Marcus Vanderlaan

VANDERLAAN, Marcus
Was born 3/23/22 in Albany, NY and died on 2/14/07 in Sacramento, CA. Marcus was a dedicated husband and father. He came to California as a child, and grew up to be a resolute fisherman and enjoyer of nature. He graduated from U.C. Berkeley, and served in Europe during WWII. He attended law school at Boalt Hall, and began his legal career at the California Attorney General's Office. Later, he had a long, successful career as a private attorney. He was particularly proud of his representation of conscientious objectors during the Vietnam War. For much of his career he represented members of the California Teachers Association, and was a fierce advocate on their behalf. Marcus was a great trial attorney and a mentor to those who worked with him. Marcus was married only once, to the love of his life, Margaret, whom he met in Mexico while both were attending summer school. They were married for 59 years, and had two daughters, Robin and Jill. He also leaves two grandsons, Joshua, who followed in his steps to be a Deputy Attorney General, and Eric, who will start college next fall. Joshua and his wife, Cathie, gave Marcus two great grandsons, Tyler and Jacob. Marcus loved visiting Margaret's family in Modoc County and especially loved to fish there. Fishing was the occasion of many family visits, and the source of much happiness. He taught the ways of fly-fishing down the generations. Fly-fishing reflected Marcus's passion and spirit; being in the wild, outfoxing the trout, following the stream, listening to the wind in the trees, and joining with nature in a quiet way; but punctuated with a frequent flurry and whistle, signaling another successful strike and trout in his creel. Marcus was a hero in his daily lile, without seeking recognition. He simply handled his business and worked tirelessly as a champion for those without voices. Yet he always made time for his family. He was a forthright, honest, and humorous man with deep personal convictions. He had a great love for his wife and daughters that even Alzheimer's could not extinguish, and he had a deep reservoir of compassion for everyone, particularly the underdog. He will be sorely missed. The burial service will be private. Contributions to the Alzheimer's Association are requested in lieu of flowers.