Former Sebastopol Times pressman Alvin Dean Van Stone died at his home on March 3, 2007, following a long battle with lung cancer.

He was a few weeks short of his 79th birthday, having been born in Sheridan, WY. on March 23, 1928. He spent his childhood there, leaving in 1945 to join the Army.

During his time in the Army he was a drummer in the Army Band.

After leaving the Army in 1948 he met and married Shirley Anne Whitney. They were married in June 1950 and moved to Sonoma County in 1951.

Van Stone worked at the Sebastopol Times and the Santa Rosa Press Democrat for 43 years before retiring in 2001.

Van Stone volunteered generously to his Church, school, Little League and Boy Scouts.

He is survived by his wife Shirley, his four children and their spouses: Ron and Nanci, Jeff, Matt and'Charlana, Christina and Cindy. His grandchildren Ronnie, Michael, and their mother Michele; Christina and Cindy's children; Cade, Casey, and Cole. His sister Betty Lawson of Redding.

At his request there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sutter Hospice or to the California State Park Association.

Sonoma West Times and News, Sebastopol, CA - Mar. 22, 2997.