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Henry (Hank) Walter Sgheiza
March 18, 1922 - August 20, 2020
Born in Salinas, California
Resided in Salinas, California
Hank Sgheiza passed away peacefully in the early morning of Thursday, August 20th, 2020, at the age of 98. He lived an amazing full life with his soul mate, Frances Sbrana Sgheiza. They raised their family in Salinas CA, while making weekend trips to their beloved home at Lake Nacimiento, where they eventually lived full time in retirement.
Hank was the youngest of six Sgheiza siblings and the last to depart. He was the son of Swiss Immigrants from Corippo, Canton Ticino, Switzerland. His father, Emilio (Emil) Bartolomeo Giuseppe Sgheiza, was a farmer, Swiss dairyman and cheese maker. His hardworking mother, Annie Andreotti Sgheiza, was the dairy cook and a Domestic Engineer.
As a kid, Hank was known for being quick witted, and a handful. He attended Sacred Heart Elementary School K-8 and has many stories about those nuns who tried to keep him in line. His 8th grade year, he was the only boy! During grade school he worked for Western Union delivering telegrams on his bike. He was so grateful to spread his wings and attend Salinas High School where he met the love of his life, Frances Sbrana. He was the MVM (Most Valuable Man) on the lightweight football team known as the Cow Babes back then. Hank also enjoyed playing basketball for the Salinas High Cowboys.
Upon graduation in 1940, Hank enlisted in the Navy and attended Del Monte Pre-Flight School in Monterey and the University of Utah as part of his training to become a Navy Pilot. As a US Naval Aviator he mastered flying the F4U Corsair and multi-engine aircraft during WWII.
Hank and Frances married in 1944 while Hank was still in the service. After returning home to Salinas, Hank worked in the agriculture industry before joining forces with his two brothers in 1957 and purchasing Salinas Motor Parts, making it Sgheiza Bro’s Salinas Motor Parts. In 1976, after his brother Emile’s retirement, his son, Tom, bought in and became his partner in Sgheiza’s Salinas Motor Parts. They continued to work together until Hank’s retirement in the early 1990’s and Hank continued as a consultant in his son’s business, Sgheiza’s Machine Shop, specializing in high performance engines.
Hank was active with the youth of Salinas. He coached youth basketball and was on the Salinas Parks and Recreation Board for a number of years. He was also the secretary/treasurer of the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree for over 20 years, as well as a member of the Salinas Elks, where he enjoyed taking his daughter, daughter-in-law and granddaughters to the Father-Daughter Dances each year.
Hank was also very instrumental in developing the Northshore Ski and Boat Club at Nacimiento Lake. Right after the dam was finished he started bringing his family to the lake almost every weekend. He loved the outdoors, fishing, boating and water sports. He was an avid water skier (that’s how he lost 3 of his fingers that still lie on the bottom the lake) and passed his love of the sport down to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He and Frances built their lake house in Bee Rock Cove. Many happy days were spent at “the Lake” with family and friends. Upon retirement they moved there permanently to live full time.
After his wife’s passing Hank returned to Salinas to be closer to his family. Last year Hank was recognized at the 100th Salinas High Football game with the honor of doing the coin toss. His great granddaughter Marley, a current SHS Cowboy, escorted to him to the center of the field. Go Cowboys!
Hank was a friendly and memorable person known for his honesty and candor. His quick wit and humor was enjoyed by all. His main focus was his family and good friends. His stories and lessons on life have been passed down to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who were so blessed to have all these years with him. Hank will be greatly missed by all who knew or came in contact with him.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 wonderful years, Frances Mary Sgheiza, his parents, Emilio and Annie Sgheiza, his brothers James Sgheiza, Emile Sgheiza and Elmer Sgheiza as well as his sisters, Lucille Pinelli and Doris Vosti. He also lost his son, Jimmy at an early age, his daughter Peggy Sgheiza Rhoten and his grandson, Matthew Rhoten.
He is survived by his son, Tom Sgheiza (Mary) of Trail, Oregon, his grandchildren Jamie Panziera (Matt) of Salinas, Brian Sgheiza of Waxhaw, NC, Daniel Rhoten (Lori) of Fresno, CA, Kelly Rhoten (Bonnie) of Grapevine, Texas and Nicole Rowland (Travis) of Marina, CA. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren Zachary Panziera (Nicolette), Marley and Calleigh Panziera, Austin, Ryder and Westin Sgheiza, Carter and Cade Rhoten, and Henry (Hank) and Lukas Rowland.
The family would like to thank Ron and Diane Vasquez, of Heart of Hollister, for the superb, loving, quality care and friendship that Hank received the last six months of his life. Also, we are very appreciative of the attention, care and comfort that was so faithfully administered by Hospice. And a special “thanks" to Carol Holder from Change of Places, who helped the family navigate through the confusion of getting the right placement and care for Hank and connecting us with Heart of Hollister.
As per the wishes of Hank, no public services will be held. Online condolences can be made at www.struveandlaporte.com
Any remembrances may be sent to Bridge Hospice - Central Coast 6 Quail Run Circle, STE 103 Salinas, CA 93907
Fred R. "Randy" Fuller
June 29, 1925 - September 1, 2020
Born in Wichita Falls, Texas
Resided in Salinas, California
Fred Randal “Randy” Fuller was born on June 29, 1925, and passed away on September 1, 2020, at the age of 95, surrounded by his loving family.
Randy was born in Stamford, Texas, and raised in Wichita Falls, Texas. He enlisted in the Navy on May 28, 1942, and served our Country for over 30 years as a proud veteran of three wars: World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.
Randy entered the Navy’s flight training program in September 1943, and completed flight training in 1945. He was assigned to fly TBM Avenger aircraft and, in WWII, he was transferred to the USS Cowpens, a Pacific Fleet Carrier stationed in Okinawa. During his long career, Randy flew numerous missions in every type of military aircraft and transport, and even served as a VIP pilot to the top military officers.
While stationed in San Diego in 1952, Randy married Jean Dolores McNeil and they were blessed to have three children together. He and his family arrived in Salinas in 1969, where Randy was stationed at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, and served as the Officer in Charge of decommissioning the Naval Auxiliary Landing Field (NALF) that was located on the north-side of the Monterey Airport.
After over 30 years of devoted service, rising through the military ranks, Commander Fred R. Fuller retired in July 1972. Immediately at his retirement, Randy re-entered civilian life as the Assistant Manager and Assistant Chief of Police for the Monterey Peninsula Airport District. After 5-1/2 years at the Airport District, Randy fully retired in January 1978 to enjoy many nice years of retirement in his Toro Park home. After his beloved wife of 34 years, Jean, lost her battle with cancer in 1986, Randy traveled to Sun City West, Arizona, where he then lived during the winter months. Always an active volunteer, Randy served as President of the Property Owners & Residents’ Association (PORA) for about 8 years, and then served as a Board Member for the Sun City West Recreation Center for about 3-1/2 years.
In 2008, Randy met and married Jean Cray in Arizona, and they celebrated their 12th Anniversary in April 2020. Randy recently celebrated his 95th birthday in June 2020, and was blessed to have a long life of devotion to his country, his community and, especially, to his family!
Randy is survived by his beloved children Kathy Russo and husband Jim Russo, Jr. of Monterey, Susan Yedlicka and husband Mike of Corral de Tierra, and Michael Fuller and wife Diane of Los Angeles; his devoted grandchildren Kyle Yedlicka (Alexandra Bryan), Jared Yedlicka, (Allie Rybinski), Kristen Russo (Blake Fitzwater), and Jaymie Russo; and his loving wife of 12 years, Jean Cray Fuller.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make any donations to Hospice or the Visiting Nurses Association (VNA).
John P. Amaro
January 25, 1964 - July 30, 2017
Born in Salinas, CA
Resided in Merced, CA
John P. Amaro, 53 of Merced passed away Sunday, July 30, 2017. He was born January 25, 1964 in Salinas, CA.
John P. Amaro also known to many as (Johnny) was born and raised in Salinas.
John attended Mission Park Elementary School, Washington Middle School and Graduated from Salinas High School.
He began his career at Nob Hill Foods in Salinas along side his cousin’s Ronnie, Rudy, and Randy Perez, he also worked at several other locations including Sunnyvale and the Greenfield Store, after 16 years with the company, John moved his family to Gonzales where he began to pursue his childhood aspirations, and began his career as a Volunteer Fire Fighter for the city of Gonzales, and there is where he met his life long friend Fred Lombardi.
John continued on to become a Police officer for the City of Gonzales where Fred Lombardi and John Amaro became true partners in crime. John eventually moved on to the Monterey Police dept. where he eventually retired and moved to Merced, Calf to be near his family.
John took a little time off before he took a job at Peterson Elementary School were his nieces Angelina & Gianna Reyna attended, and there is where he implemented the Sports Program for the kids. John loved being around kids and the staff enjoyed his energetic spirit, often hosting pancake breakfasts and dressing up in costume becoming the schools Pancake Man.
During his years working for Nob Hill Foods, being a Volunteer Fire Fighter and A Police Officer, although he spent most of his Life to Saving Lives, and many a times risking his own, and Delivering a few Babies along the way, there was nothing he wouldn’t have done to help others.
John touched so many lives in the communities he lived, Yes some would say he was like a Hero, but to us he was a Loving Son, Father, brother and Uncle.
Johnny, life will never be the same with out you Rest in Piece our beloved Angel.
He was preceded in death by his Father, Fidel Amaro Sr.
He is survived by; His Mother, Belia Garcia Amaro of Merced, Sons, Johnny Amaro and Joshua Amaro of Bakersfield, Brother, Fidel (Alicia) Amaro Jr. of Merced, Sisters; Lupe (John) Kinnear of Gonzales, Elizabeth Morales-Amaro of Salinas, Elsa (Norman) Reyna of Merced, Nephew; Casey Aguilar of Gonzales, Nieces; Katherine Bonincontri of Gonzales, Tarah (Justin) Frederick of Atascadero, Alyson Grimaldo of Salinas, Stacey Carothers of Salinas Adrianna Morales of Salinas, Angelina and Gianna Reyna of Merced.
A Memorial Mass will be held 10:00a.m. Friday, August 11, 2017 at Sacred Heart Church, 22 Stone Street, Salinas, CA. 93901.
Kyoko Royston
March 25, 1932 - June 16, 2017
Born in Hokaido, Japan
Resided in Salinas, CA
Kyoko Royston, 85, formerly a resident of Monterey, California for 29 years, died June 16th, 2017 in Salinas, California where she resided for the past thirty years. Many people knew her as "Katy"
Kyoko was born March 25th, 1932 in Hokaido, Japan. She married Haskell Herman Royston in 1955 and immigrated to the United States with her husband and newborn son, Don Royston.
She obtained her legal citizenship and began working various jobs. When her husband's military career landed them at Fort Ord, California in 1958, Kyoko began working at various restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula. Her hopes were to some day open her own Japanese restaurant.
From 1969 to 1975, Kyoko was the owner/operator of the Kappa Japanese Restaurant at 611 Lighthouse Ave. in New Monterey, Ca.
She was a member of the Salinas Buddhist Church. Her interests included family, raising her toy poodles, and taking a now and then bus excursion to the casinos. For the past twenty five years Kyoko worked at the Cathay House Chinese restaurant in Salinas.
Kyoko is survived by her two sons, Don Royston of Visalia, California and Steve Royston of Monterey. Grandson Steve Royston Jr. of Monterey, Grandson Christopher Royston of Clovis, California, Granddaughter Jamie Royston of Fresno, Granddaughter Kellie Eanni and her husband Johnny Eanni of Fresno. Three Great Grandchildren: Dylan, Rylee, and Hunter.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Joyce Ann Royston; Companion, Mr. Jack Toy, and daughter-in-law Mrs. Helen Lou Royston.
A Memorial Service for Kyoko Royston will be held at Struve and Laporte Funeral Chapel 41 W. San Luis Street Salinas, California 93901 on Thursday July 6th at 11:00 am.
A gathering of friends and family will be held at the Cathay House Chinese Restaurant immediately following the service.
Keith Allen Bowker
September 3, 1951 - June 26, 2017
Born in Oakland, CA
Resided in Salinas, CA
Keith “Gabbie” Allen Bowker, 65, passed away on June 26, 2017. He was born in Oakland, CA and was a lifelong resident of Salinas.
Keith was a man of many talents who was self-employed for more than 37 years. He was a restorationist who restored homes and classic cars, specializing in trucks and woodies, as well as unique woodworking projects. He was also a poet with two published books to his name - “Gabbie the Poet, Vol. 1” and “Gabbie the Poet, Vol. 2”.
Keith was a member of the Native Sons of the Golden West for 25 years. When his children were young, he volunteered with the Colts and Broncos teams in the Pop Warner football league.
Keith joins his father, Irving Allen Bowker, and his brother, Robert Franklin Bowker, in Heaven.
Keith is survived by his partner Andrea Campbell of Salinas; two children Samantha Harmon (Kyle) and Keith Bowker II of Salinas; his three grandchildren Wells Harmon, Brad Campbell, and Madi Rae Campbell; his mother Nancy Bowker of Salinas; his three sisters Carolyn Bowker of Cupertino, Marilyn Dorman (Mark) and June Cornell (Darryl) of Salinas; Thomas Campbell (Karen) and Tami Campbell of Salinas.
A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, July 7th, 10:30 am, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1071 Pajaro Street, Salinas, CA. 93901.
A reception BBQ will be held at Native Sons of the Golden West Parlor, 76 W Alisal St, Salinas, CA 93901
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Keith’s name to the UCSF Memory and Aging Center at www.makeagift.ucsf.edu/brain or by mail (MAC Fund B1871 in the memo) at UCSF Foundation, Lockbox 45339, San Francisco, CA 94145-0339.
Shinobu Gatanaga
March 25, 1931 - June 23, 2017
Born in Japan
Resided in Salinas, CA
Shinobu Gatanaga, 86, of Salinas, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family on Friday, June 23, 2017.
She was born in Kushikino-shi, Kagoshima-ken, Japan on March 25, 1931 and grew up in Taiwan with her parents, Sunao and Nobuko Mori, and sister, Yasuko, because of her father’s export business before the war. At first, they provided aid to the Japanese soldiers, but ultimately lost their waterfront home as the soldiers became desperate for food and supplies. She later returned to Kushikino where she worked at Mitsui mining and assisted the late Zenichiro Uchida with the Japanese migration to the US and abroad. She married the late Koichi Kenny Gatanaga in 1958, came to the United States in 1960 with their son by cargo ship and lived in Sunnyvale and Salinas for 57 years, lovingly supporting her husband, children, and grandchildren.
A housewife by choice, she was the heart and soul of the family’s flower business. Shinobu was caring, kindhearted and always put others before herself. She loved travelling the world with her husband and their many friends and enjoyed going to casinos with her friends.
Shinobu was a member of the Salinas Buddhist Temple, Salinas Buddhist Women’s Association, Kushikino Kai, Kagoshima Kenjin-kai, Ichiki-Kushikino Sister-City Association, Moralogy Association, Sho-do Association, and Ikebana Association.
She is survived by her children, George (Lynne), June (Sam), Robert (Frances), and Kay (Mike), all of Salinas. Her pride and joy were six grandchildren: Justin, Derek, Annika, Grant, Brandon, and Mia.
The family would like to thank the caring nurses at the VNA Hospice for all their help during mom’s care. Without them, we would have not been able to care for her at home.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, July 7, 2017 at 4:00 p.m., at the Buddhist Temple Of Salinas located at 14 California Street, Salinas, CA 93901.
