Curator: Prof. Elena Rostova Date: 2/6/2026 Dept: Visual Arts & Sciences

PRESS DEMOCRAT OBITUARIES

The press democrat obituaries section is a dedicated space in the Press Democrat newspaper, offering a poignant and reflective glimpse into the lives of those who have passed away. This page serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of individuals who have contributed to the community, providing a platform for their stories to be remembered and honored. It is a place where the impact of these individuals is celebrated, and their legacies are preserved for future generations.

The obituaries section goes beyond mere announcements of death; it is a narrative thread that weaves through the fabric of the community, connecting people across generations. Each obituary is a unique portrait, capturing the essence of a life, the memories of loved ones, and the impact they had on those around them. It is a place where the community can come together to mourn, remember, and celebrate the lives of its members.

One of the key benefits of the press democrat obituaries, is the preservation of history. These obituaries provide a historical record, offering insights into the lives of individuals who have shaped the community. They serve as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in understanding the past and present of the area. By documenting the lives of diverse individuals, the section contributes to a collective memory, ensuring that the stories of the community's past are not forgotten.

Supplementary Figures

Fig 1. Elizabeth Marquardt Obituary (1938 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A somber black-and-white photograph captures a family gathering around a dining table. The 'Press Democrat' is spread across the table, with obituaries carefully marked with red pens. The image conveys a sense of loss and togetherness, suitable for a memorial service program or a family keepsake.

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Fig 2. Caroline Murphy Obituary (1928 - 2025) - Sebastopol, CA - Press Democrat

In a quiet library, an older gentleman sits at a wooden desk, surrounded by books and newspapers. He carefully reads an obituary from the 'Press Democrat', his expression one of deep contemplation. This image can be used in a newspaper's feature article, highlighting the importance of remembering local lives.

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Fig 3. Michael Gonzalez Obituary (1936 - 2025) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A vibrant, colorful mural adorns a city wall, depicting a life's journey. The mural includes a young person's artwork, a favorite book, and a newspaper with an obituary from the 'Press Democrat'. This unique image can be used in a community art project, celebrating lives and local history.

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Fig 4. Clarice Vyenielo Obituary (1926 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A close-up of a hand gently turning the pages of the 'Press Democrat', revealing an obituary. The hand belongs to a middle-aged woman, her eyes filled with tears. This intimate shot can be used in a personal tribute, expressing grief and remembrance.

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Fig 5. Patrick Meyer Obituary (1941 - 2022) - Belleville, IL - Belleville News ...

A bustling city street scene captures a group of people walking, each holding a different newspaper. One of them holds the 'Press Democrat', with an obituary visible. The image conveys the idea of shared experiences and the impact of local news, suitable for a community newsletter.

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Fig 6. Betty Freeman Obituary (2022) - Santa Rosa, CA - Press Democrat

A vintage-style illustration depicts a family tree with a central figure, representing a loved one. The 'Press Democrat' is placed at the base, with obituaries from different generations. This artistic image can be used in a family history book, honoring ancestors and their legacy.

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Fig 7. Karl Thimm Obituary (1923 - 2023) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A solitary figure stands on a hilltop, gazing at the setting sun. In their hand, they hold the 'Press Democrat', with an obituary of a local hero. The image evokes a sense of reflection and tribute, perfect for a memorial service's backdrop.

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Fig 8. Pamela Castillo Obituary (1945 - 2023) - Novato, CA - Press Democrat

A group of friends, all in their 80s, gather in a cozy living room. They share a laugh, with the 'Press Democrat' open to an obituary. The scene captures the warmth of friendship and the comfort of shared memories, ideal for a retirement home's promotional material.

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Fig 9. Helen Leigh Obituary (1921 - 2023) - Clearlake, CA - Press Democrat

A young journalist, equipped with a notebook and a camera, stands outside a local cemetery. The 'Press Democrat' is open to an obituary of a notable figure, and the journalist is taking notes. This image can be used in a newspaper's feature, showcasing local history.

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Fig 10. Marie Moretti Obituary (1936 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A vibrant, abstract painting depicts a life's journey, with the 'Press Democrat' as a central element. The painting includes symbols of the deceased's life, creating a unique and artistic tribute. This image can be used in a gallery exhibition, celebrating local artists and their work.

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Fig 11. Linda Millsap Obituary (1941 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A family pet, a golden retriever, sits on a lap, its head resting on the 'Press Democrat'. The newspaper is open to an obituary, and the owner is tearfully reading it. This heartwarming image can be used in a pet memorial, honoring their bond.

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Fig 12. Harold Nelson Obituary (1926 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A city square is filled with people, all holding the 'Press Democrat'. The newspaper is open to a special edition obituary section, with a local celebrity's life celebrated. This festive image can be used in a community celebration, honoring local icons.

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Fig 13. Maria Gagnon Obituary (1941 - 2025) - San Francisco, CA - Press Democrat

A close-up of a hand writing in a journal, with the 'Press Democrat' open beside it. The journal contains personal reflections on the life of a loved one, as told by the deceased. This intimate image can be used in a personal memoir, capturing memories.

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Fig 14. John Grant Obituary (2024) - Santa Rosa, CA - Press Democrat

A bustling city street captures a rush-hour crowd, with people rushing by. One of them holds the 'Press Democrat', with an obituary visible. The image conveys the idea of shared experiences and the impact of local news, suitable for a community newsletter.

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Fig 15. Kandace Bender Obituary (1954 - 2024) - Windsor, CA - Press Democrat

A vintage-style photograph captures a couple, hand in hand, walking towards a sunset. The 'Press Democrat' is visible in the background, with an obituary from a local war hero. This romantic image can be used in a historical romance novel.

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Fig 16. Steven McNeal Obituary (1946 - 2025) - Occidental, CA - Press Democrat

A group of children, all holding hands, stand in front of a colorful mural. The mural includes an obituary from a local artist, and the children are learning about their community's history. This educational image can be used in a school project.

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Fig 17. James Reutlinger Obituary (1951 - 2025) - Chico, CA - Press Democrat

A solitary figure sits on a beach, gazing at the ocean. The 'Press Democrat' is open to an obituary, and the figure is deep in thought. This serene image can be used in a meditation guide, offering a moment of reflection.

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Fig 18. Joan Smith Obituary (2025) - Cotati, CA - Press Democrat

A cityscape at night, with the 'Press Democrat' illuminated by streetlights. The newspaper is open to an obituary, and the city's lights create a dramatic backdrop. This urban image can be used in a city guide, showcasing local landmarks.

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Fig 19. Elsa Bacher Obituary (1933 - 2024) - Fulton, CA - Press Democrat

A vintage-style illustration depicts a family gathering around a dinner table. The 'Press Democrat' is placed in the center, with obituaries from different family members. This heartwarming image can be used in a family cookbook, sharing recipes and memories.

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Fig 20. Betty Greco Obituary (1936 - 2024) - Geyserville, CA - Press Democrat

A young couple, dressed in vintage attire, pose in front of a historic building. The 'Press Democrat' is visible in the background, with an obituary from a local pioneer. This romantic image can be used in a historical drama.

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Fig 21. Marjorie Popp Obituary (1924 - 2024) - -, CA - Press Democrat

A group of friends, all in their 60s, sit in a cozy café. They share a laugh, with the 'Press Democrat' open to an obituary. The scene captures the warmth of friendship and the comfort of shared memories, ideal for a retirement home's promotional material.

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Fig 22. Cynthia Benzerara Obituary (2024) - Santa Rosa, CA - Press Democrat

A city park captures a family picnic, with the 'Press Democrat' spread out on a blanket. The newspaper is open to an obituary, and the family is enjoying a day of fun. This family-friendly image can be used in a community event brochure.

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Fig 23. Joy Steele Obituary (2025) - Santa Rosa, CA - Press Democrat

A close-up of a hand holding a 'Press Democrat', with an obituary visible. The hand belongs to a young person, their expression filled with curiosity. This educational image can be used in a school project, teaching about local history.

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Fig 24. Press Democrat Life Tributes Obituary Submission

A vintage-style photograph captures a couple, hand in hand, walking through a city market. The 'Press Democrat' is visible in the background, with an obituary from a local farmer. This romantic image can be used in a historical romance novel.

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Fig 25. John Baker Obituary (2025) - Santa Rosa, CA - Press Democrat

A group of children, all holding the 'Press Democrat', stand in front of a community garden. The newspaper is open to an obituary, and the children are learning about local history. This educational image can be used in a school project.

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Fig 26. Lynda Adams Obituary (1955 - 2024) - Petaluma, CA - Press Democrat

A solitary figure sits on a hilltop, gazing at the setting sun. The 'Press Democrat' is open to an obituary, and the figure is deep in thought. This serene image can be used in a meditation guide, offering a moment of reflection.

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