John Joseph ‘Bud’ Brain Sr.

Longtime Sonoma resident John Joseph “Bud” Brain Sr., a Coast Guard veteran of World War II and former San Francisco fireman, died peacefully in his home with his wife and family by his side on Dec. 28, 2013, at the age of 92.

Bud was one of three children born to the late Victor and Josephine Brain of San Francisco on Nov. 19, 1921. He is survived by the love of his life, Ramona Brain, of 55 years, and his brothers-in-law Tom Balestreri, Angelo Figueroa and Ralph Cavillo as well as loving sisters-in-law Catherine Miller, Irene Figueroa and Gladys Martinez. Bud is the proud father of John Brain Jr., Joseph Brain (Robyn), Janet Almanza (Anthony); grandfather of Felicia, John III (Kendra), Alisha, Michael, Chelsea, Stephanie (Jose); great-grandfather of Jr., Valeria, Bryan, Noah, Panela, and Lauren, along with countless loving nieces, nephews, family and friends who were blessed to have known him. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Evelyn Balestreri and brother Tony Brain (Katherine).

Bud was a member of the SF American Legion, Druids and Native Sons of the Golden West. Bud loved to cook fresh seafood on the beach with his family, cook for the firehouse and at home, cheer on his 49ers and Giants, play card games, and have fun with his family and friends. He touched the lives of many people with his contagious smile and generosity and will be greatly missed.

Friends and family are invited to attend a funeral mass at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2014, at St. Francis Solano Church, 469 Third St. W., Sonoma, followed by a burial at Sonoma Veterans Memorial Park and a celebration of life at the Sonoma Valley Veterans Memorial Building. There will be a vigil service at Duggan’s Mission Chapel, 525 W. Napa St., Sonoma, at 4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014, with visitations from 2 to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Project St. Francis Solano Church at 469 Third St., W., Sonoma, CA 95476, and Hospice By The Bay at 190 W. Napa St., Sonoma, CA 95476.