California Funeral Home Records

Funeral Log Books

This page links to known California Funeral Records whether they be available online or offline. Funeral records are an invaluable source of genealogical information that can provide insight into the lives and deaths of our ancestors. They offer a wealth of details on the deceased and their family, including their names, ages, dates of death, causes of death, and other key information.

Biographical Sketch of Frank S. Towne

Frank K. Towne, born January 11, 1875, in Santa Clara County, began his banking career as a clerk at the First National Bank in Redwood City on September 1, 1891. Over the years, he advanced to assistant cashier and cashier of the San Mateo County Savings Bank. A prominent civic leader, Towne has served as City Treasurer for fourteen years and actively supported the county highway bond issue. He has three sons and is affiliated with several local organizations, including the Elks, Native Sons, and Masons.

Biographical Sketch of Jesse O. Snyder

Jesse O. Snyder has been a prominent figure in South San Francisco for over twenty years, serving as the General Superintendent of the Western Meat Company, the largest packing plant on the Pacific coast. Originally from Pennsylvania, he developed his expertise in the packing industry in Chicago before relocating to California. An active community member, Mr. Snyder contributes to local development through his involvement with the Chamber of Commerce and the Bank of South San Francisco. He was born in February 1876 and is a family man with Masonic and Elks affiliations.

Biography of Dr. F. Holmes Smith

Dr. F. Holmes Smith, born on October 29, 1879, in Lake City, Minnesota, has experienced a varied career. He served as the company doctor for the North American Commercial Company in Alaska before returning to practice medicine in San Bruno in 1909. Educated at Stanford University and Cooper Medical College, he gained practical experience at the French Hospital. After marrying in 1911, he established a successful practice and became San Bruno’s health officer. Active socially, he is affiliated with the B.P.O.E. and the Masonic Lodge, and he has property and business interests in the area.

Biographical Sketch of Ambrose McSweeney

Ambrose McSweeney has served as San Mateo County’s Tax Collector for five years, demonstrating exceptional efficiency and popularity, evidenced by his re-election. Under his leadership, the Tax Collector’s office has received commendations for its high standards. His initiative to collect taxes in various cities provides convenience to taxpayers, particularly those in remote areas. Previously a Justice of the Peace, McSweeney was born in San Francisco in 1870 and has been active in multiple fraternal organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph B. Gordon

Joseph B. Gordon, a prominent San Mateo attorney, achieved success through determination and hard work, overcoming challenges that marked his path. Starting as a law clerk in 1904, he pursued a law degree while serving as San Mateo’s city clerk. After completing his studies, he partnered with Charles N. Kirkbride to establish the law firm Kirkbride Gordon in 1912. Active in public affairs, Gordon participated in various community organizations. Born on July 12, 1887, in San Jose, he married in 1914 in Watsonville.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph J. Bullock

Joseph J. Bullock has been a prominent figure in the San Mateo County Bar, practicing law in Redwood City for twenty-five years. Elected as District Attorney three times between 1897 and 1905, he significantly impacted the county’s development. Known for his expertise in criminal law, Bullock has been involved in major litigations and is regarded as one of the state’s most capable criminal lawyers. Originally from California, he studied law under notable jurists and has been active in local organizations such as the Odd Fellows and the Woodmen of the World.

Biography of Warren P. Elmer, M. D.

Dr. Warren P. Elmer, M.D., born in Lodi, Ohio, on October 1, 1879, was a prominent figure in internal medicine. Educated at Stanford and the University of Michigan, he began his career at the University of Michigan before becoming an instructor at St. Louis University. Elmer specialized in internal medicine, contributing significantly to medical journals and holding key positions in various hospitals. He married Frances Jennings in 1915 and had three children, while actively participating in professional associations and community clubs.

Biography of Raymond Griffin Barnett

Raymond Griffin Barnett was born on October 8, 1882, in Carthage, Illinois. A distinguished World War I captain, he later pursued a legal career in Kansas City after graduating from Stanford University. Admitted to the bar in 1906, Barnett gained a reputation for his thoroughness and dedication. He was engaged in politics and previously ran for prosecuting attorney. Married to Martha Jones, he is involved in various social organizations and remains committed to civic duty and legal ethics.

Biography of Edward J. Curtis

Hon. Edward J. Curtis, a distinguished lawyer and statesman, played a pivotal role in Idaho’s history. Born in 1827 in Massachusetts, he studied law before moving west during the gold rush, eventually settling in Idaho. Curtis served in various political roles, including territorial secretary and acting governor, while championing initiatives like the establishment of the Territorial Library. An eloquent advocate, he was respected for his legal expertise and public service. Curtis passed away on December 29, 1895, leaving a legacy of honor and dedication to his state.

Biography of Presley M. Bruner

Presley M. Bruner, born September 15, 1850, in Chillicothe, Ohio, was a distinguished attorney and former district attorney in Idaho. Descended from German and Scottish ancestry, he was educated at the University of the Pacific and began his law practice in California before relocating to Hailey in 1882. Bruner contributed significantly to the city’s development and held a prominent legal reputation. A former Republican, he became a staunch supporter of the Populist Party. Bruner was also active in various civic organizations, including the Masons and Odd Fellows.

Biography of Auren G. Redway

Auren G. Redway, a long-time resident of Boise, has been deeply involved in the banking sector, ultimately retiring after a distinguished career. Born on March 5, 1835, in New York, he embarked on a transformative journey to California and then to Boise, where he became a sutler and later served in the First National Bank for twenty-four years. Married to Mary Ann Outterson, he has three children who are successful in their respective fields. Redway is active in the Pioneer Society of Idaho and the State Historical Society.

Biography of Marcus A. Means

Marcus A. Means, born on October 16, 1862, in Seabrook, Illinois, is a testament to perseverance and intellect overcoming adversity. As the child of a Union soldier who died in combat, he carries a legacy of patriotism. After brief stints in California and Oregon, Means moved to Idaho in 1895, where he began a successful mercantile venture. His business expanded significantly, catering to the local agricultural and mining communities. Married to Catherine Hayes, he is well-respected in his community and is the last survivor of his immediate family.

Uebelacker,Geneva Bronson – Obituary

Geneva Bronson, aged 97, passed away on January 4, 1998, at Crescent Convalescent Center in Yakima. Born on June 17, 1900, in Ellensburg, WA, she enjoyed a long career as a first-grade teacher in San Jose, California. She is survived by two nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews, as well as her close friend Gwen McCullough. Geneva was preceded in death by her husband Harry A. Bronson and several siblings, including her twin, Alvena Waggoner. A memorial mass is scheduled for January 7.

Cole, Horatio W. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Horatio W. Cole passed away on February 23 in San Jose, California, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her husband, who she would have been married to for 56 years in May, and her two daughters. The funeral was held on February 26. Mr. and Mrs. Cole were influential figures in Wallowa County, known for their hospitality and support of teachers. Mrs. Cole is survived by her husband, daughters Grace Keifer and Ruby, as well as three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Campbell, Robert – Obituary

Robert Campbell, a former resident of North Powder, Oregon, passed away in Palo Alto, California, after battling tuberculosis contracted during his military service in the Hawaiian Islands. He was cared for in an open-air sanatorium prior to his death. Robert spent his early life with his foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.P. Campbell, before moving to Portland. His burial included full military honors. He is survived by his sister, Mrs. J. Hartwell York, who visited him during the holidays but did not attend the funeral.

Gray, Nellie Frances – Obituary

Nellie Frances Gray, 91, passed away on May 25, 1993, in Spanaway, Washington. Born on September 25, 1901, in Lenox County, Iowa, she moved to Washington in her youth. Nellie married Ernest Merrell Gray in 1921 and served as post-mistress in Alicel from 1933 to 1939. The couple farmed in Lower Cove and later ran laundries in Salem and Vancouver. After retiring from Santa Clara University, they returned to Woodburn. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Bronson, Harry Arthur – Obituary

Harry A. Bronson, 79, a retired oil distributor and San Jose resident since 1925, passed away from a heart attack at his home on February 9, 1977. A World War I veteran originally from Illinois, he retired in 1970 after 40 years with Hancock and Signal oil products. He is survived by his wife, Geneva, and several nieces and nephews. Bronson was involved in the San Jose Country Club and the Southern California Camellia Society. Private funeral services were conducted by Oak Hill Funeral Home.