In Memoriam

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Barry Brewer, a distinguished real estate broker with an illustrious career spanning over 47 years. He left an indelible mark on the industry and the many lives he touched. He spent the last 30 years at Security Pacific Real Estate in Fair Oaks, CA.

Barry began his journey in real estate on March 21, 1977. Quickly establishing a reputation for integrity, dedication, and an unparalleled understanding of the market. Over the decades he became a trusted advisor and a cherished friend to clients and colleagues alike.

Barry was known not just for his professional achievements but also for his compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to helping others. He was instrumental in countless successful transactions, always prioritizing the needs and dreams of his clients. Barry’s expertise and guidance have left a lasting legacy in the communities he served.

As we remember Barry, we celebrate a life well-lived and a career that set a high standard in the real estate profession. His contributions to the industry will be remembered for years to come, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege to know him.

In honor of Barry, a Celebration of Life, will be held on Saturday, June 29 at 2pm. For details and to RSVP text (916) 531-9420.

Rest in peace, Barry. Your Legacy of Excellence, Kindness, and Dedication will never be forgotten.

Our association is saddened to hear of the tragic sudden passing of long-time REALTOR^® John Gudebski on May 11.

In 2003, he sold Sac Jet and pursued his ultimate career of designing, building, and selling homes. He eventually formed the Gudebski Group and rose to be one of the Top Ten producing agents in Coldwell Banker’s Sacramento-Tahoe Region.

After 25 great years in Sacramento, he and Marcie moved to Montecito, CA, a town they dreamed of living in. John joined the Montecito Coldwell Banker Office where he continued to earn the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. He will always be remembered for his charm, brilliance, positive nature and infectious smile. He will be forever missed and remembered.

SAR is saddened to hear of the tragic sudden passing of long-time REALTOR^® and industry leader Patty Gillette on February 14th. Well-known and well-liked throughout the industry, Patty was also very engaged with her Association. Patty was SAR President in 1993 and continued to be involved with SAR over the years by serving on the Professional Standards Committee, as an Ombudsman, and on the Grievance Committee.

Patty began a career in Real Estate at age 18 as a secretary for Steele Realty. Within a few years she had her real estate license and never looked back. Over the years she worked for DRW, Coldwell Banker, Century 21, and, most recently, Lyon Real Estate. Patty was always driven to be the best at whatever she did. She was the first female vice-president for Coldwell Banker and served as president of the Sacramento Association of Realtors. In any list of top performers her name was usually present. She often used her many years of experience to mentor her co-workers.

Patty was definitely a people person and her list of friends and acquaintances was enormous. Patty was well known by her myriad of friends as the person who showed up in time of need with help, food, and comfort.

There will be a celebration of Patty’s life on Saturday, March 20th at 1:00 pm at Christ Community Church located at 5025 Manzanita Ave, Carmichael. Please join us in person or livestream. The memorial is limited to 200 people, and will be set up for social distancing (there’s no RSVP list, so it’s recommended you get there early to secure a seat). The service will be live streamed for anyone who can’t make it, or isn’t comfortable going to a public event. Please email Patty’s niece, Carla Martin, at cmartin@golyon.com if you’d like to be sent the link to the memorial live stream once it’s available. The livestream link will be announced in the week prior to the memorial.

Please view full online obituary here. For friends and family who wish to share stories and happy memories of Patty on Facebook, you can post on her memorialized account here.

We are deeply saddened to report the passing of long-time REALTOR^® Avon Burgess on October 29, 2020 at the age of 85. After a successful career with IBM, she changed her profession and earned her REALTOR^®/Brokers License and stayed in Real Estate until her retirement in 2018. She joined SAR in 1977 and served the greater Sacramento area for 42 years. Avon most recently worked with HomeSmart ICARE Realty.

Avon joined the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution in 2007. She was an original member of the Gold Trail Chapter in Roseville, CA and more recently a member of the Captain John Oldham Chapter in Auburn, CA. Her hobbies were her family lineage, singing, reading, and exercising body and mind.

We are deeply saddened to report the passing of long-time SAR Member and industry leader Steve Larson on September 6, 2020 at the age of 70. Steve was well known throughout the Sacramento real estate industry, having been a Farmers Insurance agent for 42 years and running a successful office. Steve also had a deep passion for helping his community; he was involved in many charities by giving of his time and donations to organizations including Sac State, The Optimists and, of course, SAR CanTree and Scholarship charities. One of the most popular events of the year was his SAR Scholarship Tailgate Fundraiser preceding a Sac State football game. For years, he bought and prepared a feast for those who attended, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the SAR Scholarship Trust.

Steve joined SAR in 2007 and made the most of his time as a member by getting highly involved and serving on the CanTree, Scholarship Fundraising, and Volunteer Coordinating committees. Recently, he was a huge contributor to both the Scholarship and CanTree fundraising efforts. For his outstanding actions and contributions as a member, Steve was named the 2019 SAR Preferred Partner of the Year. To continue his legacy of giving, SAR is naming an annual scholarship after him that will support local college-bound students each year. He will also have a plaque dedicated to him as a permanent addition to the scholarship tree in the SAR lobby.

We are deeply saddened to report the passing of long-time REALTOR^® Matt Goorabian on March 1, 2020. Matt was a Member of the Sacramento Association of REALTORS^® for 55 years, first joining in 1959 and active until his retirement in 2014.

Matt was born, raised and worked in Sacramento. He was very popular with all that knew him because of his great personality, wit and kindness. After serving two years in the Navy, Matt performed as a professional drummer and singer and travelled the country during the Big Band era.

While still a young man Matt became a Broker in Real Estate. He first went to work with Artz and Cook close to 55 years ago. He moved on to having his own companies where he was involved in several developments. Later he owned Condo Marketing Service where he had many agents who were mesmerized by him. After retiring he continued to help his wife, Judy Greene Goorabian with her real estate. In fact, that’s how she met him by going to work in his company after just getting her license. They had an incredible marriage for over 40 years. Judy would say “he’s the core of my life.” They loved to entertain and travelled extensively.

The SAR Family is deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of our former leader and CEO, Nelson B. Janes. at the age of 75. With a career working in the non-profit sector spanning 36 years, SAR was fortunate enough to have Nelson lead our association for 10 years from 2002 – 2012. Over his career, Nelson led four major REALTOR^® associations, including Philadelphia, Albuquerque, Sacramento and Las Vegas, and was a highly sought-after association leader. After a 10 year stint, he moved on from SAR in 2012 and headed to the Nevada desert to lead the Greater Las Vegas Association of REALTORS. The guidance with which he offered his staff, colleagues, and members often made a quiet, yet forceful impact in their personal and professional lives. Quick to step in and help anyone, he will forever be remembered as a selfless leader who avoided the spotlight and instead focused attention on those around him.

Nelson Botts Janes is universally lauded by his family, peers, and life-long friends as a towering gentleman whose humor and grace were surpassed only by his patience and his calm. He is deeply loved by his wife, children, and grandchildren. With all of the commitments that he maintained, his family always knew they came first. He made the world a safer, warmer place for those he loved.

We are saddened to announce the recent the loss of a dear friend and valued colleague, Ray Gin, aka “Uncle” Ray. Ray joined The Mason McDuffie team on March 1, 2008 as a Sr. Loan Officer at the Sacramento branch. He enriched the lives of the people around him with his warmth and his gentle ways. The best interest of his client was the heart of his professional career. No loan was too hard for him to tackle if it would put a client in their first home. He also generously gave his time as a volunteer for the Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation and the Sacramento Warlords.

Ray will be greatly missed and those who knew him will always be grateful for the time they were able to share with him. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his two sons. May they find comfort in the fact that their dad touched so many lives in a way that will keep his loving memory alive for many years to come.

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of Longtime Elk Grove Real Estate Broker, Wine Grape Farmer, Rancher, Nurseryman, and Thoroughbred horse breeder Joe Daehling. Mr. Daehling passed away on Nov. 28, 2019 at the age of 82. He was a superb person, Realtor, mentor, and friend to all he encountered. Joe helped countless agents, buyers, and sellers realize their real estate dreams. He is greatly missed and fondly remembered. Rest in Peace, Joe.

We are saddened to announce the passing of SAR Member Desmond “Des” Hutton at the age of 34. Desmond Ryan Hutton first joined SAR in 2012 and was most recently with the Galster Real Estate Group. Well liked by many, Des was known for his laughter, pranks, and gentle heart. A great loss, a great life, a rare soul. Des will be forever remembered.

We are saddened to announce the passing of long-time REALTOR® Roy Macy at the age of 65. Roy Alan Macy was well known in the local real estate industry as a lender for Comstock Mortgage for many years. Comstock was acquired by Guild Mortgage in 2014 and Roy continued to offer is knowledge and expertise in the lending industry until 2017. He made many friends and colleagues over the years and will be truly missed.

We are saddened to announce the passing of REALTOR® Jack Lee. Jack Edward Lee passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 6th at his home in Lincoln, CA. Jack was a veteran of the US Navy, held a deep faith in God, love for his country, and was a lifelong supporter of the military. He built a long career in real estate sales and development and was an active member of local real estate and building associations. He was an active REALTOR® for many years, first joining SAR in 1993. He was last active with HomeSmart ICARE Realty and Keller Williams Realty.

Long-time REALTOR^® Ann Boswell passed away on November 18th, 2018, after a short battle with cancer. Born in 1944 in Eureka, CA, her family relocated to Sacramento in 1955. Remaining in the area, Anne embarked on a career first with Channel 3 news and eventually became a very successful REALTOR in her final hometown of Folsom, CA. She was a Member of SAR for 30 years and made an impact on many in the industry. Ann shared an intense love of adventure, travel and the outdoors with her family and friends. She touched many lives, leaving warm memories and deep smiles. Ann’s last years were her greatest joy as she was finally blessed as a long-awaited Grandmother; by far her favorite role in life.

Long-time REALTOR^® Kathy Pardun passed away on March 1st. Kathy was an SAR Member for over 30 years, first joining back in 1988. She spent most of her time as a REALTOR with the downtown office of Lyon Real Estate and Team Black. Kathy will be remembered as a fantastic wife and mother, gracious host, loyal friend, accomplished artist and writer, and awesome cook and baker. She always thought of others first and treated everyone with dignity and respect. Kathy went to heaven peacefully, at home, surrounded by family.

Long-time REALTOR^® Jim Ellis passed away on March 6th from complications of congestive heart failure. Jim received his real estate license in 1975, and for the past 27 years Jim has been an active REALTOR with Security Pacific Real Estate. He leaves behind a loving family, many friends and the affection of his furry pals. He was a wonderful, kind man with a warm heart, big smile and infectious laugh, and a devoted fan of the San Francisco Giants. He will be sincerely missed. Jim served in the United States Army and fought in Vietnam.

We are saddened to announce the passing of REALTOR^® Dennis Reibold. Dennis passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 2, after a long battle with cancer. He was a good and kind man that left behind a loving family and many friends. As an active REALTOR^® for 15 years, he faithfully attended the Orangevale Regional Meeting, SAR Main Meetings, crab feeds, building of the CanTree at Sunrise Mall and so much more. He first started at Century21 Noel David Realty, then joined RE/MAX Gold Fair Oaks, and was last with Coldwell Banker Sunrdige in Roseville.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of longtime REALTOR^® and SAR Past President Alan Wagner, a much beloved member of the REALTOR^® family. On Monday, January 7, 2019, Alan lost his courageous fight with esophageal cancer and passed away at the age of 68. Alan was a true patriot, joing the US Air Force in 1969. One of the highlights of his 20 year military career was when he was chosen to be the engineer (third seat in the cockpit) on Air Force 2 and was honored to have flown George Bush, Nancy Reagan, Casper Weinberger, and George Shultz, just to name a few. Alan was inspired to obtain his real estate license when he was preparing to retire from the Air Force and his mother gave him a book entitled “How to Make a Million Dollars in Real Estate.” Alan joined SAR in 1989, 5 years after obtaining his real estate license, and became highly involved with the Association, serving on many committees as a C.A.R. Director and as president in 2008 — SAR’s Centennial year. Serving as president during SAR’s 100th Anniversary was a distinction for which Alan was most proud. Among those he left behind are this partner Sunny and his daughter Christy, who followed her father’s footsteps working as an escrow officer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Purple Heart Anglers.

We are saddened to announce the passing of REALTOR^® Ben Parker. Ben passed away in his sleep on December 25, 2018. He was a leader, mentor, coach, avid storyteller and friend to all that gifted everyone with his short but bright, passionate life. Born in Dannevirke, New Zealand, he called Sacramento home for the last 20+ years. As a Member of SAR and NORBAR, he was a REALTOR^®, Appraiser and respected figure in the Northern California real estate community, serving most recently as an agent with Excel Realty in Roseville. Ben will be deeply missed by so many – his wife of seventeen years, Andrea Parker; his family throughout New Zealand, California and Oregan; his dogs, and constant companions, George Bailey and Mr. MacBiggie; heaps of colleagues and friends around the world; the entire rugby community, especially his Sacramento Blackhawks Rugby family.

Long-time REALTOR® Marvelene Arly Jean Weyer, passed away on July 11th in her Elk Grove home surrounded by her family. Originally born in Ashley, North Dakota, Marvelene family relocated to California in 1952. In 1972 she would meet her true love, Jack Weyer. She and Jack eventually relocated to Elk Grove, CA, and their “forever” home. Marvelene was a very successful REALTOR® for 30 years, 23 years with Lyon Real Estate. This marvelous woman joined SAR in 1987 and positively touched the lives of many members. Known for her warm, generous spirit, Marvelene served as president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® during two different terms and was a WCR State Governor. She also served as a valued member of a number of SAR committees over the years.

We are saddened to announce the sudden passing of Richard Alden and Susan Joy Bristow while on their final adventure together. Richard was a well known and respected REALTOR® based out of Carmichael and SueJoy will be remembered as an outstanding artist, skilled in writing and painting. An SAR Member since 1973, Richard was known for his business savvy and mentored many agents throughout his distinguished real estate career. Richard and SueJoy’s unwavering zest for life and love for each other was truly inspiring. They will be missed dearly by all who knew them.

We are saddened to annouce the passing of long-time REALTOR^® and SAR cornerstone Chuck Manly. Chuck joined SAR in 1967 and led the Association as President in 1977. He was instrumental in fighting for diverstiy among the leaders of the Association and never missed an opportunity to help those in need. Many will remember Chuck spreading holiday cheer with mistletoe around Christmas as well as his seemingly inexhaustable supply of Brach’s Star Brite mint candies. Although his health had been failing and he became bed-ridden he did not want to relinquish his REALTOR^® status and passed away on April 11, 2018 as a SAR Member of over 50 years. Those that knew him can attest that few could match his dedication to the industry as well as the Association. Chuck will be missed by all, but his legacy will live on forever.

We are saddened to announce the passing of longtime REALTOR® Casimir Noel David on April 29. He earned his real estate license in 1969 and soon began a real estate dynasty which now extends over 3 generations. This family business included his wife Millicent “Mike” David, brother John “Tony” David, son John David, daughter in-law Kirsten David, granddaughter Heather David, daughter Michelle Lehman, son-in-law Dave Lehman, grandson Daniel Lehman, and grandson Mark Lehman. What a legacy!

He loved watching sports and has been a Kings fan since day one of moving to Sacramento and was an even bigger fan of his kids, grandkids, nephews & niece in all their sports and activities. He also helped start Bobbie Sox softball in Fair Oaks and was instrumental in forming Northern California Girls Softball Association. He will be greatly missed by many, but his legacy will live on forever.

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of longtime REALTOR® Barbara Traylor on April 22. Barbara earned her real estate license in 1979 and became an SAR Member that same year, first joining the office of Red Carpet – Lee Storms Properties. Over the years her real estate career took her to different brokerages, including Sun Valley REALTORS®, Great Western Real Estate, and CB Caminiti. Many of her colleagues soon became close friends.

In addition to real estate, another passion of Barbara’s was traveling the world with her friends. Her desire for adventure led her to explore Africa, China, Peru, Aruba, and many other exotic locales.

Barbara will always be remembered as a beautiful, energetic, and humorous mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother. She was the ultimate hostess, cook, and life of the party. Her enthusiastic energy touched everyone around her.

Barbara will be greatly missed by many and memories of her will be cherished forever by all who knew her .

Long-time REALTOR^® Viola Mitchell entered into rest on March 24, 2018. Viola began her real estate career by earning her real estate license in 1974 and has been a SAR Member since 1989. She most recently held her license with Excel Realty, Inc. based out of the Roseville office. She will be missed by many family, friends, and colleagues.

SAR is saddened to annouce the passing of long-time Folsom resident and REALTOR^® Ron Kramnic. After retiring from a 30+ year career as a high school teacher/librarian with the Grant District, Ron began a second career as a REALTOR^® During his 20+ year career in the real estate industry, he became a top producer and a member of the SAR Masters Club. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Rita Joy, and many family members who will miss him dearly.

It is with heavy hearts that we annouce the passing of long-time Sacramento REALTOR® Patricia Rodgers-Sabatke. Pat passed away peacefully over the weekend of January 27th. Pat has been a licensed real estate agent since 1976, an SAR Member since 1990 and associated with the Fair Oaks Berkshire Hathaway Drysdale Properties office for more than 20 years, dating back to when the company was Coldwell Banker Diez and Leis. For those that knew Pat, they will always remember her as a person that cared for everyone and had a positive personality. She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Long-time Sacramento REALTOR® Lois “Darelen” Byerley passed away peacefully on December 11^th, 2017. Darlene joined SAR in May 1977 and enjoyed a lengthy career in real estate, building many friends and colleagues along the way. She was known for being “the hostess with the mostest.” Darlene’s vivacious spirit always made life fun and lively; however she subtly made a strong effort to do one kind act each day. To no surprise, Darlene modeled her life by her favorite quote: “Life is short, break the rules, forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile.”
View her full obituary »

It is with great sadness that SAR reports the passing of long-time REALTOR^®, Eileen Dayton, on October 29^th, 2017 while she was surrounded by family. Eileen was a very successful REALTOR^® with Century 21 until she retired in 2010, after 25 years. She is survived by her husband, Robert, and their children and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

SAR is deeply saddened to report the sudden, yet peaceful, passing of Debra Ann Novo on October 9^th, 2017. An SAR member since 1999, she ran a succesful property management company with her husband, Richard Novo, Sr., who predeceased her last year. She will be missed by family, friends, and colleagues.

Life-long Sacramento resident and long-time REALTOR^®, Margaret Mayer, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 11^th, 2017, at the age of 97. Margaret had a successful career as a REALTOR^® with Coldwell Banker Residential for many years. She will be greatly missed.

With deep sadness SAR reports the passing of a pioneering Sacramento REALTOR^®, Marjorie Reid, on October 7^th, 2017, at the age of 90. Over her 43 year career she worked with Lyon Real Estate as senior vice president, and was a life member of the Masters Club. Marjorie’s legacy will continue with the family brokerage, Reid & Price Properties, that she started with her daughter and son-in-law in 2012.

SAR is deeply saddened to report the passing of long time REALTOR^® Karen Roberts on August 3^rd, 2017. A member since 2005, Karen was widely known in the real estate community and as a lender with National Equity Mortgage for many years. Karen will be greatly missed by her family, friends and her colleagues at National Equity Real Estate Sales.

SAR is sad to report the passing of long time REALTOR^® Fadra Baker. Fadra most recently worked with F. Gregory Estates. She will be greatly missed by family, friends, and colleagues.

SAR is sad to report the passing of long time REALTOR^® and SAR Past President Bill Vogel at the age of 90. Bill grew up in midtown Sacramento, developing life-long friendships and a love for this city. Bill found his true calling in the real estate business, working with various firms before forming his own company, Vogel Properties. During this time he was active in several organizations associated with the industry and served as President of SAR in 1973. His legacy lives on and he will be greatly missed by family, friends, and many colleagues.

With much sadness, we announce that long–time REALTOR^® Wayne Burd passed away on March 12^th, 2017. Wayne obtained his real estate license in 1969 and spent the last 25 years affiliated with Coldwell Banker Real Estate, mostly in the Folsom area.

Lorraine Lightle passed away peacefully on February 22^nd, 2017. Lori was an SAR Member for over 15 years and she was well known as a REALTOR^® in the Elk Grove area. She will be missed by all. View her full obituary »

It is with deep sadness that SAR announces the passing of long time REALTOR and Property Manager Mark Whisler. Mr. Whisler passed away on February 19^th, 2017. Mark was a Member of SAR for over 25 years. After earning his BA at UC Berkeley in 1975, Mark settled in Sacramento and began his 40+ year real estate career, becoming a leader in the local financial and real estate industry with his businesses Whisler Financial Group and Whisler Land Company. He will be greatly missed by family, friends, coworkers and clients.
View his full obituary »

It is with deep sadness that SAR announces the passing of long time REALTOR^® and Property Manager Robert Winger at the age of 74. Mr. Winger passed peacefully on the morning of February 3, 2017.

Robert was a Member of SAR for nearly 30 years and was well known and well liked throughout the local real estate/property management industry. Robert was also very involved with the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM). He will be greatly missed by many.
View his full obituary »