Herbert Deacon

Herbert Coward Deacon Passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on October 9, 2010 surrounded by his family and listening to his favorite big band music. Herb was born in Oakland CA, a 5th generation Californian, and was raised in Piedmont. He attended Piedmont High School, San Francisco City College and U.C. Santa Barbara. A World War II veteran he served in the Army as an ammunitions and communications supervisor. He married Martha in 1949, lived in Los Altos for 53 years where he raised his two children. He retired in 1980 from the Department of Defense as Chief Production Engineer. Herb had a passion for life, people, nature, health, sports and animals. He had abundant talents, interests and hobbies: including being an accomplished artist, photographer, avid fisherman, backpacker, ballroom dancer, swimmer and tennis player. He was a ham radio operator, W6TDK, and radio broadcaster. He coached little league and assisted the Palo Alto Oaks Semi Pro Baseball team. His unforgettable energy and spirit touched many lives. He was a member of the California Society of Pioneers, Ham Radio Association, The Elks Lodge, Peninsula Retired Officers Club and The University Club of Palo Alto. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Martha, children Debbie Ford (Tom), Scott Deacon (Carol), grandchildren; Ryan Ford, Kevin Ford, Deanna Deacon, Gordon Deacon, sister Patricia Bragg, plus nieces and nephews. A private family memorial has been held. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Palo Alto Oaks, C/O Steve Espinoza, 1860 Wagner Ave. Mountain View, CA 94043 "Cheers for now...keep dancing!"