Alan Barker Furbush

6-18-37 4-15-07

"It's been a good life! I throw my sins at the devil and send my soul to God. If by chance, you wish to remember me, scratch a cat, pet a dog, smile at a child, laugh with a friend. Thank the Lord each morning for the new day. Always try to respect the opinions and dignity of others. Keep your dreams. Find a way to honor and serve your country. Marry for love. If you do any of these things, I shall live on."

Alan Barker Furbush

August 2006

Born in San Francisco to Dr. Claude Gilbert Furbush and Frances Mace Furbush, Alan was a proud fourth-generation Californian. He grew up in Alameda and was educated in Alameda secondary schools. An engineering student at U.C. Berkeley, where he followed in his father's and brother Don's footsteps and pledged Sigma Chi fraternity. He found his heart in geology and the earth sciences, and earned degrees from Oakland City College and San Francisco State. After earning a Master's degree at San Francisco State Alan taught earth science and his specialty, cartography, at California State College in Pennsylvania. He began a new career in systems engineering and retired from an aerospace career after 25 years and as an Army reservist (W4) after 30 years. Alan spent many happy hours as a Boy Scout, earning his Eagle Scout badge and becoming an assistant Scout leader while still in Alameda. A lifelong learner, Alan's recall on many subjects was quite amazing and he enjoyed sharing this knowledge in discussions with his many friends. Always ready with a joke and a smile, he will be missed by many, but most of all by his wife of 46 years, Colette Zumbach Furbush. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Allison Dewart Memorial Scholarship Fund (c/o West High School, 20401 Victor Street, Torrance, CA 90503) will be most welcome. Private services have been held.