Laurel Mae Comden, 82, passed away at home on Friday, Dec. 4. She was born on February 2, 1927 in Remus, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, and her daughter, Phyllis Noyes.

Laurel is survived by her son, Robert Comden and wife Kathy of Manteca; daughter, Gay Thompson and husband “Dud” of Cave Junction, Oregon; son-in-law, William Noyes of Manteca; and “adopted” sons and daughter, Bill and Mary Hogan of Manteca and Walt Myers of Canton, Ohio. Laurel was proud of all of her grandchildren, Amy, Christopher, Robert Jr., Jennifer, Katie, Brenda, Brad, Jeannette, Shannon, and Emily. She also had 11 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Laurel married Bill and started their family in 1942. In 1963 they moved to Manteca where they owned and operated two bait shops and gas stations.

They also owned and ran Butches’ Office, a small beer bar here in town. Besides her work in the family businesses, Laurel was always involved with raising kids, her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. When she could find extra time she enjoyed baking pies, reading, traveling, and slipping off to Reno to play the slot machines. Laurel will be greatly missed by family and friends.

The family also wishes to thank Hospice of San Joaquin County for making her last days more comfortable. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Hospice of San Joaquin County, 3888 Pacific Ave., Stockton, CA 95211. Park View Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009