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With the deepest
sympathies of the Irish Center
2010 OBITUARIES
May
Father Michael Collins
was born on 29th June 1918 in Abbeyfeale, Co Limerick
and passed on 6th May 2010. Father Collins was ordained a
priest on 3rd June 1943 at All Hallows, Carlow. The Funeral Mass
took place at Saint Barbara Church, Santa Ana on 13th May 2010 with
internment at Good Shepherd, Huntington Beach.
April
James Gabriel
"Shay" Duffin was born in Dublin on
26th February 1931 and passed on 23rd April 2010 in Los
Angeles. Shay was predeceased by his beloved wife Margaret.
Shay was best known for his one-man shows. Shay started his career
as a teenager, singing in Irish pubs. In the early 1960s he moved to
Canada, where he spent five years with an all-Irish theatrical
company. Shay also had a lovely voice, and he recorded several
albums as an Irish folk singer.
His two one-man shows, Brendan Behan: Confessions of an Irish Rebel
and The importance of being Irish won him the Best Actor award from
Critics' Circles in several major American and Canadian cities.
Shay's film credits include Raging Bull with Robert DeNiro, The Main
Event with Barbara Streisand, Head Above Water with Harvey Keitel,
Seabiscuit, Beowolf, The Departed and Titanic.
Mr Duffin's many television appearances included roles on Star Trek,
The Next Generation, Murder She Wrote and Law and Order.
Shay Duffin--Stage, film and television actor, musician and writer,
passed away in Los Angeles on 23rd April 2010. He is survived by his
four daughters Ruth, Laura, Linda and Susan; and his two
grandchildren Adam and Alexandra
Peter Eugene Leonard
passed away in Mission Viejo on 6th April 2010.
He was born in Tubbercurry on 28th June 1937. Peter is survived by
his wife Noleen; daughter Patricia (David) Loyd; sons David and Gary
Leonard; brother Pearse Leonard; sister Maura King and Maeve
Loughnane; granddaughters Julia and Cate Loyd
Veronica Jean Curtis was
born on 10th July 1931 in Galway and was a longtime resident of
Solana Beach, California. Vera came to this country in 1950 as a
flight attendant and met her future husband, Bill Curtis, who
predeceased her in 1985. On 1st April 2010 Vera Curtis passed
away in San Diego. Vera is survived by her four children: Sean,
Derek (Laura), Meg (Tim) and Barbara (David); her two sisters Kitt
and Anne; and her five grandchildren; Conor, Timmy, Brendan, Chloe
and Kent. The memorial mass took place at St James Church in Solana
Beach.
March
James Sheridan
was born in Co Mayo in 1922 and passed on 3rd March 2010 in
Duarte. He was preceded in death by Rose Sheridan, his wife of
49 years. Jim is survived by sons, Patrick Sheridan of La Quinta and
John Sheridan of Alhambra; daughters Rosemarie Snoke of Glendora and
Eileen Wibbeke of San Diego; two granddaughters Erin and Claire
Snoke; Brother Martin Sheridan AFSC in Ireland; and two sisters--Mae
Curtin in Canada and Delia Ruddy in Ireland. The Funeral Mass took
place at St Therese Church, Alhambra.
February
John William Hart, "Johnny",
was born in Los Angeles on 20th October 1928 and
passed on 18th February 2010. Soon after graduating
from Mount Carmel High School in 1946, Johnny joined the Navy
serving our country during the Korean war. On 22nd February 1957
Johnny married Kathleen O'Connell from County Leitrim. Johnny
retired in 1985 from the Marshall's Department--now known as part of
the Sheriff's Department. Johnny enjoyed hunting, fishing and all
water sports especially at/on the Colorado River. Johnny was a kind
gentleman always willing to help. He is survived by his wife
Kathleen;
sons Robert and Michael; a grandchild, Tiffany and two great
grandchildren Sierra and Brooks. Johnny has joined his parents,
Byron and Collette and his brother Joseph in heaven. Joseph passed
in March 2008. Two brothers, John and Joseph, born in Los Angeles
married two sisters, Kathleen and Mary Ellen O'Connell, from County
Leitrim.
Sister Philomena Cassidy
was born in Banbridge town in Co Down in 1931 and passed on 14th
February 2010. She joined the Sisters of St Louis in 1949. After
arriving here Sister Philomena taught for 28 years in California
including St Bede's, La Canada; Our Lady of Refuge, Long Beach; St
Anthony Claret, Anaheim and Holy Name of Mary San Dimas. She also
served as Director of Religious Education in Holy Name of Mary, San
Dimas for 17 years and one year as Pastoral Associate. Sister
Philomena is mourned by the Sisters of St Louis; her brother Ted
Cassidy; her sister in law, Una; nephews Brian and Paul; nieces
Nuala and Helen and many, many friends.
Peter David King, fondly
known as "Pete", was born on 29th June 1951 and passed on 5th
February 2010. Pete was in a tragic motor cycle accident in
October 2008 when his lovely 24 year old daughter was killed and he
sustained brain damage. Pete is survived by his wife of 35 years,
Rose Cox King; his children , Patsy and Shayne Wright; Amber and
Zach Presnall; Peter King Jr and Sgt Logan King, (serving in Iraq
);grandchildren Gavin, Tanner and Emma Wright, Ava and Cole Presnall;
his mother Patricia King; sisters Melody Chasen, Angela, Rosie, Joy,
Evelyn and Kelly King; brothers Tom, John and Bob King; While the
King and Cox families have grieved, and still are grieving the loss
of Katie, Pete, with his damaged brain, found it extremely difficult
to accept. It has been a long and painful time for Pete but he is
finally at peace.
January
Patricia Mary Murray was
born in Belfast on 30th March 1930 and passed on 17th January
2010. She joins her beloved husband John from Belfast who passed
on 29th August 2008. John & Pat were married in Toronto in 1954.
Speculation says that after John welcomed Pat to heaven that she
asked for a cup of Irish tea adding "make sure the water is boiling
hot"
The Murrays were extremely well known for their dedication to Irish
dancing, Irish Dance competition --Feis and the Irish Fair. John &
Pat are mourned by their son Gerard; daughter Anne Marie & husband
John Powers: and their grandsons Colin and Scott.
2009 OBITUARIES
December
Patsy Ruth Flanigan was
born in July 1931 and passed on 13th December 2009. She was
predeceased by her husband Owen in 1992. In 1970 Patsy and Owen,
established Flanigan Farms with the goal to promote good health of
mind, body and spirit. After Owen's death, Patsy with her four
daughters ran Flanigan Farms. In 1979 at age 47 Patsy graduated from
Ca State University, Northridge with a degree in food science. Patsy
was a delegate to the 1995 White House Conference on Small Business.
Patsy was a strong believer in community service. She served on
several Boards, Clubs and organizations. Patsy supported the Irish
Center of Southern California Inc. Patsy Ruth Flanigan is mourned by
her four daughters, Cathie (Bill Kowalik) of Perth, Australia;
Eileen of Highlands Ranch, Co; Monica Flanigan Heeran of Los Angeles
and Teresa (Trenton) Jones of Portland, OR.
Monsignor Peter O'Sullivan
was born on 4th July 1910 in Co Tipperary
and passed on 19th December 2009. Msgr Peter was ordained at
St Patrick's College, Thurles, Co Tipperary on 10th June 1934. A
month later he left Ireland for Los Angeles and joined his brother
the late Msgr Thomas O'Sullivan in serving the people in the
archdiocese of Los Angeles. Msgr Thomas was the founding pastor of
Visitation Church in Westchester.
Msgr Peter served as an associate pastor in several churches in the
archdiocese. He was named pastor in 1954 of the year old St John
Baptist de La Salle, Granada Hills. Among his many distinctions,
including being named a Prelate of Honor by Pope Paul V1 in 1978,
Msgr O'Sullivan was named "Granada Hills Man of the Year" by the
local Chamber of Commerce in 1976. That same year he received a
certificate from the Los Angeles Police Department acknowledging his
efforts in single-handedly subduing an armed robber in his rectory
and holding him until police arrived.
Sister Rhona Toolan
was born in Carrick-on-Shannon Co Leitrim in 1927
and passed on 15th December 2009 in Los Angeles. She was a
Sister of St Louis for 63 years. Sister Rhona taught in elementary
and high schools both in Ireland and California. She is mourned by
the Sisters of St Louis; her sister Yvonne Flynn in
Carrick-on-Shannon; her nephews Peter, Morgan, Shane and Marcus
Flynn. Funeral Mass took place at St Mels in Woodland Hills on
Friday 18th December.
On 9th December 2009, Louise
Thornton Malloy passed away at her
home in Culver City. Louise was born on 21st March 1910 in Co Mayo.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Emmett; her sister
Marjorie Mispagel; brothers Gerald and Bob Thornton; and three
grandsons. Louise is survived by her nine children--Carol Layana
(Frank), Culver City; Rosemary McAnany (Jim), Simi Valley; Tom
Malloy (Sharon), Villa Park; Paula Doherty (Joe), Fresno; John
Malloy, Los Angeles; Sheila Malloy, Culver City; Mike Malloy
(Denise), Santa Barbara; Tim Malloy (Judy), Lakeview, Oregon and
Maurya Foy ((Tim) Ojai. Also survived by 26 grandchildren, 31 great
grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
Irish balladeer Liam Clancy
passed away on 4th December 2009 at Bon Secours Hospital in
Cork. Liam was the youngest
of eleven Clancy children. Born in Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary,
Liam emigrated to this country in 1955 with ambitions to be an
actor. With brothers Tom and Paddy, Liam began his singing career in
Greenwich Village. These three brothers from Tipperary joined with
Co Armagh's Tommy Makem and became a transatlantic phenomenon after
an appearance in 1961 on the Ed Sullivan Show. At his last public
appearance in May, Liam moved a Dublin audience to tears as he
struggled to complete a 40 minute set and turned to reciting poetry.
It was a poignant reading of Dylan Thomas' poem--"And Death Shall
Have No Dominion". His manager David Teevan referring to the reading
said "It was a profound moment. Liam expressed his fear of dying but
did so with great dignity. He knew at that time he was in close
contact with his impending death"
Liam Clancy suffered for years from incurable pulmonary fibrosis.
The same disease that his brother Bobby died from in 2002. Brother
Tom Clancy died from stomach cancer in 1990 and brother Paddy died
from lung cancer in 1998. Tommy Makem
died from cancer in 2007.
Liam Clancy is survived by his wife Kim, daughters Siobhan and
Fiona, sons Eben and Donal, eight grandchildren and sisters Joan and
Peg.
October
Gloria Evelyn Loftus was
born 11th April 1930 in Oxnard and passed on 26th October 2009
at her home in Ventura. Gloria was raised and educated in Ventura.
She loved her music, dancing, reading and gardening. Gloria was an
avid golfer. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Michael J.
Loftus; daughter Evelyn (Corey) Chase of Ventura; son Michael
(Sharon) Loftus of Mission Viejo; son Patrick (Gloria) Loftus of Oak
View. Gloria is also survived by grandchildren and great
grandchildren.
Michael and Sharon are members of the Los Angeles Irish Set Dancers.
They also played Irish music on fiddle and accordion.
September
Dennis Dunne:
On 12th September 2009 while on a vacation in his beloved
Ireland, Dennis Dunne suffered a ruptured aneurysm of the aorta. He
did not recover from emergency surgery in Dublin. Dennis Dunne was
born in Wexford on 5th December 1929. He came to California in 1952
and taught math in a number of high schools including St Monica's,
Mater Dei and Northview High in Covina for close to forty years.
Dennis and Mary Ellen (Galway) were married in 1982. They have four
children: Aidan, Fiona, Niall and Brian. They all joined their mom
and dad in Dublin when Dennis became very ill. Dennis was a devoted
husband and father, a man of faith, expressed in his generosity and
kindness. The funeral mass took place at St Raymond's Downey and
burial followed in All Souls Cemetery in Long Beach.
Donal Cooke was born in
Kilcooley, Co Kerry on 17th April 1921 and passed in Ventura on
1st September 2009. He came to California in 1948. Donal and
Margaret (Tess) Mulryan were married in 1955. Donal retired from
Southern Pacific Railroad after 35 years and he and Tess moved from
North Hollywood to Ventura. Donal is mourned by his loving wife,
Tess; daughters Julie (John) Cleary of Moorpark, Maureen (Russell)
Watson of Westchester; sons Neil Cooke of Simi Valley and John Cooke
of Seattle, Washington; grandsons Eric, Kevin, Daniel, Brendan,
Jack, Ben and Joshua. Donal is also survived by sisters Bridget
Keane and Eileen Fitzgerald and several nieces and nephews in
Ireland.
Lewis "Bob" Bogan:On
September 2nd, Robert Lewis "Bob" Bogan Sr aged 80 passed
away. Bob is mourned by his children Kathy, Terry, Bonnie, Jerry,
Daniel, Bob Jr, Tom, Emilie, their spouses, ten grandchildren and
sister in law Angela O'Shea. Bob has now joined his wife Mary Eva
Bogan who passed away on 2nd September 2006
August
On 16th August 2009
Marie Cullen passed away in Encinitas with
her loving family around her. Marie was born in Moate, Co Westmeath
on 30th August 1929. She came to this country in 1961. Marie was
very active in her church. She supported the Irish Hour, the Irish
Center, the Brothers of St Patrick and many other organizations.
Marie was extremely active by helping and supporting the Columban
Fathers with their Missionary work. Marie is survived by her sisters
Rosie, Josie and Terry; brothers Frank and John and several nieces
and nephews.
Audrey Riggs
was born in Belfast on 15th September 1923 and passed
away on 28th August 2009 at her home in Santa Monica.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, William (Bill) Riggs.
Audrey is also mourned by daughters Sharyn Sugano, Lynda Deibner,
and Sandy Copeland; grandchildren Christopher and Kevin Copeland,
Jonathan and Elizabeth McCulloh and Adam Sugano; and one great
grandchild Evan Sugano
Elias S. Garcia
was diagnosed with brain cancer on 24th July 2009 and
passed away eight days later on 1st August 2009. Elias
was born in Claremont, California on 15th April 1928 and raised in
Guadalajara, Mexico. From an early age soccer was his passion. He
was a professional player at 17 years of age with the Guadalajara
Aztec soccer team. In response to the U S Draft Board, Elias
returned to this country in 1946. Maria, Elias' first wife and the
mother of their five children died of cancer at a young age.
Elias and Ethna were married in 1976. They loved to travel, soccer,
music and dance. Elias and Ethna were great supporters of all the
Irish activities in Southern California including Irelands Own Club,
Irish Center of Southern California, Irish Radio Hour and Irish
Concerts. Elias, the gentle giant, is deeply mourned by his wife,
Ethna and his children and grandchildren
July
Angela Patricia Payne
was born in Ringsend, Dublin on 17th March 1925 and passed away on
27th July 2009 in Burbank. Angela came to Los Angeles in 1961.
Angela was well known to the Irish Community especially while
assisting the Columban Fathers for several years.
Father Patrick O'Dwyer,
pastor of St Maximilian Kolbe Church in Westlake Village died
suddenly in the early evening 13th
July 2009.
Father O'Dwyer was discovered dead in his office by a couple with
whom he had scheduled a meeting.
Father O'Dwyer was born 21st October 1947 in Rearcross, County
Tipperary. He was ordained to the priesthood 19th June 1972 and
assigned to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Father O'Dwyer served at
St Anthony's Oxnard, St Timothy's, West Los Angeles and St Bruno's,
Whittier.
In July 2005 was appointed pastor of St Maximilian Kolbe. Father
O'Dwyer is survived by his brother, Thomas in Tipperary and several
nieces and nephews.
Rev Father Timothy Cahalane
M.S.C. passed away unexpectedly on 1st
July 2009 at the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart Community
Residence, Western Road, Cork. Father Tim served in several parishes
in Los Angeles including St John Baptist de la Salle, Granada Hills
and Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Sun Valley. The Requiem Mass took
place on 4th July 2009 at the Sacred Heart Church in Cork and burial
at St Oliver's Cemetery, Cork. Father Tim is survived by his sisters
Mary and Joan, brother Donal, nephews, nieces and his M.S.C
Community
June
Patrick Joseph Guinan
was born in Ferbane, Co Offaly on 16th March 1930 and passed away in
Long Beach on 6th June 2009. Pat is survived by his
wife Stella, daughter Patricia (Jack) Barrett, son Anthony Michael
and granddaughter Julia Barrett. Pat and Stella McNally (from
Belfast) were married in 1960. Pat's family was always No 1 in his
life but the G.A.A was certainly No 2. Pat was a coach, trainer,
manager, referee, president, ball boy, critic---anything and
everything as long as it involved the G.A.A. Patrick Joseph Guinan
will always be remembered for his humor, kindness and integrity.
John Joseph Culhane
passed away in Glendale on 25th June 2009. He was a proud son
of the Kingdom of Kerry where he was born in Moyvanne on 3rd May
1935. "Big" John is survived by his wife Margaret (Co Mayo),
daughters Eire B. Garcia (Joe), Mairead, and Siobhan Sherman (John).
Also mourned by his beloved grandchildren Emily Moore Garcia, Lindsey DeValera Garcia and Natalie Eire Garcia.
Monsignor John Folliard,
aged 86, passed away in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo on 22nd June 2009.
Monsignor attended All Hollows College in Dublin before coming to
California to complete his studies at St John's Seminary. He was
ordained in 1950 and served in several parishes in Los Angeles. In
1972 he was appointed pastor of St Cornelius in Long Beach and
served in that capacity for 24 years until his retirement.
May
Vera Margaret McColgan Myers
was born in
Portadown, Co Armagh on 24th April 1931. She learned to skate at the
King's Hall Ice Rink in Belfast. Vera won the Irish figure skating
championship three consecutive years. After performing in shows
throughout England, Vera was chosen to join Ice Capades touring the
U S A in the mid -1950's. It was on board the Queen Mary en-route to
this country that she met her future husband, Stuart. In 1961 Stuart
and Vera were married in Troy, New York. Shortly thereafter they
moved to Los Angeles area. Vera taught ice skating in Burbank and
Culver City. Vera became very involved in charity work. Vera and
Stuart Myers were blessed with three children--Scott, Marchelle and
Juanita Erin. The Myers experienced the immense grief of losing
Scott and Marchelle well before their time.
Vera Margaret McColgan Myers passed away peacefully at the family
home in Mountaingate, Los Angeles on 4th May 2009
survived by her husband, Stuart and daughter Juanita Erin.
Sister Denis A. Cremins, a sister of St Joseph
of Carondelet since September 1942 passed away on 20th May 2009.
Preceded in death by her sisters, Marie, Eileen & Sister Pancratius
Cremins CSJ; and her brothers Robert, Jeremiah and Dennis Cremins.
Survived by several nephews and nieces including Rev Msgr Jeremiah
Murphy and sister in law Kathleen Cremins Winter
April
Patrick John O'Reilly passed away on
13th April 2009. He was born in Dublin on 14th March 1934. He is
survived by his wife Janie and stepchildren Brian Penderghast,
Shawna Fallon, Steven Penderghast, Dean Penderghast & Maria Brief;
as well as his niece Sylvia Fitzgerald. Patrick is also mourned by
his brother Paul, sister in law Rosalyn and sister Eileen. Patrick
has also been blessed by the love of sixteen grandchildren.
Noel Quinn was
born in Cork on 13th December 1939 and passed away in Newport Beach,
Ca on 24th April 2009. Noel had a successful business in Cork
for over forty years. He came to California seven years ago. Noel is
survived by his wife, Annie; children Derek, Heather, Jeff, Andrea,
Andrew & Wendy; brothers & sister Michael &Therese Quinn, Lilian &
Jerry Scanlon and Kay & the late George Quinn. Noel is also mourned
by six grandsons, Scott, Grant, Johnathan, Declan, Zachary & Austin.
Thomas Michael Keogh "Tommy" was born in Dublin on 17th June
1944 and passed on 19th April 2009 in Whittier. Tommy came here in
1966. He was an avid golfer, runner--including marathons, loved his
soccer especially Manchester United. He is mourned by his wife,
Bridget; daughter Lorraine; sons Billy & Mike and his adored
grandchildren, Kathleen, Shannon and David.
March
Rose Mary Doherty Popp
was born in Los Angeles to Annie and the
late Barney Doherty on 4th May 1951. After graduating from St
Bernard's High School in 1969, Rose Mary continued her education and
received her B.A. from Long Beach State and her Masters Degree from
U C Berkeley. On 14th February 1983 Rose Mary married Dennis Popp.
After spending a couple of years in Boston they returned to Southern
California where Rose Mary taught at Cabrillo School in San Pedro.
On Sunday 1st March 2009 Rose
Mary succumbed to cancer. Rose Mary is survived by her husband
Dennis, daughters Kimberly and Stephanie, her mother, Annie and her
sister Sheila.
Monsignor Christopher
Kennedy was
born in Tipperary. He entered St Peter's Seminary, Wexford and was
ordained 18th June 1944. Monsignor "Chris" served in several
parishes in the Los Angeles Archdiocese. He was appointed pastor of
St Barnabas, Long Beach in 1977 and retired in 1992. He remained as
Pastor Emeritus until his passing on 6th
March 2009. Monsignor "Chris" is survived by several
nieces and nephews
Irene Quinn Fulgoni
was born on 8th April 1942 in Marshalltown, Iowa and
passed away in Glendale on 20th March 2009. Irene moved to Glendale
in 1945 with her mom, Agnes and dad, William and sisters Mari
Kathryn and Lorraine. Irene and Eddie Fulgoni were married on 7th
September 1967. They were blessed with two daughters, Christine and
Diana and step daughters, Theresa, Suzanne and Deanna. Irene's
beloved grandchildren, Alex, William and Sophia "made her heart
smile" when they sang or played Irish songs. The crowds at the
funeral services were a testimony to a loving wife, a mother, a
grandmother and a sister. May Irene rest in peace.
Sister Ellen Brown,
one of six children, was born in Dublin in 1920. She passed away on
22nd March 2009. Sister Ellen entered the Religious of the Sacred
Heart of Mary Novitiate in Ferrybank. She came to California in 1946
where she continued her education. Sister Ellen was a beloved and
highly regarded teacher or principal at different schools in Los
Angeles. She will be greatly missed by her nephews and nieces in
Ireland and her religious community.
Kathleen Boyle
passed away in Federal Way, Washington State on
12th March 2009. Kathleen who was born in New Zealand married
Donegal born John Boyle in Los Angeles in 1960. Kathleen was well
known in the Irish community in the late 1950s/early 6os.
February
Mary Elizabeth Gibson
was born in Dublin on 11th April 1925 and passed
on 28th February 2009. "Betty"
was predeceased by Michael her beloved husband in 2001. Betty is
mourned by her family--Frank (Cari), Mike (Susan), Angela (Chris),
Brendan, Deirdre (Kent), Sheila (Phillip), Ger (Allen), Pauline
(Neil). She is also survived by her four sisters Patsy, Rita, Marie
and Frances. "Nana" is sorely missed by her grandchildren Chelsea,
Ryan, Chris, Eloise, Michael Sean, Patrick, Kate, Aidan, Connor,
Michael, Tara, A.J., Lauren, Kaitlin, Ian and Cormac.
Michael Joseph
Keady on 6th February. Michael
was born in Ballina Co Mayo on 31st December 1931 and passed away in
Santa Monica. Michael was raised in Dublin. He and his fiancee,
Florence Foley, were married in Toronto in 1956. Came to Southern
California and resided in Arcadia 1957- 1967, Pacific Palisades
1968-1982 and Santa Monica 1983-2009. Michael Keady was a tourism
and travel pioneer. He founded Brendan Travel. Later he became
president of Continental Express in Beverly Hills. Michael was a
co-founder of the United States Tour Operators Association. He
started the charter flight industry in 1964 providing affordable
travel to thousands. Michael is survived by sons Kieron and Brian;
daughter Maureen; grandchildren Christina, Erin, Niamh, Frances and
Colm; and sister Nuala Cullen.
January
Sister Bridget Johnston
was born in Co Sligo on 27th February 1925 and passed
away on 21st January 2009. The oldest of eight children she is
predeceased by her parents, Patrick and Mary, brother Jim and sister Una. She is survived by brothers Johnny (Kathleen), Eddie (Violet)
and Brendan (Kathleen); sisters Kathleen and Margaret. Sister
Bridget will also be deeply missed by her nieces and nephews and by
her loving community --the Daughters of Mary and Joseph.
Veronica Theresa
Lomas--"Ronnie"
was born in Albany, New
York on 12 September 1928 to Veronica and Thomas Murphy. The family
moved to Los Angeles
and settled in the Lakewood area. Ronnie married William F. Lomas
--"Bill"--in 1965. Ronnie and Bill developed the world largest Parade Production Co and
are credited with
26 years as top management of the world famous Hollywood Christmas
Parade.
Ronnie and Bill conceived and owned the Los Angeles Irish Fair and
Music Festival o keep her Irish Heritage alive. At the Irish Fair in Pomona in 2007 the
Irish Center
presented a plaque to Ronnie honoring her for her commitment to the
Irish community in Southern California. Ronnie passed away on
January 19th, 2009. The funeral mass
took place at St Pancratius in Lakewood on 24th January. Ronnie is
mourned by her
husband Bill, children Linell Pea, Kathy Cavaness, Richard Harn,
Penny Moore and
Steven Lomas; sister Betty Ann Shivley; 15 grand children; 8 great
grand children
and 2 great, great grand children.
2008 OBITUARIES
January
Helen "Dede" Bothwell, on
January 7th, in Granada Hills. She is survived by her
brother Tom Gillespie, sisters Nancy Rea and Terry
Christian. Helen leaves 10 grandchildren
and 4
great-grandchildren. Helen has joined her beloved husband Leon
and son Steven in heaven. Vince Gilboy is Helen's first
cousin.
February
Barry Moran, son of Lucy and the late
Steve Moran, passed away on 11th February 2008 in Ventura.
Peter Joseph "Pete" Bateman, born
in Co Donegal on 22nd October 1957, passed away in Pasadena on
13th February 2008 in Pasadena. Survived by his wife Jenny, his
parents Charles and Ann Bateman and brothers Michael and Tim.
March
Joseph Hart was born in Los Angeles
in 1932 and passed away in West Covina on
March 10th 2008. Survived
by his wife of 52 years, Mary Ellen; also son Patrick and
daughters
Ellen Escobar, Cathy Nagle and Colette Trammell; seven
grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Timothy J. "Joe" Sullivan, born
April 20, 1933; died March 11, 2008.
Funeral was at St. John Baptist de la Salle, in Granada Hills, on
March 15. He was born in
Killarney,Co Kerry. Survived by his wife Eileen; sons Michael,
Joe, Sean; daughters Julie, Teri, Eileen; grandchildren Daniel,
Ashley, Sophia, Zack, Jake and Hannah.
April
Frank J. McGonigal
was born in Belleview Hospital, New York on 15th March 1918 and
passed away on 9th April 2008. Frank loved and supported
everything Irish. He enjoyed his several trips to Ireland and
especially to the hills of Donegal where his grandfather was
born. The Irish Center will miss the the green clad Frank at
their functions. He served our country in the U S Army for four
years. Frank married his wife Gloria on 1st November 1942. He is
survived by son Frank; daughter Maureen; six grandchildren and
seven great grandchildren. Frank J. McGonigal was a "good" man.
Mrs Sheila Walsh passed away in Alhambra
on April 5th after a brief illness. Predeceased by her husband,
Marty. She was born January 8, 1935 in Los Angeles. Her Parents
were William and Mary McLaren. She grew up in the Irish community.
She meet Marty Walsh at an Irish dance. They were married April
27, 1957. They were blessed with six children: Marty, Mike, Pat,
Robby, Mary & Susie, They had 14 grandchildren:
From Marty & wife Patricia came Martin, Kathleen & Kevin
From Mike & wife Patti came Brad & Lauren
From Pat came James, Lisa and Sheila
From Robby came Brianna
From Mary came Ryan and Ashley Potter
From Susie & husband Duane came Victoria, Carolyn and Thomas
Michalsky
Monsignor Patrick Gallagher passed away
in San Pedroon April 4th. He was born in County Sligo in 1941.
Monsignor was educated in the local schools before entering All
Hallows Seminary in 1960. After ordination the young priest
arrived in Southern California on July 19th, 1966. In 1984 after
serving in several parishes he was appointed pastor of Mary Star
of the Sea, San Pedro. Monsignor Gallagher is survived by his
brother John (Kitty), his sisters Anne (Michael) and Sister
Francis, Religious Sister of Charity.
Benjamin "Bud" Salvaty III, who
was born in Chicago in 1940 passed away on April 12th. His
family moved to Alhambra in 1946. Ben was educated at St
Therese School, Alhambra, Loyola High School, L A., University of
Notre Dame and U S C Law School. He was President of Irish
American Bar Association and active in many other organizations.
Survived by his wife Patricia, son Paul (Lizzie), daughter
Kathleen (Steve), and grandchildren Annie, Sam, Phoebe, Jane
and Frank.
Mary Josephine Kelly, born
in Dublin in 1930 passed away on 24th April 2008 in Temecula. Mary
has joined her husband Larry in heaven. She is survived by her
four children: James, Joan, Kathleen and Brian; six grandchildren:
Bridget, Patrick, Meghan, Sean, Alyssa and Riley; son-in-law Danny;
daughters-in-law Joy and Gina. Mary and Larry met at a dance at the
Olympic Dance Hall in Dublin in 1952. On 21st February 1954 they
were married at 10 am at St Agnes Church in Dublin and at 5 pm that
same day they started on their journey to this country as Mr and Mrs
Kelly.
May
Sister M. Dorothy Cloherty, a
Sister of St Louis, passed away on 15th May. Born in 1931 in
Carndonagh Co Donegal, Sister Dorothy entered religious life in
1949. She was a teacher and a principal for 47 years in Ireland
and California including St Mel's, St Bede's, Mater Dei High, St
Louis of France, St Cyprian's and Nativity. Mourned by her sister
Nora, Carna, Co Galway and by the Sisters of St Louis.
Rev Fr Philip J. McGrath, pastor emeritus of
St Bernard Church, Bellflower passed away on 23rd May 2008. He was
born in 1928 in Inistioge, Co Kilkenny. Fr McGrath was ordained in
1954 and appointed to Los Angeles. After serving in several
parishes as associate pastor he was appointed pastor at St
Bernard's in 1975. Fr Phillip retired from active duty in 1998. He
is survived by his sister Imelda, brother Richard and several
nieces and nephews.
Catherine Shea was born on 16th
November 1918 and passed on 29th May 2008. Catherine
joins her beloved husband, Jerry in heaven. Catherine is
survived by sons Daniel (Victoria), Jerry and Michael ; daughter
Mary and grandchildren Christopher and Danielle. Funeral mass at
St Dominic's Church followed by interment at Resurrection
Cemetery.
June
Mrs Julia Barry
aged 97 passed away in Co Cork. She was the mother of Monsignor John
F. Barry, pastor of American Martyrs Church in Manhattan Beach. June
16th
Kathleen Barnes Miller passed away
on 6th June. Kathleen was born and reared in Belfast. She married
James "Jim" Miller in Los Angeles in 1960. They
lived off Loz Feliz Blvd in Los Angeles. Mourned by her
loving husband of 48 years, Jim; their son Brian Patrick (Kelly)
Miller and beloved grandson Riley Jameson Miller.
Thomas "Tom" Nolan, who was
born in Tyrellspass, County Westmeath on 18th December 1929 passed
away on June 7th. Arrived in Los Angeles by way of Canada in
1956. Married his wife Dolores in 1960. Survived by his wife
Dolores and sons Paul and Mark. Tom was very active in the
Irish community, especially with Gaelic games, and held every
position
including President of the Southern California Gaelic
Athletic Association. Tom was our local Irish Historian. Tom
was a sports correspondent for several Irish newspapers. Tom
belonged to the Toastmasters organization. In March 2007, the
Irish Center of Southern California Inc., presented a plaque
to Tom and Dolores Nolan acknowledging their herculean support
for everything Irish.
Anne Mary Mannion Zabinsky passed away on
9th June in Torrance. Anne Mary was born in Galway in
1934. Survived by her husband John; daughters Eileen Zabinsky-Sands
and
Mary Riple; and grandchildren Sean and James.
Richard "Skip" Driscoll
passed away on June 18th at his home in Prescott, Arizona
He was born in Boston on 25th May 1941. After completing four
years in the United States Air Force he worked as an engineer
in the aerospace industry in St Louis. That's where he met
Rosemary Reddy. Skip and Rosemary were married on 26th
June 1965 in St Louis. Later they moved to Southern California
where Skip continued working in the aerospace industry. Skip and
Rosemary, while raising their three children, Coleen, Rick and Rob
got very involved with their church activities and with the
Irish community. Skip retired in 2004 from Litton/Northrop.
Shortly thereafter they moved to Prescott. Skip and Rosemary soon
got involved with the American Red Cross, Heritage Zoo and
other non profit groups in Prescott. Skip is survived
by his loving wife, Rosemary, daughter Coleen, sons Rick (Lorena),
Rob (Lindsay) and five grandchildren Victoria, Eileen, Samantha,
Katelyn and Emily. The grandchildren will sure miss "Pop Pop."
Skip is also survived by his brother Dennis (Judy) Driscoll in
Cave Creek, Arizona.
July
Margaret "Peggy" McCormack
passed away on 11th July. Peggy was born in Belfast on 8th
July 1935. Predeceased by her husband Larry and son
"wee" Larry. Peggy is survived by
daughters Christina (Jimmy) and Margaret (Edwin); beloved
grandchildren Joseph, Alyssa, Jocelyn and Angel; sister Patsy
(Gerry) and brothers Lawrence and John (Rosaleen).
Maria C Angeletti was born on 10th
December 1937 in Shankill, Co. Dublin. Came to Los Angeles with
her mother in 1947. After education at St Monica's and
Mount St Mary's she returned to Dublin and obtained her
B.A. from University College, Dublin. In 1959 mother and
daughter moved to Rome to work on a movie. In Rome, Maria met
and married her husband with whom she had a son, Kevin. In
the late 1960's the family returned to Los Angeles.
Maria, while working at MGM, decided at the age of 42 to attend
Loyola Law School and was admitted to the California State Bar
in 1984. At MGM, Maria was Senior Vice President of
Corporate Affairs and Assistant Secretary when she retired in
2000. She passed away on July 12th from lung cancer. She
is survived by her son, Kevin. "She was born
with the gift of laughter and believed the world was mad
."
Jayne Westin,
predeceased by her loving husband, Dr Wil Westin, passed
away at her home
in La Canada. Services took place at Glendale Forest Lawn
on Friday 25th July 2008. Reverend Charles Orr, Pastor
of Westwood Presbyterian Church, presided. When Rev Orr was
appointed Pastor in Westwood in 1970, Dr Wil and Jayne
were the first couple he married.
Mrs Westin attended the Irish Center's St Patrick's
Celebration for the past several years. We extend our sympathy
to Ms. Heather Westin on the loss of her
mom.
Robert F. Walsh passed away at his
home in Burbank on July24th. "Bob" was
predeceased in death by his wife Nora. He is survived by
his sisters-in-law Kathleen and Teresa; his brother-in-law
Brendan; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services
were held on July 29th at San Fernando Mission Chapel.
Elizabeth "Betty" O'Sullivan,
widow of the late Sean O'Sullivan (The Spa, Tralee) passed
away at her home in San Mateo on July 24th. Survived
by her brothers-in-law Monsignor Jeremiah O'Sullivan,
Coronado; Martin O'Sullivan, Sun Valley; Liam
O'Sullivan, Kildare; Tommy O'Sullivan, Dublin; and
Eamon O'Sullivan, Dublin; and sister-in-law, Hannah Mary
O'Sullivan, Los Angeles. Betty is also survived by
several nephews and nieces.
Josephine "JoJo" O'Reilly
Mungovan passed away on July 26th. She
was born in Detroit in 1918. She is survived by four sons
and one daughter, eleven grandchildren and eight great
grandchildren. Predeceased by daughter Sheila in
2001. Survivors: Son Dennis and wife Sue, and their
family, John, Kathy, twins Brendan and Laura O'Reilly. John
has two children AnnaRita and Brittney, and Laura has
Lindsey, Lauryn and Lacey. Son Terry and wife Darla and
their family Terren, Kaitlin, Brendan P.O'Reilly.
Sons Pat O'Reilly and Tim O'Reilly. Daughter
Maureen and husband Bill Chalk and their family, Liam,
Kevin, Janel and Sean Chalk. Liam's children are Kaiya
and Emma, and Janel has Riley. JoJo celebrated her 90th
birthday on the April 3rd, surrounded by her loving and
extended family. The celebration of JoJo's life took
place at St Jerome's Church on 2nd August.
Thomas "Tommy" McCooey
passed away on July 28th in North Hollywood, where
he had lived for 50 years. Tommy was born in Ballybay,
Co Monahan. Tommy is survived by his sisters in Ireland,
Ohio and New York. The funeral mass took place at St
Patrick's in North Hollywood on August 8th.
August
John Murray, who was born
in Belfast in November 1929, passed away on 29th
August.. John is survived by his wife Pat, son Gerard,
daughter Anne-Marie (Schaffer) and two grandsons, Scott
and Colin Schaffer. Before coming to this country John
worked in Toronto. In 1954 John and Pat married there. John's
passing is a major loss not only to his family but to the
Irish community here in Southern California. John and Pat
were very involved with the Irish Fair, Irish Dancing and
Irish Feis. If any group needed help John and Pat were the
first people to respond. The service for John Murray took
place on Thursday, September 4th, at St Paul's Church
in Westwood.
September
John Joseph
Jones passed in his sleep on 20th September 2008. John
was born on 18th January 1965. Survived by his parents Richard
Patrick (Cork) and Annie (Tyrone) Jones; sister Maura Kneafsey;
brothers Matthew and Richard Jones. Also mourned by his lady
friend Yvonne Fleury. The Jones family owned and operated the
Irish Import Shop for several years.
Frank McCoy aged 81 passed away on 21st September 2008 in
Portadown, Co Armagh. He is survived by his wife Nancy; daughter
Ursula in Portadown and his sister Joan McConville in Burbank.
Frank had been in declining health for the past few years and
succumbed to a heart attack.
October
Kathleen Ann King was born on 17th August
1984 and passed on 27th October 2008 killed by a drunk driver.
She is mourned by her parents Peter and Rose Cox King; sister
Amber; brothers Pete Jr and PFC Logan: grandmother Mary Cox. The
24 year old Katie also leaves grandma Patricia King, twenty
seven aunts and uncles and twenty three cousins. Katie's legacy
lives on with her gracious and loving organ donation.
Geraldine McConville Holdsworth
who was born in Portadown, Co Armagh in May 1927 passed away at
the home of her daughter Shawn in La Mesa on 29th October 2008.
She was preceded in death by her husband Joe Holdsworth and son
Frank Holdsworth. She is survived by her daughter Shawn (John)
Hanley; sons Daniel ( Michelle ), Bob, Timothy (Megan) and
Tracy: and eight grandchildren; sisters Nuala in Norfolk,
England and Josephine --Sister Bernadette MMM in Drogheda; and
brother Tom McConville in Burbank .
Monica Bennett McConville was born in
Pomona on 2nd October 1978 and passed suddenly at the age of 30
on 30th October 2008 in San Diego where she had spent much of
her life. Monica was a preschool teacher. She is survived by her
husband Daniel; her parents Brian and Jeanine Bennett; her
sister Annie ( Ryan ) Duncan; her father and mother in law Colin
and Candi McConville in North Hills, Ca.
Ann Martin Eustace aged 68 passed on
26th November. . Ann was born in central Dublin. Ann married
Robert Eustace in Los Angeles in 1960. They returned to Dublin
in 1970 and took up residence in Greystones, Co Wicklow. Ann is
survived by her husband Robert and sons Brian and Sean and
daughters Anna and Jenny. Jenny lives in Kilcoole in Co Wicklow,
while the other three reside in Los Angeles County. Ann is also
survived by siblings: Tim and Alan in Los Angeles; Jack, Paul,
Terry and Clare in Dublin and Mag in Andora.
December
Edmund "Eddie" O'Dwyer was born in
Kilkenny on September 17, 1919 and passed away on December 12,
2008 in Victorville. He is survived by his loving wife of 61
years, Peg (McLoughlin) O'Dwyer from Nenagh, Tipperary. Also
survived by two sons, four daughters, sixteen grandchildren and
eight great-grandchildren. Eddie was a World War II hero and
rescued injured soldiers under enemy fire at the Battle of
Dunkirk in France. He emigrated to the U.S. in 1950 but never
forgot his Irish roots. For most of his life, he played the
accordian at family gatherings which of course consisted mostly
of Irish songs and dance. He will be truly missed by his wife,
family, friends and all whose lives he touched.
Nora Bridget O'Shea McEntee was born on
9th June 1927 in Killeenlea, Co Kerry and passed on 11th
December 2008 at her home in Burbank. Nora is survived by her
husband of 53 years, Patrick; daughters Mary (Jim) Gosnell,
Peggy, Patricia (Daniel) and Noreen; grandchildren Scott and Tom
Gosnell; Madeline and Daniel Casquilho. Also survived by her
brothers Fionan and Michael.
Conor Cruise O'Brien
a leading Irish author, politician and diplomat who rose to
international prominence passed away at his home near Dublin.
"The Cruiser" as he was known to friends was 91. He is survived
by his wife poet, Maire MacEntee, five children and five
grandchildren. on December 18th.
Bartholomew "Bart " Murphy
was born in the city of Cork on 5th February 1934 and passed
away in West Covina on 27th December 2008. He is survived by his
Belfast born wife of 46 years, Nancy; also mourned by son Sean
(Maria); daughters Ann-Marie, Roisin (Ed), Marguerite and
Patricia; granddaughters Amanda, Katie and Emily.
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