Sad News

A dear family friend has passed away...
KEVIN V. McCARTHY SEPT. 17, 1944 - MARCH 17, 2008 Kevin McCarthy passed away peacefully at his home in Castro Valley with family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Karen of 38 years, and children, Patrick and Erin; his father, Joseph McCarthy of Castro Valley; brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Donna McCarthy of American Canyon; and sister-in-law, Sandra Ellingsworth of San Leandro as well as many other wonderful relatives and friends. His children were his greatest joy. Kevin lived life fully with his love of family, music, and cooking. His musical career began at the age of 14 when he was the youngest member of the Oakland Symphony, then played with Joe Smiell's Band for over 40 years. He was a talented percussionist and lived his passion for music up until his death. He was fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of careers beginning with his first job at the Oakland Tribune, and after graduating from the San Francisco Culinary Academy he opened the First Street Café in Pleasanton, and finally retiring this year from the Fremont School District's payroll department. Throughout his illness he never lost his sense of humor. A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Grace Church, 3433 Somerset Ave., Castro Valley, CA. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.