Archive for the ‘Obituary’ Category

In Memoriam: Longtime Antioch doctor Gene Zimmerman passes at 96

Thursday, September 5th, 2024

Service will be held on September 14, 2024, at the Antioch Seventh Day Adventist Church

Joseph (Gene) Eugene Zimmerman, M.D. was born on January 20, 1928, in Ferris, OK.  Gene breathed his last breath on August 28, 2024, at his home in Antioch, CA.  He was preceded in death by his wife Esther J. Zimmerman, father Edward F. Zimmerman, and his mother Orpha H. Eberly.

Gene met his future wife Esther Hofstar while at Southwestern Adventist College and they were married on August 29, 1948. Gene served with his wife as missionaries in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from 1961-1966. Gene founded Antioch Medical Park and operated his medical practice there from 1973-2015.

Gene, along with his wife, supported numerous missionary projects in Bolivia & other countries. He was a strong supporter of his beloved Antioch Seventh-day Adventist church and Hilltop Christian School.  He is survived by his 3 sons David E. Zimmerman of Antioch, CA, Edward A. Zimmerman of Colville, WA, Daniel L. Zimmerman of Penn Valley, CA and his daughter, Ellen M. Amador (Zimmerman) of Cottonwood, CA.

His funeral service will be held on September 14, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at the Antioch SDA Church located at 2200 Country Hills Drive, Antioch CA 94509.

In Memoriam: Lifelong Antioch resident Darryl Corzine passes at 64

Thursday, August 29th, 2024

Darryl Ross Corzine, 64, husband, dad, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away on August 24, 2024.

Darryl was born December 14, 1959, in Walnut Creek, California to Leroy and Lucille Corzine. He spent his life growing up in Antioch with his sister Letha Arms. He graduated from Antioch High, where he played football, in 1978. Darryl was a drummer and traveled some to play music. Darryl worked at San Ramon Valley school district in Logistics where he made friends for life.

Darryl loved the Raiders and Giants, passionately even when they were losing. His other passions of course were hunting, fishing and diving, which he could never get enough of.

On October 31, 2003 he married his wife, Geri and instantly became a father of 3 children, Denise Gaunt (husband Mike), Jason McCoy (wife Julie) and Tommy McCoy (wife Corey). He also enjoyed his abundance of friends, his life with them were very important.

 Barbecuing, any cooking, and Dinner Club were also a passion. 

Darryl leaves behind his wife, children, 5 grandchildren: Lexi, Zac, Giana, Quinn and Jaci, a new great grandson on his way, two nieces, Lauren and Lindsey and his dog, Roxie.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Lucille Corzine. 

Darryl will be deeply missed by his children and wife.

Private services will be held for family and friends.

In Memoriam: Antioch native Chris Williams passes at 59

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

Antioch High graduate, worked as a carpenter, fabricator; passed a few weeks after his wife, Patricia

Joint services Monday, August 5th

Christopher Scott Williams, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away on June 21, 2024, in his hometown of Antioch, California. Chris was born on March 8, 1965, at Delta Memorial Hospital in Antioch to Donald and LaVerne Williams.

Christopher was born on March 8, 1965, at Delta Memorial Hospital in Antioch, California, to Donald and LaVerne Williams. He spent his life in Antioch, growing up with his siblings Craig, Jeff and Robin. A graduate of Antioch High School, Chris worked as a carpenter and fabricator. He also spent some time as a caregiver to his dear mother, LaVerne, who held a special place in his heart. Known for his generosity and love for home projects, he was a passionate fan of the San Francisco Giants, Oakland Raiders, and Golden State Warriors.

On March 4, 2017, Chris married Patricia Lozano in a beautiful ceremony at Lake Tahoe. Together, they shared seven children, 17 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Chris and Patricia enjoyed attending concerts, sports games, playing darts, visiting Lake Tahoe, and family events. They shared a love for their four Chihuahuas and spent many weekends enjoying their backyard, swimming, singing karaoke, or visiting local water parks with their younger grandchildren. Chris made the best of everything and truly enjoyed living life to the fullest.

Patricia and Chris, a beloved couple, passed away within a span of just over a month, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Chris is preceded in death by his wife Patricia Lynn Williams; his parents, LaVerne and Donald Williams; and his brother, Jeff Williams. He is survived by his brother, Jeff Williams; his sister, Robin Williams; and a large, loving family, including his Children Melyssa Harris and Mathilda Brown (John), Kristian Leseberg (Eric), Patrick Lozano, Ginaya Cornel (Armando), Jessica Cobos (Gabe), and Marcus Lucarelli. He is also survived by his grandchildren Stephanie Vazquez, Ginaya Coronel, Armando Jr. Coronel, Kristian Coronel, Gabrial Cobos, Alesandra Cobos, Bentley Harris, Alexa Harris, Luke Brown, Nova Brown, Fayth Brown, Allister Brown, Ainley Brown, Addyson Brown, and Kayedince Brown, as well as his great-grandchildren Melena Cobos and Jessie Cobos, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 5th at 10:30 AM at Memory Gardens, located at 2011 Arnold Industrial Way, Concord, CA 94520. A reception will follow at Smith’s Landing. All are welcome to join in celebrating the life of this wonderful man who touched so many lives with his kindness and love.

Chris will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

In Memoriam: Longtime Antioch resident Patricia Williams passes at 67

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

Raised in Bay Point, Pacifica High School graduate; passed a few weeks before her husband, Chris

Joint services Monday, August 5th

Patricia Lynn Williams, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on June 2, 2024. Patricia was born on August 25, 1956, at Kaiser Hospital in Walnut Creek, California, to Herman William and Jessie Marie Henly.

Raised in Bay Point, California, Patricia grew up with her siblings Deborah, William, Ronald, and Kenneth, and attended Pacifica High School. She loved her family deeply, spending much of her time with her children and grandchildren. Patricia had a passion for cooking and preparing meals for family gatherings, swimming, playing video games, braiding hair, and giving her time to her grandchildren, who adored her. She also enjoyed attending concerts with her husband and children, gardening with her green thumb, and shopping at rummage sales. Patricia faced many challenges as a young, single mother but overcame them with strength and resilience, living her life on her own terms and fiercely loving her children. Her love will continue to inspire and carry on through her family.

On March 4, 2017, Patricia married Christopher Williams in a beautiful ceremony at Lake Tahoe. Together, they shared eight children, 17 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Chris and Patricia enjoyed attending concerts, sports games, playing darts, visiting Lake Tahoe, and family events. They shared a love for their four Chihuahuas and spent many weekends enjoying their backyard, swimming, singing karaoke, or visiting local water parks with their younger grandchildren. Patricia and Christopher will baptized in the summer of 2012 Rev. Austin Miles. Patricia made the best of everything and truly enjoyed living life to the fullest.

Patricia and Chris, a beloved couple, passed away within a span of just over a month, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Jessie Marie and Herman William Henly, stepson Philip Lozano and her brothers, William Henly, Ronald Henly, and Kenneth Henly. She is survived by her sister, Deborah Felciano, and a large, loving family, including her children Kristian Leseberg, (Eric), Patrick Lozano, Ginaya Cornel (Armando), Jessica Cobos (Gabe), and Marcus Lucarelli,  Melyssa Harris and Mathilda Brown.(Jon) Patricia is also survived by her grandchildren Jenna Leseberg, Brent Leseberg, Stephanie Vazquez, Ginaya Coronel, Armano Jr. Coronel, Kristian Coronel, Gabrial Cobos, Alesandra Cobos,  Bentley Harris, Alexa Harris, Luke Brown, Nova Brown, Fayth Brown, Allister Brown, Ainley Brown, Addyson Brown, and Kayedince Brown, as well as her great-grandchildren Melena Cobos and Jessie Cobos, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 5th at 10:30 AM at Memory Gardens, located at 2011 Arnold Industrial Way, Concord, CA 94520. A reception will follow at Smith’s Landing. All are welcome to join in celebrating the life of this wonderful woman who touched so many lives with her kindness and love.

Patricia will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Antioch Animal Services offers tribute to volunteer on day of her Celebration of Life

Sunday, July 28th, 2024
Source: Antioch Animal Services Facebook page

In a post on the Antioch Animal Services Facebook page on July 20, 2024, Acting Animal Services Manager / Animal Services Supervisor Cat Cottle offered a tribute to volunteer Stephanie Pitman who passed away in February. A celebration of life was held for her on Saturday, July 20th.

She wrote, “We will not be having our PetCo Mobile adoptions today as some of our staff and volunteers will be celebrating the life of one of our volunteers, one of our team, one of our friends, who passed away in February of this year.

Stephanie was one of the greatest souls and more than a pleasure & blessing to have in our midst.

Words cannot ever describe the enormity of Stephanie’s heart, for her family, for her volunteering, for her spiritual beliefs, for her work, for all people, for all creatures & for life.

I would often be stuck wondering at the beginning or end of her volunteer shift if her tears today were those of joy or sadness……sometimes it was both, always it was from a place of love.

Stephanie dedicated so much of her life to others and then she jumped on the volunteer train at Antioch Animal Services – we were so fortunate to have her, equally fortunate to have her late Mom, Rhea and to still have her amazing son Gregory here – a triple blessing for us & a testament to wonderful family values.

Stephanie would commit herself to many of our long term dogs and refer to them as her ‘shelter hubbies’, but the one who stole her heart in the end, and that she attributed to discovering her illness, was Lucy.

I could write many stories about Stephanie, but nothing sticks more with me than how she made me feel. I know everyone felt it. She lifted the room. She radiated positivity. Her attitude was contagious. Even when Lucy was giving her some ‘trouble’ with reactivity, she powered through and worked so hard to ensure Lucy got the tools she needed to stay by her side….often telling me ‘but she’s such a good girl, Cat’.

Everything in the world was bettered by Stephanie’s presence and to know her was to love her. We are honored to celebrate her memory today and we know she will want us to return to doing our best for the animals she loved so much…..and we will.

~ Cat”

In Memoriam: Former City of Antioch Building Inspector Donald P. Byrns passes at 83

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

Services Wednesday, July 24 in Fairfield

Donald Paul Byrns, 83 passed away peacefully on July 16, 2024, in Vacaville, CA.

Don was born on August 26, 1940, and was proceeded in death by his loving wife Gloria Jean of 50 years and Grandson Anthony DiGiovanni. Don was a carpenter by trade followed by a long career as a Building Inspector for the City of Antioch and Oakley, CA. For nearly 40 years Don and Jean made their home and raised their family in Antioch before retiring to Red Bluff, CA in 2004.

An avid outdoorsman, Don loved hunting, camping and firearms. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifleman’s Association. He had an amazing talent and passion for leather work. He tooled many beautiful items over the years. Those who possess these will cherish them forever. Don was a true Red, White and Blue American, and loved the USA only second to his family and friends.

Don is survived by his daughter Nancy (Frank) DiGiovanni, son Edward Byrns, daughter Paula (Mark) Toponce, 7 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren.

Funeral:

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Rockville Stone Church/Cemetery 4219 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 94534

Viewing 10:00 am

Services 11:00 am

A luncheon will be served at the Bally Keel Estate 4286 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 94534 following the services.

As Don was a life-long Cowboy, please feel free to wear your Western/Cowboy/SASS attire.

To offer a message of condolences visit Donald Paul Byrns Obituary.

In Memoriam: Long-time Antioch resident, reserve officer Frank Rupani passes at 80

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

Former Plant Engineer at Crown Zellerbach, Inland Paper and Gaylord Paper

Services Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Antioch Police Officers Association Mourns His Passing

Frank Rupani, age 80, passed away suddenly at home with his wife by his side on Wednesday, July 10. 

Frank was born on June 24, 1944, in Burgettstown, PA to the late Frank and Pauline (Combi) Rupani. After graduating from Union High School in 1962, he went on to the University of Akron earning his BS in Mechanical Engineering as well as the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. It was in Del Rio, Texas where he met Inelda Rendon, his wife of 54 years. 

During the Vietnam War, Frank served as a navigator on the B-52 Stratofortress, based in Guam and Thailand. His missions over Vietnam earned him many medals including two Distinguished Flying Crosses. 

After leaving the Air Force with the rank of Captain, Frank and Inelda settled in Antioch, CA where he took a job as Plant Engineer for Crown Zellerbach and Inland Paper, which ultimately became Gaylord Paper. After the plant closure, he remained to supervise the dismantling, remediation and ultimate sale of the property. During this time, he went to Golden Gate University to earn his MBA. 

While still working his full-time job, at the age of 53, he was drawn to serve his community as a Reserve Officer with the Antioch Police Department for 20 years, retiring as Sergeant in 2017, then continuing to serve an additional 6 years in the VIPS (Volunteer in Police Service) program. 

Frank was a man of exceptional character. He was loving, kind, caring, and selfless and was admired by all who knew him. He will be sorely missed. 

He was predeceased by: his parents, Frank Rupani and Pauline Rupani (Combi). He is survived by: his wife Inelda; his sister Marlene (Gary Lafever); his siblings-in-law, Sylvia Slater (Robert) of Oklahoma City, OK, Henry (Robin) of San Antonio, TX, Gerard of San Antonio, TX and Alfred Rendon (Liz) of San Antonio, TX; his nieces and nephews, Ryan Slater, Valerie Ochs (Matt), Christopher Galluze (C. J.), Matt Slater (Crystal) and Sarah Simpson (Tucker); his great-nieces and great-nephews, Allyson, Zachary Ochs, Lillian, Nina Slater and Christopher A. Galluze; and his goddaughter Donna Aiken (Tom).

Arrangements are by Higgins Chapel in Antioch.  

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM at the St. Ignatius Church, 3351 Contra Loma Blvd, Antioch, CA. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM at the same location. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM at the Oak View Memorial Park (2500 E 18th St, Antioch, CA 94509). The military honors will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, at the Oak View Memorial Park Cemetery, 2500 E 18th Street, Antioch, CA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to your favorite charity in his name.

You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family, here.

Frank Rupani helps place the rose on the 9-11 Memorial during the 2016 Antioch Memorial Day Ceremony at Oak View Memorial Park. Photos by Allen D. Payton, Antioch Herald

Antioch Police Officers Association Mourns Passing

A post on the Antioch Police Officers Association website reads:

“It is with a heavy heart that we inform you about the passing of Reserve Officer Frank Rupani. Frank was a dedicated member of the Antioch Police Department for over 26 years, serving our community with utmost commitment and professionalism.

Officer Rupani’s unwavering dedication to his duty and his selfless service to the Antioch community will always be remembered. He was a true asset to our department, and his loss will be deeply felt by all of us.

During his time with us, Officer Rupani exemplified the values of integrity, compassion, and bravery. He was not only a respected colleague but also a trusted friend to many. His positive impact on our community and the lives he touched cannot be overstated.

As we mourn the loss of Officer Rupani, let us also remember and celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His contributions to public safety and his unwavering commitment to serving others will continue to inspire us all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Rupani’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences and offer our full support to those affected by this loss.

Please join us in honoring Officer Frank Rupani’s memory and the invaluable service he provided to our community.” (See related article)

Long-time Antioch Reserve Officer Frank Rupani passes

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024
Frank Rupani in a 2016 photo posted on his Facebook page and in his Antioch Police Reserve Officer uniform. Photo (right): APD

By Antioch Police Department

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you about the passing of Reserve Officer Frank Rupani. Frank was a dedicated member of the Antioch Police Department for over 26 years, serving our community with utmost commitment and professionalism.

He began his service on October 30, 1997, and has received numerous commendations and letters of appreciation from the public. In May 2014, Rupani was honored by then-Chief Allan Cantando as a Reserve Sergeant.

Prior to his retirement from the APD Reserve Unit in 2017, Rupani was assigned to assist the Parking Enforcement unit with a huge backlog of abandoned vehicles in the City. According to then-Police Chief Tammany Brooks, Rupani had been instrumental in getting the number down to a manageable level. He continued to serve the citizens of Antioch by transitioning to the Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS) program and could be seen at community events, including parades in downtown Rivertown, as well as Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies.

Following his retirement Frank Rupani was honored with a plaque for his 20 years of service by then-Chief T Brooks as Captain Tony Morefield looks on during an Antioch Police Ceremony on May 17, 2018. Photos: APD

Officer Rupani’s unwavering dedication to his duty and his selfless service to the Antioch community will always be remembered. He was a true asset to our department, and his loss will be deeply felt by all of us.

During his time with us, Officer Rupani exemplified the values of integrity, compassion, and bravery. He was not only a respected colleague but also a trusted friend to many. His positive impact on our community and the lives he touched cannot be overstated.

As we mourn the loss of Officer Rupani, let us also remember and celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His contributions to public safety and his unwavering commitment to serving others will continue to inspire us all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Rupani’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences and offer our full support to those affected by this loss.

According to his Facebook page, Rupani is from Burgettstown, Pennsylvania and studied for his Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering at The University of Akron.

Born on June 24, 1944, Rupani had just turned 80 and is survived by his wife Inelda who, according to family members, was by his side when he passed on July 10, 2024.

Please join us in honoring Officer Frank Rupani’s memory and the invaluable service he provided to our community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.