Herman Fogata 1924-2023 Herman Fogata, a dedic ated and compassionate individual, peacefully passed away in Seal Beach, California, on Aug. 26, 2023, at the age of 98. Born on Sept. 29, 1924, in Socorro, Texas, Herman had a remarkable life filled with achievements and contributions to his community. Herman pursued higher education at Berkeley and proudly served his country as a Signalman, Second Class in the U.S. Navy. He embarked on a career dedicated to professional service and civil leadership. For over two decades, he served as the executive director of the East Los Angeles Regional Center. Herman also worked in government, spearheading community action projects and advocating for the rights of the disadvantaged and disabled as well as a professor of social work at University of Southern California. Herman’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable, and was recognized as an avid reader and continuous learner. He was often found engrossed in research, studying, and sharing his wisdom. Music, literature and working on his computer outdoors were among his favorite pastimes. In his later years, Herman relocated to Leisure World, residing with his daughter Deborah and son-in-law Kelly. There, he embraced an active lifestyle, visiting the gym daily, attending concerts, engaging in discussions with neighbors, and working on his autobiography. Herman’s enthusiasm for life and his vibrant presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Herman Fogata’s passing is mourned by his family, friends, and the community he served with unwavering dedication. His commitment to the wellbeing of others will forever be remembered and cherished. ••• The obituaries deadline is Friday at 4 p.m., prior to the desired Thursday publication date. Obituaries that are received later than Friday will go in the following week’s issue. Email obituary notices to laurieb@lwsb.com with photos attached as jpg files. The first 250 words, plus one picture, are free to publish in the newspaper; each additional word is 25 cents. For more information, call 562-430-0534, ext. 801, or email laurieb@lwsb.com.

Samuel Joseph McCarthy Jr 1941-2023 Samuel Joseph McCarthy Jr. passed away Aug. 21, 2023, in Seal Beach, California. He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Mary, and is survived by his wife, Meinrada, and his children Sheila (Frank) and Kevin (Sara). Sam was the cherished grandfather of Andrew, Stephanie and Allison, who will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his sister, Kathie Simkiss. Born in Philadelphia on June 22, 1941, he attended Cardinal Dougherty High School then LaSalle College. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary, and began a 35-year career with the Internal Revenue Service. In 1972 he was transferred to California, where they made their home in Long Beach. He spent many years coaching youth soccer and served as commissioner of both AYSO Region 114 and the Long Beach Youth Soccer Organization. He was an active member of St. Cornelius Church where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus, led the RCIA team and was head usher for many years. After Mary passed, he met and married Meirada (Bot) and they spent many happy years together. He enjoyed Notre Dame football and maintained a passion for all things Philadelphia, from cheese steaks, scrapple and pork rolls to the Eagles, Phillies and Flyers. A man who loved nothing more than taking a long walk in the rain, it was only fitting that it was raining the morning he passed. A memorial mass will be held Friday, Sept. 15, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Church in Leisure World, Seal Beach, California. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Holy Family Church in Seal Beach or The American Cancer Society.