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Gordon L. Boles

Gordon L. Boles passed away peacefully at the age of 89 at his home in Sonoma.

A native Californian, Gordon was born in Hollywood where he spent all his school years. He graduated from Hollywood High School and went to work for Paramount Studio in the publicity department handling mail for noted actors. He also conducted tours of the studio.

World War II broke out and he joined the Navy in San Diego where he obtained training in communication. He was shipped to the New Hebrides Islands in the South Pacific serving his term in the Navy with duties in communications and the supply corp.

Gordon returned to Paramount Studio in Hollywood for a year, then went to college in Pueblo Colorado receiving his degree. He returned to California moving to San Francisco and became a salesperson for Fuller Paint company and the manager of their San Rafael store. Later, he returned to San Francisco to work for F. Schumacher & Co. a fabric and decorators showroom.

Gordon loved traveling and went all over the world. He enjoyed the various art cultures of Asia and Europe. He particularly enjoyed Norway where his family originated.

He retired at 70 and moved to Sonoma where he lived for 19 years. He needed something to do so decided to take up portrait drawing and became an accomplished portrait artist.

He is survived by his companion of 55 years, Vic de Beck; and a cousin, Teresa Waldman, of Mendocino.

A private memorial will be held in San Francisco by Neptune Society.