ALBERT JAMES RIOS

Albert James Rios Age 83, a resident of Novato, California and Sinajana, Guam, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on February 19, 2010 at the Guam Naval Hospital. He will be missed and remembered in the hearts of his loving wife, Marianne Rios, daughters and sons-in-law Michele and Brad Miller of Encinitas, Barb and Guy Curtice of Novato, daughter Marie Rios of Novato, his sisters and brother Helen Jones of Ordot, Guam, Virginia Aflague of Sacramento and Ricardo Rios of Sinajana, Guam, and their families. He was "Guampa Extra-Ordinaire" to Jake and Cole Miller, Evan Curtice and Tony Houson. He is predeceased by his son Anthony. Albert or "Big Al" as known by many, graduated at the top of his Guam class in 1947. He was one of 7 students who received full scholarships after the war to mainland US Universities. Al received his undergraduate degree from Manhattan College, and Masters Degrees from the University of Southern California and Golden Gate University. Major Albert James Rios was a career officer in the United States Army. While in the service, his military duty assignments took him to such places as Washington, Germany, Oklahoma, New York, Korea and the Presidio in San Francisco. He loved to travel and explore new places and the Army took him to Germany, where he met Marianne, his life partner of 52 years. After his military retirement, he worked for many years as Director of Financial Aid and Dean of Students at the University of Guam and also with the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. In 1968 Al and Marianne settled in Novato part time and in Guam for 4 to 5 months annually. Other times, they traveled to visit with family and friends. Al enjoyed being outdoors, whether it was camping, walking on the beach, feeling the warm breeze while riding his motorcycle or pedaling around the neighborhood with his dog(s). He was a deeply spiritual man, gentle, kind and compassionate, and always interested in getting to know people. A Mass of Resurrection will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2010 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, 1000 Cambridge Street, Novato. Rosary at 9:30 AM; Mass at 10:00 AM. Interment follows at Valley Memorial Park with military honors, 650 Bugeia Lane Novato. Following interment, friends and family are invited back to the church hall for lunch and to share memories. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association are appreciated.