HAROLD HERACH "Hal" TOKMAKIAN

Harold Tokmakian was born in Sanger, CA, the first child of Armenian immigrant parents. Hal graduated from Sanger High School and was a United States Army veteran of World War II. He earned degrees in Architecture, and City Planning from Stanford University and Cornell University respectively. He was a certified planner, serving as the Fresno County Planning Director prior to becoming a professor at California State University, Fresno. He established the department of Urban and Regional Planning. He also served on both the Fresno City and County planning commissions. After retiring from teaching, he remained active in Fresno's development and culture. His planning career was guided by deeply held principles of sustainability and rationality. He was instrumental in the establishment of the San Joaquin River Valley Parkway and Conservation Trust. He was an active member for many years of the League of Women Voters and the Fresno Arts Council. Hal will be remembered for his style, wit and intelligence, and his love of fine art, books, good food, wine, and conversation. Hal was preceded in death by his brother Howard; and by his wife, Barbara, of 50 years. He is survived by his children, Kathryn and husband Michael, Robin, Ross and wife Dana, and Paul and wife Judy; and by his grandchildren, Elizabeth, Rachel, Joanna, Daniel, Lance, Jean, Bryce, Lauren, Tyler, Naomi, and Julia. Remembrances may be made to the San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust; or the Fresno County Public Library. Laissez les bon temps roulez.