Sidney John Stafford

1918 - 2010

Of Hermosa Beach passed away on September 19, 2010 at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Torrance, CA. He was born in Joliet, IL on April 6, 1918. Sid spent his younger years living in Chicago and attended the Sherwood Music School prior to WWII. He was drafted into the US Army in 1941 and served in the 41st Infantry Division as a chaplain's assistant until the war ended in 1945. During his tour of duty Sid served in New Guinea and throughout the Philippines. After his discharge Sid attended the Chicago Musical College for three years. He then spent the next 50 years as a professional pianist, touring the world while accompanying many world renown musicians. He was also an accomplished teacher of piano and taught numerous students over a 50 year period. Sidney and Ruth Breytspraak founded the South Bay Chamber Music Society in 1963 and he performed and remained active in the society until 2008. Sidney is survived by his nieces, Judy Carlson of New Braunfels, TX; and nephews, Sidney Carlson of Sacramento, CA, Carl Carlson of Mission Hills, CA and Daniel Stewart of Poway, CA. He also had 7 great nephews and nieces and 8 great-great nephews and nieces. Sid was a member of the Neptune Society and his wish was for his ashes to be scattered at sea. A Memorial service for Sidney will be held on Monday, October 11 at 3pm at the Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Please sign the guest book at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.