In tribute to community members we lost in 2011
Among those community members who passed on in 2011 were four individuals who deeply touched other people’s lives.
Silicon Valley entrepreneur M. Kenneth Oshman, (pictured) who along with three others founded ROLM Corporation in 1969, died at age 71 on August 6. An executive with Echelon Corporation for the past two decades, a member of various Board of Directors, and recipient of numerous awards, “the most important thing in life was his family who he loved dearly,” said his daughter, Stephanie.
Much loved football and wrestling coach Ben Parks — who was also a physical education teacher, trainer, mentor and community leader for four decades — died at age 77 on August 19. His public memorial on Sept. 17 at Menlo-Atherton High School — held on the football field named in his honor — filled the bleachers.
A victim of the tragic shooting at a Seal Beach, CA beauty salon on Oct. 12, Michele Daschbach Fast was 47 at the time of her death. Wrote her sister Laura Daschbach Pitchford: “Michele has left us way too early, but she lived her short life so fully and selflessly, and made such an impact on the lives of others, that she will never be forgotten. Her beautiful smile, hearty laugh and loving spirit will be with us forever.”
Former La Entrada teacher Jason Picetti died at age 42 on Oct. 13. Diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2008, Jason inspired others through his blog “The Adventures of ALS Boy” where he provided this description of himself: “In his days prior to wearing the cape and cowl of the Amazing, Inspiring and Adventurous ALS Boy, Jason Picetti’s not-so-secret identities included weekend warrior rock star, enthusiastic and motivating middle school math teacher, and all-around decent guy.”
Footnote: we learned yesterday that long-time Atherton resident Eleanor Rosenberg, who actively pursued interests in public policy, politics, and the arts, died on Dec. 27 at age 87. We’ll provide a fuller obituary next week.
Editor’s note: We welcome obituaries with accompanying photograph submitted by family members.
