In Memoriam

 

Announcements
 

COATES, George R. (1949-2021)
 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George R. Coates, 72, on July 31, 2021. George was born in Alameda, California on Oct. 1, 1948. He moved from California to live in Hawai‘i, where he met his wife and raised their two children.

They lived in Hawai‘i for over 40 years until they moved to Virginia Beach, Virginia in 2011. George loved the outdoors, especially bird hunting with his two German shorthaired dogs. He enjoyed working on projects around the house and was proud to have built several homes in his lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his father Wayne B. Coates and his mother Clara A. Schveiger. He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Joanne Farias Coates, two sons, Jeremiah K. Coates and Joshua K. Coates, two grandchildren, Danielle Coates and Jeremiah K. Coates Jr. Other family members include a brother Gene (Vicki) Coates, two sisters, Joyce Moulden and Jeanette (Steven) Shade, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

 

 

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TREVINO, Maria (     2021)

 

Maria G. Trevino, of Houston, passed away on August 31, 2021. She is preceded in death by her parents Ninfa Lopez and Juan W. Lopez. Left to cherish her memory are her children Bernadette Trevino, Gabriella Trevino Martinez; grandchildren Cecilia Trevino Beas, Sophia Guerra, Javier Guerra. Gabriel Martinez; great-grandchildren Mia Beas, Aria Beas, Elias Beas; siblings Angela Brand, Susana Carcini, Maria E. Lopez, Adolfo Salinas, Mary Alice Garza.

A visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 9:00pm, with a rosary at 7:00pm, on Friday, September 10th at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will begin at 11:00am, at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, 7810 Cypresswood Dr, Spring, TX 77379, on Saturday, September 11th.

Maria will be laid to rest at a private ceremony, at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkLawndaleFH.com for the Trevino family.

 

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McCAULEY, Robert  "Bob" (1936-2021)

 

Bob joined Western International Hotels in 1962 at the Georgia in Vancouver, B.C. In 1969 he was named general manager of the Imperial Inn on Vancouver Island. Three years later he returned to Vancouver and the Georgia as general manager. The following year, 1973, he moved east to open the Edmonton Plaza as general manager and in 1975 he moved further east to become general manager of Hotel Toronto. In 1988 he was appointed area vice president for Canada, Norway and South Africa. Two years later he was appointed managing director of the Harbour Castle in Toronto.

A funeral Mass for will be conducted On Thursday August 5^th at the  Church of the Annunciation in Edmonton (9420 163^rd street N.W.).
 

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Rivera , Jose Antonio "Pepe" (1953-2021)

 

Born in Mexico City on January 5, 1953, he was the son of Judith Campo

Guevara and Luis Rivera Piedrabuena.  He had 4 siblings: Luis, Eduardo,

Judith and Miguel and 6 nephews: Francine, Danielle, Natalia, Luis José,

Fernanda and Amanda. He married Elisa Murrieta, and the large family was

integrated into his walk through life, made up of countless friends who

always loved and recognized him.

 

  He attended Elementary and High school at Simon Bolivar and La Salle

Institutions in Mexico City, continuing his studies in England, France and

Switzerland.

 

In 1975 he completed his hotel studies at the Hotel School Glion in

Switzerland, where he received the title Hôtelier Diplomé.  He did his

cooking internships at the Hotel Des Berges in Geneva, Switzerland and

administration at the Hotel Plaza Athénée in Paris, France.

 

  Upon his return from Switzerland, he joined the Le Château and Kloster

restaurants, and later  Camino Real Hotels, starting as an Operations

Analyst and ending 16 years later as Director of Operations for the entire

chain.  During his years with Camino Real hotels, we can follow his passage

through the hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Alameda in Mexico City, Las Brisas,

Ixtapa and Cancun.

 

 In 1993 he took over the General Management of Grupo Turístico

Escorpión, owner of the Ritz Carlton Cancun Hotel, Holiday Inn Express

Cancun, La Jolla de Mismaloya in Vallarta and Malibu in Acapulco.

 

He was President of the Hotel Association in destinations such as Ixtapa

Zihuatanejo and Cancun.  He was also Vice President of the Association of

Hotel Chains, making enormous contributions to the Tourism sector of our

country.

 

In 1999, he rejoined the Camino Real Hotels as Managing Director of the

Hotel Camino Real Mexico in Polanco.

 

In 2002, he was in charge of the challenging opening of the Exhibition

Centro citianamex as Managing Director and later he collaborated as General

Coordinator of Grupo Autofin, in the creation of the huge Mundo Imperial

project in Acapulco.In 2004, he accepted a proposal to work with Alejandro Zozaya, to collaborate with the recently founded Grupo Hotelero AMResorts, as Vice

President of Development and New Projects, and Vice President of Expansion,

being part of the hotel group for 14 years.

 

He was Founder and Honorary President for Life of the European Hotel

School Alumni Association, as well as Bailli Honoraire and Comandeur de la

Châine de Rotisseurs. He obtained several recognitions throughout his

career, such as La Llave del Progreso in 2013 in the category of Hotelier of

the Year in by the National Tourism Purveyors Association and a finalist for

MKG Group Worldwide Award with the Lifetime Worldwide Award Achievement

"Iconic Employee 2014" in Paris, France.

 

From 2018 until May 2021, he dedicated his time and passion to be an

Independent Consultant through his firm Grupo Rivera.

 

 

 

Author: Francine de Rungs, Niece

 

 

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MELTON, Jr.  Kenneth Frank  (1933-2020)

 

Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Frank Melton Jr. (US Army Retired), 87 years of age, of Stone Mountain Georgia, passed away in his home surrounded by the immense love of his family on 29 December 2020.

He was born in Columbia South Carolina on 27 December 1933, eventually graduating from Columbus High School in Columbus Georgia. Over the next twenty five years he chose to serve his country; first as a submariner aboard the USS Requin in the US Navy which he followed with a twenty one year career as an Intelligence Officer in the US Army. He then chose, for the sake of those he loved, to retire and pursue a civilian career in Personnel Management. During those years he dedicated to his family, he was active in his church and denomination eventually being recognized as Elder Emeritus in the Presbyterian Church in America. During his military career he served two tours in Vietnam- one with the 11th Armored Cavalry (Blackhorse) and a second with Military Assistance Command Vietnam- Studies and Observations Group. He also served as a military advisor during the Ethiopian Revolution. His decorations include two Bronze Stars with Valor Device, The Legion of Merit and The Republic of Vietnam Honor Medal.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years Marilyn, three children: Lisa Cadora (Matthew), Linda Williams and Kenneth F Melton III (Holly), six grandchildren and one great grandchild.

This obituary is not meant as an announcement of mourning but as a celebration of a life well lived and the God that led it.

We Love You Pops…

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be sent to either The 11th Armored Cavalry Blackhorse Association of The Wounded Warrior Project.

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PEREZ, Hector  (1936 - 2018)

 

Born in Tequila, Jalisco in 1938 he began his career at an early age in SanAntonio, Texas, and arrived at the Hotel Alameda in Mexico City in 1964 to start as maitre d'hotel and continue as food & beverage manager. He was promoted to pre-opening resident manager in 1967 of the soon to be inaugurated Camino Real Mexico City, and acted as Director of Operations of the chain from 1969 to 1984. He left to run his own restaurant in Guadalajara, and upon retiring "Tequila´s" in Puerto Vallarta.

 

Quite often he told an episode with real pleasure: In 1967 he received an invitation to a training programme at the Century

Plaza in Los Angeles. Arriving at the airport, an uniformed driver led him

to a big black limousine, and offered him a glass of Champagne. At the hotel a small committee welcomed him, which asked the

driver: "Where is Gordon Bass?" Moments later he arrived in a Yellow Cab. For many years he commented this funny error to colleagues and friends with a big smile.

 

He is survived by his wife, son Héctor and daughters Morena and Eva

 

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KOEHLER, Adi  ( 1937-2020)

 

 

Hawai’i’s ‘Mr. Mauna Kea’ Adi Kohler Dies at 83
 

Adi Kohler, often called “Mr. Mauna Kea” for serving as the highly regarded, long time General Manager and Executive Director of the world famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Kohala Coast of Hawai‘i Island, died at the age of 83 from natural causes at Hale Ho‘ola Hamakua, on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2020. Kohler had struggled with health issues for several years.

For nearly three decades, Kohler welcomed generations of visitors from around the world to what was originally Laurance S. Rockefeller’s premiere Hawai‘i resort, and in the process he became one of Hawai’i‘s leading ambassadors of aloha. Among his many awards was being honored as America’s Resort Executive of the Year by the American Hotel & Motel Association in 1988 – a tribute he credited as much to his employees as to his own hard work.

Kohler was born Dec. 20, 1936 in the Sudetenland (now a region of Czechoslovakia). In 1945, the family was forcibly relocated into rural Bavaria, where they opened their first restaurant. In 1953, Kohler enrolled in hotel school in Munich, and then became a front desk clerk at Frankfurter Hof, still one of the best hotels in Germany. In 1957, he was employed by a fashionable spa resort, where he met future wife, Kathrin Gutt.

With aspirations of becoming a general manager, he worked for first class hotels in Munich and Paris, then relocated to the United States in 1963, first to Arizona, then Wyoming. He met Laurance S. Rockefeller at Jackson Lake Lodge in 1969, and worked for Rockefeller’s properties Caneel Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Cerromar and Dorado Beach Hotel in Puerto Rico, before coming to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in 1973. Kohler remained at the helm until 2000, and is remembered best as her beloved general manager.

Upon retirement, he authored an autobiography, titled “Mr. Mauna Kea,” a nickname that stuck with him for the rest of his life. The popular book shared memorable stories of his years hosting world leaders, entertainment and sports superstars, captains of business, renouned journalists, authors, artists and ordinary people who loved the resort’s beauty, serenity, understated elegance and the employees’ aloha and attention to detail.

Kohler was active in supporting and nurturing all aspects of the hospitality industry, and served as Bailli (president) of the island’s gourmet society Confrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs, and in 2015 received a special Bailliage of USA award. He was also a member of the elite western riding club, Rancheros Visitadores. He was consistently involved in Hawai‘i Island business and community organizations including the Rotary Club of North Hawai‘i and served on the Board of Directors for Parker School. After retiring from the resort, he became a dedicated volunteer for Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital.

Kohler is survived by wife Kathrin “Chacha” Kohler, son Christian Kohler, daughter-in-law Kristin Kohler, grandchildren Elyse and Alexander “Adi” Kohler of Lincoln, Nebraska, son-in-law Robert Johnson, and grandchildren Alicia and Ryan Johnson of Honolulu. Beloved daughter Ulrike “Bieni” Kohler Johnson passed in 2009.

A family memorial is planned, with a celebration of life to be arranged at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Bieni Kohler Johnson Memorial Fund, c/o Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy, 65-1692 Kohala Mountain Road, Kamuela, HI 96743 (808-885-7321).

 

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HEREDIA, Alejandro  ( 1943-2020)

Renown chef and alum, Alejandro Heredia has died at the age of 77.

He was an icon of Mexican gastronomy and seedbed of the new generations that today oversee great restaurants. With five decades behind the stove, where the last 20 years he was in charge of the Hacienda Los Morales , in Polanco, is a great example that to be a chef requires perseverance and discipline as Alejandro began his hospitality career as a dishwasher at the Hotel Presidente In Mexico City.

An opportunity then beckoned at the Camino Real, where, for twenty years, he rubbed shoulders with international chefs from all over the world.

He later moved on to the Hacienda Los Morales located in the exclusive Polanco area of Mexico City. Under his direction the restaurant garnered numerous accolades by guests, hospitality journalists, his fellow culinarians, and was the first Mexican chef to be recognized by the French Culinary Academy.

 

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GULLAKSEN, Bjorn  ( 1944-2020)

 

Memorial service for Bjorn Gullaksen will be held on October 22nd at Ullern Church Holgerslystveien 22, 0280 Oslo, Norway at 10:00 am.

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DUNFORD,  James B. "Jim"  ( 1944-2020)

 

We are very sad not to be able to gather in person due to the ongoing pandemic. But we have created this memorial site as a place to come together and celebrate our beloved father and grandfather, James B. (Jim) Dunford, who was born on October 10, 1944 and passed away unexpectedly from pancreatic cancer on October 3, 2020. He will be in our hearts forever. Please take a look at the Gallery tab for photos from Dad's life and share a memory or a photo of your own under the Stories tab above. We look forward to hearing from you!
With love, 
Lisa & Billy Dickman; Kate, Brett, Abby & Bryn Showalter

 

Please go to...[https://www.forevermissed.com/jim-dunford/about]

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Hall, William Ames (Bill): ( 1949-2020)

 

 

William Ames "Bill" Hall Folly Beach - A successful entrepreneur who breathed life into mountain-sized ideas. A visionary leader who until recently had a flip phone. And a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. All of this and more describes William Ames "Bill" Hall, Founder of Hall Management Group and its signature Halls Chophouse restaurants located throughout South Carolina. But the east coast is not where this hospitality legend got his start. Born November 2, 1946 in Seattle, Washington and raised in Sausalito, California, Bill Hall began his hospitality career on the west coast, as a teenager working in both a restaurant and in the family grocery store. His resilience training came early. Bill's father fired him after Bill terminated the butcher who had been there for 25 years. But if you know Bill, that tough call was likely the right move. Bill's determination was only matched by his deep love for his family and his affection for serving people well. From Napa Valley to Vail, from Pebble Beach to Palmetto Dunes, Bill Hall ran some of the most luxurious resorts in the United States. Along the way, he always invested his time and money in the community, frequently going above and beyond the call for help. If we tried to list all of the charities blessed by Bill Hall and his family, we'd likely fill the page and more. He served on some of South Carolina's most prestigious boards including the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition and Patriots Point Development Authority where Governor Henry McMaster recently appointed Bill as Chairman. But he never sought the limelight. He put others above self and that graceful humility cultivated relationships beyond count. In 2008, Bill, his wife, Jeanne, and sons, Tommy and Billy, founded Hall Management Group in Charleston and opened their first steakhouse. In 2009, they cut the ribbon on the iconic Halls Chophouse Charleston. Opening night, Bill borrowed $100.00 from his longtime friend, Judge Sol Blatt, to have money in the cash register. They ended the evening making $58.00. But many of you know "the rest of the story." Halls Chophouse Charleston, known for its food, welcoming atmosphere and attention to service detail, has won countless awards for dining excellence including a 2018 declaration from Trip Advisor as being one of the Top 10 Dining Destinations in the United States. And just last week, Trip Advisor listed Halls Chophouse Charleston as the third best fine dining restaurant in the United States. Bill was thrilled to learn of this news and proud of the phenomenal Halls Chophouse Charleston team and our guests who make these prestigious rankings possible. Halls Chophouse Charleston is one of 8 venues under the Hall Management Group umbrella. The other venues include Slightly North of Broad, Rita's Seaside Grille, High Cotton, Halls Signature Events at 5 Faber, Halls Chophouse Greenville, Halls Chophouse Columbia, and Halls Chophouse Nexton. All of the restaurants and staff are known for serving everyone in a generous, hospitable way, regardless of fame or fortune. Family members are grateful for the outpouring of expressions of love and support throughout the community, the state and everywhere online. We received 600 condolences texts in one day. The theme of Bill making everyone feel welcome and "like family" was the essence of this gentleman and community giant. At the same time, Bill transcended the realms of old school business practices and being willing to "let's try something new." A delicious combination like salted caramel cake with bananas foster. Bill Hall never sacrificed quality for quantity and he never passed and opportunity to invest in future leaders. From speaking at local colleges to his support in the next generation of culinary talent by sponsoring 8 high school students through the apprenticeship program at Trident Technical College, Bill knew our future leaders needed mentoring and support. He also knew his current restaurant family was key to his success. In 2020, when COVID-19 hit and businesses in South Carolina were ordered to shut down, Bill's first thought was of his employees. While the country waited for Congress to pass the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Bill vowed to keep every single employee on payroll, funding their pay, benefits and 401(k) out of his own pocket. All tips collected from curbside to-go orders were equally distributed to employees as an added bonus to their paychecks. Bill Hall was a pillar of strength. And the Hall family's commitment to their employees, guests and each other is steadfast and strong. We could go on for days about what Bill Hall has created, cultivated, loved and supported, but that's not what our Bill would want. Instead, we believe he would challenge us to be generous with kindness and gratitude, to be courageous with possibilities and opportunities, and above all to enjoy a glass of wine with a juicy, delicious steak. Bill is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jeanne Lamond Hall and the loving Lamond family, son, Billy Hall, daughter, Stacey Gibson, son, Tommy Hall (Catherine) and grandsons, Redford Gibson, Ryland Hall and a Hall granddaughter on the way. Cousin, Barbara Bradeson and her husband Brian of Huntington Beach, California have meant so much to us over the years. A celebration of life will be held in the future when we can all be together safely. In lieu of flowers, please join us in supporting two charities near and dear to Bill's heart: MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children Hospital , MUSC Children's Hospital Fund, 59 Bee Street, MSC Code: 201, Charleston, SC 29425 and The Culinary Institute of Charleston at Trident Technical College, Bill Hall Culinary Entrepreneurship Endowed Scholarship, TTC Foundation , PO Box 61227, Charleston, SC, 29419-1227. A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston

 

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MASSAGLI, DON: (    -2020)

 

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HAYDEN, John David: (     -2020)
 

 

 

 

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O'Connell, Patrick James "Jim": (1945-2020)

 

 

 

Patrick James ‘Jim’ O’Connell, 74, of Hutchinson, died February 9, 2020, at Diversicare of Hutchinson.  He was born April 4, 1945, in Peoria, IL, the son of Larry and Mary (Mooney) O’Connell.

After attending school in Chanute, Jim graduated from Topeka Hayden High School in 1963. In 1967, Jim graduated from the University of Kansas with a BA degree in Sociology and Chemistry and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Immediately following graduation, he served for 2 years in the Peace Corps in Morocco and Micronesia as a medic and logistician.

Jim worked in marketing and sales management for Westin and Fairmont Hotels at some of the most famous hotels in the world, including the Mayflower in Washington D.C., the Fairmont in San Francisco, the Roosevelt in New Orleans, and the Westin Ilikai in Honolulu. In 1991, Jim retired from the hotel industry as Director of Sales, Weston Resorts Hawaii responsible for the Westin Kauai at Kauai Lagoons, the Westin Maui, and the Westin Mauna Kea.

Following a 3-year stint as Regional Sales Manager for NJA Publishing in San Diego, Jim returned in 1993 to Hutchinson to care for his ailing father. After the passing of his father, Jim made Hutchinson his home, where he was a member of the Church of the Holy Cross, Knights of Columbus Council #612, and the Hutchinson Bridge Club.

Jim’s passion for bridge began when he was asked by his parents to fill-in when they needed a fourth at a table at neighborhood gatherings. Because his work in the hotel industry took him all over the globe, he made lifelong friends in the bridge world playing in international tournaments. At home, he mentored beginning players and was always willing to help any that asked. An apt student of the game, Jim achieved the American Contract Bridge League rank of Gold Life Master in 2002 and was approaching Diamond Life Master status at the time of his death.

Jim is survived by: brother, Mike O’Connell and partner, Sharon Puddington of Olathe; nephew, Michael O’Connell of Kansas City, MO; nieces, Jessica O’Connell O’Neil and her husband, Dan O’Neil of Cottonwood, AZ, and Mary O’Connell of Overland Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has taken place. Parish rosary will be 10 a.m. Saturday, February 29, 2020, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., both at Church of the Holy Cross, 2631 Independence Rd., with Fathers Ned Blick and Michael Kerschen officiating.  Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at Elliott Mortuary. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, February 28, at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Cause for Paws, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

 

 

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O'HEARN, JOHN FORSEE (6/15/52 - 6/10/2020)

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of John Forsee O'Hearn (Frisco, Texas), who passed away on June 10, 2020, at the age of 67, leaving to mourn family and friends. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of John Forsee O'Hearn to pay them a last tribute. You may also light a candle in honor of John Forsee O'Hearn.

He was loved and cherished by many people including : his parents, Edward O'Hearn and Mildred O'Hearn. [everhere.com/us/obituaries/tx/frisco/john-forsee-ohearn-10987620

 

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BLYTH, THOMAS PETER ( 8/1941 - 6/10/2020)
 

A beautiful life has ended. Peter died of congestive heart failure on June 10th, 2020. Those in

his orbit will miss his delicious English sense of humor, his compassionate soul, his

inquisitive mind. He was a cherished husband, father, brother, brother-in-law and uncle. He was a devoted friend.
 

Peter was born in August 1941 in Gravesend, England. He grew up on the Channel Island of Jersey where he graduated from Victoria College. He completed a five-year

apprenticeship program training as a chef. He began his exciting and rewarding hotel career in 1963 at the new London Hilton. It was Hilton that brought Peter to the United States in 1965.
 

He was with Westin Hotels for 19 years serving as a general manager, the Director of

Food and Beverage Worldwide and a development officer. He ended his career with Radisson Hotels and Resorts as Executive Vice President, Business Development Worldwide. He spoke English, French and Norwegian. His friendships circled the globe.
 

In retirement he became an accomplished Japanese sumi-e painter. He planned long

summer bike rides with friends on Minnesota’s remarkable bike trail system. He recently

joined a CBS men’s bible study group which brought him endless joy.
 

Peter is survived by his wife of 50 years, Linda; their children, Libby and Philip; sister,

Trish Bloxham and her husband, David; his brother, Michael and his wife, Sylvia;

brother-in-law, Bill Shoemaker and his wife, Annie Gehan; sister-in-law, Annie Moore

and her husband, Floyd; a niece and five nephews. He was predeceased by his

parents, Tom and Tru Blyth, and nephew, Benjamin Blyth.
 

He will be inurned in the Memorial Garden at House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St.

Paul. A memorial service will be held on August 14, 2020 at 11 am CDT at the Noerenberg Memorial Gardens in Minneapolis. It will be streamed live via Zoom. Details to log on will be provided at a later time.

 

Peter supported programs that cared for children in impoverished countries. Memorials

may be made through Bu i l d a b e t t e rb e n i n . o rg which provides a home and schooling for

abandoned children in Benin, Africa

 

 

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DUPAR. THOMAS, SR. (10/29/1930 - 6/4/2020)

Senior was the 6th of eight children. Tom spent quality time with his father and brothers fishing at various Northwest lakes.

He served in the Korean War in the United States Army Signal Corps, and later joined Western Hotel, the company his father founded along with Severt Thurston.  Tom was a Seattle native to his core, but a transplant to the Palm Springs area for the last 30 years. A special thanks to the staff at Mission Hills Assisted Living and Eisenhower Medical Center staff.

He  was preceded in death by sisters Dorothy Lynch, Marilyn McIntosh, brothers Frank, Jack, Bob, and Jimmy. He is survived by his brother Rev Ken (Kris) Dupar of Scotland.

Tom had four children. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Dupar, Seattle, WA, and sons John Dupar (Renie), San Francisco, CA; Tom Dupar Jr. (Debbie), USVI, Mark Dupar (Gail), Anacortes, WA and his favorite son-in-law Charles Stuart (Seattle). He had five gorgeous granddaughters, two grandsons, and four beautiful great-granddaughters.

 

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SCHNEIDER, GORDON  (1925-2020)

2018

 

 

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OLSON, ORVIN "OLE" (1925-2020)
 

BURTON, Patrick (9/13/46 - 1/19/20)

SISUL, JUANITA (NITA),  (11/6/41 - 1/2/2020)

Juanita (Thomas) Sisul passed away peacefully Jan. 2, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. Nita is survived by her husband, William (Bill) Sisul; daughters, Lenée (Ron) Goyette of Hurst, Texas, Michelle (Mackenzie) Bottum of Dallas, Texas; son Greg Vaughn of Dallas, Texas; sister Dee Lesniak of Burns, Oregon; seven grandchildren, her brothers and sisters in-law, many nieces, nephews and numerous friends.

Nita was born in Portland, Oregon on Nov. 6, 1941 to Chester and Mabel Thomas and graduated from Tillamook High School in 1959. Nita and Bill moved to Texas in the mid 70s where she retired from the Westin Galleria Hotel, Dallas, as the Director of Sales and Marketing in 1997. She and Bill retired permanently in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas in 2016. Nita was active in her community and in bible studies. She attended the Balboa Baptist Church where she was a member of the Faith Sunday School class.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020 at the Woodlands Community Center, Hot Springs Village, with a friends and family reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to the American Cancer Society at www.Cancer.org.

KREKAS, Charles (Chuck) Krekas (1926 -2019)

Charles Paul Krekas of Kirkland, loving husband to Nikki and treasured father to Suzanne (Tim) Ferraro, passed away, Wednesday, November 6, 2019 in Bellevue. A funeral service will be held at noon, on Thursday, November 21st at St. Demetrius Greek Orthodox Church in Seattle.

BASSE, Hans (    -2019)

We have learned that Hans Basse, shown here, surrounded by his sons, passed away peacefully on Saturday the 19th of october in Copenhagen.

IDHE. Klaus B. (1931-2019)

Klaus Bernhard Ihde, 88, a long time resident of Orlando, FL, but living in Eldersburg, MD for the last 1-1/2 years passed on to his heavenly home on Friday, May 17th, 2019. He leaves behind his wife Irmgard and two sons Alex and Stephan.
Published in the Orlando Sentinel on May 26, 2019

JORDAN, Robert (Bob)  1948 -2019

ELLIS, Kitty (    -2019)
 

HILL, Jim (    -2019)
 

TALBOYS,  David (    -2019)

DAVENPORT,  David C. (1932-2019)

David passed away peacefully and with dignity on Friday, January 4, 2019. Best friend and devoted husband of Florence Davenport for 62 years. Adored father of David Andrew Davenport and Lauren Wornig, Allen and Lesley Davenport, Nancy Davenport and Amit Primor. Beloved grandfather of Daniel and Amy Davenport. Predeceased in March 2018 by his sister Barbara Giesbrecht of Penticton, BC. He also leaves his nephews, Gary Giesbrecht, Tom Giesbrecht, and his niece, Joanne Fox. David had a profound love for his family, his cats, and a deep connection to the landscape of Indian Rock, BC. He was a gifted gardener, he had a wonderful sense of humor, and was always ready with a joke or a quip. He will be sadly missed and always remembered by his family who will celebrate his life privately.
 

HARRIS, Clyde Joseph III (1943-2018)

Clyde Harris, 75, died Christmas Eve at his home after battling heart disease. The evening prior to his death was spend with his family, eating good food, laughing and watching football.

He leaves his wife of 52 years, Linda; his daughter, Claudine McKemie and husband, Chris; his three grandson’s, Trevor, Tommy, Tucker; his sister, Regina Thomas;  and his brother-in law, Carl Harris and wife, Susan.  He is preceded in death by his son, Clyde, who was 35 when he passed.

Born and raised in New York City, Clyde was a graduate of Browning School and Cornell University.  He began his career in hospitality in New York City, working for Hilton Hotels.  He had a life long hospitality career with many of the big hotel chains like Holiday Inn, Westin Hotels and Resorts and Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts.  As Vice President of the Denver and Colorado Convention and Visitors Bureau, he was extremely proud of negotiating The Final Four being held in Denver.

In later years, he helped develop and became President of Harris Hotel Group located on Hilton Head Island.  This company consisted of 4 multi-state Intercontinental Hotels.

As was his son, Clyde was known for his smile, his quick wit and his love for his family and friends.  Clyde enjoyed spending Sunday mornings at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.  Golfing and boating were his passions from a very young age.  Cooking, thinking he was half Italian, was another shared passion with his son.

Clyde liked nothing more than a good martini and veal chop, especially at Flora’s Restaurant on HHI.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 5 at 11am at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on Pope Avenue with a luncheon to follow in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Hilton Head Humane Society.

RIEFLIN, Robert (1930-2018)

Born 01 February 1930 to William F. Rieflin and Mada M. Dodson, Aberdeen WA. Sadly, died suddenly 17 October 2018.

Grew up in Tacoma, attending Stadium High, playing football and Track and Field. At College of Puget Sound he joined the Kappa Sigma Epsilon Fraternity, graduating in 1952 with a BA.

In 1958, he married his love, Olive Ann Alldredge, and is survived by Olive and their four children, Ric and wife Katie, Tracy and Andy and their son Arlo, Bill and Frankie, and Fritz and Tracie and their daughters Mayda and Alex. We all loved him very much and will miss him sorely.

In his honour there will be a Memorial Mass at Blessed Sacrament Church, 5050 8th Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98105 on Saturday, 27 0ct 2018, at 9:30 am with the Rosary at 9:15.

In lieu of flowers please donate in Bob's honour to Medic One.

HUDSON, Charles Peter (1933 - 2018)
 

WILLIAMS, Barbara Z. (1947-2018)
 

Barbara Z. Williams, 71, of Riverwalk in West Palm Beach passed away Sunday July 15, 2018.  Barbara moved to Florida 8 years ago from Wellesley, MA.  Barbara was a Director of Finance for Starwood Hotels and Resorts.  Here in Florida she was a partner in PropheSea PWDs Kennels, a breeder of Portuguese Water Dogs.  A “giver and not a taker”, Barbara possessed a wonderful sense of humor and was an extraordinarily kind person with a great deal of integrity.  Barbara was predeceased by her father, the late Milton Zalk and is survived by her loving mother, Estelle Zalk; best friend Joyce Polak; dear brothers Barry (Lyn) Zalk, and Craig (Anita) Zalk.  Memorial services celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at 9:00 AM on Friday July 20, 2018 at Beth Israel Memorial Chapel, 11115 Jog Rd., Boynton Beach, FL  33437 with Rabbi Stephen Pinsky officiating.  Those wishing to honor Barbara with a memorial contribution are asked to kindly consider either the TrustBridge Hospice Foundation, 5300 East Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407, trustbridgefoundation.org, or the National Stroke Association, 9707 East Easter Lane, Suite B, Centennial, CO 80112, www.stroke.org.

CALL, Dwight E. (1930-2018)
 

Dwight Call passed away peacefully on July 11, 2018 at age 88 reading in his favorite chair at home in Bellevue. He had celebrated the 4th of July at the cabin on Lake Cavanaugh with family. He was preceded in death by his wife Beverly. He is survived by his daughters Debbie of Burien and Lisa (Howard) Hawk of Medina, his son Gregory (Carolyn) Call of Berkeley California, and 5 wonderful grandchildren.

He was born in Moscow Idaho on January 2, 1930. Dwight grew up in Moscow with his parents Elmo and Isa and his older sister (Marjorie) and brother (Max). He starred on the high school basketball team and played clarinet in a dance band. After graduating from Moscow High School he attended the University of Idaho where he was awarded a BS in Business Administration in 1952. From 1952 to 1954 he served as a U. S. Army Lieutenant in Europe and developed a passion for skiing.

He returned to Moscow and attended Hotel Management School at Washington State University in neighboring Pullman. While at WSU he met Beverly Carlson, the love of his life, who was at the time a junior at the University of Idaho. Dwight and Beverly married in 1955 in Wilder Idaho near the Carlson farm. In 1956 Dwight received his hotel management degree from WSU and Beverly received her degree in education. That year they moved to Portland Oregon where Dwight began working at the Multnomah Hotel (part of the Western International Hotel chain) and Beverly began teaching. In 1957 their first daughter Deborah was born and Beverly focused on raising their family. Dwight continued working for Western International Hotels (later Westin Hotels) and his jobs with the company took the family to Los Angeles, Seattle, Calgary, Portland (again), Chicago and then to the corporate headquarters in Seattle. Dwight managed 4 hotels in 2 countries, opened hotels on 4 continents (North America, Europe, Africa and Asia), and became the President of Westin Hotels in 1983. He retired in 1988.

He trained and mentored people who managed hotels across the world. He had basket full of sayings: "The hotel business would be an easy business if it weren't for the guests and the employees." "You need to learn how to disagree without being disagreeable." His professional contributions were widely recognized. He was inducted into the University of Idaho Hall of Fame and into the WSU Hospitality Business Management Hall of Fame.

Dwight and Beverly were married for 55 years until Beverly died in 2011. Together they raised a family and made friends throughout the world. They entertained with a relaxed and gracious style whether by a campfire or in a ballroom. Dwight and Beverly knew how to throw a party.

Dwight also loved to compete. He competed on the golf course, the tennis court and around the poker table. In his later years as the grandchildren gathered around the kitchen table at Lake Cavanaugh, Dwight would say "old age and treachery will defeat youth and skill." The cards would be dealt and root beer floats consumed.

Dwight will be missed. An informal celebration of his life will be held at Overlake Golf and Country Club, 8000 NE 16th St., Medina on Sunday, July 22 at 2 pm. The family suggests any remembrances be made to the Dwight and Beverly Call Scholarship (Go to give.wsu.edu and search "Dwight and Beverly Call Scholarship").

Published in The Seattle Times from July 15 to July 22, 2018
 

NEWMAN, William Bill ( 1935 - 2018)

Bill with Bill Ellis

My amazing husband had a beautifully peaceful passing Monday morning June 18, 2018  at 11:11 surrounded by and held by our loving arms. What a great privilege to have him by my side since 1959. I am so grateful for our life together, four wonderful children, ten grandchildren, and five great grandchildren as well as the joys of knowing all of you and many other incredible people.

We have been blessed by so much & so many in our time together, please feel free to forward to anyone unintentionally left out.

CRUICKSHANK, Donald C. (1934 ~ 2018)

With heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Donald Clifford Cruickshank who left us on June 7, 2018.

Don was born in Kindersley, Saskatchewan and in 1940 moved to Seattle with his family. Don is survived by his loving wife Janet, step-daughter, step-grandson and

a large, extended family in Metro Vancouver, BC. Don is pre-deceased by his parents and sister (Jean Stirton).

BRUDNEY, David ( 1938 - 2018)

HELMSTEAD, George Henry (    2018)

George George Henry Helmstead of Ada, MI was welcomed into God's arms on Sunday May 6, 2018. George was the only child of the late Harry and Irene Helmstead natives of Closter, New Jersey. He was a graduate of Northern Valley Regional High School at Demarest, attended Fairleigh Dickinson University and earned a Masters of Business Administration at Pepperdine University. On a weekend stay at a friend's home while serving as a Sergeant in the Air National Guard,

George met his friend's little sister, Jane. Years later they fell in love and were married in 1979. George was a devoted and loving husband for the next thirty-eight years. He was destined to become a father of two children and is now lovingly remembered by his daughter, Marisa, his son Trever, his daughter-in-law, Kari and his grandson, Soren.

George had an illustrious career in the hospitality industry starting in New York at Westin Hotel's home office, then on to the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles and overseas to Singapore as Director of Sales for Westin's Raffles City Hotel. Returning stateside, Marriott welcomed him as a Director of Marketing in Los Angeles and in short time shipped him to New York to promote Marriot's flagship property, the Marriot Marquis.

Changing gears, George settled into a new role as Vice President of Sales for the Metropolitan Detroit Convention & Visitors Bureau. He later served as Executive Vice President of Sales at "Experience Grand Rapids," the organization that marketed Grand Rapids and Kent County as a "preferred" convention and visitor destination. He was known as an "easy going, kind and friendly guy" whose sense of humor quickly disarmed acquaintances and converted them to long term friends. As a boss, staff appreciated his willingness to "go to bat" for them, to be "a pleasure to work for," and for some to be, "the best boss" they ever had.

Retirement in 2015, brought George closer to the pleasures of sailing, golfing, and dancing. He served on the board of the Lake Michigan Catalina Association and through their varied activities made lasting friendships both on and off the water. He became a Certified Bareboat Captain and spent time chartering in Anguilla, Saint Martin, the BVI's and Cuba. His most cherished time on the water however was always sailing the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline.

Golfing was also a keen interest and through his buddy, Tom, George would join in weekly golf outings with a gregarious group of friends. Other plans included road trips to the Shakespeare Festival, hikes on the Bruce Peninsula, line dancing at the American Legion Boat and Canoe Club and ballroom dancing at Forest Hills Arts Center with Jane. Summers included gleaning fruits and vegetable for Feeding America and bike riding in MSU's annual Gran Fondo.

George's greatest pleasure was spending time with family. Annual trips included visiting the Detroit Auto show with Marisa, shopping at Countrywide Nursery with Jane, and offering career advice while skiing in Utah with Trever. Words cannot express how much his family adored him or how much he will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the National Stroke Association at: www.stroke.org to further their work in stroke awareness and treatment. A celebration of the life of George Helmstead is being planned in Grand Rapids. The date will be published in the near future. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the wonderful family and friends that helped and supported them over the past several months.

HELLRUNG, Mark (1953-2018)

Mark Raymond Hellrung, 64, a resident of the Henderson area since 2008, passed away on March 23, 2018. His previous residency was Lana'i City, Hawaii.

Mark was born on August 19, 1953 in Houston, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Science in 1976 from the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel & Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. Mark began his career with Westin Hotels & Resorts in 1974. Traversing the country, he held positions in Houston, San Francisco, Kauai, Chicago, and Boston. In 1993, he joined Four Seasons Hotel & Resorts at The Pierre Hotel in New York. Mark was quickly promoted to General Manager and managed properties in the Caribbean, Houston, Lana'i City Hawaii, and since 2008, as General Manager of the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas. Mark proudly just celebrated his 25th year with Four Seasons.

Mark found his soul mate and partner for life when he married Loretta Santacroce in 2001. In their free time, they enjoyed traveling, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.

Mark is survived by his wife of 17 years, Loretta Hellrung; his faithful Labradoodle companion Teddy; son and daughter-in-law Jonathan and Katie Hellrung of Denver, CO, and son Charlie Valentine of Angel Fire, NM; sisters: Cyndee Smith of Chappell Hill, TX; Robin Garcia of Columbus, TX; Christi Hellrung of Houston, TX; Tracey Hellrung of Columbus, TX; and Terri Pavlicek of Glidden, TX.

There will be a funeral Mass held on Tuesday, April 10, 2018 at 9:00am at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 2300 Sunridge Heights Pkwy, Henderson, NV 89052 followed by a Gathering and Reception from 10:30am to 1:30pm, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 1:30pm; and a Committal at 3:00pm, all at Palm Eastern Mortuary

VANDER KAIIJ, Nick (1945-2018)

Son Nicolaas, Nick, Peter Blyth, Ray Sylvester
2016 Westin Reunion, Las Vegas
 

While attending the October 2016 reunion in Las Vegas, Nick was hospitalized, released and then readmitted to hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico, his home. After a period of improvement he was admitted for continuing care. He passed away on February 12, 2018.

“Beste Nick”, dear Nick, as he was known by his colleagues and close friends. He arrived in Mexico in 1972, and started as Food and Beverage Manager at the Camino Real Puerto Vallarta. He moved in 1974 to the Camino Real Guadalajara as Executive Assistant Manager, 1977 to the Camino Real San Salvador, 1980 to Puerto Vallarta, 1981 to Cancún, the latter ones as General Manager, and from 1987 to 1990 as Director of Operations  for Hoteles Camino Real/Westin Hotels. A jolly good fellow has left us.

DUNFORD, Mary Kathryn (1946-2017)

Mary Kathryn "Doc" Dunford (née Thegze) age 71, originally of Hammond, IN, passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 from her home in Richmond, TX. She is survived by her husband, James B Dunford; her daughters, Lisa Dunford Dickman and Kathryn Ann Showalter; her granddaughters Abby and Bryn Showalter; and her brothers, Bill, Bob and Tom Thegze. She is preceded in death by her parents George Thegze and Kathryn Kain Thegze. A Funeral Service is scheduled for 12:00 noon, Thursday, April 6, 2017 at St Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, 8103 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321; the Very Rev. Steven Koplinka will officiate. Mary will lie in state from 11:30 AM until time of service. She will be laid to rest at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Hammond, IN. A visitation will be held at Solan-Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Ave., Schererville, IN, 46375 (corner of Kennedy and Main St.) on Wednesday, April 5, 2017, from 3:00 - 7:00 PM, with the Parastas at 4:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made at http://honor.americanheart.org/goto/MaryKathrynDunford.

BORMES, Robert A.(1954-2017)

Robert A. Bormes, 63, of Lake Geneva, WI, died Tuesday August 22, 2017 at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison, WI.  Robert Alfred Bormes was born in Washington, DC on June 26, 1954 the son of the late Robert and Patricia Bormes.  He attended Regis College in Denver CO where he earned an Associate Degree in Business.  On July 30, 1982, in Lake Geneva he was united in marriage to the former Barbara Quincannon; she preceded him in death on November 10, 2016. 

Robert was well known and well respected in the hotel industry.  He had worked for many years for Shangri La Hotels and Resorts retiring as Vice President.  He enjoyed spending time outdoors golfing, boating and fishing, traveling and bicycle riding.  Above all he was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan.

Robert is survived by: 2 sons; Joseph R. Bormes of Lake Geneva, WI and Paul (Torri) Bormes of Elkhorn, WI, a grandson Paul Quincannon Bormes, a sister Rebecca Merritt, 4 brothers; David (Kathy) Bormes, Tom (Jean) Bormes, Jim (Ann) Bormes and Gregory (Eileen) Bormes.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Peter.

A Celebration of Robert’s Life will be held on Sunday September 17, 2017 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Hawks View Golf Club, 7377 Krueger Rd. Lake Geneva. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy memorials are requested in Robert’s name to: The Cradle, 2049 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL 60201.  To sign the on-line guest registry click guest book/condolences.    
 

CASPARIUS, Rudolfo (1921-2017)

Rodolfo was a Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management lecturer and the executive director for the Latin American Management Programs for more than 30 years.
 
It has been many years since a young man, born to a German father and a Mexican mother in Mexico City, became an icon in the industry.  After his time in Cuba, where he started as a dishwasher, and advanced to assistent to the vice president of the Havana Hilton, his career continued with great success.

He opened 27 hotels and managed many others, among them the Presidente Chapultepec in Mexico City, the Camino Real chain, an afíliate of Western International Hotels, including Camino Real Cancun, for which he acquired the first parcels of land. At that time, only 156 people lived in the área, nowadays the population has grown to more than one million.
 
Rodolfo was active until his last days, writing a weekly column for 34 years  for the Mexican newspaper La Opinión.
 
The City of Houston proclaimed July 1 Rodolfo Casparius Day.
 

MCKIBBIN, Bruce H. (1932-2015) 

On January 24, 1932, born to Helen and William McKibbin, Bruce fell while gardening and died peacefully on June 14, 2015. Bruce spent his formative years in the Pacific Northwest, went to 13 schools in 12 years, graduated from Renton High School in 1949, and the University of Washington in 1955. He entered the US Army and felt fortunate to serve in Germany for two years. After the Army he held several jobs, the longest being with Westin Hotels, which allowed him to travel the world. He married Marlies (Marlee) Meier in 1962 in Denver, CO, and moved back to the Seattle area in 1967. Bruce and Marlee joined the Seattle Yacht Club, spent much of their vacation time sailing in the San Juan Islands, and Bruce became very active at the club and served on many committees. In 2004, he became a docent at the Museum of Flight and was very dedicated to educating people about the history of flight and space exploration. Bruce enjoyed mountain climbing, skiing, sailing, and being with his granddaughters. Many of Bruce's happiest memories were of the people he met and interacted with throughout his life.

Bruce leaves behind his wife, Marlee, son Tom, son Bill and daughter-in-law Kim, and two precious granddaughters, Erin (13) and Libby (10). He will be missed.

Memorial to be held at Seattle Yacht Club June 28 from 2 - 4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Seattle Yacht Club Foundation, or Museum of Flight.