Wes Allen, BHS '58 (1940-2025)

 

Wesley J Allen

March 4, 1940 - February 22, 2025 

 

FIND A GRAVE Link 

Wesley J Allen, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Cherry Hills Village on February 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Wes was born on March 4, 1940 in Topeka, Kansas to Elizabeth and Hugh Allen. He graduated from Burbank High School in 1958 and attended the University of Denver, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business and accounting. He worked at Price Waterhouse as a CPA before taking a job at Leprino Foods. He spent 38 years at Leprino, 28 of which were as President.

He married his high school sweetheart, Karen, in 1963. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary in June on a cruise to Iceland.

After retiring in 2005, he enjoyed spending time at their winter home in La Quinta, California. He and Karen also enjoyed an annual trip to Maui and traveling to many international destinations.

He is survived by his wife Karen, and two children, Kim and Lance. Kim and her husband, Brian, have two children, Dalton and Maddie. Lance and his wife, Lezlie, have four children, Brodie, Bentley, Jake and Ross. 

His favorite role was as a grandparent. His grandchildren lovingly called him "Papa", and he treasured the time he spent with each of them. He will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him. We will miss his laughter and generous spirit.

Services will be held at Fairmount Mortuary on Monday, March 10th at 10am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cancer League of Colorado. 

Barbara Irwin Leiker, BHS '65 (1947-2023)

 

Barbara Ruth Irwin Leiker

August 1947 - 2023

Barbara was the daughter of George and Ethel Kochey Irwin. 

She was married to Ron Leiker, BHS '63, from 1965 - 1978 and they had 3 children: Kimberly, Andrea and Daniel. 

Sadly, Kimberly passed away in 2005 and Daniel died in 2015.

 

Darrel Sorensen, BHS '74 (1956-2025)

 

Darrel John Sorensen

January 12, 1956 - June 18, 2025 

 

Brother Duane Sorensen, BHS '71, passed away in 2017. 

 

Posted by Jill Basowski

 

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my dad, Darrel Sorensen. For those who knew him, you know he was the life of every party—always laughing, always making others laugh, and always making friends wherever he went.

 

He was truly one of a kind—warm, generous, and full of love. More than anything, he was the most amazing dad. He was always there for me, no matter what, and I will miss him more than words can ever express.

 

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with love and support. It means the world during this incredibly difficult time.

 

A FEW FACEBOOK COMMENTS...

Cheryl 'Smith' Herzog
I’m so sorry for your loss. He was a great guy and will be missed

Debbie Grose Kaldunski-Cole
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember him well from high school. You will be in my prayers

Jaclyn S Gambaro
I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your sister and the rest of your family.🙏🏼

Michael Ruiz
So sorry to hear this, I’ve been friends with him since high school!

Susan Ragan Blair
What a blow to the heart. Man I am so sorry

Nancy Curtis Pourzand
💜

David Taylor
Sorry for your loss. I knew Darrel from kindergarten at Jefferson school!

Loanne Walker Ginchereaux
🙏

Cathy Stone
I am so very sorry for your loss and to hear this sad news. 💚

Brian O'Rell
I am very sorry for your loss.I do remember him from high school,And full of life is a good way to describe him.

Gary Bardakji
My condolences. I didn’t know your dad well but we had spoken. May he rest in peace.

Sandra Franco Trohanowsky
I'm so sorry . I've been wondering how he's been. Sending prayers for all.

Tom Brassil
Very sorry to hear of this but thank you for letting us know. God bless you and the family and God Speed Darrel 🙏

Danny Rutherford
WOW, Darren was a great guy. Great memories. RIP brother

Steven Van de Rostyne
🙏 so sorry

Deanna Bergman
Very sorry for your loss Jill! 🌷

Karen Greer Clayton
So sorry for your loss. Darrel was a good friend of mine. We went to our first Burbank night at Disneyland. So many great memories. Prayers for you and your family at this time 🙏

Susan Ghiselli Mauch
So sorry for your loss 💕

Corey Fredrickson
So many wonderful memories, he will be missed so much 😢 but never forgotten
Prayers and condolences to you and your family

Ron Wamhoff
WOW, one of my very best friends growing up. R I P

Kathy Noonan
So sorry for your loss. Your dad and I were classmates since elementary school. Truly a great human being.

Lisa Engelsman Birtle
Such a nice guy🙏

Patsy Raymundi
So sorry for your loss RIP

Dianne Postal-Simmons
A lot of memories … miss him, and Duane passed away too young. Sending love and hugs. God bless.

Steve Mcglynn
Godspeed hammer🙏 so many good times together. Bmac committee meetings, chic a Shay golf meetings @ Willard’s office . Sunrise film softball and so on. Will miss you my friend 🙏☮️😢

Nadine Aguirre Lujan
So sorry for your loss. Rest in peace.

Joanie Bailey
Sorry for your loss.

Chas Wilson
He was a great guy.

John Musich
Sorry for your loss. So sad to hear the news that Darrel has passed. I have fond memories of a great guy.

Marina Hayes
My deepest condolences to your family and friends who knew him! The nicest guy! RIP Darell Sorensen ! 🙏✝️🙏

Jonna Arell
Sorry for your loss

Susan Berger
🙏🙏

Debbie Burpee Wilander
My condolences to all who loved him! 🙏

Liz Allen
RIP 🙏😔

Sheri Fanderlik
So sorry for your loss

Roger Starkey Sr.
I moved across the street from the Sorenson boys on Jamestown Road in 1964 so I’ve known Darrel,Dwayne and David a long time. It’s it’s very heartbreaking to know that Darrell has passed. my condolences to you and your sister Godspeed Darrell. 

Karen Vitale
So very sorry to hear about your father Darrel’s passing. He was such a nice person when I knew him in high school. Prayers for your family🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

Anthy Hellmers
Rest In Peace Darrel. He had great hair. What a fun guy and light hearted.
Many blessings of comfort

Rikki Moryuseph Haffner
I'm so sorry to hear about Darrel. I hope you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you shared with him. He was great and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏🏻

James Russo
So sorry to hear of your father's passing.
Sending prayers to all that loved him!!

Michael K. Ragan
Larger than Life individual… I was a scrub Sophomore when Darrel was King of BHS… I can remember Him so clearly walking the Halls of BHS…Godspeed my Friend…

Vicki Herrin Fields
Rest in Peace ⚘️

Shirley Freeman
My condolences to the family. Sending prayers to the family.

Pamela Anglin Howland
So, so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. He was in my class at BHS. My husband is not on this page but I let him see your post. They grew up together on the same street. In fact..my husband had a nickname that everyone knew him by back in the day and he said it was given to him by your Dad and Roger Starkey. May Darrel rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of our Lord. You all will be in my prayers…🙏🏼

Debi Storm
Darrel was one of a kind! He will be missed. Prayers and condolences to you Jill and your family.

Muski Muskatell
So sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing.

Cheryl Bunch Eubanks
Very sorry to hear this news. Prayers for friends and families! 🙏♥️🙏♥️ RIP Darrell!🙏♥️

Peter Costas
I am so very sorry for your loss 😞

Daniel Fukumoto
Sorry for your loss…

Susan Wilson Whitt
So sorry for your loss. Prayers go up for the family😞🙏

Christopher Silveira
So sad to hear the sad news, Darrel was a great person. My condolences to his family

Dan Davis
RIP Bulldog

Mickey DePalo
Rest In Peace.

Susan Peña MacCaskey
Omg, I'm heartbroken.. Susn a nine guy

Jonathan Brewer
Grew up down the street from your Dad and his brothers. So sorry to hear that he has passed. RIP.

Mike Donathan
So sorry for your loss. Darrell was a great guy. 🙏

Kimberly Gorsuch
💜

David Young
Sad news indeed. Prayers for the family.

Michele Duarte Kilroy
I'm so very sorry for the loss of your dad. 💔😥
 

Karen Richardson Nelson, BHS '62 (1944-2025)

Pam Kirkwood wrote: 

Sad news from Fuffy Richardson Marca '72. She lost her sister, Karen Richardson Nelson BHS '62, this morning...Our sympathies go out to all of Karen's Family.

"Hi Pam, it’s Fuffy.  
My sister, Karen Richardson Nelson, passed away this morning at her home in Vidor, Texas. She was a BHS graduate class of 1962. I’m including her senior pic. Thanks so much! Much love to you and Jon! ❤️"

JULY 2, 2025 UPDATE

 OBITUARY

 

Karen Lovina Nelson

April 2, 1944 — June 25, 2025

Karen Lovina Nelson, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devoted service. Karen was born on April 2, 1944, in Burbank, California, to Elwood and Marie Richardson. Raised in Burbank, Karen graduated from Burbank High School in 1962 and went on to attend Brigham Young University in both Provo, Utah, and Laie, Hawaii.

In 1965, Karen met the love of her life, Clyde Nelson, at a church dance. Their courtship included date nights at Bob’s Big Boy where Clyde charmed Karen with his stories and humor over burgers, shakes, and fries. Karen and Clyde fell in love and were soon engaged, leading to their marriage later that year in the Los Angeles Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 28, 1965. Together, they built a strong and loving home, raising six children with care, commitment, and enduring values.

Karen dedicated her life to her family and her faith. As a homemaker, she nurtured her children with warmth and wisdom. She served faithfully in numerous church callings and was always a source of comfort and guidance to those around her. In addition to her work at home, she also supported her husband’s dental practice and later in life worked as a collector for an advertising agency, earning top collector several times.

Karen was a woman of many talents and interests. She enjoyed reading, drawing, quilting, cooking, and playing the piano. Her love of history and politics was matched only by her devotion to her country—Karen was a true patriot with a deep appreciation for American heritage. Ever curious and intellectually engaged, Karen kept up with the news daily and never turned down a challenging crossword puzzle or a competitive game of Skip-Bo.

Karen was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Elwood and Marie Richardson, her cherished daughter Lisa, and her beloved son Jason. She is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 60 years, Clyde Nelson; her children Garett (Rachel) Nelson, Michael (Jennifer) Nelson, Katie (George) Williamson, and Jeff Nelson; and many grandchildren who will miss her deeply.

A private memorial service in honor of Karen’s life will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 6198 FM 105, Vidor, Texas.

Karen will be remembered for her faith, her love of family, her quiet strength, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness and example.

 

Barry Collins, BHS '65 (1946-2022)

 

Barry Walter Collins

September 7, 1946 - July 31, 2022 

Barry Walter Collins Obituary

Barry Collins passed away on July 31, 2022 in Sacramento, CA with his wife and daughter by his side.

Barry was born in Glendale, California to Velma and Marshall Collins.  He grew up in Burbank, California where he began surfing (and sometimes attended Burbank High School).  He continued his studies at San Diego State University (because he could surf there), graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and then went on to Cal Poly Humboldt completing a Master’s degree in Fisheries Biology.

His career began in 1976 working as a biologist for California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on the East Walker River.  But he shortly found himself in the California Delta working on the Striped Bass Study tagging stripers, documenting harvest rates, and doing population estimates.  He also supervised the Fish Facilities Program and the Fish Salvage Operations staff at the Skinner Delta Fish Protective Facility.

Barry met his wife, Judy Tengbom, when she worked for him as a fisheries technician.  They were married in 1979 beginning 43 years of adventures and life together.  When Barry was not working, their family spent time on the Delta islands hunting ducks or camping in the Sierras.  He passed his passion of the outdoors onto his son, Reed Collins, teaching him how to fly-fish and tie flies, how to set up a backcountry camp, and how to select the best surf waves; these are all pastimes Reed still enjoys today.

In 1991, Barry and his family decided to move from Stockton to Humboldt County where Barry continued his career at CDFW working on the Natural Stocks Assessment Project; he then moved into the Fisheries Restoration Grant Program that supported salmon and steelhead habitat restoration projects up and down the northern California coast.  During these years on “take your daughter to work day” he brought his daughter, Alison Collins, out to count juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead in the local rotary screw traps.  This sparked her interest in fisheries and led her to pursue a career as a fisheries biologist.  Today she works in the California Delta on many of the same projects that her father worked on.

Barry had so many different passions during his life.  He most enjoyed backpacking and fly fishing in mountain streams.  He loved duck hunting and trap and skeet shooting.  He enjoyed delta blues and played the guitar and mandolin. He loved taking and developing his own photographs, especially black and white photography.  He was a surfer in southern California and a golfer in northern California.  He studied astronomy and was building his own telescope.  There were many nights spent with family and friends looking at the stars and identifying the constellations and galaxies.  He also had a passion for baking bread and we will always remember his delicious focaccia.  Thank you, Barry, for enriching our lives in so many ways.

Barry is remembered by his colleagues and friends as a good person, an inquisitive scientist, fun to be around, direct but constructive, possessing a witty dry sense of humor, and one who was committed to seeing salmonid restoration projects implemented.  Memories being shared by friends and peers have created a beautiful tribute to a man that made an impact on so many people in his life.

Special thanks to friends and caregivers who helped Barry live his best life including Corey, Dusty, Kyle, Doreen, Leonard, Cadine, Shaquille and Adult Day Health Care of Mad River.

Barry was preceded in death by his father, Marshall Collins, and mother, Velma Collins.

Celebrating his life are his beloved wife, Judith Tengbom, his daughter Alison Collins (Corey Phillis and granddaughter Kira), his son, Reed Collins (Sally), his brothers, Fred Collins and Ray Collins and nephews Brian Collins (Chandra), David Collins and John Collins and their families.

Venson Cunningham, BHS '65 (1946-2021)

 

Venson Cunningham

April 10, 1946 - February 27, 2021 

(11th and 9th grade photos)

 

We just learned that Venson Cunningham passed away 4 years ago on 2/27/21 as a result of "work related" cancer. 
 
Because his father was a decorated war hero, killed in the Korean War, Venson being a sole-surviving son, was not called to duty.  
 
Venson retired to Lake Havasu City, AZ after retiring from 40 years as a plumber in the aerospace industry.  He is survived by his son, Eugene. 

James Gumm, BHS '65 (1947-2018)

 

James Robert Gumm

April 24, 1947 -  April 4, 2018

Salem Oregon 

 FIND A GRAVE Link 

James Robert Gumm who was born to parents Robert and Francis Gumm was born on 4/24/1947 and died on 4/4/2018. 

He leaves behind sons Dana Gumm (Cindy) and Craig Gumm along with granddaughter Samantha Gumm, as well as sisters Kay and Nancy. Jim served honorobly in the army and was a Vietnam veteran. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. His ashes will be buried at Willamette National Cemetery.

Mike Nugent, BHS '64 (1946-2025)

 

Michael A Nugent

September 6, 1946 - June 13, 2025 

We just got word yesterday that our good friend and Classmate, Mike Nugent passed away this last Friday, June 13, 2025. 

Michael Nugent BHS '64, was born on September 6, 1946. He passed away on June 13, 2025, in Plano, Texas. The Family said his passing was probably caused by a heart attack due to previous health problems. 

Mike moved from Valencia to Plano, Texas to be near his daughter. He was an avid Sports Fan, a long-time referee of Girls Basketball and had also been a Baseball Umpire. Mike was a retired teacher and he was loved by all who knew him and he loved them all right back. He always had a smile, a hug and a kind word for everyone. Mike was one of the "GOOD GUYS" and will be forever missed by his Friends and Family which include his brother Bob Nugent who was in BHS Class 1967. 

The Celebration of Life for Mike will be Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 2-6 PM at the Burbank VFW located at 1006 Magnolia Blvd., Burbank CA. 

Pam Zipfel Kirkwood BHS '64 and Jon Kirkwood BHS '64

 

 

A FEW FACEBOOK COMMENTS

Jean Parrinello-Longmore
RIP. 🙏🙏🙏

Martin Lillibridge
RIP Bulldog 🙏

Kathleen Moore Nutting
This is such sad news. Mike was just a great guy who loved his daughters and grandson, whom he could never stop bragging about. May Mike’s soul Rest in Peace.

Bob Hart
Mike was the real deal.. intelligence compassion with a huge heart. he will be remembered

Timothy Zuma Tim Tolnay
I'm so sorry to receive this news. Mike always seemed to be on a basketball court or baseball field. Mike was a big part of the sports scene in Burbank during the 60's and 70's.RIP Mike, I will think of you often.

Bob Long
Sad to hear!

Sue Basile
😪🙏

Tom Moriarty
So sad to hear this.
RIP Mike!!!

Loanne Walker Ginchereaux
🙏🏻

Sue Burnette
RIP ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Henry A Garcia
So sorry for your loss. It was a fun gentleman played on a ball at the park with him. Rest in peace. 

Sue Flynn
I'm so sorry for your loss, I know what that's like, so difficult

Julian Almaraz
RIP coach 🙏, he was my little league baseball coach.

Mickey DePalo
Rest In Peace, my friend. Your passion for sports, coaching, teaching, and life in general is a wonderful legacy. And, last but certainly not least, the genuine pride and love you had for your beautiful daughters, Vivian and Tami. 🙏

Steve Mate
I believe he was Margie Nugent’s older brother. Sadly Margie passed away last year and now Bob.

Linda Everett
I am so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. My heart goes out to his family and especially to his brother, Bob Nugent, who was a dear friend of mine when we were seniors at BHS.🙏😢🙏

Patricia Sorley
Oh Mike I remember what a nice stable polite guy you were in high school. R.I.P. old bulldog. Condolences to the loved ones left behind.

Liz Allen
RIP

John Deahl
RIP Mike. We played a lot of street ball back in the day and we always had a ton of fun. Fond memories of you.

Nancy Olsen Barry
I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. First Margie and now her brother. My prayers are with the family at this sad time. 🙏🙏❤️

Karra Blackburn Merritt
May he rest in peace to Eternity 🌹

Donna Moore
Sad news indeed. He was preceded in death by his younger sister Margie, class of 1971

Mike Catalano
My favorite ref. 🙏🏻😇

Vicki Herrin Fields
Rest in Peace ⚘️

Warren Swanson
'The Nuge'. Mike went to Redlands with several of us after graduating. He actually lived next door in North Hall our freshman and sophmore years. He was notorious for being able to sleep anywhere anytime. We thought he took a lot of naps to avoid studying. I think becoming a ref was the perfect avocation for him. I saw him last at our 50th college reunion, where it was great to reconnect. My condolences to his family and his many friends.

Michael Ruiz
So sorry to hear this, a great guy!

Harold Maxham
RIP Mike.

Brian Keiser
RIP 🙏 Mr. Nugent.

Carole Collins
Bless you dear
Mike. I always enjoyed visiting with you! 😇👍

John Panarisi
So sorry to hear he was a great guy

Marlene Zober Lipman
So sorry to hear about Mike. My condolences to his family. 🙏

Gilbert Tobón
Rip ❤️🎈🌻

Al Fredrickson
Always fair as a referee and umpire and an all around fine person RIP Mike Nugent 😇

Pam Kirkwood
Here is a Great picture of Mike Nugent '64 and our Senior Bulldog President, Corey Fredrickson '74


Mary Lou Johnson Anderson
I'm so sorry to hear this. Prayers of comfort for Mike's family

Darlene Culotta
I remember him. Sorry to hear this.

Peggy Melton Cyphers
RIP Mike

Annette Dinolfo Bennett
🙏🏼💙🙏🏼

Charles C. Harper III
Mike and I played on the same little league baseball team and also in the street and in his driveway on Jolley Drive. His dad was our coach. I loved spending time at the Nugent's.
I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. He and Jack Harris and I were all neighbors, along with Rita Blankenship. My best wishes to his family. He was a good friend who I look forward to seeing again in the next life.
There is a next life, I know that from experiences too holy to mention. My sincere condolences. He's in a good place where he won't have to put baseball cards in his shoes to cover the holes in his shoes.♥️

Geno Munari
So sorry to hear this. My prayers for Mike and his family and friends.

Cheri Pene
My condolences to Mike's family and friends, RIP Mike 🙏

Cheri Pene
Thoughts and prayers are with Mike's loved ones

Suzanne C. LaBonge
I'm so sorry to hear this. Prayers of comfort for Mike's family

Narita Siegel
Was he related to the Nugent Chevrolet Nugents?

Nainsi Skiba
RIP.

Ron Negus
Mike was a kind gentleman who I was lucky enough to teach to water ski and have fun boating at the lake. RIP Michael Nugent. 

Bill Maxham, BHS '56 (1939-2025)

 

William Robert Maxham 

May 24, 1939 - June 1, 2025

William R. Maxham was born on May 24, 1939 in Cottonwood, Alabama to Virginia and Ransom Maxham. 

“Bill” attended Burbank High School and graduated in 1956. He was the Quarterback for the Varsity Football team. 

After graduating high school, Bill served in the Army National Guard. Later, Bill worked as an Assistant Cameraman for the Film Industry. He also was a photographer and became an accomplished Batik Artist. He was given the color formula for Batik from a famous Batik Artist in Malaysia and went on to produce his very own Batik pieces of Art. 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Virginia and Ransom Maxham, his sister Martha Maxham in 2002 and his brother, Major Benjamin Maxham in 2012. 

He is survived by his son Christopher Burt, his daughter, Cuinn Maxham and his stepson, Gram Burt, grandsons, Kyle and Ryan Burt and his twin brother and sister, Harold Maxham (BHS ’63) and Mary Maxham Healey (BHS ’62). 

A Celebration of Life will be held for Bill on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Stevenson Ranch, at the home of Harold Maxham’s daughter, Linda Klein. Please contact Harold Maxham or Mary Healey for the time and directions.