OBITUARIES 2024
Allyn Anderson
In 1979 Allyn co-founded the Southern California Irish Fair with brother, Terry Anderson. Their contribution created the largest most successful Irish cultural festival in the United States, and continued by co-chairing the Beverly Hills parade, Celticfest, numerous St. Patrick’s Civic Center events, Vice President of the Los Angeles Ancient Order of Hibernians chapter and Founder of the Southern California Rose of Tralee pageant.
Allyn served in the 1st Infantry as a combat helicopter gunner in the Viet Nam war, and unbeknownst to most, his bravery earned him a Bronze Star for his combat heroism. Upon returning to civilian life, Allyn loved his 1962 Corvette while continuing his education towards a degree from UCLA, and starting a career as a service trainer for United Airlines. Most notably training employees on the Boeing 747 and other aircrafts.
All loved Allyn for his storytelling and Irish personality. Allyn was a big brother… always the “cool brother” … and he was best friend to many people. Brothers Terry Anderson and Dale Anderson predeceased him Allyn is survived by his wife Alane who was a special part of his life that made him complete, and his brother Gary (and Luann). Allyn was loved for his big presence, warmth, and tenderness.
FEBRUARY
RICHARD PATRICK JONES (Jonesy)
August 20, 1928 – February 10th, 2024
RICHARD PATRICK JONES (Jonesy) of Los Angeles, CA passed away peacefully on February 10th, 2024. He was born on August 20, 1928, in Ballydesmond, Co. Cork, Ireland to Matthew and Mary (nee Buckley) Jones.
Richard arrived to Los Angeles in 1957. He married Annie Mary Keenan, in 1963, and they were blessed with four children. Richard and Annie were the proprietors of the Irish Import Shop from 1963-2002. The shop was located first on Melrose, then Beverly and finally on Vine Street. Richard was also a bus driver with RTD for 35 years.
Richard is survived by his wife of sixty years, Annie Mary. He was predeceased by his son John Jones and his granddaughter Tess Kneafsey. He will be missed by his sons Matthew (Kathleen) Jones, Richard (Jennifer) Jones and his daughter Maura (Brian) Kneafsey. He was a beloved grandfather to Kara, Brendan, Emmet, Margaret, Marla, James and Ryan. Richard had a close connection to his many nieces and nephews including Richard (Jeremy) and William Lonsdale.
Richard will be remembered for his big laugh, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his family.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 2, at 2 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 624 North Rossmore Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Brain Tumor society in his memory. https://braintumor.org/take-action/give/
JANUARY
Michael R. Pettite
Birth: July 8, 1938 | Died: January 30, 2024
Michael Robert Pettite passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness. He was a beloved husband of 60 years to JoAn, father to four daughters, and grandfather to six grandchildren. Michael was born in Portland, OR, and had a passion for travel, which he shared with his family. He had a successful career in retail before transitioning to food service and teaching. Michael also had a love for Irish music and became a concert promoter. He was devout in his Roman Catholic faith and actively participated in his parish. In his final months, Michael enjoyed the serenity of his beach house.
