PV Remembers: In Memoriam

In wrapping up 2023, PV Magazine would like to celebrate and dedicate this issue to everyone that has lost a loved one and the indelible memories that will always be part of the fabric of our lives.

Love has no end…although these cherished community members may not be with us, they will always be in our hearts and minds.

Coach Brian Edelman

December 1987 – October 2023

Brian Edelman, a pillar of the Palos Verdes community and a beloved figure in local basketball, passed away in early September 2023, at the age of 36, following a courageous battle with stage IV colon cancer. Born and raised in Palos Verdes, Coach Brian exemplified resilience and dedication throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.

Brian’s unwavering commitment to coaching and mentoring the youth of Palos Verdes was unmatched. Graduating from Palos Verdes High School in 2005, he immersed himself in the sport he loved, becoming an instrumental figure in the success of the Palos Verdes High School and PV Cagers basketball programs. His passion for basketball shone through as he coached in various leagues and sports camps, positively influencing over 10,000 young lives in the community.

In 2019, Brian faced his first battle with colon cancer, displaying immense strength as he continued coaching despite enduring intense treatments and setbacks. The community rallied around him, demonstrating unwavering support through a GoFundMe campaign, “BElieve for Coach Brian.” His resilience was evident as he triumphed over the disease, inspiring others with his determination and unwavering spirit.

Brian’s journey took a challenging turn as he faced a recurrence of the cancer.Despite the uphill battle, his unwavering hope and gratitude for the outpouring of love and support remained steadfast.

An embodiment of perseverance, Brian lived by the mantra “Win Anyway.” His locker room magnet, encapsulating his attitude, emphasized the importance of giving your best every day. To Coach Brian, winning wasn’t solely about the outcome on the scoreboard; it was about embodying the best version of oneself, a philosophy he instilled in both his players and the community.

Brian’s legacy extends far beyond the basketball court. His resilience, compassion, and dedication to others serve as an enduring inspiration. The Palos Verdes community mourns the loss of a remarkable individual whose imprint will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.

Brian Edelman’s impact transcends his time with us. His memory will continue to motivate and inspire countless individuals, a testament to the extraordinary life he lived.

Eden Shapiro Friedman

August 1970 – January 2023

Celebrated as a profoundly loving wife and mother, Eden’s life has left a lasting mark on all who were honored to know her. She is survived by her three beloved sons: Evan, Jake, and Nate, along with her devoted husband, Steve. Eden’s immediate family includes her mother, Linda Shapiro, and her brother, Greg Shapiro. Beyond her immediate family, a close-knit circle of family and friends joyfully recalls Eden’s impact, sharing in the warmth of her affectionate spirit. The influence of Eden’s love and presence will be cherished, her memory living on in the hearts of the many who have been touched by her kindness. 

As a dedicated mother, Eden committed her life to her family, placing them above all else. Her passionate involvement in school and community activities left a lasting impression. Eden’s kindness and unwavering support of friends created a woven network spanning her entire life. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, and her positive energy could uplift others and brighten a room. Eden will be greatly missed by all who knew and celebrated her. 

Valentina D’Agostini

February 1942 – April 2023

Valentina D’Agostini was born in Akron, Ohio, alongside two sisters and a brother. Following her sister Joanna Giuliano’s move in 1963 to the South Bay, Valentina left Ohio and embarked on a new chapter in California, where she found employment at LAX. After dedicating several years to the service industry, she went on to achieve a successful tenure as a Minolta sales representative.  

Nevertheless, it was within the family business, The Original Giuliano’s Gardena, that Valentina’s heart truly flourished for over 30 years. Valentina was not only a beloved sister, aunt, and friend but also possessed a vivacious spirit, a sweet smile, and a deep love for all animals, especially her cherished dogs.In addition to her love for animals, Valentina’s spirit, extended to encouraging others through her words and thoughtful prayers. In retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work, strong faith, compassion and kindness. Valentina’s memory will be forever an inspiration for those who she touched with her life. 

Ian Duncan MacLeod

October 1939 – June 2023

Born in Inglewood, CA, to Scottish immigrant parents, Ian, a proud Angeleno, married his childhood sweetheart and fellow Morningside High School and El Camino College classmate, Marilyn Ness, on September 30, 1961. The couple lived nearly 60 years on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, primarily in Rolling Hills. Together, they established a successful scrap metal recycling business in Southern California. Marilyn and Ian had three daughters, Lisa, Melanie, and Heather, who grew up riding horses on trails and participating in the Portuguese Bend National Horse Show from the 1970s to the 1980s. Dedicated supporters of PCCH, they were fixtures at the Saturday Night Supper for decades. 

Ian, an avid golfer since his teens, played on the Morningside High School Golf Team, El Camino College Golf Team, and later became a proud member of PVGC, RHCC, and Bel Air Country Club. 

Facing challenges from Alzheimer’s disease and liver cancer, Ian demonstrated bravery and resilience. The MacLeod family is thankful for the excellent care he received at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.  

Lisa Dawn Powell

December 1962 – June 2023

Lisa graduated from Miraleste High School in 1980 and Raised in Redondo Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Lisa excelled as an equestrian, earning numerous ribbons in national competitions. She graduated from Miraleste High School in 1980. 

After a move to Phoenix in 1989, Lisa pursued a career in law enforcement, earning a BS in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Arizona State University in 1992. During her tenure at the Tempe Police Department, she received accolades for her service, notably in the Mounted Unit, where she adopted her retired patrol horse, “Officer Smokey Joe.” 

Lisa leaves a legacy of love, service, and a profound passion for animals. Survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and siblings, Lisa will be remembered for her compassionate spirit.   

You can honor Lisa by making a donation to the Arizona Animal Welfare League in Lisa’s honor. 

aawl.org/content/tribute-and-memorial-gifts 

George M. Sweeney

January 1944 – October 2023

Born on January 14, 1944,  William Sweeney, a true architectural luminary dedicated over four decades to shaping Palos Verdes and beyond.  When the Peninsula Art Jury was formed in 1923, their goal was to assure architectural consistency and over the past 40 years,Sweeney has been a leading proponent and protector of that aesthetic, both as a member of the Palos Verdes Art Jury and the Rolling Hills Architectural Review Committee and as an architect.

Raised amidst the rural charm of the South Bay, he transformed his idyllic surroundings into an enduring artistic legacy. Initially drawn to commercial art, Sweeney’s trajectory shifted when a college professor steered him toward architecture in 1971 at the University of Southern California. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that left an indelible mark on Southern California’s architectural identity.

In 1976, a serendipitous encounter with a real estate office on the Peninsula propelled Sweeney into a prolific career, designing residences from Palos Verdes Estates to New York City. Integral to the Palos Verdes Art Jury and Rolling Hills Architectural Review Committee, his dedication to preserving the Peninsula’s aesthetic consistency earned him admiration.

Architect Jeff Dahl hailed Sweeney as a “master craftsman” whose expertise transcended aesthetics, delving into the fundamental interplay of structure, function, and beauty. A guardian of architectural integrity, Sweeney’s legacy, synonymous with traditional architecture in Palos Verdes, reflects a life devoted to elevating cultural essence. Some of the styles of homes he designed on the Palos Verdes Peninsula include; Italian, Contemporary Ranch, American Colonial, Traditional Ranch, French Normandy, Spanish Colonial and Early California Ranch.

William Sweeney, born on January 14, 1944, passed away on October 10, 2023. As we mourn the loss of this visionary architect, we celebrate his profound influence, shaping architectural landscapes and inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in both art and functionality.

Heather Kramer

November 1964 – April 2023

Heather was a remarkable individual whose life embodied dedication, compassion, and community spirit. Growing up in Palos Verdes Estates with parents Drexel and Kathryn Chapman, Heather shared a close bond with her younger sister Camyn, who, in turn, blessed her with two precious nieces. 

Heather’s academic journey led her to graduate from PVHS in 1983, followed by earning a degree from the USC School of Accounting in 1989. Her professional path brought her to Santa Monica, where she worked for Disney and Honda. Heather’s heart, however, belonged to her family, including her two beloved sons, Jared and Lawson. 

Beyond her professional success, Heather was an active member of the Trojan League, PTA, and Booster Club, reflecting her commitment to education and community. Known for her philanthropic spirit, she engaged fervently in charity work, leaving a lasting impact on those around her. Heather Kramer will be remembered not only for her professional achievements but, more importantly, for her enduring love for family, friends, and the community she so dearly served. 

Dawn Golding

September 1965 – May 2023

My friend Dawn Golding was a force of unwavering strength and kindness. Her battle with congestive heart failure wasn’t just a health struggle; it was a testament to her resilience. She faced each day with a grace that was nothing short of inspiring. Despite the challenges, she always managed to offer a smile, a comforting word, or a listening ear. 

Matthew, her husband of over three decades, was her constant. Their love was enduring and unshakable. Through thick and thin, they stood together, a beacon of what a true partnership should be. Her children, Becca and Josh, were the center of Dawn’s universe. I’ve witnessed the pride in Dawn’s eyes whenever she spoke of them. Rebecca, with her unwavering determination, and Joshua, with his gentle spirit, were her greatest joys. 

Dawn, with a BA from the University of Colorado and a Master’s from Boston University, dedicated 32 years to Occupational Therapy. From pediatrics to geriatrics, she cared for patients across diverse settings like acute care and skilled nursing facilities. At Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s Home Health department for a decade, she served while managing an OT business aiding adults in day programs.   

Dawn curated therapy tools, ran a durable medical product library for the community, and lived a vibrant life swimming, playing tennis and recently pickleball, exploring new recipes, and cherishing walks with her golden retriever, Riley and me by her side.  

I’ll cherish the moments we shared, the lessons she imparted, and the love she so generously gave. Dawn will always be woven into the fabric of my life and her spirit will live on within me and everyone she touched.

Ann Rheinstrom Cullen

1943 – 2023

Together with her husband Bill and their two adult daughters, Nina Berry and Debbie Chaky, along with their families, Ann shared a remarkable journey through a life filled with love, laughter, parties, travel, community service, and above all, fun! Born in Evanston, Illinois, Ann lived a vibrant life. From New York City to Rancho Palos Verdes, she actively engaged in community roles, radiating a gentle spirit, nurturing presence, positive energy, wide smile, organizational skills, and unwavering devotion. Truly a people-person, over the years, she held active board positions in the Junior Women’s Club, Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital, and National Charity League, while also volunteering at Torrance Memorial Hospital. A golf enthusiast, she organized tournaments locally and in Palm Desert. However, her greatest joy was being a devoted mother and grandmother, leaving an enduring impact.Ann’s legacy is one of warmth, joy, and dedicated service, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Ronnie Silverstone

1942 – 2023

Ronnie Silverstone passed away on February 7, 2023. For over 36 years, Ronnie was dedicated to her career as a kindergarten and preschool teacher, where she bonded deeply with her students and filled her classrooms with joyful music. Music was a big part of Ronnie’s life, and she would often be spotted dancing and singing along with her students. She expanded her musical gift beyond the walls of the classroom by connecting with popular artists to produce children’s concerts, and even created Bubble Rock Productions, an organization dedicated to spreading joy through the development of music concerts and summer concert series throughout Southern California. A truly selfless giver. Anything she made from Bubble Rock was promptly deposited into her grandchildren’s college fund. She ran Bubble Rock for over 20 years and many of the participating artists became her cherished friends.

Ronnie was passionate and a perpetually smiling “Energizer bunny,” and a true inspiration to all. She loved bubbles and designed a bubble class, where she taught children the magic and wonder of bubble blowing. She was a woman of many talents. She loved making Bubbie cookies with her grandchildren, knitting scarves for women’s shelters, digging in the dirt, playing mahjong, hiking, spearheading the Palos Verdes Catholic-Jewish coalition, and starting the “Knit-Wits.” Beyond all, she was dedicated to her students, friends, the Jewish community, Congregation Ner Tamid, and had an infinite amount of love for her immediate and extend family. She is immensely missed, now and forever.