Obituaries

Douglas "Coach" Adams (68)

Douglas "Coach" Adams (68), a beloved husband, father, and grandpa, passed away on October 12, 2023, at the age of 68 in Madera, California. He was the oldest of two children born to John and Wanda (Cooper) Adams on January 6, 1955. He leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, dedication, and an enduring love for his family and the great outdoors.

Doug's journey began on oil rigs in Kern County, where he grew up, learning the value of hard work and determination from an early age. He later pursued higher education at Taft College, graduating as part of the class of '75. He initially went there with a passion for baseball, and remarkably, he fulfilled that passion and earned an AA degree. His thirst for knowledge led him to Fresno State, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and a Teaching Credential.

Janet Petrucci (86)

Janet Petrucci (86), a native Californian and resident of Madera for the past 48 years, entered eternal rest on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at St. Agnes Medical Center. Jan was born to Robert and Nell Biggs in Lodi, California, on May 4, 1937. During high school, Jan was active in 4-H, winning numerous awards at the state fair for her showmanship with sheep and pigs.

In adulthood, Jan went to work for the State of California with various state agencies, ultimately choosing to stay with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Jan worked in Madera, Fresno, Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. Always looking for opportunity, Jan was promoted through the years to Manager 5 over the Program Policy Division in Sacramento. She retired from state service in 1993.

Richard Sambueso Sr.(91)

Richard Sambueso Sr.(91) - In loving memory of Richard Sambueso Sr., age 91, a native and resident of Madera, California, who passed away on August 25, 2023. He was a Sergeant in the Air Force during the Korean War, a partner in the former Hal’s Market in Madera, and a member of St. Joachim Catholic Church.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends, watching college football, and spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and gardening.

Josephine Raviscioni (91)

Josephine Raviscioni (91) was born \on September 8, 1931, in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee to Jimmy and Mittie Laws. She passed away on August 25, 2023, in Fresno, California. Josephine was preceded in death by her parents, husband Fred Raviscioni, and grandson Jason Cook.

She is survived by her 3 children, Donald Cook, Doris Cook, David Cook (Mary), grandchildren Stacy Cook and Nicholas Cook, and great-grandchildren Tyler Burkhalter, Chelsie Burkhalter, and Haylee Cook.

Thomas M. Baird (74)

Thomas M. Baird (74), MSgt, USAF (Retired), passed away Thursday, August 3, 2023, at his home in Madera after a battle with cancer. Tom accepted Jesus as his personal savior at a Hume Lake retreat and was active in his church.

Tom was born in San Diego while his father was in the Navy. Before moving to Fresno, his family lived in Hawaii and small towns in CA. He graduated from Bullard HS in 1967 and attended Navy boot camp in San Diego. He trained as a jet engine mechanic in Kingsville, TX, and moved to Miramar Air Station in San Diego for F-4 Phantom training. He was assigned to the VF-154 Black Knights flying squadron and deployed to Viet Nam aboard the USS Ranger. After the deployment ended, he left the Navy and attended Fresno City College to become a licensed Aircraft & Powerplant Mechanic. He worked in flight operations in Fresno, Madera, Merced, and Chowchilla.