Richard R. Perry

1956 ~ 2024

Human & Civil Rights Activist, Sacramento State Groundskeeper, Red Sox fan, and all-around good guy Richard R. Perry has passed. He tabled activist events, marched the marches, sat the vigils, protested every indignity, and always with a smile and a kind word. R.P. had an encyclopedic knowledge of social justice history and was the devoted spouse of L.R. Roberts. Donations can be made to the Parkinson Association: www.panctoday.org

Joan Al-Kazily

February 11, 1938 ~ January 20, 2024

It is with great sorrow that we announce the loss of an amazing human being, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Joan Al-Kazily. Joan left us on January 20, 2024, after a brief illness due to unexpected complications following a heart attack. During her final hours she was surrounded by her devoted family. Joan was born on February 11, 1938 to Annie and Thomas Gaskell in Ulverston, UK. She grew up in a loving home with her parents and sister Margaret before leaving to study Civil Engineering at the University of Liverpool. While at university, Joan met her soul mate and the love of her life, Fadhil Al-Kazily. Joan and Fadhil married in 1959 and emigrated to the United States about five years later. After settling in the California Bay Area, they started their family. Joan was an adventurous soul. With her family, she lived in England, Iraq, Lebanon, Kuwait, Rhode Island, and California, and she traveled even further. She and Fadhil chose Davis, California as their “forever” home in 1984, and this is where she established and nurtured her bountiful garden, and continued to build her network of close friends.

Joan was a remarkable woman with an impressive list of accomplishments. Joan was one of the first female students in her department at the University of Liverpool, and later she earned her PhD in Civil Engineering while raising her children, going on to teach Transportation Engineering at the University of Rhode Island and then California State University, Sacramento. She became the first female Civil Engineering Department Chair at Sacramento State University before retiring in 2002.

After retirement, Joan embraced life by spending quality time with her grandchildren (Tarkan, Kamila, Wyatt, Temaej and Sabrina), going on adventures with her sister Margaret and brother-in-law Les, and delving into new interests including Tai Chi, Spanish classes, meditation, and writing classes. She even took an online class on Happiness, which her family believes she could have taught herself.

Joan passed away on January 20th, 2024 lovingly surrounded by her close family. Joan is survived by her husband Fadhil, her sister Margaret, her three children Riyadth, Reim and Buthaina, and a sizable family that she “adopted” along the way. She touched the lives of so many and will be dearly missed by all.

We invite you to join our family as we remember and celebrate the life of Joan on February 10th at 2pm at El Macero Country Club.

Together, we will recall the memories, stories, and moments we shared.

William Lloyd Johns

May 25, 1930 ~ January 8, 2024

Johns, Dr. William Lloyd, President Emeritus, CSUS. He peacefully passed on January 8, 2024, at the age of 93. Lloyd met his life partner Fran in October of 1989 while Lloyd was playing the trumpet, and she was dancing! They fell in love and married on August 26, 1990. Combined, they have 6 children, 19 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one grandchild. He has a sister, Betty Johns in St, Louis, MO. During their 34 years of marriage, they traveled to all 50 states and over 32 countries. They shared a wonderful and fulfilling life together. Per Lloyd's request, there will be no services.

Gus Peter Plessas

July 30, 1928 ~ February 3, 2024

Gus Peter Plessas, (95), of Sacramento, California, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2024.

Gus was born as Constantine to Peter and Toula Plessas on July 30, 1928, in San Francisco, California. He had the typical immigrant upbringing and as a youth worked in his father's restaurant.

He received a Bachelor's degree from the University of California at Berkeley, a Master's degree from San Francisco State University, a Doctorate from the University of California at Berkeley, and pursued postdoctoral studies at the University of Chicago.

He attained the rank of Captain in the United States Naval Reserve, initially serving during the Korean conflict aboard the aircraft carrier Valley Forge.

He embarked on his illustrious career in education in 1951, as a public school teacher in Richmond, CA. From 1957 to 1994, he distinguished himself as a professor at California State University, Sacramento. He was a visiting professor and consultant, throughout the United States and in more than 75 countries. As a professor, he conducted more than 250 in-service sessions for teachers in various school districts throughout California and he contributed to numerous educational periodicals and textbooks.

He provided valuable leadership as a member of the Board of Governors of the California Maritime Academy, a member of the Board of Directors of the Modern Greek Studies Foundation of San Francisco State University, a member of Phi Delta Kappa, a Fellow of the National Conference of Research in English, a Fulbright scholar in Malaysia, and as Chair of the Department of Teacher Education at CSUS.

He was honored for his professional and community service with the Outstanding Education of America Award, and recognized in Who's Who of Greek Origin, Who's Who in Greece, Who's Who in the Far West, and Leaders in Education. The contributions that he made to California's students and throughout the world were invaluable. He served as a worthy model for all education professionals in the state.

He loved to travel with his wife Betty, and together they visited over 110 countries. His heart was with his Hellenic upbringing and helping people. He lived life to the fullest and always remembered his roots.

Gus Peter Plessas was preceded in death by his mother and father, Peter and Toula Plessas, his older sister, Christina Lamerdin, his older brother John Plessas, and his younger brother Jim Plessas. Gus is survived by Betty, his wife of 70 years, and their 5 children, Christina, Connie, Peter (Genise), Steven (Tracy) and James. He is also survived by his grandchildren Stephanie, Constantine (Jenna), Gina, Elizabeth, Christian James, and Cosette along with his great-grandson Easton Stone Plessas and many nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren.

Services will be held at St Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Elk Grove on Saturday, Feb. 17th, at 10 am, followed by a memorial luncheon at the church hall. Interment will follow at East Lawn Cemetery in Sacramento.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to donate to St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Elk Grove, CA.

Karen Moore

December 5, 1950 ~ January 24, 2024

Kay Moore was born and raised in Maryland, where she was surrounded by sites of importance from many historical events. Exploring these turned her into an incorrigible history buff at an early age with a special interest in the lives of women and children. Moving to California to become an elementary school teacher and later university educator, she lived for many years in Placerville.

Upon retirement from California State University, Sacramento after decades of preparing future educators, Kay moved to Las Vegas where she and her grandchildren started exploring the historical sites of Nevada. She is the author of several nonfiction juvenile books including the award-winning The Great Bicycle Experiment: The Army’s Historic Black Bicycle Corps, 1896–97, If You Lived at the Time of the American Revolution, and If You Lived at the Time of the Civil War. She was also the author of two books in the Bold Women in History series – Bold Women in California History and Bold Women in Nevada History. Kay is survived by her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting the donation of children’s books, such as the Tuttle Twins series, to local schools and libraries.

Her family will be having a private service at a later date.

Charles Moore

November 25, 1935 ~ February 13, 2024

Charles Arthur Moore died peacefully in his sleep on February 13th. Charles was a professor of English at Sacramento State University from 1968 until his retirement in 2000. He is survived by his partner of 40 years, Kerry Phillips, sister Julia White of Lafayette, LA and special friends Sally Phelan and Robby Ching of Sacramento and Richard Honey of Volcano, CA. There will be no service.

Miroslav Dragutin Markovic

January 9, 1941 ~ 2024

Dr. Miroslav Markovic, also known as Miro, was born on January 9, 1941, in Grbice, Serbia, to Dragutin and Stamena Markovic. He pursued his education at the University of Belgrade, Serbia, where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Electrical Engineering.

Continuing his academic journey, he became a PhD candidate at the University of Missouri, Columbia, graduating with a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering in December 1977. In 1978, Miro began his career at Sacramento State University-CSU Sacramento as an Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering. During his tenure, he significantly contributed to the advancement of Electrical Power Engineering and Electrical Machines, establishing advanced laboratories and imparting knowledge to numerous engineers currently active in the western US. He authored seven books in the field, utilizing advanced applied mathematics, which he generously shared with his students.

Upon retiring, he held the esteemed title of Professor Emeritus at California State University-Sacramento, leaving behind a legacy of admiration from his former students.

Outside of his academic pursuits, Miro tended to a flourishing vegetable garden and an array of fruit trees at his residence, generously distributing the harvest and providing insightful gardening tips to his neighbors and friends. His leisurely strolls through the neighborhood and along the American River Parkway, an area he loved, further cemented his presence in the community. He will be fondly remembered by the countless individuals he encountered during his 50-year residency in the United States and all those whose lives he influenced.

Services commemorating Miro's life will be conducted at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Serbian Orthodox Church in Fair Oaks, CA, on Saturday, March 16, at 10 am. His internment will take place on Monday, March 18, at 1:00 PM at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Jackson, CA. All are welcome to attend.

Ralph Johnson

April 17, 1935 ~ October 17, 2020
(We recently received this obit from 2020)

With gratitude for his immeasurable influence, we announce the passing of Ralph Elmer Johnson Jr., age 85, on October 17, 2020 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Ralph has returned to his home above and has joyfully reunited with his sweetheart LaVeta, who suffered from the same ailment and preceded him in death earlier this year. Born April 17, 1935 in Carson City, Nevada to Ralph and Ethel (Hearn) Johnson, he learned the value of hard work and faithfulness to the Lord from his father and mother. Ralph was blessed to grow up with one younger brother and two younger sisters who loved and cherished him. Ralph was a very competitive athlete. He excelled in basketball, track and baseball. Some of his athletic achievements included earning a full scholarship to play basketball at Weber State, winning state championships in the pole vault and the half mile, and being drafted as a pitcher for a farm team of the Pittsburg Pirates.

Ralph graduated from high school in Lehi, UT in 1953 and attended Weber State for one year on a basketball scholarship. He then enlisted in the US Army. Ralph was sent to Korea as the war was winding down and fortunately he never saw active combat. He did play percussion in the Army band, learned to type while in Korea, and played on the Army basketball team. Following his military service, Ralph was called on a mission to Oslo, Norway. After his mission Ralph attended Brigham Young University, where he met his eternal companion, LaVeta Rencher, on a blind double date. Ralph and LaVeta were married September 9, 1960 in the Mesa, Arizona temple and had seven children together. Following their marriage and graduation from Brigham Young University they moved to Salt Lake City where Ralph finished his master’s degree.

He took his first teaching job in Modesto, CA and later moved his growing family to St. Paul, MN, where he studied and received his PhD. He then moved his family to Sacramento, CA, where he taught at California State University Sacramento for the remainder of his career.

Ralph was a lifelong faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He especially enjoyed serving in a bishopric in Folsom, CA. Missionary service was also deeply important to him. Besides his mission in Norway as a young man, he served three full-time missions with his wife, in Germany, Nauvoo, IL and Roseville, CA, and he was always an enthusiastic supporter of his children and grandchildren in their missionary service.

Ralph could play the piano and had a deep, rich bass voice. He loved the songs, “Danny Boy,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “Old Man River.” Ralph spent the last 18 months of his mortal life at Courtyard at Jamestown in Provo, UT. We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Courtyard at Jamestown. They truly loved Dad and will forever hold a very tender place in our hearts. He is survived by his sisters Sharon Cupit and Linda Perry, his children, Paul Johnson (Debbie), Celeste Kitchen (Gary), David Johnson (Mary Lynn), Jennifer White (Darin), James Johnson (Evelyn) and Cheryl Everett (Brandon), 25 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, LaVeta Johnson, his parents, Ralph and Ethel Johnson, his brother Harry Johnson, and his son, Stephen Nephi Johnson.

Charles William Gossett

August 31, 1951 ~ May 10, 2024

Charles William Gossett, 72, died in Palm Springs, CA on May 10, 2024, surrounded by dear friends. Born in Anaheim, CA August 31, 1951, his baby book recorded his first outing as a trip to Palm Springs, the city to which he would retire some 65 years later. He was “Charlie” to most friends and family but adopted “Charles,” toward the latter part of his professional life, since, as he said, “it sounded a bit more dean-like”. After high school, Charlie earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Hope College. As a lover of learning with a genuinely open mind and compassionate spirit, Charlie found the holistic learning and development journey at Hope College to be a transformative one. He maintained a lifelong affiliation with the college, attending reunions and philanthropically supporting the college. Charlie earned his master’s and PhD from Stanford University, also in political science.

Intrigued by the political world broadly, Charlie spent three years as a Special Assistant to Mayor Marion Barry in Washington D.C. and worked for the D. C. government in the Personnel Office. His enduring interest in culturally sensitive teaching and learning coupled with his interest in African politics brought him to Africa twice, serving as a lecturer in Botswana while working on his PhD dissertation and later teaching while on sabbatical in Swaziland.

Georgia Southern University provided his first full-time faculty role, and his leadership prowess surfaced in short order, resulting in his roles as Department Chair and Director of the master’s program. In 2002, Charlie left Georgia to become the Chair of the Department of Political Science at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona CA where he served for seven years.

In 2009, Charlie was named Dean of the School of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies at California State University, Sacramento. He served in that role for three years until being named Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs for the campus.

Following his Provost role, he opted to return to teaching and writing, spending the final years of his career in the Political Science and Public Administration and Policy Departments. During his tenure at Sacramento State, he was influential in supporting small but consequential programs including Asian Studies and Gerontology. He worked quietly to expand access to core classes and improve graduation rates while supporting faculty publishing and teaching.

Despite his administrative calling, Charlie was a true academic. He published over 20 articles and book chapters about gay and lesbian politics, African politics, local government, and teaching. He loved teaching American government and public administration, was passionate about supporting students, and participated actively in professional organizations.

Charlie supported many gay and lesbian causes in his personal and professional life and compiled the first of its kind data base of gay and lesbian elected officials in the United States. That work continues today.

He treasured his friendships and traveled regularly to visit lifelong friends in Colorado, D.C., and Georgia. The proud godfather of Ishana Ratan, he was thrilled when she graduated from University of Georgia, Athens and began her PhD work at U.C. Berkeley, in political science, of course.

Along with travels, Charlie loved food a good cocktail, as his extensive collection of unusual mixers demonstrated. He also found joy in thrifting and collecting mid-century furniture, Fiestaware, and travel posters. The fruits of these pastimes made his home a lovely place to enjoy his latest concoction. During the pandemic, he joined a group of friends for virtual cocktails on Sunday nights, a coveted ritual that lasted three years. His friends eagerly awaiting the description of his drink of choice.

Charlie is survived by his sisters Patricia Voss of Missouri and Barbara Gossett of Florida, niece Melanie Voss Earney, nephews Eric Voss and Bryan Reynolds, his goddaughter Ishana Ratan, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Earl and May Gossett.

Funeral services will be held at 2 pm June 5, 2024, in Palm Springs at St. Paul of the Desert. Reception to follow. A memorial will be held at Sacramento State, date TBA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hope College in Holland, Michigan, the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives at the University of Southern California, or the LGBTQ or educational organization of your choice.

Frank J. Garosi

Marcy 16, 1937 ~ May 4, 2024

On May 4, 2024, Frank Joseph Garosi passed away peacefully on a rainy morning with his family by his side.

Frank was born March 16, 1937, in Hershey, PA to Natalie Silvia (Nai) Garosi and Gino Dominic Garosi. He grew up in Wilmington, DE with a large extended family in a close-knit immigrant Italian American community.

He received his BA in 1958 from the University of Delaware, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa and was the editor of the campus newspaper. A Fulbright scholarship took him to Freiburg, West Germany in 1958-59. He completed his PhD in 1965 at the University of Minnesota with a dissertation on The Ecclesiastical Policy of the Grand-Duke Peter Leopold of Tuscany. While at Minnesota he also wrote for the News Journal, furthering his life-long interest in journalism.

An appointment as a professor in the History Department at California State University, Sacramento brought him to Davis, CA in 1965, and into a cohort of faculty at CSUS that remained a source of academic camaraderie and friendship for decades. He taught European history, US and European military history, psychology and philosophy of historical interpretation, and was fondly remembered by students for his war game simulations from the Napoleonic period. Copies of every syllabus he ever used are available upon request. During this time and after retirement he also wrote book reviews for the Journal of Military History and other publications.

Frank was an historian. He never met a piece of paper or photo he didn't want to keep. Copies of the family history he lovingly and diligently catalogued, Italian Roots, American Branches, are treasured by his Nai, Garosi and Pantaloni relatives. He shared his love of A's baseball, chess, science fiction, Italian opera, and the Civil War with his children.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Linda Hertert. He is survived by his brother, Guido (aka, Sam) and sister-in-law, Kathy; his children Justin (Elizabeth) and Ellen (Michael) from his marriage to Katherine Mawdsley, and Benjamin (Lisa) from his marriage to Janet Sterling; his stepson, Matthew Hertert; as well as grandchildren Lily and Caroline Brown, Kaci and Aubri Garosi, and Vincent Garosi.

The family wishes to thank the physicians and nurses at Kaiser Sacramento Medical Center, the nurses at Latreia Hospice, and the care givers at Silver Oaks who cared for him in the weeks before his death. The family especially appreciates the calls, texts, prayers and visits from his old friends, East Coast cousins, and extended family in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Italy.

At his request there will be no memorial service. His ashes will be interred at Cathedral Cemetery in Wilmington next to his parents. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Meals on Wheels by ACC or California State University, Sacramento.

Trevor Davey

November 27, 1931 ~ April 27, 2024

Trevor Davey, 92, died at home 4/27/2024 after a lengthy illness. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba November 27, 1931 to Olive and Frank Davey, he lost his mother at age 5 -- an event he vividly remembered. Later, lovingly raised by Frank and stepmother Nora, he and his older sister Elaine and younger sister Marilyn enjoyed a happy childhood in Canada. The three siblings remained close all of their lives.

After graduating from the University of Manitoba, he attended McGill University where he earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering. During this period he met and married Petronella, the mother of his three children Geoffrey, Garth and Rachelle. A kind and loving father, he made a point to be involved in his children's lives coaching his son's little league teams and driving his daughter all over the state to pursue competition swimming. His surviving children will greatly miss his loving presence.

Early in life, thinking that he wanted to be a nuclear power expert, he worked for a short time at Chalk River Power Plant, Ontario. But also feeling the pull of academics, he applied and was accepted to teach at several universities, ultimately landing at Sacramento State University then an entirely new university.

Early in his career as the result of a colleague suffering from heart disease, Trevor was inspired to work with fellow bio-engineer Boris Kauffman and cardiologists from Sutter Hospital to develop an artificial heart valve. Many thousands of patients were the recipients of this valve. He also worked with those same cardiologists to develop a better angioplasty assist balloon pump. He spent many proud years as the Chair of the Golden Empire Chapter of the Heart Association. Trevor also spent time moonlighting at Aerojet, working on the development rocket systems. He put immense energy into developing the new bio-engineering department at Sacramento State and later chaired that department. In the 1990s, he was also a key player in the redevelopment of the mechanical engineering program at the Science University of Ho Chi Minh University in Vietnam. From these experiences, Trevor gained a number of longtime professional and personal friends.

In the early 1980s Trevor met and married Joanne and soon retired to Bodega Bay. He volunteered as a guide at the Bodega Bay Marine Lab where he loved teaching kids and families about the magic of marine life. He was also a hospice volunteer for the Santa Rosa region.

Over thirty years ago, Trevor was blessed to meet his soul mate and long-time partner Sera Lane. He and Sera led a happy and inspiring life in San Rafael filled with family, friends and travel. Not content to just be at home, Trevor volunteered up until recently with the San Rafael Police Department, something of which he was immensely proud.

Trevor is survived by son Garth Davey and partner Karen Milami, daughter Rachelle Millhauser and son-in-law Glenn Millhauser, granddaughters Chloe and Anne Millhauser, daughter-in-law Marcia Davey and grandchildren Kristy and Joe Davey, as well as great grandchildren Caleb, Dylan, Emma, Preston, Blake, Aubrey. Inventor, engineer, teacher, scholar, volunteer, devoted family man, Trevor Davey will be deeply missed by all.

Charles Carlton Plummer

April 21, 1937 ~ June 8, 2024

Dr. Charles "Carlos" Carlton Plummer, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at River's Edge Assisted Living in Sacramento, CA. He was born in Mexico City, Mexico to Evelyn Eastin and Dr. Charles Plummer. Carlos came from an active scouting family where he was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout. His passion for being outdoors eventually led him to a lifetime dedicated to geology. After receiving his bachelor's degree at Dartmouth College in 1959, he served his country in the US Army as Second Lieutenant. Carlos then went on to receive his master's degree in 1964 and his doctoral degree in 1969, both at the University of Washington.

While Carlos called Sacramento home for over 40 years, his field work and climbing adventures took him all around the world. Over the years Carlos made multiple trips to Alaska and Antarctica where he became quite fond of the penguins. Other places of note include Spain, the Peruvian Andes and Nepal, Himalaya.

During his tenure at California State University Sacramento, Carlos acted not only as a Professor of Geology but also served multiple terms as the Chairman for the Department of Geology. He was author or co-author to over 40 publications including twelve editions of Physical Geology, the gold standard textbook for geology classes in universities across the U.S. Carlos was awarded the U.S. Antarctic Service Medal a total of three times during his life. In 1970, he received a Citation of Outstanding Service in the US Geologic Survey by U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Walter Hickel. Most notably, Carlos had a glacier in Antarctica named after him (Plummer Glacier) by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names.

Carlos enjoyed a variety of hobbies which included skiing, mountaineering, cooking, flying and music. He is survived by his loving wife Dr. Mary Elizabeth Strasser and her son Dustin William Strasser; his sons Charles Christopher Atwood Plummer and Brian Daniel Eastin Plummer; sister, Sandra Plummer Brierley; nieces, Kim Saylor Carr (Richard), Jennifer Brierley Burgh (Guy) and Andrea Brierley DelSanto. He was preceded in death by his former wife, Mary Kathleen Church Plummer; sister, Penelope Plummer Saylor and nephew, Kenneth David Saylor.

Burial and funeral services will be held at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA on July 1, 2024 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Geological Society of America. "The mountains are calling, and I must go" John Muir.

Felicenne H. Ramey

June 5, 1940 ~ August 2, 2024

Dr. Felicenne H. Ramey, a long-time Davis, CA resident, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 in her daughter’s home in Santa Barbara, CA, on Friday, August 2, 2024. A devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and community leader, she spent her final years with her son’s family in Philadelphia and her daughter’s family in Santa Barbara. Born in Philadelphia to Bertha and George Houston, Felicenne was the youngest of five children and the only daughter. Her father, a World War I veteran, affectionately called her “Little Sweets.” His love for classical music inspired Felicenne's lifelong passion for playing the piano. After his untimely death when she was just eight years old, Felicenne took on household responsibilities, helping her mother, who worked long hours as a nurse.

Growing up in the Richard Allen Homes, a government-subsidized housing community in North Philadelphia, Felicenne developed resilience and an appreciation for the strength of her community. Despite financial hardships, she excelled in academics, skipping grades and graduating at the top of her class at the age of 16 from the Scotland School for Veteran’s Children, a boarding school in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.

In 1957, Felicenne attended Pennsylvania State University, where she studied microbiology and graduated with a BS in 1961. It was during her time at Penn State that she met her future husband, Melvin Ramey, with whom she shared a lifelong partnership. Felicenne and Melvin married on September 5, 1964, and moved to Pittsburgh, where she completed her MS in Biology at Duquesne University. The couple relocated to Davis, CA, in 1967, where Felicenne pursued a law degree from UC Davis, graduating in 1972. Balancing the demands of law school with raising two young children, she was admitted to the California Bar in 1973 and established her own law practice in downtown Davis. As if three degrees were not enough, Felicenne decided to get a MS in Business from California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) to further hone her skills.

Dr. Ramey embarked on a distinguished academic career at CSUS. Over 28 years, she held several roles, including Professor of Organizational Behavior and Environment in the College of Business Administration, Associate Dean, and ultimately Dean of the School of Business Administration. Her contributions extended beyond the classroom, serving as the state coordinator for the American Council on Education.

Throughout her life, Dr. Ramey was dedicated to community service, serving on numerous boards and actively participating in her children’s education. She and Melvin shared a love for track and field, art and African American culture, curating exhibits, attending the Olympics, and supporting local artists and athletes.

In retirement, Dr. Ramey continued her passion for the arts, writing three books that reflected her commitment to bridging generational gaps and celebrating the accomplishments of African Americans. She also cherished time spent with her grandchildren, hosting “Camp Nana/Grandad” and taking them on memorable trips.

Dr. Felicenne Ramey leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence, community service, and deep love for her family. She will be greatly missed by her extended family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the California State University Sacramento Harper Alumni Center on Saturday, August 24th at 2pm. Arrangements have been entrusted to McDermott-Crockett Mortuary (Santa Barbara, CA) and Smith Funeral Home (Davis, CA). She will be laid to rest in a private family burial at the Davis Cemetery District and Arboretum. In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Dean Felicenne H. Ramey Memorial Endowment at CSUS for those who feel moved to contribute.

Mary Jane Lee

January 13, 1945 ~ August 11, 2024

Mary Jane Lee, aged 79, passed away suddenly on the night of August 11, 2024, in Sacramento, CA, due to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Born on January 13, 1945, in Columbus, OH, she was a cherished figure in her community and an accomplished academic. A Celebration of Life for Mary Jane will be held at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church on Friday, August 30, 2024, with a mass starting at 1pm PDT, followed by a reception at the same location. Lombard Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. Wearing black is always acceptable, although as part of Chinese tradition, we encourage you to wear white, or Mary Jane's favorite color, purple, in her memory.

Please send any flower arrangements to the service location: 3235 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95825.

Mary Jane's early education was completed at St. Joseph Cathedral and Mohawk Junior High, followed by Central High School in 1963. She furthered her education at The Ohio State University, earning education and computer science degrees in '66 (BS), '71 (MS), and '78 (PhD). She was also a founding member of OSU's Asian American Association student organization, which still exists today. Mary Jane dedicated much of her career to academia, serving as an Assistant Professor of computer science at North Carolina State University and Northern Arizona University, before joining California State University, Sacramento. There, she excelled as an Associate Dean of the Engineering and Computer Science department (nine years), alongside being an Associate Professor to Professor of computer science until her full retirement in 2019.

John George Russell

December 14, 1941 ~ August 14, 2024

John George Russell was born in December of 1941 in Manila, Philippines and was soon interned in the Santa Tomas prison camp with his parents. After the war, the family emigrated to the United States where Jack earned a BS in chemistry at Purdue University and later a PhD in chemistry from the University of Minnesota. He taught organic chemistry for 40 years at CSU, Sacramento before retiring to travel with his wife and play golf. He had a deep love of the Sierra Nevada mountains and when young spent much of his free time hiking, skiing, backpacking, and rock-climbing. In his later years, he traveled with his wife Debbie to Europe, the Caribbean, and many times to Hawaii. He enjoyed live theater, films, and reading science fiction.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Debbie, daughter, Allison, and stepson Michael Sullivan. At his request, no services will be held.

Lou Lower

The University Library invites you to join us in a Celebration of Life for our dear friend Lou Lower (Faculty Emeritus, Political Science). Meet us in the Breezeway for an afternoon of shared memories, jokes, and friendship.

When: Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, 4:00-5:30 PM

Location: Library Breezeway, near the University Gallery

RSVP

Light refreshments will be served.

From Michaeline Veden, Vice President:

In 1992, Louellyn Cohan & Richard Lower were amongst 200+ Sac State faculty, staff
and community members that founded The Friends of the CSUS Library (now Friends of the
University, Library, California State University, Sacramento). From the beginning, Lou was an active
member, supporting Friends events and efforts, and serving on the Board of Directors
for multiple terms, including serving as President. Lou was instrumental in the development of
the Friends’ Book Bin, working volunteer shifts staffing the Bin, and took on reviewing the
donations for unique, rare and/or valuable books to market and sell at book fairs and
other venues.

Lou embraced the challenge of utilizing online sellers such as Albris to increase the Friends’ visibility, outreach, and income. This was a labor of love - she singlehandedly reviewed the books, researched value, took books to fairs and other possible outlets, and set-up online connections for academic and
rare booksellers. She handled processes from start to finish, even shipping books to remote buyers!

The time and effort that Lou put into the Book Bin, and leading the special book sales were invaluable to the Friends and its continuing operation over 30 years later. Lou will be fondly remembered for her love of
learning and books, and her dedication to the mission of the Friends of the University Library, California State University, Sacramento.

Barbara Duer Arnstine

December 17, 1934 ~ April 13, 2024

Barbara Arnstine died Saturday April 13th, surrounded by her children after a brief illness, she was 89. Born in Freehold, New Jersey, Barbara Arnstine embarked upon an extensive academic career: she received her Bachelor of Arts at Colby College, her Master of Education at Harvard, and her Ph.D. in Philosophy of Education at the University of Wisconsin. Barbara first taught at the University of Tennessee, the University of Wisconsin, and Boston University. For over twenty-five years, Barbara was a Professor of Education at California State University, Sacramento. Her major focus at CSU, Sacramento, was teacher preparation and the role of philosophy of education in training and sustaining teachers. Barbara helped to create and coordinate a master's program emphasizing Women's Studies and Women in Education at CSU, Sacramento.

Throughout her career, she also mentored several students and faculty members who valued her expertise, wisdom and intellect. Since 1994 and continuing until her retirement, she served as editor and moderator of the LegiSchool Town Hall meetings, televised throughout the state by the California Channel and nationally by cable TV.

Barbara and the love of her life, Don, were married in 1964 and spent over half a century together before Don's death in 2020 and they traveled the globe sharing many adventures together during their 56 year of marriage. Barbara and Don purchased their first harness horse, Big Time in 1972 which began her 50-plus years of excitement owning dozens of horses and winning hundreds of races across the country. Besides teaching and her family, Barbara's passions included harness racing, traveling, watching The Sacramento Kings and spending time with her adopted cat Sophie, and reading mysteries.

In the last few years before her death, she began to breed horses and she loved watching her young horses grow and train. Last year Barbara traveled to Egypt with friends and family and went to Hawaii to attend one of her Grandson's wedding. Growing up in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Barbara had a love of the water that started by swimming in the Atlantic and she went back every year to visit family and friends. She was also part of a swim group in Sacramento with many women she adored along with her Thursday morning chair yoga group.

Barbara's impact on the educational and harness racing communities was profound and will be remembered by all. Barbara is survived by her son Stephen and his wife Susan, daughters Annie and her husband Michael, Ruthie and her husband Mark and Rachel and her husband Kenny plus her six grandchildren who she loved dearly. Barbara, along with her husband Don, will be remembered, in December at a special memorial race at Cal Expo, in Sacramento. In leu of flowers please consider donating to the Sacramento Front Street Animal Shelter, of which Barbara was an avid supporter.

Gary Lee Meeker

Gary Lee Meeker died peacefully in his Sacramento home on November 8, 2024 from complications of post-polio syndrome. He was born December 31, 1937 in The Dalles, Oregon to MaryAlice and Earl Meeker. He grew up on the family farm, a short distance from ancestral homesteads in the Cascades foothills. Much time was spent exploring the countryside with his dog Rex but also helping with farm duties such as driving the wheat truck (from age 8) and vaccinating calves.

He graduated from The Dalles High School in 1956. With his father’s blessing, he headed for college instead of a lifetime as a farmer. His college years culminated in 1967 with a PhD in Zoology from Washington State University. A 33-year career as a professor at CSU Sacramento followed where he taught Introductory Biology to freshmen and Cell Biology to juniors and seniors. He studiously avoided campus politics.

Gary had fun. He climbed mountains as a teenager with the Portland climbing group The Mazamas. He backpacked, the highlight being 30 days trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal in 1979. He sailed, starting at age 14 around home, later in the Florida Keys and San Juan Islands, and still later racing his Erickson 27 in the Sacramento River Delta and San Francisco Bay. He woodworked using his collection of antique woodworking tools. He demonstrated antique gas engines with the Gold Country Flywheelers at county fairs where his popular display involved a gas engine powering a hacksaw, drill press, grinding wheel, and lathe to produce lovely wood pens and seam rippers that fairgoers clamored to buy.

By nature a quiet person, it was his wonderful smiles that expressed an abundance of joy and love, and kindness. He so enriched the lives of those who loved him, especially his wife Carolyn Frame Meeker and his daughter Amanda Paige Meeker. They are grateful for every minute they had with him and will forever miss his buoyant presence. His passing is also mourned by his sisters MaryAnn Snipes and Ruth Felix, nine nieces and nephews, son-in-law Wil Davies, and ex-wife and Amanda’s mother Beverly Tobey.

Remembrances may be made to the East Cascades Oak Partnership.