In Memoriam John Schaeffer 56 Jeanette Johnson 83 Valentin Garcia 67 Donna McPherson 71 Carolyn Kustich 80 Chiao Chen Wan 101 John Storer 90 Wayne Stoller 52 Lucille Sinclair 73 Darlene Dameron 64 Angelina Figlewica 90 Steven McDonough 77 John Holland 86 Barbara Eich 84 Families assisted by McKenzie Mortuary, 562-961-9301. —paid obituary

Bartolotto, Lea Anne 1947-2023 Lea Anne Bartolotto of Mutual 8 died Dec. 5, 2023. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 17, 1947. She moved to California with her parents in 1953, graduating from North Hollywood High School. She graduated from San Fernando State College with a bachelor’s degree. Lea Anne married Anthony Bartolotto in 1968. They lived in Van Nuys, California. Their growing family included a daughter Julie Anne, and a son, Anthony. In 1978, the young family moved to Somis, a small town in Ventura County. They developed a small ranch and built their dream home. Lea Anne was very active with the school activities, the 4-H Club, leadership teachers aide and many more community services. Lea Anne and her husband moved to Seal Beach to be closer to their daughter and her older sister. Lea Anne is survived by Tony, her beloved husband of 55 years; brother-in-law Ben and sister-in-law Brigid Bartolotto. Her memory lives on with her children Julie and Anthony, daughter-in-law Deanna and grandchildren Kalea, Corinna, and Cassidy. A Mass and Celebration of Life was held Dec. 27 at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church. Contributions in Lea’s honor may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, the American Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

In Memoriam Robert Venn 83 Sylvia Nash 54 Patricia McLean 84 Christopher Bair 76 Aurea Cano 81 Ola Mae Graves 93 Lorentz Kjoss 92 Adolia Larson 103 Michael Armstrong 39 Warren Lucca 75 David Jaramillo 61 Jeanette Johnson 83 Guy Selga Sr 62 Meiko Williams 74 Sophie Ulufanua 77 Bruce Lumpkin 70 Families assisted by McKenzie Mortuary, 562-961-9301. —paid obituary

Robert James (Jim) Williams 1937-2023 Robert James (Jim) Williams passed away peacefully on Dec. 10, 2023, following a long hospital stay. Jim was born on May 13, 1937, in Canton, Illinois, and moved to California in his early twenties. He established and operated a successful insurance firm for many years. Following retirement, Jim moved to LW in 2000. Shortly thereafter, he became active in Mutual 2 governance, which at the time was embroiled in controversybecause of disharmony among directors on the board. Jim was a prolific writer, and by writing informative and insightful letters that were published in the weekly paper, he educated shareholders on Mutual issues. Because of his efforts, Jim gained recognition and respect for his intellect. Following a special election in January 2003, he became a director in Mutual 2. In August 2003, he became president and served in that capacity for many years. Jims intellect and guidance were evident in the tranquility and smooth operation that characterized Mutual 2 during his tenure. His leadership qualities were especially valued during the reconstruction of Building 29 during a tumultuous period. Jim was in poor health in his latter years, necessitating a long stay in rehab where he spent his final days. Rest in peace, Jim. Services will be private.

Ricardo “Tarzan” V. Dizon 1938-2023 Ricardo “Tarzan” V. Dizon was a captivating blend of love, laughter, and lively passions. Ricardo V. Dizon, who embraced the moniker “Tarzan the Fearless” in his youth and was lovingly referred to as “Kuya” by his family, took his final, joyous steps on life’s dance floor, leaving behind a legacy as lively as his spirit. Born on Jan. 23, 1938, in San Antonio, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, to the late Numeriano and Natividad, Ricardo was the cherished second eldest of nine siblings. His 86-year journey was an exhilarating blend of love, bravery, and a zest for life that touched everyone he met. Ricardo’s 59-year marriage to his beloved, Irene, was not just a journey together but an epic tale of love, laughter and enduring companionship. Their shared life, intertwined with love and mutual support, laid the foundation of a family legacy that continues to inspire. Serving proudly as a U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran, Ricardo’s dedication extended beyond his country; it was a steadfast commitment to ensuring a brighter future for his family. This mission ,carried out with the honor and determination of a true sailor, set the course for a life filled with opportunities and achievements. Ricardo’s passions were as diverse as they were engaging. Not only was he an avid wedding photographer with his cousin Adel, capturing life’s most joyous moments, but he also had an insatiable love for cars. His weekends were often spent either under the hood of a Mustang or behind the camera lens, showcasing his multifaceted talents. His 25-year-plus tenure with Irene at Hughes Aircraft Company was more than just a shared workplace; it was a daily adventure filled with humor, routine, and his iconic coffee and two-glazed doughnut ritual, a delight so regular it became legendary at his local doughnut shop. In retirement, Ricardo’s vibrant spirit found new expressions in Las Vegas and later in Seal Beach. As an active member of the Doo Wop Club, Dancing Feet Club and Karaoke Club in Leisure World, his love for music and dance continued to shine. His role as an occasional bingo caller added to his charm, as did his signature greeting, “Hey my man,” accompanied by a warm, inviting smile. He is fondly remembered by his wife, Irene; children, Ricky and wife, Pamela; Connie and husband, Fernando Castro; Kathy Shelton, six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Each of them carries a part of Ricardo’s boundless energy and loving spirit. He is preceded in death by Kathy Shelton’s late husband, Herb, Gary Moore and his wife Phyllis. A celebration of Ricardo V. Dizon’s extraordinary life will take place on Jan. 23, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518. Instead of flowers, donations to the Fisher House Foundation are encouraged, in honor of his commitment to fellow servicemen and women. Ricardo’s life was a canvas filled with kindness, laughter, love, and an enduring passion for his family, photography, cars, and community. His final dance is a perfect encore to a life beautifully lived, forever captured in the hearts of those he touched.

Darlene Milek 1953-2023 There are times in our lives that we meet that person and instantly “click.” That would describe the friendship that I had with my dear friend, Darlene Milek. She moved into Leisure World in the spring of 2018. By summertime, we were in the pool and planning monthly get-togethers for our “Glenview Friends.” In the fall of 2018 and throughout 2019 we all learned about preparedness in the event of any emergency. Little did we know that in the spring of 2020, we would be put to the test of how well she had prepared us. Darlene was born in the spring of 1953, raised in the Lakewood area, attended college, married, and raised two children in Cypress, California. She eventually moved to Reno, Nevada, to become a school principal. Darlene worked hard and was always learning about something new. Nevertheless, she always had time for her family, neighbors and her community at large. During her time here she became a director and, at the time of her passing, she was secretary for Mutual 12. She spent countless hours in the service of her family, our neighborhood and community. In 2020, she lost her beautiful daughter, Robin. Even with that loss she pushed on and started an Etsy store, The Brown Hen Farm. Her sewing and embroidery projects were beyond amazing. She also assisted those who needed alterations and other sewing services. She never said “No.” I would frequently remind her that “No” was a complete sentence. She was my sidekick whenever I wanted to go on an adventure. We went to the pool in the summer and tried to keep busy in the winter rather than fall asleep at 7 p.m. and be up at 4 a.m. We cooked for each other one night a week. On Fridays, we had a regular date to Fantastic Café. I have a huge hole in my heart. We were supposed to be old ladies together. I am sad for me; but, happy for her. She died peacefully in her sleep on Nov. 7, 2023. No horrible illness, no more pain for the loss of her daughter. Darlene leaves behind her son John and his family, including three grandchildren and one great-grandchild, former husband and friend, Steve, and her son-in-law Jeff and her four grandchildren. I have asked our neighbors to share their thoughts: Mary said, “Darlene was always available to help if I had a problem. She was always friendly no matter what I asked her.” Linda and Jerry said, “Darlene was the first to welcome us to Glenview. Her warmth was real and made a difference. She always listened and always cared. She made a difference; and, we can only hope she knows how much we loved her. Farewell my friend.” Jeanette and Fred said, “Darlene was such a special gift to our neighborhood and broader community of Leisure World. Each and every day she did something to contribute to the good of others. Darlene set an example for us all to follow. She will be greatly missed.” Richard and Suzannah said, “We’re good with what each of you have written. So many thoughts and so hard to find the right words.” Kathie said, “Darlene was my next door neighbor and my anchor to LW since I moved in two years ago. She seemed always available to answer questions about LW, Mutual 12 and our block. It turns out that Darlene was everybody’s anchor and resource—because she cared deeply about the welfare of her neighbors, family, and friends. Regular sightings of Darlene, Cinnamon (her dog), and the golf cart are sorely missed.” Cyndi said, “Her door was always open and I was always welcomed. I will miss our girls’ lunches.” Rich said, “Darlene was the neighbor that was always available for anything and everyone. Darlene had her ways of making people feel at ease and included. Darlene was smart, witty and always creative. Darlene was able to pull the neighbors together to create our neighborhood.” Evelyn said, “Darlene was a real gem. She was never too busy to lend an ear or a helping hand. I will forever miss her and her kind ways.” Caren said, “Darlene was a force of light and positivity in our neighborhood. Through her selfless support, many people were able to continue to live independent lives. Her comforting presence in our community will be sorely missed.” Julia said that Darlene helped her to remain in her home. Rest in Peace, our dear friend. — Paid obituary written by Valerie McRoberts

In Memoriam Alex Alfonso 84 Joe Itow 70 Robert Larbig 70 Antonio Lopez 69 James Stewart 90 Paul Perencevic 80 Cynthia Vukic 65 Alice Keesee 75 Cydney Arenda 68 Jeneane Benedict 94 Christinia Crain 79 Leonard Drey 85 Kimberly Elliot 64 Families Assisted by McKenzie Mortuary, 562-961-9301 —paid obituary