on January 12, 2021. Tom was born on December 25, 1941, and grew up in Guadalupe, Calif. He graduated from Santa Maria High School in 1959. Tom attended Allen Hancock and Westmont College where he earned a BA in Social Science. He was drafted in 1966 to the Vietnam War where he proudly served in the US Army. Upon his return, he moved to Santa Barbara where he met and married Linda McCabe. Tom later went on to complete his Ph.D., and was a longtime teacher with Lompoc Unified School District where he taught for over 30 years. Tom also received the very prestigious honor to teach abroad in England for one year through the Fulbright Teacher Exchange program. He loved singing in his church choir, serving with Gideons International, and traveling around the world. Tom had a deep love of learning and always sought out new experiences and novel opportunities for learning that he instilled in his family. Tom's greatest legacy is, and will be, his faith in Jesus Christ. He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Mills, and his mother, Lois (Gaddis) Mills, and his wife, Linda (McCabe) Mills. He is survived by his two brothers; Bill (Sandi) Mills and Allen Mills; his three children and his seven grandchildren.

Edward Paul Zahora '69 died on May 9, 2020. Edward was born in Berwyn, Ill. on August 19, 1947 to Edward and Lillian (Makovsky) Zahora. He grew up in Cicero, Illinois and graduated from Morton East High School. Ed attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California and Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. He graduated from Westmont College with a Bachelor of arts degree in 1969. He also spent two years in graduate school at Illinois State University and majored in organic chemistry. Ed met Mary Kay Wallin at Wheaton College in 1968. They were married in 1971. They enjoyed sailing on Lake Geneva and vacationing with the extended family at the lake in Minnesota. Ed enjoyed being creative in the chemistry lab and formulated specialty coatings at the companies where he worked including DeSoto, DSM Desotech and C. E. Bradley. His accomplishments included over 20 patents. Ed was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Aurora, Illinois. More recently he enjoyed the fellowship at Rivertown Church in Brattleboro, Vermont while he was employed at C. E. Bradley. Ed is survived by his wife, Mary Kay, two brothers-in-law, several cousins and eight nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Earl Petznick Sr. ‘61 died on July 22, 2020. He was born June 15, 1939, in Chicago, Ill., and relocated to Phoenix when he was 3 years old. Earl attended Phoenix Christian High School and graduated with honors. He attended Westmont College, then transferred to Grand Canyon College during his senior year. It was there he met his future wife of 60 years, Patricia Dryer. In 1980, Earl entered a partnership to purchase Sunland Beef Company, a struggling beef processing plant located in Tolleson, Arizona. The partners turned the company around and reaped the benefits a dozen years later when they sold it to Wisconsin-based Packerland Packing Company. The venture was the crowning achievement of Earl's career. Earl's legacy is rich on all fronts. He fully supported Pat and her sister Beverly's efforts in founding Fresh Start Women's Foundation. He also supported Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital, and various other organizations that support the community at large. Earl was appointed to the Arizona State Fair Board of Directors by Governor Jane Dee Hull where he served 10 years, two as board president. He was president of the Arizona Cattle Feeders Association and was inducted into the Arizona Farming & Ranching Hall of Fame in 2009. Earl was an avid student of world history, and an angler, fishing many waters. Earl is survived by Adele Smith, his wife, Patricia, his two sons, his four grandchildren and five great grandchildren, and his sister-in-law Beverly Stewart. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Ebba Petznick.

Marsha Kay Funk ‘63 died on September 12, 2020 due to heart problems and liver cancer. Marsha was born to Alden and Wynona Derby, Sept. 25, 1941 in Denver, Colo. and her sister Pamela followed. She lived in a Christian home with extended family living close by. The family then moved to Albuquerque, N.M. for her high school years and upon graduation they moved to Livermore, Calif. She attended the College of Pacific (UOP) for one year and finished her undergraduate years at Westmont College in Santa Barbara. Her graduate years were spent at the Univ. of Calif. Berkeley, receiving a Master's Degree in Librarianship and a teaching credential at Calif. State University, San Jose. Marsha was very devoted to her husband and family. She was a teacher at several different levels and locations. She finished her career as a Library Media Teacher at Sierra Jr. High. At the core of her life was an unwavering belief from an early age that she was a child of God. At Westmont College, she found the scriptures to come alive. She served her Lord and Savior in many ways, including being a Sunday School teacher, being involved in women's and mixed Bible studies, mission trips and Mom's in Touch groups praying for their children and grandchildren. She and Bob were actively involved members of Fruitvale/Riverlakes Community Church for over 50 years. For a number of those years, she faithfully served as the church librarian. Marsha is survived by her husband Bob, son Corey Funk ‘96 and daughter in law Jill Dobbie ‘97, son Joel Funk ‘00.

Neal Steinhauer ‘66, the former Oregon track and field star who was an NCAA champion in the shot put, died at age 76 on September 7, 2020. The graduate of North Eugene High School won three consecutive Pac-8 Conference shot put titles and led Oregon to the 1965 NCAA outdoor championship with the individual shot put title as a sophomore. He was the national runner-up on two other occasions. A three-time all-American, Steinhauer held the Oregon school record in the shot put from 1967, a record that stood until 1982. Steinhauer’s mark remains No. 2 on the UO all-time list. He spent his freshman season at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California, before transferring to Oregon to join a Ducks team coached by Bill Bowerman. He was the silver medalist at the 1967 Pan American Games and won the U.S. title in 1969. Steinhauer was inducted into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame in 1982 and the University of Oregon Athletics Hall of Fame in 1995. Steinhauer was living in Turlock, Calif., at the time of his death.

Dave Glass ‘66 published a book entitled Growing the Golden State 1846-1900 - The Adventures, Experiences, and Contributions of Two Pioneer Families. Dave graduated from Westmont College in 1966 and continued his education at Denver Seminary, earning his Master of Religious Education degree in 1972. He also went on to become a Doctor of Education, graduating from Tennessee Temple University in 1998. His book on California history can be found on Amazon.

Ruth Sharon Hopson DuBois ‘61 died on December 26, 2020. Sharon was born in Marysville, Calif. on February 17, 1940 to James Hopson Sr. and Janice Gladding Hopson. She earned her B.A. in Education along with her teaching credential from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Calif. She taught in Belmont, CA for two years, in Santa Clara, CA for three years, and for the Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy for 26 years. Sharon's care for people and warmth was well known. She was always a witness for Christ with her students. She was loved by them, by many families in the Santa Ynez Valley, and especially by her friends and family. She leaves behind three children, five grandchildren, and three siblings: James Jr, Judith Somerville, and E. Daniel ‘74.

Theodore Malcolm Best ‘61 died on February 14, 2020, at the age of 78. Ted was born to Sydney and Dorothy Best in Chungwei, Ninghsia, China, living there until he attended high school in Los Angeles. Ted attended Westmont College in Santa Barbara and graduated in 1961. The summer before he graduated he met his wife Marilyn who precedes him in death by thirteen years. Immediately following his graduation from Westmont he began teaching at La Colina Junior High School. He would remain at La Colina for the next 40 years. Ted’s passion and dedication for teaching was expressed in the student programs offered throughout the years. He began as a Physical Education teacher and coached the basketball team for several years. Later, he began teaching history. He particularly enjoyed taking students to Washington D.C. each spring. Mr. Best, as his students knew him, made a lasting impact on them as well as the faculty he worked with until he retired. It was common to have a former student approach him to say hi and share with him how much they admired and remembered him from their Jr. High days. This happened quite frequently considering his teaching career lasted four decades. Ted will be lovingly remembered by his 4 children, and by his grandson. Ted is also survived by his brothers, Trevor and Richard. His brother, Gordon, preceded him in passing.

Diane Laverne Roth ‘66, wife of retired Covenant minister Randy Roth ‘66, died January 11, 2021. She was 76. She was born June 2, 1944, in Eagle Pass, Texas, to Alfred and Laverne Graf and grew up in Sacramento, California. Diane earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from Westmont College and a Master of Arts in English from the University of California–Los Angeles. She married Randy on July 2, 1966. They served West Hills Covenant Church in Portland, Oregon, and First Covenant Church in Oakland, Calif. Diane was known for her hospitality and commitment to praying for others. She is survived by Randy, four children, and nine grandchildren.

Bruce Herman '61 passed away on Monday, November 23, 2020 at the Iowa Masonic Memory Care Unit, in Bettendorf, Iowa. Bruce was born in Berwyn, Ill. on May 15, 1938 to LeRoy and Borgny (Nilsen) Herman; and spent his entire life along the Mississippi River he loved. On April 9, 1965 he was united in marriage to DeEsta Joan Scharff. Bruce was an interesting, accepting, and unique person to his family, friends, and customers. He spent over 50 years cutting hair at his barbershop in Princeton, Iowa welcoming and enjoying conversation with all. He enjoyed being on the river, riding his motorcycle, working on projects, yoga and meditation, as well as spending time with his family. Bruce was a thinker, builder, inventor, writer, and problem solver. He built a 35’ trimaran sailboat, a house, a car, and a not so finished seaplane. He self published a couple of books about his views on life and growing up on the river and was active in the Unity Church. He is survived by his wife, two sons, two grandchildren, three brothers, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, and sister-in-law.

Mary Elizabeth Pooleon (‘62), wife of Michael S Pooleon, was born on May 25, 1940 and passed away on December 4, 2020. She had been in decline from Alzheimers for several years. She died at home peacefully.

Esther Carol Bennett ('61), age 81, died at home in her sleep on January 26, 2021. Born August 26, 1939, in Wahkon, Minn., Esther was the youngest of nine children of James and Florence Brinks. She lived in small towns in North Dakota, Nebraska, and Oregon before moving to Portland, where she graduated from high school. After graduating from Westmont College, Esther taught for one year in Orcutt and then returned to Santa Barbara where she taught English at La Cumbre Junior High School for five years. During that time she fell in love with and married her next door neighbor, Don. Together they raised two sons, Jim and Brad. For the last few years Don cared for Esther at home as her Alzheimer’s progressed. Esther was a member of First Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, where she sang in the choir, taught church school, served as a Deacon and Elder, and coordinated meals for Transition House. For nineteen years she worked as Director of Christian Education and then Director of Adult Education, where she loved teaching and mentoring, especially young mothers. She remained passionate about teaching, later earning a certificate to teach ESL in the SBCC Adult Education program. Esther fostered in those she loved an appreciation of faith, music, good food, and remaining connected to extended family. Esther’s family was her biggest priority and source of pride. She always had a welcoming home and beautiful meals that brought the family together for some of our most special memories. Among her other favorite things were reading, singing, and reciting rhymes she learned as a child. Family and friends appreciated her warm smile and welcoming laugh and she took special pride in being silly. Esther is survived by Don, her husband of 56 years, two sons, three grandchildren, and a sister, Florence Larsson, of Seattle.

Donna Kathleen Murphy (McGregor) ‘62 passed away peacefully with the love of family and friends on September 17th, 2020, at the age of 79 in Colorado Springs, Colo. Donna was born in Chicago, Ill. on January 30th, 1941. She moved to Calif. when she was young and remained a resident of Calif. until moving to Colo. in 1994. Donna graduated from Westmont College before marrying her husband (Joseph) of 58 years in 1962 in Los Angeles. Donna and Joe moved to rural Orange County after the birth of their first child. Donna focused her life on her family, raising two loving children, and supporting her husband. Donna always enjoyed the outdoors, including annual camping trips with her family. In her later years in Colorado Springs she enjoyed hiking and snowshoeing. In her last months, she relished hiking in Cathedral Pines. She was kind and giving and always put the well-being of others first. Donna is survived by her husband, Joseph; one son and one daughter; her sister, Bonnie; and loving nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald and Erma.

Ken “Skip” Ross ‘60 died on June 13, 2021, at the age of 82. He was born in Brainerd, Minn. to Mary Lu Matson and Wallace G. Ross on September 27, 1938. After his time at Westmont, Skip graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary. He founded and directed Circle A Ranch, where he worked to create an environment where all were included and welcome. Skip worked as a Crown IBO with Amway. People knew him for his generosity throughout his career. He authored “Say Yes to Your Potential” and “Daily Disciplines,” and created the Dynamic Living Seminar and the Thrive Study Series. As a speaker, Skip inspired and challenged people to become who they were created to be. As a singer, he wanted to help people recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit. He desired to be a channel for the love of God. He is survived by his wife, Susan, five children, six grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

Samuel Henry McCreery ‘61 died on June 24, 2021 in Estes Park Calif. He was born on January 14, 1940, in Los Angeles, Calif. to Dr. Samuel and Dorthy McCreery. Sam grew up in Fillmore, Calif. He moved back to Calif. after attending Wheaton College and graduated from Westmont College in 1961, where he met his wife, Karan Anderson. They married in 1962. Following his work as a Youth for Christ club director and a middle school math teacher, Sam moved to Lake Arrowhead, Calif. in 1965 to start Smooth Move Concrete Pumping Business. He served as music director and Sunday School teacher at the Community Baptist Church, and was a member of the Rim of the World School District Board of Trustees and Mastermedia International. After retiring from his business, Sam served as a DSA inspector for concrete and steel at the Santa Ana school district, a securities broker, and an orange rancher at Fillmore Orange Groves. Sam lectured often for Community Bible Study. He sang and played the trombone and guitar. He enjoyed playing tennis and golf, taking his grandchildren for ice cream, and making Sunday morning waffles. Sam read through his Bible every year and was passionate about sharing Christ with others. He is survived by his wife, Karan, three children, and eight grandchildren.

Dr. Michael Gregory Terpstra '69 died on August 18, 2021. He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and spent ten years of his childhood in Micronesia. His memories and love for these islands lasted a lifetime. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in Honolulu. Mike began at Westmont in 1965, where he met MaryAnn, his wife of 54 years, that fall. The couple married in December 1966. About to be drafted, Mike entered the United States Military in June 1967. Mike came just in time for the fourth of July, 1970, and was reunited with his wife, son, and new daughter. The family lived in California – San Jose, Felton, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Watsonville and Sacramento. During that time, Mike earned his BA in Social Sciences, an MA in Theology, and a Ph. D. in Human and Organizational Systems. In 1997, he and MaryAnn moved to Portland, Oregon. He worked as a Registered Nurse for 20 years, a salesman for Forest Lawn cemeteries in Southern California, a teacher for 3 years and as a Christian Education director for a Portland congregation. Throughout his time in Portland, he was closely involved with the Oregon Micronesian community. Mike’s best loved job was caring for his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, two children, three grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Marcia Renck ‘64 died on December 2, 2021. She was born on November 23, 1940, in Long Beach, Calif. to Charles and Patricia Renck. She attended elementary school in Lomita, Calif. and high school in Fullerton, Calif. Marcia attended Santa Barbara College and then graduated from Westmont College in 1964. She taught elementary school in La Puente, Calif. for one year and moved to Livermore in 1966, where she taught fifth and sixth grade at Almond Avenue and Arroyo Seco Schools until her retirement in 1998. During her years in Livermore, Marcia was a member of PEO Chapter FX, California Retired Teachers Association, and was active in many other organizations and clubs. She is survived by her sister and nieces, nephews, and nine great nieces and nephews.

Patricia Childers ‘68 died on November 26, 2021, in Wheat Ridge, Colo. She was born to John and Florence Childers on March 19, 1946. The family moved to a farm north of Longmont, Colo. where Patty began her dad’s “right hand man,” driving trucks, tractors, and other equipment as needed. She attended one of the last of the old-fashioned, 3-room country schools. She graduated from Longmont High School in 1964 and attended Westmont College in 1968. Her sister, Phylis [Childer] Giddings ‘66, also attended Westmont.Patty returned to Longmont in 1967 and worked for JC Penny. She drove a delivery truck for UPS after moving to Wheat Ridge. In 1987, she became a licensed massage therapist. Patty loved to help people feel better. She worked primarily at the Aurora Senior Center. On her days off, she drove cars at the Colo. Auto Auction. Patty was interested in the lives of others, and supported organizations and missionaries. She was fondly known as “Pip” by the girls she worked with in Pioneer Girls. Patty loved traveling and visited Sweden, Hawaii, Alaska, many states across the U.S., and the Great Wall of China. She enjoyed fishing with family members in lakes in Northern Canada. Patty treasured her family: parents, siblings, and siblings-in-law, nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews- and supported all “her kids” at their sports games, school functions, and church programs. Her niece, Nicole [Giddings] Spahn ‘04 attended Westmont.

Gloria J. Beaird ‘69 died on June 5, 2021. Her sister Loris (Beaird) Mills ‘74 also attended Westmont.

Judith Lynn Reid ‘65 died on December 19, 2021 in Orange, Calif. She was born on October 8, 1941. Judith graduated from Westmont in the middle of the 1964-1965 school year. She married Donald Reid in 1968.

Nancy Avakian (Malootian) ‘61 died on October 1, 2021. She was born on August 5, 1939, to Jacob Malootian and Effie Roumian, who immigrated from Turkey. Nancy parents survived the Armenian Genocide. Because of her mother’s faithfulness in the midst of hardship and her commitment to raising Nancy in the church, Nancy accepted Christ in Sunday school at the age of 12. Nancy attended Westmont College for two years. Her Bible classes grew her love of studying the Word. She completed her education at Calif. State University Fresno, and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education, and a K-8 teaching credential. Nancy taught elementary school in Burbank, Calif., and then returned to Fresno to teach at Winchell Elementary School. She especially enjoyed teaching third grade. Nancy met her husband, Karl Avakian. They were married in 1963. Nancy and her husband, Karl, a pastor, shared the same calling for ministry. She ministered alongside Karl to the youth at Pilgrim Armenian Congregational Church, in Fresno, Calif. in the pastorate at the Armenian Presbyterian Church in Paramus, New Jersey; and in the church conference pastorate, to the 24 churches of the Armenian Evangelical Union in the United States and Canada. Nancy loved seeing the impact God's word had on peoples' lives. She taught children Sunday School and Vacation Bible School and led high school women's, young women's and women's Bible studies. Nancy is survived by her two children.

Carol Hafer (Weller) ‘62 died on September 19, 2021 in Prescott, Ariz. She was born on August 21, 1940 in Bloomburg, Penn. to Frank and Ruth Weller. Carole loved to teach others, whether they were preschool children or adults. She taught students from her home and was leading others in how to teach as their Sunday school superintendent. She often taught from the Bible about Daniel and the book of Revelation. Carole was an excellent cook, seamstress, and hairdresser. Her friends and family praised her creamed corn and garlic mashed potatoes. She loved to play “Kings in the Corner,” Dominos, Scrabble, and Scattegories. A cowgirl at heart, Carole enjoyed the rodeo, owned a great pair of boots, and let the kids shoot BB guns outside the house. She never tired of the surrounding rock formations and the landscape of the high desert. She is survived by her sister and two children. 

Joan Kay Womack '61, a beloved mom, grandma, GG, aunt, and friend, Joan Kay Womack passed away December 21, 2021, due to numerous health complications. She was born to Mathew and Bessie Silver Nelson on February 24, 1940, in Los Angeles, California. On January 14, 1961, she married her best friend and sweetheart, John C Womack. Joan received her Bachelor's degree in Education from Westmont College and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Development from Pepperdine University. Always an educator, Joan taught Kindergarten, First Grade and Second Grade in Norco, California and helped establish the Kindergarten at Crossroads Christian Church in Corona. Joan accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and served Him faithfully throughout her life in California and Utah. She was a member of Risen Life Church where she faithfully taught Children’s Sunday School and Children’s Worship, sang in the choir and was very involved in her Sunday School class and supporting missionaries. She was also blessed to be the Children’s Director for Bible Study Fellowship for many years. Her greatest joy was loving and caring for her family. She is survived by her daughters Jan (Jeff) Rolan, Jill Wiggins; grandchildren Jeremy (Sabrina) Rolan, Joanna (Daniel) Hackman, Katy Wiggins; and cherished great-grandchildren Macenna, Kayzlynn, Rory, and RJ. She also leaves her niece Karen (Tom) Wong who was as close as a sister; and is preceded in death by her husband John and her parents. The many cards, messages, and prayers from friends during her illness were a great comfort to Joan and her family.   

Vincent Carl Nelson '63, Resident of Alamo, was born December 23rd, 1941 and passed away on September 25th, 2021. Vince was called home to be with the Lord Jesus on Saturday, September 25. He was born in Chicago and lived in Illinois until he went to college. He attended Westmont College in California (later becoming a trustee) and then attended Columbia Business School in New York. After three years in the Navy as navigator on the Arnold J Isbell, he returned to Chicago and joined IBM. Business eventually brought him back to California where he stayed. Vince was an avid reader, loved to ski, enjoyed traveling, and served the local church. He was an expert on Winston Churchill, Dwight D. Eisenhower and WWII. Moab, Utah was his favorite place to visit during his later years. He is survived by his wife, Cathy, daughter Annie, and two sons, Andrew (Andrea) and David. Vince is also survived by his brother James, his two granddaughters Ellie and Madi, and by Walter Hansen (Darlene), Jean Johnson, Joyce Spurlock (Doug) and Linnea Kuhnhausen (Rick), with whom he was raised. Vince was buried at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery.

Eunice Loretta (Boldt) Olson '62 passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on September 1, 2021 in Manteca at the age of 81. She was a devoted wife, mother of five, grandmother of nine, and great-grandmother. She was dedicated to serving her church, school, and neighborhood communities, and will be remembered by the many lives she touched for her giving heart and fun-loving spirit. Eunice was born on April 10, 1940 in Austin, Minnesota, to Roy and Loretta Boldt, originally of Des Moines, Iowa. She was the baby girl of the family, and adored her older brothers, Donald and David. During World War II, the family lived in Pacific Grove, Calif., where her father, an Army Chaplain, was stationed before his deployment to Europe. After the War, the family settled in Portland, Ore. Euni grew up as a "PK" (pastor's kid) in the church parsonage. Her father was a Baptist minister, and her mother the church pianist. During her childhood in Portland, she loved to ride her bike around town. For her high school years, Euni moved with her parents to the rodeo town of Prescott, Ariz., where she played cornet in the school marching band. Euni attended Westmont College in Montecito, Calif., where she met her future husband, Kenneth Olson, and graduated in 1962 with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a teaching credential. The couple, who would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary next year, wed on December 28, 1962. Euni began her career in education as a third grade teacher in Ojai, Calif. She enjoyed young married life in Corvallis, Ore. where Ken pursued graduate studies in biochemistry. With an adventurous spirit, and three little girls in tow, Euni embraced a move across the country to New Jersey, where her husband began his career as a biochemist at Hoffman-La Roche. When the family grew to five daughters, they bought a Victorian house in Caldwell, NJ, which Euni decorated in a historic style. They found a church family where Euni served in the nursery, junior high youth group, and Bible quiz team. Euni was patriotic and loved parades, historic sites, and traveling with the family, visiting 49 states. Euni was a teacher and music lover who filled the family home with books, musical instruments, games, pets, arts and crafts, sewing projects, baking cookies, and laughter. She had the gift of hospitality, and the Olson home was often filled with friends and family, old and new. In 1979 the Olson family moved back west to the San Francisco Bay Area, where Ken was recruited to a biotech startup, Genentech. They lived first in Burlingame and then in Foster City. Euni taught reading at McKinley Elementary School and returned to college for a certificate in Early Childhood Education. Throughout the 1980s she was a preschool teacher at Westcott Preschool. In the 1990s she volunteered at Holt Children's Services as a greeter of Korean babies to facilitate international adoptions. She served in various churches in the choir, senior ministry, and Bible study groups. In her retirement years, Euni enjoyed spending time with her nine grandchildren, traveling internationally, and hosting friends from near and far. She traveled with Ken to European destinations and on group tours, and they enjoyed cruises to Alaska, Mexico, and the Panama Canal. In 2010 Euni and Ken moved to Del Webb, an active adult community in Manteca, and became members of Quail Lakes Baptist Church in Stockton. At Del Webb, Euni joined the women's Bible study and continued her love of music as a member of the Woodbridge Singers and of "Strummin' Wonders," a performing ukelele band. Although Euni began to slow down physically, her social networking remained active. Every year, without fail, she remembered hundreds of friends and family with handwritten birthday, anniversary, and holiday cards. Eunice is survived by her loving husband, Ken; her daughters Wendi Olson Crocker (Laramie), Tammi Foster (Jim, deceased), Lauri McInnis (Ron), Nanci Olson Gundry (Mark), and Marci Barta (Rob); her grandchildren Lukas (Ada), Jordan, Jessica, Sam, Colin (Alby), Deanna, Blake, Kelly, and Peter; and great-granddaughter, Violette. She is preceded in death by her brother, Donald Boldt (Jo Anne) and survived by her brother, David Boldt (Betty). A celebration of life service will be held at Quail Lakes Baptist Church in Stockton on October 30, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. A reception and luncheon will follow at 12:45. The address is 1904 Quail Lakes Dr., Stockton, CA 95207. If you would like to make a donation in memory of Eunice Olson, consider one of two charitable organizations, Mount Hermon Christian Conference Center, at P.O. Box 413, Mount Hermon, CA 95041 https://www.mounthermon.org/give/, or Samaritan's Purse Children's Fund at Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 https://sampur.se/3EYltC2.

Don Goehner of Nipomo, California entered heaven on August 10, 2021. He was born on December 22, 1938 in Dryden, Washington where he grew up with his parents, two younger sisters, 9 aunts and uncles and 36 cousins. He married his high school sweetheart, Bev, at age 19 and the two of them moved to Santa Barbara, CA so Don could attend Westmont College. Don graduated from Westmont with a degree in sociology in 1960 and he and Bev welcomed their first daughter, Terri, shortly thereafter. Don served as the executive director of the Greater Long Beach Youth For Christ for 14 years. He worked in advancement at Azusa Pacific University and Westmont College and earned a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University. In 1990 he formed the Goehner Group in San Jose, CA, which provided consulting services in fundraising, management and executive searches. He served on the board of trustees at Westmont College from 1986-2017 and was active in Young Life Capernaum, a ministry to youth with disabilities. Don had a heart for people and loved to serve his Lord by caring for those in need. He especially loved and cared for his family, in particular his grandsons and their wives who brought him so much joy. Don is survived by his wife of 11 years, Caryl Goehner, of Nipomo, CA, his son, Todd, of Ventura, CA, his daughter, Trina, and son-in-law, Steen of Spokane, Washington, grandsons, Keaton (Angela) Hudson, of Portland, OR, Taylor (Gabrielle) Hudson, of Los Angeles, CA, and Carter Hudson, of Spokane, WA. His first wife, Bev, and daughter, Terri, preceded him in death.

Karen Morley (Strom Hess) '75 Passed away December 13, 2023.

Paul Kennedy '70 Passed away December 9, 2023. Paul Clayton Kennedy, 75, of Orange, California, died on December 9, 2023, from Alzheimer's disease. Paul was born in New Jersey to parents, Frank, and Joyce Kennedy. He lived in Altoona, Pa and moved to Montebello, Ca, where he attended Montebello High School. He graduated from Westmont College and Fuller Theological Seminary. Paul was a pastor at South Hollywood United Presbyterian Church in the 1970's and then worked in the water sports industry for the rest of his career.Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Frank, and Joyce Kennedy, and by his sister, June Marshall. He is survived by wife, Mary Kennedy; daughter, Erin Trudeau; sister, Janice Mauw; brother, Mark Kennedy; grandchildren, Augustus, Walter, Calvin, and Charlotte Trudeau; and many nephews and nieces.

Christina Simonsen '78  Director, the Academy for addiction and mental health nutrition. Director, Eating Protein Saves Lives, Inc. Announcing the closing of my 40 year private practice, as a psychotherapist and mental health nutritionist, specializing in trauma and addiction recovery in order to focus on the development of the Academy for addiction and mental health, nutrition and online school, founded in 2015, and the nonprofit organization, Eating Protein Saves Lives, Inc., founded in 2021. The Academy is the only school in the world applying functional nutrition to addiction treatment, and recovery.

Robert "Bob" Patterson '77  died on June 10, 2022 at the age of 66 due to complications from early-onset Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.  He is survived by his wife Martha and siblings Gregg '79 and Kathy '84. A vocal music major, he sang in the Westmont concert choir under Dr. John Lundberg from his freshman year through his senior year.  He was also in lighting and sound for drama on a summer tour, operated sound equipment for chapel, and other campus events.  After graduation, and for the rest of his life, he worked as a sound technician and repairman. He also tuned, repaired, and installed organs and carillons. His other interests included singing in various church choirs and other vocal groups, as well as cultivating a life-long interest in model trains and railroad history.  He loved conversations about choral music in general, and church music in particular.  And now (to borrow a classmate's phrase), he has "crossed the finish line" -- and he gets to sing in the greatest choir there is.

Candyce [Janzen] Homer '76 died December 5, 2017 from Lung Cancer. She is survived by her husband, David, and children, Anthony Homer, Charles Homer, Gabrield Homer, Nicolle Homer and Bridget Teyler

Larry Whitmere '71 died January 6, 2023

Vickie [Ryder] Smith  '70  Jan. 22, 1948 — March 28, 2023 Vickie Lee (Ryder) Waldier went home to her Lord and savior on March 28, after a three-year battle with metastatic breast cancer. Vickie was born in Portland on Jan. 22, 1948, to Paul Edwin and Mary Lois (Bettcher) Ryder. She grew up in Alameda, California, and graduated from Alameda High School in 1966. She attended Westmont College, graduated from the University of San Francisco in 1970 and went on to earn her teaching credential from San Francisco State University. She taught elementary school in Alameda, and then in Portland. She married Brian Aaron Waldier on June 7, 1969, in Portola Valley, California, and he remained faithfully by her side until her death. She worked tirelessly as a homemaker, pastor’s wife, homeschool teacher and family dietitian. She passionately pursued health and nutrition, and found joy in sharing information, recipes, supplements and food bargains with family and friends. She lived in Ilwaco, Washington, for most of the last 43 years, except for 10 years in Jewell. Brian and Vickie have been members of Seaview Baptist Church and Ocean Park Community Church in Washington, Nehalem Valley Community Church and Warrenton First Baptist Church. Vickie loved to share her faith in Jesus Christ. She was thrilled to share her cancer journey, miracles and trials with family, friends, supporters, doctors and even acquaintances, inspiring many who have witnessed her faith. Vickie is survived by her husband, Brian, of Ilwaco; son, Aaron Paul; grandchildren, Waylon and Aubrey Waldier, of Sandy; brother, Brent G. Ryder, of Las Vegas; and many cousins who have faithfully supported her. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Elizabeth Waldier; and beloved daughter-in-law, Crystal (McCarthy) Waldier.

Deborah "Debby" [Boggs] VanderWoude  '73 died May 24, 2022 (Tampa, Florida). She was loved and cherished by many people including : her parents, Jacob Woodyard Boggs and Betty Rae White Boggs; her husband Dean VanderWoude; her children, Ryan Dean VanderWoude and Michal Anne Vander Woude; her brother Jonathan David Boggs; and her close friend Sharon Taylor. She was also cherished by many loving family members and friends.

Gary Barsness '73 died March 29, 2014. 

Francine [Bus] Phillips '73 died June 2022. 

June 10, 2022 (La Mesa) – Francine Phillips, an award-winning journalist, editor, writing instructor and communications specialist based in La Mesa, has passed away. Phillips wrote for many local publications, including East County Magazine. She worked as managing editor at the Daily Californian, executive director of California Garden Magazine, and as a freelance copywriter at U-T San Diego, in addition to numerous other communications positions.“Francine was a talented writer with a passion for life and a broad range of interests. She will be deeply missed by many in our community,” says ECM editor Miriam Raftery. Phillips covered a wide range of topics for ECM, including coverage of local water board and school board issues, a weekend at a local lavender farm, environmental issues, and a global leadership summit featuring former Secretary of State Colin Powell at Journey Church, where she served as a spiritual care minister and writing teacher. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended Eagle Rock Junior-Senior High, then obtained a B.A. in English literature at Westmont College in Montecito, CA. She also received  master’s degrees in theology and in marriage and family counseling at Denver Theological School, according to her LinkedIn page. Her career path included positions as director of communications for the Alzheimer’s Association of San Diego/Imperial Counties and for the La Jolla Country Day school, where she taught journalism and speech. She also served as a communications officer at SDCERA and held positions with the San Diego City Attorney, San Diego District 2 Supervisor, and the President’s Initiative for Family Justice Center. She was the principal of her own business, Write Now!, from 1993 until her death. In her spare time, she enjoyed knitting, gardening, and beach barbecues with friends, many of whom posted fond memories on her Facebook page at  https://www.facebook.com/francine.phillips, where they recalled her kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit.

Douglas “Doug” Arensmeir '73 died Jan 14, 2020. Doug was born in Salem, Ore., on February 8, 1950, to Purl and Wilma Arensmeier. Growing up, Doug was very involved in the children's and youth departments at First Baptist Church. He attended Englewood Elementary School, Parrish Junior High School and graduated from North Salem High School. He attended Westmont and Portland State University. Doug was very musically talented and throughout his life played many musical instruments. He was a choir and orchestra member in high school and later played in several bands. Doug worked for Linn County Fire Patrol, Del Monte Cannery and Fairview Training Center in Salem. In 1988 he launched his own marketing business, Arensmeier & Associates. Since 2001 he was employed by the Oregon Department of Human Services, most recently in the Background Check Unit. He loved motorcycles, piloting aircraft and talking about politics. He had many, many friends and acquaintances in the Salem area. He would meet weekly with groups of people to stay updated on what and why "things" were the way they were. He loved politics and assisted candidates with their campaigns for state, local offices and boards. He enjoyed devoting his life to giving back countless hours by serving on over 25 state and local entities. Doug is survived by his loving wife, Gayle; his sister, Shari, and her husband; three nieces; five great-nieces and three great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his father; mother and brother, David.

Tom Turrentine ‘72 died on June 2, 2020, due to an unforeseen coronary event while on a bike ride. He had been a resident of Santa Cruz County for 31 years. He received a full athletic scholarship to play soccer at Westmont College in Santa Barbara in 1972. He later moved to Santa Cruz, where he got a job with Summit Expedition. Tom went back to school, first to Cabrillo College, then UCSC, where he studied Anthropology. He traveled south to the Andes, and lived in a village outside of Huaraz, Peru during the fall of 1980 and winter of 1981. He was drawn to the hard-working and gentle Andean people, and enjoyed trying to understand their way of life. His thesis "The Politics of Language: The Structure of Linguistic Inequality in Peru" was completed in September 1982. He received his Doctorate in Anthropology in 1994 from UC Davis. In 2007, Tom became the founding Director of the Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Vehicle (PG&EV) Center at UC Davis. Tom was goofy, light-hearted, and he loved to make you laugh. He is survived by his wife, Pat, their daughter Sasha, and two brothers and sister, Ralph ‘69, Jim ‘67, and Betty ‘65.

Carolyn Platt '74 died August 29, 2022, went to be with the Lord, after losing her battle to pancreatic cancer.  Born to Alvar and Mary Platt on January 10, 1949. She grew up in the small town of Ripon, CA with her parents and only sibling, Alan. After graduating Ripon High, she went on to Westmont College to obtain her teaching credentials in 1971. Shortly after, with her love of teaching, went to Kijabe, Kenya for two years, teaching English. While there she was convinced to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, where she then reached the top of the mountain in December 1976.  Coming back to the states her first teaching assignment was at Riverbank High, while continuing with a master's degree from CSUS in 1992. After a stint at an Adult Education school as an administrator, she ended her career as an English teacher at Oakdale High School.  Her love was helping others, whether it be students with their studies, or helping friends and neighbors with whatever they needed, her giving heart made her easy to love.  She is survived by her nieces Stephanie Trillas, Jenny Rameriz, and their families.  

Dr. Rick Love ‘75 had been battling cancer and died of a heart attack early on December 29. 2019. Rick was an internationally recognized expert in Christian-Muslim relations. He and his wife, Fran ‘75, began their service as missionaries to Indonesia. He was an ordained pastor, and a consultant on reconciliation between Muslims and Christians. After 9/11 he was an adjunct professor at the Zwemer Center for Muslim Studies and Columbia International University for several years. Rick initiated the founding of Vision 5:9 in 2002, to create strong partnerships among those who shared a vision of building the Kingdom of God among Muslims. He established the values of Vision 5:9 as a network, and set a high standard for unity among Christians and love for Muslims around the world. Rick went on to found Peace Catalyst International, an organization with a heart to build bridges and “wage peace,” to unite Muslims and Christians through a common word. He was author of the book Grace and Truth: Toward Christlike Relationships with Muslims.

Lyle Thomas Burchette ‘71 died on April 5, 2016 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and cancer. Lyle was born in Louisa, Ky. on November 21, 1932. He accepted the Lord at an early age and walked the hills of Kentucky as an itinerant preacher. Lyle then served in the U.S. Navy where he continued to spread the gospel through his service on the USS Cascade earning the nickname “Preacher”. Lyle has built churches in Guam, Hawaii and Hollister, Mo. Lyle was a realtor in California and Missouri. His goal in life was to bring people to the Lord. He wanted everyone to know Jesus. He had a servant’s heart and was willing to help anyone in the community who needed assistance. Lyle founded the Hollister-Branson Chapter of the VFW, of which he was commander for several years. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and the VFW. Lyle and Phyllis hosted many reunions for the USS Cascade which was commissioned in 1941 until 1974. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis, siblings, and four children. Lyle has 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Lyle was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Violet Burchette.

Steve and Karen Ray ’70 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 22, 2020. They wed in the Formal Gardens of Westmont College.

Patricia Hanlon ‘76, a freelance writer and visual artist, has an upcoming book release. Her book, Swimming to the Top of the Tide (New York, Bellevue Literary Press) will be published June 8, 2021. Hanlon writes, “I am grateful for my Westmont education!” She attended graduate school at Northeastern University of Mass., graduating in 1976. She is married to Robert Hanlon, also a freelance artist, and they now reside in the woods of West Gloucester, Mass. She previously worked in marketing communications at Gordon College, retiring in 2017. Hanlon also has three children and four grandchildren.

On December 19, 2020, Beth Lynnette Kreiss (Gamble) '73 passed away at the age of 70. She is survived by her husband of almost 40 years, David Kreiss ‘73; one son and daughter; mother, Agnes Gamble and three siblings. She was preceded in death by her father, Dean Gamble. Lynnette was born in Pasadena, Calif. She attended Livermore High School and Westmont College in Santa Barbara, where she graduated with a BA in Biology. After that she worked as a phlebotomist. She got married to David Kreiss on January 24, 1981. The family moved to Vallejo in 1986. Lynnette enjoyed writing poems, painting, and photography and other forms of artistic expression. She wanted to be seen, to be heard, and share her joys and struggles with the world. She also enjoyed the outdoors, especially the Redwoods. She was a willing listener and a caring soul. She was never afraid to speak her mind, She gave generously to people in need and was hospitable to those who needed a place to stay. Lynnette will be missed by all whose lives she touched.

James (Jim) Howard ‘76 died on July 15, 2018 after a 13-month challenge with gallbladder cancer. Jim was born to J. Grant and Audrey Howard in Corpus Christi, Texas on Sept. 19, 1953, and later moved with his family to Phoenix, Ariz. Jim attended Stanford University and Westmont College as an undergraduate. In 1976, he won the NCAA Division III and NAIA National Championships in the shot put and discus. After receiving a master's degree from Idaho State University, he entered a PhD program in neuromuscular physiology at the University of Arizona where he met his wife, Jody. They were married on May 18, 1986. Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Spokane, Wash. where Jim decided to pursue another longtime interest in finances, and become a certified financial planner. Their marriage of 32 years was blessed with the birth of their two sons. His entrepreneurial spirit led to a 30-year career in financial and estate planning specializing in complex, client situations. Jody joined his practice in 2005, and together they worked alongside each other for nearly 13 years. As their last business venture, they formed the corporation, Estate Strategies. Jim's faith served as his anchor and his direction for how he lived, loved, and contributed to this world. He demonstrated kindness, integrity, loyalty, and an eagerness to excel with an inner confidence in his gifts and who God made him. He is survived by his wife, Jody; his two sons; his mother, Audrey Howard; and his sisters, Beth (Howard) Sheets ‘77, Jeanne (Howard) Snodgrass ‘85, Juli Jewell and their respective families.

Daryl Frederick Roberts ‘78 died on July 6, 2021 at age 64. He was born on August 3, 1956 to Frederick Alamartin Roberts and Edith Louise Elder Roberts in Pasadena, Calif. Daryl worked as an insurance adjuster in Wurtsboro, N.Y. His friends and family miss his intellect, passion for justice, brilliant humor and love of music and nature. He is survived by his longtime life partner, Cheryl Smiley.

Carol Sue Butterfield '73 died in Vancouver, Washington on Oct. 7, 2021. She was born on Feb. 6, 1939, the second of 8 children, in Desoto, Kan. to James and Margaret West. Carol was raised in Kansas and graduated from Desoto HIgh School at the age of 16. The following year, she began college at Westmont college. She transferred to the University of Kansas for her sophomore year where she met and soon after married Donald Butterfield, a Korean War veteran. In 1958, the couple moved to Vancouver where they raised their four children. Carol opened the world to her children through many family field trips that included Sunday afternoon picnics in the shadow of Mount St. Helens. Carol worked for nearly a decade in classified advertising for the Columbian Newspaper. She took a job as a hostess with The Holland Restaurant in order to send more time with her children. Carol transitioned into medical billing with Kaiser Permanente and later with the Vancouver Orthopedic Group. In 1984, Carol Don died of an aggressive form of cancer. After several years, Carol met and married William Nuemamm. The couple enjoyed taking road trips and traveling to Hawaii. Carol was an avid reader and loved discussing current events. She had a keen memory for history and the way that people in the community are connected with one another. Carol is survived by her four children.

Paul Sellers ‘76 died on September 29, 2021 in Chula Vista, Calif. He was born on October 2, 1954.

Cynthia Clampitt '73 released her newest book - Destination Heartland: A Guide to Discovering the Midwest's Remarkable Past- by the University of Illinois Press. This is her fourth book, but her second for the University of Illinois. For those interested in buying the book, the publisher is offering a Friends and Family discount of 30% off the cover price using the code S22UIP at the publisher's site.

Deborah "Deb" Cooperman (Tyler) '76 passed away on January 22, 2022, after a long battle with brain cancer. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and Ventura, California, she graduated as valedictorian from Mills High School, Millbrae, California, in 1972, and subsequently Magna cum laude from Westmont College Santa Barbara, California in 1976. She then pursued a career in X-ray technology and ultrasound, working at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, California. Life took her east to Connecticut in 1982, where she continued her career at the University of Connecticut and office practice. She moved to the San Diego area in 1996, accompanying her husband's retirement. She then embarked on a new interest, becoming an instructor and sales associate at the Great News Cooking School and Cookware in Pacific Beach. Her range of personal skills and activities were considerable, being a superb swimmer and loving long-distance running, hiking, tennis, sailing, windsurfing, and skiing. She was a great cook and bread maker, enjoyed puzzles, and creating great alliterations as part of her gift messages, along with beautiful calligraphy. She had an enormous capacity for empathy and kindness and was a great listener, which drew people to her. Her physician husband always said she would have made a superb doctor. She is survived by her husband Larry (she the love of his life and he the love of hers), her sister Tamara Fedun of Austin, Texas, and father Marlowe Tyler of San Juan Capistrano, California.

Michael Ray Mitchell '70, 73, of Midlothian, Virginia, went to be with his Lord on October 25, 2021. He was the loving husband of Sharyn Mitchell for 40 years and the devoted father of his two children, Michael Jr., and Charis. Michael was born on July 16, 1948, in Santa Ana, California. He was a good man and a devoted and beloved husband, father, and friend. Michael was a gifted Christian educator and minister and earned degrees from Biola College, Talbot Theological Seminary, and an Ed.D. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. At 24 years old, Michael began serving as the children's ministry director at Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa, where he met his wife, Sharyn. Since that time, Michael went on to serve as pastor and principal of schools and churches across the country, including pastoring Emmanuel Community Church in Arvada, Colorado. Michael served as an associate professor of Christian Leadership at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia for ten years, until he retired. He is the author of the book Leading, Teaching, and Making Disciples as well as the author and presenter of countless leadership and family training seminars, including The Ezra Experiment and Go Make Disciples. Michael always focused on Christ's calling to "Go, make disciples," and was dedicated to teaching and ministering to whomever the Lord placed in front of him, no matter how small or large the gathering. In addition to his academic accomplishments and life-long ministry, Michael also enjoyed leisure outdoors as well as leading camping ministries, including Christian camps at the Green Oak Boys' Ranch in California and at Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je in Colorado. He was a talented athlete and enjoyed playing softball, baseball, basketball, and racquetball throughout his life. He had a delightful sense of humor, loved music and the arts, and he taught himself acrylic painting during his retirement. Michael impacted countless people through his Christian life and ministry, and none more so than his late wife, Sharyn and his two grown children, Michael Jr. and Charis. Through all of his ministry and service, Michael always remained devoted to his family, prioritizing and constantly supporting them throughout his life. Michael was preceded by his parents, Kenneth and Betty Mitchell, and his wife, Sharyn. He is survived by his two grown children, Michael Mitchell Jr. and Charis Mitchell, and his sister, Patti Zielke of Anaheim, California.

Richard A. “Dick” Swift '71 was promoted to glory on Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, at the Southern Maine Medical Center in Biddeford. He was born May 30, 1947, in Santa Fe, N.M., the son of Kenneth and Jessie Olive Swift. Dick attended school in California and later graduated with a music degree in clarinet from Westmont College in Santa Barbara. He subsequently received, when he was in his fifties, an accounting degree from the University of Southern Maine. Dick taught music for a period of time, and worked as a mailman for the U.S. Postal Service. He was employed as a bookkeeper for the Seashore Trolley Museum, and for the past ten years he worked as a cashier for Walmart in Biddeford. On Oct. 24, 1982, he married the love of his life, Linda Hilburn, in a memorable ceremony with family and friends on Captain’s Beach in Northport, Maine. Dick and Linda are members of the Salvation Army of Old Orchard Beach. He countered a diagnosis of MDS by following a macrobiotic diet that served him well and provided eight years of quality living. Dick’s passions were serving the Lord, loving his wife, reading, hiking and cooking plant-based meals. He was also able to construct anything from reading directions — a real talent. The Swifts enjoyed many adventures together, including hikes, staying in a tree house and a yurt. In his late sixties, he aspired to through-hike the Appalachian Trail. Eventually he hiked sections of the trail. In February, 2019, Dick and Linda attended a marriage cruise in the Caribbean, where they renewed their vows. He sang bass in the Songsters at the Salvation Army in Old Orchard Beach. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Normie. He is survived by his wife of 39 years and two sisters, Marilyn Sears of Guelph, Ontario, and Kat Swift of California.

Craig Kamper '80  Employment Information: 1980-1997 involved with the Dairy industry. 1998-2022 I worked for UPS in Nampa Idaho. I retired in June 2022. n my retirement, I enjoy living in a 55+ apartment community. I get to spend time with my 5 children who all live near me, as well as my 6 grandchildren. I am involved in my church, serving as a Deacon. If any former classmates live in the Boise area, please reach out to me. I would love to visit and share life experiences and joys!

Lisa Seville '85 Master of Arts in International Development with a Specialization in Global Civliziation (Missions) from William Carey International University in Pasadena CA. Lisa lives in La Habra Heights and works as an Operations Coordinator for Obria Medical Clinics LA, which has crisis pregnancy clinics in Whittier, Pasadena, and Compton.

Connie [Saxton] Lovell '80  After many years in Papua New Guinea (Wycliffe Bible Translators), we're living in Tucson, AZ, preparing the Minaveha Bible for typesetting. The Minaveha people live on west Fergusson Island, Milne Bay Province, PNG

Christopher "Chris" Hartman '84 April 25, 1961 – April 9, 2023
On the evening of April 9, 2023, Christopher “Chris” Cook Leith Hartman passed away at his Santa Ynez home after a ten month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old.
Born in Bar Harbor, Maine, in 1961, to John Burroughs Leith Hartman and Annie Verser Hartman, Chris was the third of their five children. He spent his childhood sailing at the Pleon Yacht Club in Marblehead Neck, Massachusetts, playing hockey in Houlton, Maine, and attending Stony Brook Preparatory School on Long Island in New York. Drawn to the West Coast by the warm weather, the beaches, and the palm trees, Chris spent most of his adult life in Santa Barbara. In 1984, he graduated from Westmont College with a degree in business and economics. In 1990, Chris joined the retail brokerage firm Smith Barney, where he served as vice president for 20 years. In 2010, he joined TKG as a private wealth manager. Throughout his career, Chris cared deeply about the well-being of his clients and worked hard at assisting them in reaching their financial goals. He retired in 2023. In 1995, Chris met the love of his life, Karen Thompson. They were married in October of 1996, and had two sons, Christopher and Matthew. Chris thrived on bringing people together, organizing social events and spending time with family and friends. His children were his pride and joy, and he was extremely active in supporting their growth and development. Chris regularly took time to relax with his family and savor the natural beauty near his cabin on Lake Almanor in northern California. He loved the great outdoors, spending time skiing, sailing, hiking mountain trails, and biking. Chris also enthusiastically collected and renovated classic American muscle cars and British sports cars. Throughout his life, Chris was an active member of the Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez communities. He served on the board of the Carpinteria Boys and Girls Club and as president of the Santa Barbara Young Republicans. Chris sat on the Board of Directors of Old Spanish Days in 2009, through 2012, and served as co-marshal of the Fiesta Historical Parade for several years.
Chris became a member of the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Benevolent Posse in 2012, serving as Vice President for five years before being elected President in 2021. He enjoyed years of fellowship and the opportunity to support his community as a member of Vikings of Solvang. Chris also collaborated with local political candidates and was elected in 2018, as the first vice chair of the Santa Barbara County Republican Party and held that position till his passing. The Christian faith was an important part of Chris’ life. He was an active member of El Montecito Presbyterian Church and The Ranch Church in the Santa Ynez Valley. Chris is survived by his wife of 26 years, Karen, and two sons, Christopher of Burlingame, and Matthew of Santa Ynez; his sister Tiffin H. Fox and her husband W. Trent Fox of Waldmohr, Germany; his brother John B. L. Hartman and his wife Margrete R. Hartman of Alsvag, Norway; and his sister, Kate H. Klein and her husband Matthias A. Klein of Schmatzhausen Hohenhann, Germany. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Patricia Thompson Perry of Santa Barbara, sister-in-law Susan Anderson and her husband Rod Anderson of Santa Barbara, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Sharol Mulder '86  On January 13th, we bid good-bye to a loving, wonderful human being, Sharol Mulder Mkpado. She succumbed to a very rare cancer of the bile ducts and left us… “happily” (her word) and confident she knew God, and sure that she would arrive in Heaven. Sharol was born on June 26, 1964, the oldest daughter of Rebekah and Ron Mulder of Santa Barbara. She is survived by her husband Chris, their sons Christian (Shannon Sweeney) and Kele, and their daughter Alexandra. Also mourning the end of her life is Patsy (Kyle Lachman), her sister. She leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She attended Cold Spring Elementary, Santa Barbara Junior and Senior High Schools and Westmont College. Experiences that left her with a love of travel were a year spent in Holland (6th grade), Time share week vacations “all over the world” with her family, and a year in China with her newly acquired BA, teaching ESL in Hunan Province. She and Patsy had an idyllic childhood–roaming freely with their friends on the paths and in the canyons around Westmont. She made friends in the neighborhood and at Westmont who were in her life to the end. She returned to San Francisco State for her master’s degree in ESL, and subsequently taught in Korea and Taiwan where she met and married the love of her life, Chris. Sharol’s concern for foster children led her to Sacramento where she was instrumental in changing legislation that made it possible for foster children to participate in activities just like regular kids. She walked the walk: her beloved daughter Alex was a foster child before she was adopted by her forever family! She made friends everywhere. Many of them have stepped up lovingly to plant her garden, organize her “stuff”, decorate her house for Christmas, install grab bars in her bathroom, drop numerous bouquets and meals at her doorstep, etc. etc. etc. Those of us in her family are amazed at the love and concern given freely to us all. So many of her clients (She worked as a VERY successful realtor for 30 years–over 600 families realized their dreams with the help of her caring and expertise) have become friends as well. Our thanks to each of you for trusting Sharol with your futures. She was awarded both the Jack Kelly (most complicated exchange transaction of the year) AND the Howard Gates (most complicated residential transaction) awards, the ONLY residential realtor to have received both of the highest accolades given by the Santa Barbara Board of Realtors. She came home from the hospital to a beautiful cocoon constructed by her sons and husband. A constant fire in the fireplace, 20+ candles, a comfortable hospital bed next to the wall of windows in her living room and her two cats. Her personal goodbyes to each of us were beautiful, and her passing was so serene that it has made an unthinkable loss less sad. Farewell, dear Sharol. Our memories of you are so, so rich and numerous. They will sustain us.

Raphael "Wayne" Harper '86  Raphael Wayne Harper was born in Santa Barbara, CA, on April 17, 1961, to Raphael and Helen Dansby Harper, both now deceased. Raphael suddenly passed away from a heart attack at age 61 on October 30 while at his Santa Barbara home. He was born into a large family well known for their kindness, acts of community service, and support of Santa Barbara’s African American and Latino communities. Raphael stood regal in stature, and reigned as his family’s King of Hearts. Raphael, known to childhood friends and family as Big Wayne, attended McKinley Elementary School and graduated from Santa Barbara High School. As a Don, he was known for his abilities on the basketball court. Friends recall his prowess on the basketball court and football field, talents later passed down to his sons and grandson. Raphael attended Westmont College in Montecito before heading north to San Francisco State University on a basketball scholarship. He transferred to Long Beach State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy. During his career, Raphael worked as a physical therapist, most recently as a fitness instructor at Gold’s Gym. At 19, Raphael celebrated the birth of his first child, Raquel Odile, named after her Father. His second child, Shante, came a little later. He subsequently met his wife, Joanie, and her daughter, Cryshauna McKee. They became partners, marrying in Las Vegas and celebrating the birth of three more children, Raphael Cortez, Ramon Marquez, and Raliccia. Unfortunately, Joanie preceded Raphael in passing away. Raphael’s descendants brought his greatest joy as he doted on four grandchildren from his daughter, Raquel, including Justice, Jayah, Joyous, and Jermelle. He enjoyed Raphael Cortez’s children, Ramelo, Raphael, Cortez Amir, and Ayiah; Ramon’s child Julian, and Raliccia’s children, Christopher and Legacy. Raphael loved, cheered, and praised their efforts. Raphael spent the last 11 years of his life as a partner with Josephine Pereyra. They lived in Santa Barbara, enjoying visits with family, friends, and church. As a man of faith, Raphael found tremendous comfort from life’s tribulations in his Roman Catholic faith. As a result, he became close to Father Dan Lackie and other faith workers serving Mission Santa Barbara, which honors all people in the spirit of St. Francis.

Scott Gibson '88 died of sudden heart failure on November 12, 2019, in his Santa Barbara home. He was 54 years old. Scott was born February 1, 1965, in Midland, Mich., to Dennis and Ruth Gibson. Growing up in Wheaton, Ill., Scott was an exceptional track athlete and football player competing in state meets and championships. Scott moved to Santa Barbara to attend Westmont. During his college years, he participated in Semester at Sea where he traveled around the world and gained a love for adventure traveling and capturing extraordinary images on film. After graduating, he pursued his love for surfing, adventure and photography as he built his own photography business. He travelled extensively to Bali, Fiji and Baja while maintaining his home for more than 30 years in Santa Barbara. He was married to Nancy Myers. Scott was widely known as a professional photographer, owner of Scott Gibson Photography and Santa Barbara Postcards and a participant in the local surfing community. Friends and family openly regard Scott as the funniest person they have ever known. His extraordinary talent with the camera and charisma to rally adventures and tell stories have been enjoyed by countless people. Above all, Scott truly loved the people in his life. He had heart, incredible humor and passion for life. He is survived by Nancy, his parents, two brothers and other family members.

Carl Magnusson '80 died July 15, 2020, at 62 years old. Carl was born on June 25, 1958, in Palo Alto, Calif. He was the only child of Naomi and Paul Magnusson. Carl attended Westmont, then transferred to UC Berkeley, where he graduated with a degree in physical science in 1981. There, Carl met Mindy Agler, and they married in 1981. They lived in Oakland, Calif. in an intentional community with a group of friends who were, in his words, “subverting the dominant paradigm.” Carl and Mindy had their daughter, Sara, in 1988, and moved to Whidbey Island, Wash., soon thereafter. It was here that Carl began his design and contracting business. Carl’s craftsmanship has touched the lives of so many, his personality speaking though the homes he built. Carl and Kimmer Morris found each other in 2001, and together have left a lasting mark on the Whidbey arts community. From rolling a 12-foot Easter Island head he created down the Maxwelton parade, to speeding (sometimes flaming) down First street in the Soup Box Derby, Carl always found ways to express himself through art. Carl is survived by his partner, Kimmer; daughter; mother; and a community of hundreds on Whidbey Island whom he held so close.

Gaylene Kootstra Colburn '83 died July 11, 2020, after a brief battle with leukemia. Gaylene was born on July 24, 1961, to Helen and Dewey Kootstra. She was the third of five children. The family of Dutch immigrants called North Hollywood home and lived next to the family dairy. She spent her childhood in Sun Valley, Calif., and attended Village Christian School and Bethel Christian Reformed Church where her faith grew. When she was in high school the family dairy business brought them to Bakersfield. She went on to Westmont to study business, where she met the love of her life, Dale Colburn ’82. They met while skiing the slopes of Utah on an interim semester and married on January 21, 1984. They made their home in Santa Barbara, where Gaylene worked as an accountant, and had two daughters, Ciena Colburn ’15 and Adyson. As an accomplished seamstress who often altered wedding dresses and sewed clothes for her girls, she recently made over 200 masks for family and friends. She was incredibly bold and fearless. One look at her face after she flew down the ski slope and it was clear that she absolutely loved her life. She made friends everywhere she went, often accompanied by her dog Roxy, and always had time to talk and listen. Gaylene was beloved by her friends at Trinity Baptist, Calvary Chapel and Santa Barbara Community Church. She is survived by her husband; daughters; brothers Howard Kootstra ’76 and Perrin Kootstra ’79; two sisters; nieces Jenna Kootstra Menard ’10 and Chelsea Kootstra ’16; nephew-in-law Christian Menard ’10 and cousin Marilyn Kootstra Toler ’76 among other family members and friends.

John Riedinger '80 died on Novemeber 13, 2020.

Peggy (Trump) Loofbourrow ‘81 died on September 10, 2020. She is survived by her brother and sister in law John R “J.R.” Loofbourrow ‘82 and Laurie (Maynes) Loofbourrow ‘84, as well as her nephew Ross Loofbourrow ‘09.

Robert Gordon ‘83 died on August 25, 2020. Robert was born October 15, 1961, in Elgin, Ill. to Robert and Edyth (Trethewey) Gordon. Robert received his English degree from Westmont College in Santa Barbara in 1983 and his Civil Engineering degree from University of Arizona in Tucson in 1991. Robert served as a civil engineer in Los Angeles, Walla Walla, and College Place for the past thirty years. While serving as a missionary teacher in Korea in 1987, Robert met his future wife Sharon. Together, they raised four children -- Reid, Shelby, Micah, and Hannah. Robert’s greatest desire was to bring glory to God. He fought hard for those he loved both in service and in prayer. He loved fiercely. He spoke gentle encouragement to those around him. Robert was talented and created art, stories, a business, a program, furniture, toys for his children, and a home. Robert hungered after righteousness. He fondly remembered his time on the mission field and longed for the opportunity to follow God wherever He might lead. Robert is survived by his father and mother, Robert and Edyth, his wife Sharon, his 4 children, as well as his brothers Tom, Scot, and Michael.

Thomas "Tom" Brian Ellis ‘83 passed away unexpectedly, while cave diving, January 20, 2021 in Ginnie Springs, Florida. Tom attended South Pasadena High School and graduated from Westmont College in 1983. He is a cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. Known for his larger than life spirit and lively personality, Tom was curious, full of wisdom and care, eager to offer his ear to those in need, and committed to continuing his spiritual practice. Tom was an active member of many groups and communities in the Valley and around the country. He was a supporter and confidant to many and will be deeply missed by his many friends, family and wife. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Tom and Peggy Ellis. He is survived by his wife, Shireen (Arensmeier) Ellis; three sons, three grandsons, one sister, and two brothers.

Stuart Sultze ‘82 took a new position as pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Ukiah, Calif. Stuart worked as a chiropractor for 31 years in Bakersfield, Calif., until he felt God call him into vocational ministry. “I was led into the ministry when I observed that many of the churches in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod... were seeking a pastor, but not enough were available,” he reflected in an article published in The Ukiah Daily Journal. Stuart met his wife, Cathy Dingwerth Sultze, at Westmont. She also graduated in 1982. Together they have three children and three grandchildren.

Jen Gonzalez ‘89 now works as a reading and math intervention specialist for K-5 students at the Carpinteria Unified School District. Her position focuses on helping struggling students through individualized lessons and a multi-modality approach.“My philosophy (is) I’m committed to providing a quality education in a caring environment. I believe that all students can learn and are capable of being successful, and it’s my role to ensure this,” Gonzalez said. “If there are kinesthetic learners… or visual or auditory learners, (we’ll focus on) what learning styles students will tackle the most.” She will be working at Canalino Elementary School for the majority of her time. Gonzalez earned her undergraduate degree from UC Santa Barbara and her teaching credentials from Westmont. She completed a Masters in education and technology at Azusa Pacific University.

Lisa Magee '84 sadly passed away in April of 2021 from cancer.

Andrea Hanson (Walker) '89

Cheryl Ann Waldrop '96, age 47, a resident of Aurora, IL, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 1, 2021. She was born September 8, 1974 in Lancaster, California to Jeffrey and Linda Waldrop. Cheryl has worked for United Airlines since 1998. She is survived by her parents as well as many family and friends.

Noni Beth Kimbel Patchell '87 was born of Dorothy Elisabeth Evinger Kimbel and Elnathan Samuel Kimbel. She is survived by her loving husband James Edward Patchell, her brother James Jeffry Kimbel, and sister Lori Pavsek. Noni attended Vieja Valley Elementary School, La Colina Junior High, and San Marcos High School. She attended Westmont College where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Noni and James were married December 30,2006 at the First Presbyterian Church in Santa Barbara, where Noni was a lifelong and very active member. Noni also had a column in the Montecito Journal.

Andrea Hanson (Walker) '89. To my dear friends and family,I told my family near the end that I can't wait to hear the words from Matthew 25:23, "Well done, good and faithful servant." spoken to me by my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As you read this message, know that I have heard these words! Please know that I received sweet kisses and final goodbyes from Elizabeth, Joshua, and Brian just before my pain stopped at 6:30 pm on Thursday, September 23rd, 2021. I was showered with the love of family and friends until my last breath, and for that I am so grateful. I know that I am loved!I now have my perfect body back!!! I have one last verse that I would love to share with you all.Romans 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the holy spirit.

It is hard to believe that about two and one-half years ago Andrea heard that she had colon cancer. In the time since, my family has witnessed a strength and grace in Andrea that can only be explained through her faith and the strong presence of the Holy Spirit flowing through her. I know she has impacted many lives through this journey...joy is everywhere if you just look for it. SEEK THE JOY! Forever grateful to each and everyone of you! Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts! Brian, Joshua, and Elizabeth Hanson. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: www.westmont.edu, www.grace-foundation.org, www.inheritanceofhope.org

Mark DiGiacomo '99 Special News: I was awarded an academic sabbatical after 20 years of teaching at The Pennington School.  My academic research included the application of Project-Based Teaching and Learning for Advanced Placement courses, in particular, U.S. History.  My wife and I were able to travel to see our children and grandson, as well as enjoying an extended stay in London, where I was first introduced to the wonders of the British Museum by Dr. Nelson on our trip to Israel and Jordan in 1999.
 

Siri [Finsthwait] Denton '91 Passed away July 10, 2022

Devin Marsh '94 Special News: I recently moved to Sacramento to join the VA Northern California Healthcare team! After serving the mental health needs of active duty military personnel and their families for 17 years around the US and the globe, I'm back in California for the first time in almost 30 years! I have enjoyed working for the VA for the past 4 years and am blessed to be the leader of the northern CA mental health team for the VA. I love service Veterans and continue to serve as a reservist in the Army as well. Blessed to have a lovely wife and two beautiful kids, and happy to be back in sunny CA!

Katrina Rolen '92 Kat Rolen, MD graduated with an MA in Biblical Studies from Colorado Christian University on May 12, 2023. She graduated with "high distinction" and was honored as the 2023 Graduate Student of Excellence for the School of Theology and Biblical Studies.

Eric Johnson '90 died January 14, 2023

Sarah [Holte] Holm '90 died peacefully July 8, 2021 after a 21 month battle with cancer. Sarah was the loving wife of Lawrence Holm, Jr., the daughter of Donna and the late Richard Holte, sister of Kathy (the late Don Riggott) and Debby (Dave Tollefson) and an adoring aunt to Megan, Zack, Rochelle and Josh. She was the daughter-in-law of Lawrence, Sr. and Barbara Holm and sister-in-law to Debbie Holm (Catherine Jacobi). 

Frank Atkins '95  passed away November 30, 2022. 
Frank Davis Atkins, age 49, of Boise, passed away at his home November 30, 2022. A graveside inurnment was held at the Bruneau Cemetery on Friday, December 9, 2022. 

Nalani [Pompa] Ball '96  passed away October 25, 2022. She resided in Azusa, CA at the time of her passing.

Frank Koroshec '97, an English teacher at San Marcos High School, is the 2020 Santa Barbara County Teacher of the Year. Frank earned a master’s degree in English from Cal State Northridge in 2004 and began teaching full time that same year. He has taught in the Santa Barbara Unified School District since 2012, and he currently serves as the chair of the English Department at San Marcos. In 2015, Frank established a writing center at the high school. Frank has won other teaching awards in the past, including the 2019 Santa Barbara Unified School District Teacher of the Year in 2019.

Dean Wilson '97 has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of The Turner Foundation, a leading provider of housing and programs for youth, families, seniors, those with special needs, and low-income earners. Dean was instrumental in bringing the Foundation to Santa Barbara and launching the low-income housing community and programs now known as The Village. Dean also founded the Good Life Television network. Previously, Dean launched Behind Every Door, which has helped bring about neighborhood transformation in some of the most difficult areas of Dallas. Dean was also the founding CEO of two technology start-ups and a founding partner of a security firm while in Dallas. Dean has served in a development role at Mission India and, recently, as the Executive Director of Christian Legal Aid of Los Angeles. Wilson lives in Santa Barbara with his wife Susan Rhea Wilson ’97 and their five children, including Hannah Wilson ’23.

Dr. Alison Noble ‘97, associate provost and professor of chemistry at Messiah University, has been elected to a four-year term on the National Board of the Lilly Fellows Program. The program, founded in 1991, strengthens the quality and character of church-related institutions of learning. Noble came to Messiah University in the fall of 2010 where she has served as a faculty member, chair of the Ranked Faculty Meeting, director of faculty development, assistant provost—and currently as associate provost. Recognized by Messiah with the Robert and Marilyn Smith Outstanding Teacher award in 2017, Noble has been instrumental in working to support faculty development in teaching, scholarship, and service, and played a key role in institutional initiatives related to term-tenure and promotion policies, governance, faculty salary process and development, and university-wide planning. Her current responsibilities include oversight of the curriculum, faculty development, academic advising, general education and educational technology, and she works with the provost in the areas of educator governance, ranked faculty affairs and academic programming. Noble earned a B.S. in chemistry at Westmont College and a Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of Illinois. Prior to coming to Messiah, she worked as a senior process engineer for Intel Corporation in Portland, Ore.

Valerie Cantella '92 returned to consulting as a Valerie Cantella consultant after 12 years of government service. She provides communication strategy, public affairs, and project management resources for the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Valerie graduated from Westmont with a degree in Political Science, and received her Professional Certificate in Advanced Public Engagement from Pepperdine University School of Public Policy. In 2015, she was named Communicator of the Year by the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO). Valerie and her husband, Tom, have three children and a yellow lab named Charlie. They live in Santa Barbara, Calif.

Joanne Fowler (Raushi) ‘98 died on July 20, 2021 in Phoenix, Ariz. She graduated from Westmont in 1998. Her husband, Joshua, wrote this tribute soon after her death, “Joanne has gone to see her first and best love. Jesus knew her before she was born. He was with her ever since. He has never failed her.” She is survived by her husband and four children.

Dalina Klan ‘99 is the owner and CEO of Once in a Lifetime- Wedding and Events Planning. She loves helping people plan their weddings and other milestone events. She has worked with several nonprofits to help with their event planning in Santa Barbara including The Butterfly Ball with Never Give Up/ The Gwendolyn Strong Foundation, which is working to create the first inclusive and accessible playground in Santa Barbara. Carol has also helped St. Vincent’s with their annual fashion show and golf tournaments which raise money to support homeless women and children in Santa Barbara. Her husband, Mike Klan, works as a sports anchor for KEYT news channel three. The couple have two daughters.

Kari Cope ‘92 published a book, There’s Always Water in the Wilderness. The book walks readers through a close textual analysis of the biblical motifs of wells and wilderness. Each of the chapters includes suggested biblical readings that prompt a greater delight and understanding of the written Word and the close reading process. Throughout the book, Cope argues that knowing why the Bible is recorded and conveyed to us the way it is important for discipleship. There’s Always Water in the Wilderness offers hope that “our own wilderness wanderings are not purposeless,” because in, and even through them, we are offered Living Water that meets our deepest need. Cope’s mother, Mary Jean Cope ‘65, also attended Westmont.

Jen Gonzalez ‘98 now works as a reading and math intervention specialist for K-5 students at the Carpinteria Unified School District. Her position focuses on helping struggling students through individualized lessons and a multi-modality approach.“My philosophy (is) I’m committed to providing a quality education in a caring environment. I believe that all students can learn and are capable of being successful, and it’s my role to ensure this,” Gonzalez said. “If there are kinesthetic learners… or visual or auditory learners, (we’ll focus on) what learning styles students will tackle the most.” She will be working at Canalino Elementary School for the majority of her time. Gonzalez earned her undergraduate degree from UC Santa Barbara and her teaching credentials from Westmont. She completed a Masters in education and technology at Azusa Pacific University.

Cheryl Ann Waldrop '96, age 47, a resident of Aurora, IL, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 1, 2021. She was born September 8, 1974 in Lancaster, California to Jeffrey and Linda Waldrop. Cheryl has worked for United Airlines since 1998. She is survived by her parents as well as many family and friends.

Amy Niedwick Eddy '02  VP, BigSpeak Speakers Bureau, Santa Barbara

Eric Mortenson '00 - Eric passed from this life into eternal life on January 31, 2023 at the age of 44. He was a resident of Minneapolis, MN. Born May 03, 1978 in Starkville, Mississippi, Eric spent the majority of his childhood in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He graduated from Mounds View High School. Eric earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California. After college he moved to Seattle where he was a co-founder of Bellevue Healthcare. Eric then accomplished his PhD in immunology from the University of Chicago. He worked most recently as an Executive Medical Science Liaison with Bristol Myers Squibb. Eric loved to adventure. He traveled the world and enjoyed documenting his trips through his amazing photography. On these adventures he thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors with activities such as hiking, biking, camping, swimming, and scuba diving just to name a few. Eric loved music and was a voracious reader. Many of these activities he did for entertainment while others were influenced by his strong Christian faith. Whether he was with friends or family, Eric was intentional and generous with his time that he spent with those he loved. Eric is predeceased by his grandparents Lois and Jerome Chadek, Don and Helen Mortenson. Survived by his father Don (Sherry) Mortenson,  mother Dawn Chadek Mortenson (Matt MacDonald), brother Brett (Leah) Mortenson, sisters Lauren and Lindsey Mortenson, nephew Jonah Mortenson and niece Phoebe Mortenson.  Memorial services will be held Sunday, February 12 at 1:30 pm at Mill City Church located at Las Estrellas School 1201 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 with reception to follow at Tattersall Distilling 1620 NE Central Ave #150, Minneapolis, MN 55413. The family has asked that Memorial Contributions be made to standuptocancer.org, aeon.org or a charity of your choice.

Megan Shrader Alexander ‘02 received a Christopher Award for One More Hug (Aladdin/Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing). The book, for children preschool and up, is illustrated by Hiroe Nakata. It is one of 11 books for adults and young people to be honored as the Awards mark their 71st year. The Christophers is a nonprofit founded in 1945 by Maryknoll Father James Keller. The Christophers' motto, “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness,” is particularly apt in 2020, said Tony Rossi, The Christophers’ Director of Communications. The celebrated authors, illustrators, writers, producers, and directors whose works exemplify this Chinese proverb also “affirm the highest values of the human spirit,” he said. In addition to being seen every night on Inside Edition, the #1 syndicated newsmagazine television show, Alexander's extensive career has also included covering Thursday Night Football on CBS, having a recurring role on the ABC drama Nashville, appearing in the films God’s Not Dead: A Light in the Darkness and Space Warriors and executive producing the feature film Heartbeats. The author of Faith in the Spotlight, she also sits on the Board of Trustees for the Hugh O’Brian Youth Foundation.

Jeff Rehfeld ‘07 died on October 29, 2020 at age 35 after a lifelong battle with brain cancer. Jeff loved film, television and video games and worked for NBC Universal at Universal Studios Hollywood, Calif. for over 10 years. He graduated from Westmont College with a bachelor’s degree in religious studies. Jeff most enjoyed time with family and friends, watching films, discussing story lines, studying the Bible and playing video games with his two brothers. His favorite films were action-adventure and science fiction. Jeff became a Christian at age six and loved learning about Jesus. His faith, endurance and contentment in life and the Lord, no matter what the circumstances, was an inspiration to his family and friends. Jeff is survived by his parents, Joe and Judy Rehfeld and brothers and sisters-in-law.

Nicholas Rizzo ’02 accepted a new position with the Aerospace Corporation, a federally funded research and development center headquartered in El Segundo, Calif. Nicholas supports the Strategic & Global Awareness Directorate. In August 2021, he married Bethany Blanton, who serves as a captain in the United States Space Force. The couple recently moved to the South Bay area in Calif.

Cora Rose ‘07 was ordained as a Minister of Word and Service deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in July 2021, with a call from the Oregon Synod in poverty alleviation and faith formation. She and her husband, Cory Schooland ‘08, live in Brookings Oregon. Cora attended law school at UC Berkeley and received her Certificate of Advanced Theological Studies from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. She works as a staff attorney for Legal Services of Northern California, serving indigent people and seniors in a three-county area in the northwest of the state. Cora is also a candidate for the Deaconess Community of the ELCA, an intentional community of professional rostered minister women in the Lutheran tradition.

Roseanne Collison ‘03 published a book, My Children in Heaven: A Story of Grief, Hope in Love. She writes about accepting God’s love and faithfulness in the midst of multiple miscarriages and the death of her son. Roseanne received a Master of Arts in Gerontology from the University of Northern Colorado. She is the owner at Kinsman Care Management that helps their clients navigate and manage senior care. Roseanne lives in Aurora, Colorado with her two children.

Christopher Martinez ‘09 died on July 11, 2021. He was born in Santa Cruz, Calif. On Sept. 23, 1986, to Joe and Pam Martinez. Christopher was homeschooled in the Santa Cruz area, and attended high school in Templeton, Calif. when his family moved to Atascadero, Calif. After high school, Christopher traveled to Africa with Athletes in Action. He attended Westmont College for three years and studied political science and theater. Christopher received his ESL teaching certification in Spain, and served with Youth With a Mission in Pichilemu, Chile, and other parts of South America. His love for travel also took him to Nicauragua to explore his family roots. After settling in Santa Cruz for a time, Christopher moved to Phoenix, Ariz., and worked as a salesman and recruiter. He was known for his big personality and quick sense of humor, and enjoyed sports, especially soccer. Christopher’s strong passion for justice motivated him to be active in politics, and serve as a mentor in Summer camps for children of incarcerated inmates with Angel Tree’s Camp 180. He is survived by his parents, four siblings, and brothers and sisters in law. and many nieces,nephews, and cousins.

Alyssa Garcia '16  Juris Doctor, 2023, LMU Loyola Law School.  I graduated from law school, passed the CA bar, and earned membership in the Order of the Coif. 

Alison (Torres) Naganuma '18  My husband Jacob and I just welcomed our first baby into the world, Emiko Louise Mahealani Naganuma. She was born October 26, 2023

Sang Wang "Steven", "Solomon" Yoo ‘14 April 22, 1989 - September 2020 Monterey, CA. Musician and composer Solomon Yoo died in his Monterey home peacefully in his sleep earlier this fall. He was thirty-one years old. He leaves behind family and friends in South Korea and countless friends on the Monterey Peninsula. Mr. Yoo was the musical director, organist and pianist of the Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula choral group. He was well known on the Peninsula for his musical performances and compositions. A memorial service officiated by Pastor Paul Wrightman was held out of doors, with all attendees masked and social distancing. Pianist Michael Martinez performed a song he composed for Solomon, "Song for Sol." Musical offerings were performed by Simon Stewart, Janneke Hoogland, Monica Lee, Karissa Lee, Deanna Lynn, Lillie Lemon, Eric Rowe and Richard Carr. Solomon and his friends often met for jam sessions. Attendees from South Korea included Mr. Yoo's parents, Young Dae Yoo and Jung Im Choi; uncles Dae Yoo and Yoon Suk Go; aunts D.J. Elder Go and Silvia Chagas, and Keum Soon Kim, a Korean pastor. Solomon was born on April 22, 1989, in Seoul, South Korea. He was given the name Sang Woo Yoo. He arrived on the Monterey Peninsula at the age of fifteen. He added the name Steven in recognition of the film director Steven Spielberg, then Solomon in honor of King Solomon.
He attended Monterey Bay Academy, Pacific Grove High, Monterey Peninsula College, Westmont College and Cabrillo College. Interests included photography, poetry, hiking and martial arts. Simon Stewart remembers meeting Solomon "seven years ago in a poetry class at MPC." "At home, we knew that after meals he would sing and play his guitar for all the family, so this was our treat," Solomon's father said at the service. "He believed his mission was to create great music that would transform humanity by enlightenment." The family found this quote in Solomon's diary: "Your own soul is nourished when you are kind; it is destroyed when you are cruel." "I know that if he had had the chance, he would have become a major force in the music of our future," said retired MPC music professor John Anderson.
"His loss is deeply tragic because of the joy and music that would have been. All of us who knew him can take comfort in knowing that an extraordinary individual has touched our lives and made them better." Solomon began directing the choral singers at Community Church more than a year ago, becoming an important, valued part of the congregation. "His original compositions and improvisations were superb," Rev. Wrightman said "Solomon brought grace, sensitivity and insight into every relationship he had. His leadership was one of gentle strength. He was relentless in his search for truth, beauty and goodness. I'm sure he has found their fulfillment with God. He is deeply missed."

Mckenna Kleinmaier ‘17 was chosen by the Knowles Teacher Initiative as a member of its 2020 Cohort of Teaching Fellows. This year, 34 promising high school mathematics and science teachers who are just beginning their careers were awarded Knowles Teaching Fellowships. The Knowles Teacher Initiative supports a national network of mathematics and science teachers who are collaborative, innovative leaders improving education for all students in the United States. The Knowles Teaching Fellowship is an intensive and cohesive, five-year program that supports early-career, high school mathematics and science teachers in their efforts to develop teaching expertise and lead from the classroom. Mckenna began teaching at Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, California, during the 2020–2021 school year. She is committed to teaching biological sciences to high school students in the U.S. Mckenna earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Westmont College in 2017. Following the completion of her undergraduate degree in 2017, Mckenna worked as a naturalist at Mission Springs Outdoor Education. In this role, she utilized science and hands-on learning activities to foster positive student relationships and good stewardship of the environment. She also earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Southern California in 2020.

Alison Naganuma (Torres) '18 has, since graduating from Westmont, gotten married and returned to her home town in Hawaii where she works as an Advancement Coordinator for a private college prep school.

Grace Hanna '20 has joined Westerlay Orchids as an e-commerce specialist. Hanna’s duties will include managing short- and long-term e-comm strategies to drive brand awareness, grow market share and deliver on sales goals. Hanna will also serve as the brand’s program liaison for their Box of Orchids program, which began as an effort to encourage and uplift those in quarantine isolation or on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 lockdown, the company partnered with both local and national industry organizations to gift thousands of orchids to frontline workers statewide. Hanna previously served as marketing and product development specialist for Heirloom Roses, where she designed and implemented sustainable social media strategies, collaboratively developed email campaign content and sales copy, and grew the company’s Facebook following from 10k to 107k. Hanna’s experience also includes serving as marketing intern for Girls on the Run.

Brendan FJ Furnish, professor emeritus of sociology, died July 2, 2020, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was 85. Brendan was born June 24, 1935, in Dedham, Mass., the third son of George and Janina (Michalski) Furnish. Dyslexia caused learning delays in grammar school. Brendan countered this by becoming a voracious reader. At 16, he and his family moved to San Carlos, Calif., where he graduated from Sequoia High School. After high school, Brendan joined the National Guard. He met and married his wife of over sixty years, Evelyn Jane Boone, in a class on marriage at San Mateo Jr. College. He and Jane had five children. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees in Sociology from San Francisco State University. Brendan came to teach at Westmont in the fall of 1967. Soon after, he earned a PhD in sociology from USC. Brendan taught sociology courses at Westmont for 35 years. He founded Westmont's San Francisco Urban Program, helped modernize the college's computer and online program, and served many years as the Sociology Department head. He co-authored two books. He and Jane built Zephaniah's Camp, a Christian retreat lodge, in the Sierra Nevada mountains. After retiring from Westmont in 2002, Brendan and Jane moved to Fort Worth, where Brendan taught sociology courses part-time at Texas Christian University and Texas Wesleyan University. Brendan was active in the church and had a deep love for his dogs. Brendan was preceded in death by his parents and his brother George. Brendan is survived by his wife; his five children, including Valerie "Val" Furnish Mallett ’82; his brother Alfred; his dog, Oscar; seven grandchildren, including Nydia Furnish Mendez ’96; and three great-grandchildren.