By Allen D. Payton

Former Pittsburg resident, real estate broker, community leader and developer of a waterfront community in Belize, Mark Leonard, passed away on April 8, 2025. He was born on August 23, 1954. The following was shared in a Facebook post, that day:

“With broken hearts we announce the passing of Mark Christopher Leonard (Mr. Sweet Heat) who transitioned to the afterlife peacefully in the arms of his loving wife Elvina Leonard, on April 8th 2025, at the age of 70.

“Mark lived life to its fullest and had a profound impact everyone that got to know him.

“He was wonderful husband, dedicated father, a successful businessman and visionary developer but most importantly he was a good, kind and generous man who was a pillar within his community.

“Mark loved the sea where he spent a great deal of his time offshore boat racing in his younger years, deep sea fishing all over the world or simply sitting in his favourite chair at Blackbeard’s enjoying good music and a beer while looking over the bay of Chetumal.

“He will be remembered among many things by his sense of humour, his love of wearing t-shirts with out-of-pocket messages on them, his love of boats and his passion for Belize.

“Mark worked tirelessly to develop what is now Cerros Sands and successfully built a large and thriving community around this idea that he had when he came to Belize so many years ago, and even in death he made provisions that his legacy will continue.

“He will be missed by his family and friends as he speeds off into the sunset over open calm seas on his final victory lap, goodbye Mr. Sweet Heat, until we meet again My love.”

Mark previously lived in Yucca Valley and Walnut Creek, CA and Pasco, WA.

According to his profile on the Association of Real Estate Brokers of Belize website, Mark was the Owner/Broker of Paradise Found Belize, Ltd. and Cerros Sands with 35 years of experience, 21 years living in Belize. He had both Belizean and U.S. citizenship.

“He was a former Board Member of the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce; Past President, Pittsburg Rotary Club 1999-2000; Chairman, Planning Commission, City of Pittsburg; Member, Power Plant Advisory Committee, City of Pittsburg; Member, Board of Directors, East County Boys and Girls Club, City of Pittsburg;  Commodore, Pittsburg Yacht Club; President, New York Landing Business Association in Pittsburg; President, New York Landing Homeowners Association in Pittsburg; and Commodore of The Cerros Sands Yacht Club.

Mark shared in his AREBB profile that he was “phasing out of real estate sales, as my son Chris has come to Belize to take over my operations.”

A post on the Cerros Sands Facebook page on April 8th reads, “We are extremely saddened to announce the founder and developer of Cerros Sands passed away earlier this morning. Mark Leonard was one of a kind. The outpouring of love from across the world for him has been overwhelming for his wife and children. Cerros Sands will continue and see everything he envisioned is completed and the work continues today!”

A longtime, close friend, Cyndi Williams, shared the following about Mark on Facebook upon learning of his passing: “And there you have it….my best friend Marky Mark had to leave us…just like that he was gone. I have so much to say about this friendship and the unconditional love shared as friends for decades that I could honestly write an amazing book…the insane adventures of Mark and Cyndi. The absolute best adventures of my life include my Mark Leonard. Knowing he found his true love brings me peace…Elvina Leonard Garcia thank you for loving my big brother to his last breath and beyond and loving me like a sister. Chris Leonard I love you like my own son forever! Marky well you took a big chunk of my soul with you….heads up mi amor…I am expecting the most expensive steak dinner ever…when I find you in Heaven. Oh boy…I hope they are ready for you up there….time to get that party started. I love you until forever and am blessed to have been loved by you. Godspeed mi amigo major….may the lines be tight, the wind fill your sails and your boat forever be the fastest! Go sweet heat!”

Christopher Nazir

June 20, 1973-September 25, 2024

Christopher Nazir, aged 51, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on September 25, 2024, in Brentwood, California. Christopher remained strong in his faith and optimism throughout his three years of undergoing extensive chemotherapy.

Born on June 20, 1973, in Karachi, Pakistan, Christopher was a beacon of positivity and selflessness, widely recognized as a pillar of his community. A successful entrepreneur, Christopher owned and operated three thriving restaurants; Mehran Restaurant in Pittsburg, Bawarchi’s Restaurant and Bar in Antioch and Zaiqa in Hercules.

His charisma and unwavering work ethic were instrumental in his professional success, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and customers alike. Christopher’s passion to live life extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was a sports fan, particularly of the San Francisco 49ers and Golden State Warriors. He enjoyed going for drives with his family and traveling the world. Known for his culinary skills, he loved cooking and often hosted parties that brought together his extensive circle of family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Anita Nazir; his sons, Nathan, Ryan and Brandon Nazir; his mother, Irshad Nazir; his father, Nazir Masih; his four siblings; Christina Shakeel, Matthew Nazir, Edith Albert, and Sabrina Cullup; and his Father in-law, William Kashu. Christopher’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Michael J. Fischer

January 31, 1947 – August 16, 2024

Celebration of life September 14th at Golden Hills Community Church

We bid farewell for now to Michael J. Fischer, a husband, father, and grandfather, who was a true friend. If you had the opportunity to meet him, you had a friend for life.  Michael “Big Mike” Fischer, 77, of Brentwood, California passed away peacefully on Friday, August 16, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and faith. Born in Oakland, California to Louis and Ruth Fischer on January 31, 1947, as one of 12 children.  Mike was preceded in death by his baby brother Douglas, father Louis, mother Ruth, sister Corinne and brother Jim.

Mike served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 – 1968 in Viet Nam.  Upon return from service, he met the love of his life, Janice Carvahal. Together they shared a full life of 55 years married and 56 years of love in total. They had Jason (Stephanie) Fischer and Heather (Bill) Cannan. Mike’s pride and joy was his 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and dogs Sampson and Vito.

Mike and Jan did everything together and were an excellent model of how to be loving to your mate. A relationship built in Christ Jesus. They enjoyed projects, no project was too tough and each one was sure to always reinforce their bond of patience, kindness, gentleness and self control.  They took joy in projects that created a beautiful sanctuary and home to enjoy for their family.  They enjoyed long walks on the beach on their many trips to Pajaro Dunes, collecting shells in what seemed to be the equivalent number of stars God told Abraham he’d have as descendants.

Mike was a butcher by trade who would do whatever it took to make sure his family was protected and provided for. During his career, he also served 14 years as Butcher Union Agent and then 13 years in his own Loss Prevention business, finally ending his career back behind the counter as a Butcher and serving on the executive board for 3 years.  Those that really knew Mike would have assumed he may have also been an untrained clown by sheer natural ability.  Mike made everyone feel welcome and seen, he would take special time to encourage and talk with anyone that was struggling for however long it would take. Mike enjoyed singing in the Golden Hills Choir and participating in the many plays during holidays.  He was a bright light wherever he went and for whomever he met.

To commemorate his remarkable life and the memories we cherish, a service will be held at Golden Hills Church 2401 Shady Willow Lane, Brentwood, CA 94513, Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.  We welcome all who knew him to celebrate the life of a man who was loved deeply and will be missed.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to one of Mike’s favorite ministries, Shepherd’s Gate.

Willie James Mims

November 30, 1944 – May 22, 2024

Willie James Mims was born to Edward and Lillie Mims on November 30, 1944, in McCaul, LA. He was one of nine siblings. He lived in California since he was two years old. Willie grew up in West Pittsburg, now called Bay Point, California, where he attended and graduated from Pacifica High School in 1963. In high school, Willie excelled in sports, including track and field, basketball, and football. Willie was concerned about issues revolving around environmental justice, especially in Pittsburg. In 1963, he entered the political arena for the first time, passing out flyers supporting the Rumford Fair Housing Act. George Ealy, a local political activist, organized that event.

Willie married Darlene Lea-Mims on July 15, 1967, and they celebrated 52 years of joyous marriage before she preceded him in death. From this union, they have two children, Dana and Marcus; six grandchildren, Tasha Thompson, Nailah Thompson, Khiry Gosha-Mims, Zaheem Smith, Niara Mims, and Inaya Mims; and two great-grandchildren, Khira Gosha-Mims and Chance Gosha-Mims.

Willie graduated from Diablo Valley College in 1972 with an Associate of Arts Degree. He then transferred to San Francisco State University and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English/Creative Writing in 1974. He proceeded to graduate school, where, in 1978, he earned an M.A. Degree in English/Creative Writing. Willie’s thesis was a collection of short stories called “The Boy Who Threw Rocks,” loosely based on his childhood. Willie then earned a California Secondary Education Teaching Credential in English in 1979.

From 1965 to 1970, he was employed as a stevedore with the Concord Naval Weapons Station. From 1971 to 1987, he worked as a food service worker at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Martinez, California. Willie worked for the Vallejo City Unified School District for over 25 years, serving as Teacher/Teacher-in-Charge at John Finney High School, formerly Peoples High School. He retired from wage work in 2009.

Since retirement, he continued as an activist, advocating for the best interests of the community, parents, and students in the school system. Willie believed that parents and activists should monitor and observe the school districts in East County. This included monitoring and observing local governments and how they conduct the people’s business.

He attended local and county-wide meetings (mainly those in Central and East Counties), bringing issues of concern to School Boards, City Councils, and the Board of Supervisors. His goal on all issues was to support students, parents, or people in their grievance redress.

NAACP East County Branch tribute to Willie Mims.

Willie was a former mentor of the S.I.M.B.A (Safe In My Brother’s Arms) program, which focuses on boys from 8 to 16 to support self-esteem and served as a form of “manhood” training. He was a former East County Boys and Girls Club board member. He served as an “on-call” Educational Advocate for the YIN (Youth Intervention Network) Program. He served as a volunteer historian for the Parents Connected Organization. He was a representative of the Black Political Association in Pittsburg, CA, and a member of the Executive Committee of the East County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), where he served as its Education Chair. He worked as a volunteer for the Greater Faith Food Pantry, an agency serving and feeding low-income and underserved citizens of Pittsburg. He was a member of its board and volunteered four times per month. He was a member of the Antioch School District’s African American Male Initiative, a former representative on the Contra Costa Community College’s Hiring Policy Review Committee, a member of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District’s Equity & Disproportionality Committee, and a member of the Vallejo Unified School District’s LCAP & LCFF Committees.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Lillie Mims, his sisters Wilma Douglas and Isabel Medford, and his brothers Melvin Mims, Mack Mims, and Walter Mims. He leaves behind his two children, Dana and Marcus (Cassandra) Mims; six grandchildren, Tasha Thompson, Nailah Thompson, Khiry Gosha-Mims, Zaheem Smith, Niara Mims, and Inaya Mims; and two great-grandchildren, Khira Gosha-Mims and Chance Gosha-Mims. He is also survived by sisters: Hilda Murdoch (Pittsburg), Nancy Mims-Burt (Pittsburg), and Ruth Mims-Jemerson (Oakland), Melodye Montgomery (Alameda), daughter-in-law Cassandra Waller-Mims, a brother-in -law/friend Larry Harold, who was always by his side, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and lastly, the East Bay Community.

Willie’s main goal was to educate, motivate, and support his community. He leaves a legacy of love, compassion, and service that will continue to inspire all fortunate enough to know him. Willie James Mims will be missed by his family, friends, and the community.

You can send flowers to the family or plant a memorial tree in memory of Willie Mims.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Delta Bay Community Church, 1020 E. Tregallas Road in Antioch. Repast immediately following burial at Pittsburg Youth Development Center at 1001 Stoneman Avenue in Pittsburg.

To watch online visit zoom link ID: 740 600 9196, Password: 2024

Donations in his memory to the Willie J. Mims Education Scholarship for East County Youth are accepted at www.obituare.com/willie-james-mims-obituary-133141/.

MONTE DEAN ALBERS

November 24, 1939 – May 7, 2024

Monte Dean Albers, son of Robert Albers and Pauline Bloom Albers, was born on November 24, 1939, in Eugene, Oregon, died peacefully in his sleep on May 7, 2024, in Brentwood, CA at the age of 84.

Monte attended the University of Oregon, lived an adventurous life, moving first to rural Idaho, then to Houston, Texas and settling finally in California. He went to work for United Airlines where he continued to work for the next 37 years.

Monte met his wife Lucia in San Francisco and together they built a house in Brentwood, California where they have lived since 1987.

He retired from United and dedicated his life to his olive ranch where he enjoyed taking care of the olive trees and producing virgin, kosher olive oil.

Monte will be remembered for his kindness and never-ending love of jokes. He is survived by his wife Lucia, his daughter Elizabeth (Alan); son Monte (Michael); grandchildren, Alan, Erick, Ryan, Scott, Stephanie, Joseph and Jackson, as well as daughters Debbie, Dianne and Darcey from a previous marriage and their children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Monte was also preceded in death by his sister Judy Albers.

A memorial service for Monte will be held at Higgins Chapel in Antioch, California on Thursday, May 23 from 9:30 to 11:30 am followed by a private interment.

Jordan Phillip Davis

November 12, 1994 – January 21, 2024

A Journey of Joy and Jests

On January 21, 2024, the world lost a bit of its sparkle when Jordan Phillip Davis, age 29, Exited the off-ramp from life in Antioch, California. He embarked on this adventure on November 12, 1994, and from day one, Jordan was all about making waves – both literally and figuratively. If life’s a highway, Jordan was riding wheelies down it. He rode his dirt bike with the gusto of a kid at a candy store and jet skied as if he had fins instead of feet. His BBQs were the stuff of legend—where the grill was hot, and the steaks were never at risk. Jordan’s camping tales were more gripping than a tent peg in the earth, and if fish could talk, they’d have asked for autographs. After moving from Pittsburg at age 14, he attended Antioch High School.

As for cars, he wasn’t just under the hood—he was the wizard waving the wrench. But the heart of Jordan’s world was his little co-pilot, Jordan, Jr.

Together, they navigated the bumpy roads of life with laughter as their GPS and unconditional love was their fuel. Jordan’s career was a mixed bag of gigs from Save Mart to Tesla; until one day he branched out and plated his own business, HD Tree Service with his best bud, Carlos. They were the dynamic duo, shaking the family tree of the tree service industry one branch at a time. The cast of characters

in Jordan’s life story is as vibrant as a rainbow after a storm. He leaves behind his mom, Dolly; stepdad, Jimmy; son, Jordan Jr.; Aunt Christene; Uncle Robert; Cousin Robert; Uncle Moe; Cousin Kayla; Grandma Linda; Grandpa Richard; Cheri and Robbie; and his ever-faithful best friend, Cutty (Carlos), the Robin to his Batman, who also survives him along with a forest of friends and distant kin. We are busy planning the after-party, ensuring that Jordan’s final send-off is as lively as he was.

So, let’s not say goodbye to Jordan; instead, let’s rev our engines and honk our horns in celebration of a man who lived life in the fun lane. Here’s to Jordan, may we all keep our tires dirty and our grills sizzling in his honor.

Mary Vigil

December 7, 1921 – August 11, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Mary Vigil, a beloved member of our community. Mary passed away peacefully on August 11, 2023, at the age of 101.

Mary was born in 1921 in Pittsburg, California to Andres and Elvira Moreno. Mary was well-known in the community for her kindness and generosity. During and after her 39 years of working at the telephone company, Mary dedicated herself to community service. She was an active member of her church and spent many hours volunteering her time and talents to various charitable causes. Throughout her life, Mary was recognized for her altruism by the City of Pittsburg, the Catholic Daughters of America, and the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce among others.

Known for her volunteer work at the Church of the Good Shepherd, the Pittsburg Historical Society, Sutter Delta Medical Center, and for delivering holy communion to local parishioners who were homebound, Mary earned an esteemed reputation for her all of her charitable work.

Aside from her public service, Mary selflessly served as a caretaker for over 50 years to her beloved sister who was confined to bed for most of her life.

Mary was a devoted wife to her late husband, Leo Vigil, Sr., a loving sister to her late siblings Lillian and Joe Moreno, and a dedicated mother to her three children, Sylvia Gray, Judy Dunning and Leo Vigil, Jr. Mary is remembered for her warm smile, her love of dancing, and her unwavering faith. Her memory will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love, kindness, and strength.

Rest in peace, dear Mary. You will always be in our hearts.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at the Church of the Good Shepherd at 10:00 am, the reception will immediately follow at The Good Shepherd Parish Hall.

In loving memory

Sharon Lee Heaney

March 6, 1955 – March 2, 2021

We lost you a year ago.

Life has not been the same without you.

Sharon Lee (Gresko) Heaney was born to Eileen Gresko in Bakersfield, CA on March 6, 1955, and grew up in San Francisco. She later moved to Antioch in 1986.

Loving mother to Shannon Smario and David Heaney, a loving mother-in-law to Arenaeus Smario and proud grandmother to Sofia Smario.

She attended Galileo High School in San Francisco and worked in a dental office for many years. After having children, she worked for Safeway for 31 years, including about 10 years Antioch in the deli department.

She enjoyed her life traveling, going out dancing, and feeding the neighborhood cats.

She passed away on March 2, 2021, just shy of her 66th birthday. She will be missed by everyone.

A service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 14, 2022, at St. Ignatius Church at 3351 Contra Loma Blvd. in Antioch.

All are welcome to attend.