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Joseph Geller Obituary

Joseph Donald Geller February 10, 1928 - May 8, 2008 Joseph was born in New Bedford, MA. He was the son of Julius and Sadie Geller. He was the youngest of six children, all now deceased. He attended Betsey B. Winslow School and graduated from New Bedford High School, class of 1945. He graduated from Boston University and was on the Law Review there. He enlisted in the Navy immediately upon graduation and was stationed on the U.S.S. Salem. He served with pride and dignity. Joseph married Beryl Gleckman in 1954. They resided in New Bedford as he worked with Selwyn Braudy who, at the time, was a prominent attorney. In 1958 Joe re-enlisted in the Navy and was sent to Treasure Island in San Francisco as the legal advocate. This became the turning point in his life. While at Treasure Island he studied for the California State Bar and passed. He then retired from the Navy and went into private practice in Millbrae, CA. He became active in the local community. He joined the Lions Club and was on the Millbrae Planning Commission, all the while building up his law practice. He also served on the board of directors of the Tourist and Convention Bureau. Later he was elected to the Board of Directors of the County Fairgrounds where he was actively involved for 14 years and served as president for two years. He had an extensive law practice and was well respected. He is survived by his wife Beryl; son, James (Martha); daughter, Judith; granddaughter, Alexandra and grandson, Benjamin. He adored his grandchildren. His passing has left a huge void in the Geller Family. Funeral Services and Interment were held Sunday, May 11 at Home of Peace Cemetery, Colma.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from May 10 to May 16, 2008.

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6 Entries

Walter H Harrington

May 24, 2008

I first met Joe through Clancy Knight and had occasional social contacts through the years. I enjoyed beiing with him, and knew him to be a very competent lawyer. Later, when I became a member of the judiciary, I appointed him to referee a number of real estate partitions and he did a remarkable job. I was sorry about his illness and I send condolences to his family at his passing. Judge Walter H Harrington (ret)

Jennifer Thomas

May 16, 2008

My name is Jennifer Thomas and I worked as Joe's secretary about 10 years ago. I would occasionally see him at the market near his home and I last saw him in Pescadero a year or so ago. I am sorry for your loss.
-Jennifer

Bill Kenney

May 14, 2008

Joe was an old school lawyer. He represented his clients with great vigor. However, it was never personal with opposing counsel. He was very astute as an attorney. He had a great sense of humor, and it was a pleasure to have a case with him. I was happy re to have known him.We will all miss him.

Jennifer (Jenny) Lea Wischmeyer

May 14, 2008

I was Mr. Geller's daughter's best friend in high school. He was a dynamic, intelligent, well-respected, and kind man. He was always so sweet to me, and I liked him and enjoyed spending time at the home of the Gellers when I was younger. My love and best wishes to Judith, Jim, Beryl, and Mr Geller's grandchildren. May loving memories comfort you at this difficult time.

Barbara (Rowe) Sprague

May 11, 2008

I was Joe's classmate Class of '45 and express my sympanhy.

Bill Schumacher

May 10, 2008

I will miss Joe as a friend,as an advocate for San Mateo County and a good lawyer and a responable landlord.

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