Don Stephens M.A./J.D. ’77 had flying in his soul and not a day went by without him dreaming or regaling of his time in the skies. However what he loved more than flying was his wife, Jeannie—he never stopped telling everyone about how she was the love of his life. Don and Jeannie camped throughout […]

Scott Gilles J.D. ’03 has been appointed president of government affairs for the Griffin Company in Carson City. Prior to this Gilles was a senior advisor to Gov. Steve Sisolak. Gilles also served in multiple leadership roles in state and local government. He most recently managed government affairs and legislative relations for the city of […]

Craig Albanese MBA ’08, an accomplished health care leader and distinguished academic pediatric surgeon, has been named executive vice president and chief operating officer of Duke University Health System (DUHS). As executive vice president, Albanese will serve as the senior leader overseeing the timely execution of DUHS goals and strategic priorities. He will work with […]

Growing up with 11 siblings, John Gerhardt J.D. ’63 always had a lot of family and love to give. He and his wife, Sandra, loved traveling to Hawaii, and visiting their children and grandchildren for weekly dinners, sporting events, and costume parties. A devout Catholic, John believed in giving service to all by volunteering at […]

Described by friends as “a glowing light in this world,” Deirdre Flannery Gollop ’69 died on July 20, 2021. She is survived by her adoring husband, Frank Gollop ’69, two daughters, and seven grandchildren. After Deirdre pursued her masters in special education at the University of Southern California (making plenty of time along the way for fun […]

Upon formation of McArthur & Levin, LLP, Rodney Lawrence Levin J.D. ’93 focused exclusively on representing public agencies in special education. His intelligence, knowledge, and empathy were ubiquitous, and his focus on social justice in every aspect of his work and personal life was unparalleled. Rod cherished his time with his family and together they enjoyed […]

Despite being diagnosed with stage III pancreatic cancer in 2019, Andy David “Bronco” Hospodor M.S. ’86 charged ahead with his research and volunteer work with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. After losing his partner, Anne, to pancreatic cancer, Andy devoted himself to research and even lobbied members of Congress to increase awareness and funding for […]

Born in the Bronx, Martin Kaufman M.S. ’75 loved math, exercise, the outdoors, classical music, and dining out with family and friends. He traveled extensively and found joy and friendship in religious and community groups in retirement. Marty moved with his family to San Francisco at the age of 11, and later attended UC Berkeley and Santa […]

Catherine Fawcett ’71 is far from retiring from life and her 30-year career as a realtor. She and husband Jim Fawcett ’71 married in 1971 and celebrated their 50th anniversary in December. After living in San Diego, they moved back to Northern California where they love living in Bella Vista. In the mornings, they sit outside […]

Loving husband, devoted father, veteran, and pilot John “Jack” Hammond ’53 died on May 20, 2021. On an ROTC commission, Jack joined the U.S. Army and completed flight training as a fixed-wing and helicopter aviator. He was assigned to duty with the 7th Aviation Co. in South Korea from 1955-1957, returning stateside to complete instrument […]

A woman of endless faith and love for her family, Patti J. Eichenberg ’75 died on May 20, 2021. Patti was a generous soul, often giving to strangers and local charities—anyone who met her, instantly liked her. While her husband James was stationed in Germany during the Gulf War, Patti traveled alone to Romania to […]

Carl H. Backers MBA ’66, also known as Grandpa, Pops, Great-Grandpa, and, back in his early days, “Heinie” (a popular old German nickname for a young boy), died on May 12, 2021. Born and raised in Nebraska, Carl loved hunting, fishing, horseback riding, Nebraska (Big Red) football, and card games, especially cribbage. He worked as […]

A decorated veteran, Joseph Di Leonardo ’65, J.D. ’68 fought for what he believed in. For his service he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation medal, and two Gallantry Crosses. Joseph practiced law upon return from his service in the Army. He authored two books, Vietnam War and Red Wave Task Force 2020. […]

After waiting through three separate town council sessions, Sona Makker J.D. ’16 was unanimously appointed a member and assumed office on the Moraga Town Council on Nov. 10, 2021. Born in Tracy, Calif., to immigrant parents, Sona watched them volunteer in schools and neighborhood groups all while holding down jobs and raising four kids. She’s known […]

Brian Lawther J.D. ’68 loved being able to make a difference in people’s lives. Often playing David against wealthy companies’ Goliaths, Brian advocated for the unjustly injured. His litigation skills and pursuit of justice led him to meet his wife. The love of his life, Jill, hobbled into his office one day and after Jill’s […]

Richard Calone J.D. ’71 died on May 21, 2021. Rich worked as an attorney for the IRS before launching his own firm, Richard S. Calone, Inc. His work there helped many, but he is most remembered for his service in the army and his love of life. Rich served in the Army Reserves as a […]

Avid outdoorsman and photographer Thomas Patrick Casey Jr. ’00 was always searching for adventure. Tom held a certification in wilderness first aid and was a certified kayak guide in North Carolina. In the spring and summer of 2011, he accomplished his lifelong goal of hiking the Appalachian Trail. While on the trail, he was given […]

Fred Meyer ’61 was a hard worker his entire life. He started as a paperboy, then began working for his father’s furniture and carpet store. He had many careers throughout his life from working as a CPA, a wine company controller, CFO and treasurer for the San Jose Water Company, later becoming vice president of […]

Born and raised in Sacramento, Theresa Rose Matista ’81 spent countless hours of her childhood playing with friends at the family’s Hop ranch. Discovering her vocation in education, she held a 32-year career with Los Rios Community College District. While successful professionally, her hard work was a direct sacrifice for her family—ensuring that all her […]

A woman who believed in being there for those she held close to her heart, Mara Bathiany ’69 died on Sept. 11, 2021. Mara was vice president of Bank of Alameda where she was dedicated to her clients and a creative and resourceful problem solver. Mara also held a passion for English literature and when […]