Dennis Spangler: 1953-2016
Fabric Designer, Jewelry Maker
Dennis Spangler made hand-colored fabrics for an exclusive clientele, designed jewelry, and converted found objects into marvelous art pieces. Read story.
Cedric James Robinson: 1940-2016
Uncowed and Unbowed
Cedric James Robinson was born in Oakland, California, on November 11, 1940. Read story.
Robert Klausner: 1926-2016
Power Broker in Santa Barbara for Two Decades
On the frontlines of Santa Barbara environmentalism and politics for two decades, Bob Klausner lent his intellect and intensity to progressive goals. Read story.
Muhammad Ali: 1942-2016
The Conscience of a Generation
Muhammad Ali, an ever greater showman, put it all on the line time after time in the ring, in his refusal to fight in Vietnam, and in his embrace of Islam. Read story.
Margaret "Peggy" Louise Hurst: 1930-2016
A Passion for the Road
Peggy Hurst is remembered as a "home economist" extraordinaire with a passion for hitting the road. Read story.
Jonathan Edward Bailey: 1952-2016
A Good Cop
Jon Bailey enjoyed being a guardian. He was good at it, because he loved what he did. Read story.
Walter Kohn: 1923-2016
Nobel Laureate, Physicist, Peace Advocate
Though science and physics were his life, Walter Kohn was a humanist, artist, and philosopher who mentored and inspired students and colleagues alike. Read story.
Harold ‘Rusty’ Fairly: 1932-2016
Athlete, Coach, City Councilmember
Rusty Fairly was a tough football and baseball coach for UCSB and SBCC, and he later brought his down-to-earth style to the City Council. Read story.
Thomas Blatt: 1927-2015
A Witness to the Horrors of Sobibór
Thomas Blatt survived the Sobibór death camp and went on to tell the story the Nazis tried to erase. Read story.
George Gaynes: 1917-2016
Gifted Actor of Many Genres
The gifted actor’s career spanned multiple decades and genres. Read story.
Weidong 'Henry' Han, Huijie 'Jennie' Yu, and Emily Han
Irreplaceable Loss to the Community
The grief and disbelief over the horrifying murders of herbalist Henry Han, Jennie Yu, and Emily Han are powerful testimony to the place they held in Santa Barbara. Read story.
Hilda Wenner: 1935-2016
Folk Musician and Teacher
Many remember the Adult Ed classes taught by Hilda Wenner, with a roomful of guitars propelling the music forward. Read story.
Jean Louise Thomson: 1958-2016
Cyclist, Swimmer, Gardener, Friend
A big, happy kid who loved to play outside, Jean Thomson had a cheerful enthusiasm that won her friends everywhere she went. Read story.
John Joseph Alvarado: 1933-2016
A Very Good Life
Relatives, friends, and customers alike remember John Alvarado's integrity and kindness; he leaves behind a proud heritage. Read story.
George Solinas: 1926-2015
A Builder of Community
George Solinas worked with the United Farm Workers, La Casa de la Raza, and many others who needed his artistry and building skills. Read story.
