Claudia Ann Motta Thiel, resident of Discovery Bay, passed away peacefully with family and caregivers at her side on August 25, 2008, ending her battle with cancer.

Claudia was born in Oakland, CA on May 2, 1939 to F. Nelson and Margaret Vassallo. She attended school in San Leandro. Claudia graduated from the University of Arizona and San Jose State University and received her teaching and reading specialist credential. She taught school for the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District for over 20 years before moving to Minnesota where she worked with home schooled children. She moved back to California and continued to teach, working with home schooled children under HOME Smart Kids and FAME Public Charter School.

She is survived by her husband Ron Thiel, children Chuck and Minda Motta of Discovery Bay, Carla (Thiel) and Scott Mandrell of Minnesota, and Lesley and Jack Thiel of Japan; grandchildren, Jessica and Monica Motta, Terra, Charles, Sara, Joshua and Josiah Mandrell, and Toni and Ben Thiel, sisters Lois Mackenzie of Livermore and Lynn and Peter of Santa Barbara. She was preceded in death by Walter C. Motta Jr.

Private burial was held on Sept. 27 in Columbia, CA. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Donna and Angela and the rest of the staff of Hospice of the East Bay for their loving and compassionate care and Knockpot Brigade with Kaleidoscope in Byron, who offered many meals during her final days. Also many thanks to her closest friends, Kim Mosher, Chris Mullen and many, many more for all their kindness and support.

George Smith Duncan passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on September 23, 2008. He was born on August 20, 1928 in McGill, NV.

George placed family first. His favorite pastimes were traveling with his beloved Marjorie in their RV, watching sports and playing the ponies. George played sports in high school and college; and was part of the Louisiana State Champion football team in 1943/44. George was a Marine and served during WWII and took pride in his country and in participating in the electoral process. George loved watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren follow in his passion for sports.

George is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Maebelle Duncan, sister Billie Metros, brother Robert Duncan, and grandson William (Billy) Mackey.

George is survived by his wife Marjorie of Livermore, children Debbie (Mike) McNamara of Quincy, CA; Beckie (Rich) McWilliams of Livermore, CA; Cindie Duncan of Omaha, NE; Donna (Tom) Stacy of Marietta, GA., grandchildren Lea, George (Leah), Margie, Matthew, Michael (Heather), Dawn, Joseph, Richie, Alexandra, and great grandchildren to Mellissa, Madison, Haylie, Logan, George, Lillian; and by his sister Ima Lee Edwards.

A memorial service was held Sept. 26. Inurnment was at San Joaquin National Cemetery, Gustine.

Arrangements by Callaghan Mortuary.

Dunn B. Mangabay died Oct. 4, 2008. He was born Feb. 23, 1952.

He is survived by his wife Sabina (Elsa) Mangabay, children Elina, Melinda, Devine, Don, Dunn, Joseph and Jesus, and many grandchildren.

Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Oct. 9 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 3999 Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. Burial will be at St. Michael's Cemetery in Livermore.

Arrangements by Graham-Hitch Mortuary.