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Jeff McCarthy Obituary
JEFF McCARTHY DEC. 2, 1960 - SEPT. 12, 2007 At the age of 46, Jeff passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2007 at home.
Jeff was born December 2, 1960 in Modesto, California to Eugene and Ida McCarthy. He is survived by his wife, Renata Belash; his daughter, Anika McCarthy; his mother, Ida McCarthy of Hughson; his sister, Kate McCarthy of Modesto; his brothers, Edward McCarthy of Auburn and Tom McCarthy of Colorado.
He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene J. McCarthy; and his brother, Paul McCarthy.
He was the Deputy Executive Director of the San Francisco Marine Exchange. He attended Westport School, Ceres High School, Modesto Junior College, and graduated cum laude from San Francisco State College with a degree in theatre arts. He loved good theatre, good food, and good friends. All knew him as a kind and caring person with a ready smile, a generous heart, and sparkling eyes.
He was the best father ever: kind, patient, loving, warm and humorous. He was also a caring, strong, supportive husband, and one could have no truer friend. He is much loved and greatly missed.
The Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 10:00 a.m., at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Hughson. A memorial reception will be held at 11:00 a.m. across the street, at Samaritan Village.
Remembrances may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation, 1-866-880-1382 www.wish.org/help/donate www.modbee.com/obituaries
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeff McCarthy
Sponsored by Renata Belash.
Kristina Munoz Serkin
July 21, 2017
My heartfelt condolences go out to Jeff's family and friends. I have just heard about the passing of my college friend and it pains my heart. I lost contact with him sometime around 1999 but he has never left my thoughts. One of my all time favorite memories of my whole life was actually when Jeff and I went to see the premiere of the movie "Christmas Vacation" at SFSU in 1989. We had isle seats at the movie theatre and Jeff's contageous laugh had the both of us literally "laughing in the isles". Eventually the whole theatre had fallen for that contageous laugh of Jeff's and hystericall laughter consumed the whole theatre. I still laugh when i think about it and i tell everyone this story when the movie is brought up. Sometimes people actually hear this story many times, because it makes me smile and laugh everytime i think of it. Thank you for letting me share.
Kristina Munoz Serkin
Kate McCarthy
September 10, 2008
It has almost been a year since Jeff's accident. When someone dies, there is a hole in your life. Sometimes I think, " I need to tell Jeff that..." and then I remember. I remember him when I see Anika, his daughter, when I go to contemporary edgy plays, when I see good photography, and when the almonds bloomed. I was so proud of him.
It is now harvest time and the pain of his loss comes again to me, to his daughter, to his brothers, loved ones, and friends. I guess the measure of a man's life is memory, good solid memories that nutured long after the man himself is gone.
You lived a good life, Jeff. You live on in our memories, and Anika's laughter. When we remember you, we celebrate your life and smile. As you always say "It is what it is."
Serena Dietrich
May 23, 2008
Although it is after the fact, I must express my condolences in the loss of Jeff McCarthy. I knew and worked with Jeff through my service in the U.S. Coast Guard, and greatly admired his local knowledge and concern for mariners. He was a pleasure to work with, and I am deeply sorry for those family and close friends that grieve for him.
Jim McDevitt
October 15, 2007
I knew Jeff from Theater at MJC and through his graduation at SF and on water skiing exploits with our mutual friend Miles. My deepest and heartfelt prayers and thoughts go out to Jeff's family, friends and especially Renata and Anika. While I have many strong memories of Jeff. It is his spirit of adventure, gentle openness, friendly competative nature ,ie: who would have the best wipe out on water ski's for the day. (Jeff won) his caring nature that will remain with me. I will never forget that relaxing smile coupled with that ever present twinkle in his eyes that revealed the soul of a true artist. He will be missed, but not forgotten.
In symphony.
Jim Jen, and AJ McDevitt
Janie Meily
September 27, 2007
I knew Jeff many, many, MANY years ago when we were both involved in theatre at MJC. The caliber of his being was evident from early on; his kindness, gentleness of soul, sense of humor, compassion, nuturing nature and his joy and enjoyment
of life exuded from him. Anyone who knew or whose life Jeff touched was enriched.
Losing a loved one is the most painful occurrance in this world...one from which we think we will never recover, but we do. After
the pain ever so slowly eases, the memories become all and they warm us in the coldest moments and remind us how fortunate and blessed we were to have had them in our lives.
Remember the footprints in the sand.
With warmest thoughts,
Janie
Meily
YNC Vickie Clark
September 25, 2007
On behalf of the Command and crew of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco, we wish to convey our deep, heartfelt sadness at Jeff's passing. He was a valued partner and friend to the Sector, those who knew him as a member of the Marine Exchange will miss his humor, wisdom and fellowship. Our thoughts and prayers go to Renata, Alika and the McCarthy Family, we hope the days ahead bring you comfort.
Ed Enos
September 20, 2007
Aloha Renata,
We were so stunned to hear about Jeff. Gini and I have you and Anika in our thoughts and prayers. Our world is a little smaller now without him.
To your many family and friends, you may not have any idea of how far and wide Jeff's friendship extended out into the maritime industry. His knowledge, skills, and efforts to bring about new technological changes to the shipping industry, that has a direct impact on thousands of men and women everyday, his work with the Marine Exchange was admirable. We will all miss him dearly.
In addition to my family, on behalf of the Hawaii Pilots Association, I would like to extend a special "Aloha" to a man who quietly brought great things to seafarer's out here in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
Malama Pono
A Hui Hou!
Kim Godfrey
September 20, 2007
Didi and Annika,
I send love, hugs, thoughts and prayers. I so enjoyed the few times I was able to be with you all and get to know Jeff - East and West coasts - over the past few years. I am a phone call away and would love to do anything that helps. Wishing you peace,
Elizabeth (Libby) Cardozo
September 20, 2007
Renata & Anika -
It is just so hard to believe that Jeff is gone. When I saw you both at the memorial the other day it was so strange to not see Jeff quietly standing in the rear behind you as I have seen him so many times before.
As I mentioned during the memorial I have over 20 years of memories of Jeff. Lots of special theatre memories (of Jeff being a woman during the play "God" being one of the highlights), sitting in the theatre sound booth in the 1980's discussing the qualities we'd like to have in our significant others - when we found them that is, skiing memories (the order of the black diamond medal and lots of in depth ski lift chats) and many, many talks over dinner, coffee etc., about life, family and who we were dating or why we were not dating at that particular time!!
I know that he loved and cared for you both deeply and that he wanted the best for both of you.
Jeff was a great friend and I shall miss him terribly. I hope that I can continue to be as good a friend to you both that Jeff was to me.
If you ever need a shoulder to cry on, someone to watch Anika,someone to go and have a drink with, some people to talk to, some Renata time alone, anything at all....Russell, Brady and I are here. Our hearts and home are always open to you both any time of day or night. Just call. We love you both....
To Jeff's Mom, sister and brothers and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Jeff touched many hearts. He shall never be forgotten as he shall continue to live on in the memories of others. I am proud to have known Jeff and proud that he considered me his friend.
heidi hofer
September 19, 2007
Dear Renata and Annika-
We were shocked and saddened to hear of your tragic loss. You are in our thoughts and our prayers and please let us know how we can help or what we can do.
love-
Heidi Hofer & Mark Maigatter
Jay Ludlam
September 19, 2007
Renata, I am stunned and saddened by the news of Jeff's passing. I remember the early days when your relationship was just beginning to blossom. I can't imagine your loss.
Jay
Keyla Oliveira
September 18, 2007
Dear Renata and Anika;
We send you our prayers and love.
Keyla, Benjamin and Rogerio Lavratti
Ronald Derby
September 18, 2007
I'm saddened with this news. Though I've never met any of his family ,I pray for the hand of God to be with you all during this time.His love and comfort will see you through.He was a great man.
Rosemary Arnold
September 18, 2007
Renata,
Sorry to hear about your loss. MOMS Club can help with meals, help with the little one, funds etc. If you need anything, please let us know, we are here to help.
MOMS Club Love
Rosemary
President
Lucinda Johnston-Chiszar
September 18, 2007
Dear Renata, I want you to know that my husband and I were both comforted to know that Jeff was with you and you were with Jeff in his final moments. Somehow the knowledge that you were together and expressing your love for one another eased our sorrow. Please know that our family loved Jeff and we love you and Anika. Thank you for making the celebration of his life truly beautiful, Lucinda
Will Taylor
September 18, 2007
Jeff was one of the most righteous and genuine people I've ever come across. Some of my favorite memories are of Jeff and crew rambling around Sacramento or SF on a Friday night. There are far too few Friday nights.
Ana Maria Cury and Chris Fitch
September 18, 2007
Renata and Anika:
We send you both our love in these hard times.
Chris and Ana Maria
Jeff and anika, Wells, Maine
September 18, 2007
Jeff, Renata and Anika in Maine last year
September 18, 2007
Kelly Marjerison
September 18, 2007
Jeff will always be Papa Pierre to me, and all that implies. I am better for knowing him, for seeing him with his family, and for witnessing moments of his life.
Laurence and keith Poirier
September 18, 2007
Dear Renata,
We are very sad to hear about Jeff and we cannot start imagining how painful this must be for you and little Anika. We send you both our love.
Renata, Anika, and Jeff McCarthy
September 17, 2007
Double rainbow over the orchard.
September 17, 2007
Jeff in the orchard in spring.
September 17, 2007
Jeff, Anika, and Mom walking in the orchard.
September 17, 2007
Jeff and Anika walking in the forest.
September 17, 2007
Jeff and Anika on the Merry-Go Round
September 17, 2007
Anika's Birthday
September 17, 2007
Jeff's Birthday: Paul, Kate, Tom, Jeff, and Ed
September 17, 2007
Jeff and Anika on the beach.
September 17, 2007
Ethan, Bobbie, Chelsea, and Jeff
September 17, 2007
Jeff running in the Bridge to Bridge 1998
September 17, 2007
Sunshine at the Soap Box Derby
September 17, 2007
Lucie Sweda Hussein Al Jabarin
September 17, 2007
Dear Renata and Anika;
We send you our prayers and love. May Jeff's passing to the next life be a wonderful transition for him and that he will be guiding you and Anika from a far. We are thankful you are surrounded by the love of dear family and friends. And while you will mourn Jeff's daily presence in your lives; with time you will feel him in the wind and the almond groves he nurtured.
Jeff and Anika
Kate McCarthy
September 17, 2007
There are no words that can express the sorrow of my family at the loss of Jeff. I was ten when Jeff was born. Since Mom was often busy with my other three younger brothers, I was taught how to take care of the new baby. I remember the pride of a big sister rocking he baby brother to sleep. Jeff always had a ready laugh and a twinkle in his eye, even as a child.
Jeff always wanted to keep up with the big kids. I remember how he held his own in the rough-and-tumble games that farm boys play with family and friends. He was daring and loved to explore new vistas.
Jeff was athletic, playing baseball at Westport and football for Ceres High. He was very active in the Future Farmers of America, but when he went to MJC, he developed a love for the theatre, participating in many productions. After graduating from San Francisco State with a degree in theatre arts, he taught drama at a Bay Area high school and worked for a time in professional theatre. Jeff was a Renaissance man. He wrote poetry, stories, a play, was a photographer and loved the film and theatre scene in San Francisco. He continued his interest in sports by training and completing a marathon. His apartment was always filled with friends and laughter.
He moved up to the ranks of Deputy Executive Director of the Marine Exchange. While he lived in San Francisco, he met Renata, fell in love, and started a family. After his daughter Anika was born, I saw my brother become a wonderful loving father. Anika looks so much like Jeff with the same delightful personality! It was a joy to watch them together.
When my father retired from farming, Jeff had the opportunity to take over the family farm. He continued to work for the Marine Exchange and commuted between Modesto and San Francisco. He and Renata took over the ranch, remodeling the house, and planting a new almond orchard. His house was again filled with family, friends, neighbors, and laughter.
My family would like to thank the Westport Fire Department, paramedics, and Doctor's Hospital staff that tried to save his life. We also think the countless friends and neighbors who have offered his family consolation and assistance during this difficult time. We thank the staffs of Sales Brothers, St. Anthony's Catholic Church, and Samaritan Village for helping us with the final arrangements as we gather to celebrate his life. We also thank the Modesto Bee for offering this website where family and friends can remember Jeff and share pictures of his life. The family will take the contents of this website and create a book for his daughter Anika so that she can remember how much her papa was loved and respected. We miss him. Thank you.
Jeff and baby Anika.
September 17, 2007
Jeff playing with his princess.
September 17, 2007
Camping on Miles' Island.
September 17, 2007
Jeff, Renata, and Anika in the snow.
September 17, 2007
Jeff working for the Marine Exchange.
September 17, 2007
Jeff loved his boat!
September 17, 2007
Jeff's fish story.
September 17, 2007
Jeff as Little League Catcher.
September 17, 2007
Renata and Jeff dancing.
September 17, 2007
Jeff and his buddies.
September 17, 2007
Jeff, Renata, and baby Anika
September 17, 2007
Jeff and nephew Andrew checking out the rocket.
September 17, 2007
Jeff and neice Chelsea on the motorbike.
September 17, 2007
Jeff and nephew Ethan
September 17, 2007
Jeff, Tom, Mom, Dad, Kate, Paul, and Ed at Parent's 40th Wedding Anniversary
September 17, 2007
Jeff graduating from high school.
September 17, 2007
Jeff in Fifth Grade
September 17, 2007
Jeff and his family in 1968: Kate, Mom, Paul, Tom, Jeff,and Ed
September 17, 2007
Jeff with his grandfather, father, siblings, and cousins
September 17, 2007
Jeff running with the big kids: Kate, Ed, Jeff, Tom, and Paul McCarthy
September 17, 2007
Michael Theuriet
September 17, 2007
Jeff was always the friend I reached to when I need some good/sound advice. I was always certain his responses would be true and without biases. He was a remarkable friend and will be missed greatly!!
Christopher Schardt
September 17, 2007
Dear Renata and Anika,
I can't express how shocked and saddened I am to read what I just read about Jeff. In one's 40s, one thinks about having to face losing one's parents, but not one's partner. I wish you strength and wisdom, and above all the ability to accept what has happened and not fight it. Life WILL go on and I know you will make the best of it and be the bright, happy, life-loving souls that you are.
Molly and Jeremy Lent
September 17, 2007
Dear Renata and family,
We are so sorry to hear about your horrible loss. We're going to follow this with an e-mail, Renata.
Love,
Molly and Jeremy
Muggs and Larry Zabel
September 17, 2007
What a horrible shock this was. I remember many things about Jeff, but I'll never forget some of the funny things he did onstage years back at Modesto Junior College. Jeff was just the nicest guy you could ever know. You saw it in the way he treated everyone in his life but, especially, in the way he loved his daughter and Renata. Our love to both in this very sad time.
Bill and Eileen Jensen
September 16, 2007
To the entire McCarthy Family,
We are so sorry to hear about your devastating loss. May the wonderful memories of Jeff give you the strength you to face each new day. Our love and prayers are with you all.
Natalie Montgomery
September 16, 2007
Even though I had only known Jeff for a little over a year now, anyone could see right away what a kind man he was. Since I first befriended Renata and Anika at the YMCA, I was invited to their home for many wonderful gatherings that my kids throughly enjoyed ~ Jeff always made sure that all the children there had plenty of fun things to do. Plus, he could cook up a great BBQ!
My heart goes out to Renata, Anika, and the rest of Jeff's family ~ may the wonderful times you all had together carry you through these tough times. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie Martino
September 16, 2007
Words cannot express how shocked and saddened I was to hear of Jeff's passing. Although I did not know him personally, Renata and Anika have become a huge part of my sister's and niece, Lauren's, lives. My thoughts, prayers and love are with all of Jeff's family and close friends. I'm very sorry for your loss and hope you find peace and solice in your faith and in each other.
Bobbie Bass
September 15, 2007
For those of us who call Jeff friend or family, we have had a truly amazing man in our lives.We will cherish our memories and keep him with us always in our hearts.As we mourn the loss, we also celebrate the life of this extordanary man, who touched our lives in more ways than he will ever know, he is loved and will be so very missed.
Bobbie and Ethen
Lee and Carol Theuriet
September 15, 2007
What a great loss the passing of Jeff is. Not only to his family but to those of us who knew him. We had the pleasure of knowing Jeff through our son Michael. I don't think we will ever forget his smile and gentle ways. A wonderful man.
At this difficult time know that our thoughts are with you and that we feel honored to have known such a special person.
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