John Ferber, Grand Knight. John characterizes himself as a “small town boy” who went to the big city and realized his dreams. Born in Minnesota, he received his education at the University of Minnesota and was employed by First Bank Systems (now U.S. Bank) where he became an Executive Vice President in charge of the company’s Real Estate Business Line. He later served as head of the Commercial Real Estate Finance activities of the Mortgage Bankers Association of America in Washington D.C. John is currently affiliated with the Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate at the University of San Diego.
John and Jean celebrated 42 years of wedded bliss in June. They have three married daughters; Lynn, Julie and Karen, and four grandchildren.
After they chose the Escondido area as their retirement haven, the Ferbers chose St. Timothy’s for their spiritual home. St. Tim’s made them feel right at home. True to their active natures, they became involved as Eucharistic Ministers and in the St. Francis Small Church Community. Separately, Jean added the Shepherd’s Ministry, Women’s Ministry and Sacred Dying Companion Program to her repertoire while John chose Hospitality Ministry, the Men’s Ministry, and Finance Council. They also assist with Scrip sales.
John and Jean have been very active in the annual American Heart Association’s Heart Walk since 2000, when John suffered a major heart attack and underwent open-heart surgery. John also serves on the boards of the Combined Health Agencies (CHAD) of United Way and the San Diego/Tijuana Urban Land Institute. Additionally, Jean has enjoyed 12 years as a Hospice Patient Care Volunteer. When time permits, they enjoy their grandchildren, play a little golf, travel, and enjoy socializing with family and friends.
John joined the Knights in 2004, and served as Chancellor and Deputy Grand Knight. He states, “I view it as an extension of my faith, bonding with Brothers who share similar values, involved in committed service to Christ. It is an honor to serve the St. Timothy Council 10802 as Grand Knight for the coming year."
Jim Butkus, Deputy Grand Knight. Jim was born in Bronxville, New York. He moved to Escondido in 1974, after living and working in the Republic of Panama where he was employed by NCR.
Jim attended St. Joseph’s Seminary and College, in Yonkers, NY, but left a year before his ordination to marry "the most wonderful person in the world," Margaret Blade. Margaret passed away in 2003, after she and Jim enjoyed thirty-five years together. Jim's daughter, Anita, is married and blessed him with two wonderful grand children, Gavin 8, and Grace 5.
Jim initially taught in the Catholic and public schools of New York State. He then pursued a career as a software systems analyst and related jobs. He held numerous management positions at a number of firms, including NCR, General Dynamics and Qualcom. Jim also taught computer science at night at Palomar College, and in the graduate school of computer science at West Coast University. Jim retired when Margaret became seriously ill.
Jim is very active in the music ministry of the Church. He is a member of the San Diego Diocesan Chorale, and at St. Tim's, he sings in the choir, the contemporary ensemble, and also serves as a cantor. Additionally, Jim volunteers as an RCIA instructor. Jim describes himself as a voracious reader of theology, science, history, biography and current affairs. He also has worked extensively with computers, building and rebuilding PCs and doing some software development.
Jim joined the Knights in the Regina Coeli council about twenty-five years ago. Later, he transferred to the Church of the Resurrection, and then to our council in 2003. Jim joined the Knights because he was seeking increased contact with Catholic men, and he wanted to participate in their acts of mercy and charity. "At St. Timothy," Jim states, "I cannot adequately mention how impressed I am with the spirit and attitude of the council. Ad multos annos!" When asked why he accepted the responsibility to become an officer in the Council, Jim stated, "I joyously accepted the chance to increase my service to the organization because of how much I admire and enjoy the council, and because I feel I haven’t offered enough service to a council, which offers so much to me. I may never break even, but I’ll try, I promise!"
Roy Galli, Financial Secretary. Roy moved to Escondido from northern California where he was born and raised. He received his BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Santa Clara and MS at Stanford. He and his wife, Carolyn, celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary last month. They have three married sons (Kent, Mark and Brian) and three grandchildren.
After serving seven years in the U.S. Coast Guard, Roy opened his own business in civil engineering where he remained until his retirement in 2003. Upon his retirement, the Galli's moved to Escondido to be near their sons and their grand children.
Over the years, Roy served on numerous committees in the parishes to which he belonged. He joined the Knights in 1986, and transferred to St. Tim's in December 2003. Roy views the Knights "…as an extension of my faith, and the opportunity to associate with fellow Brothers who share similar values and a strong commitment of service to Jesus Christ. I am delighted to have time to be of service to St. Timothy's Council 10802."
In addition to the Knights, Roy is a member of the Small Church Community, Genesis, and St. Tim's Men's Ministry. He is a cook and server at Interfaith, and he does a weekly route of Meals on Wheels.
Roy and Carolyn enjoy snow skiing, music, gardening, travel, fishing/hunting, and cooking.
Ray Thomson, Chancellor. Ray was born in Wisconsin and grew up with 7 brothers and sisters. His mother was a devout Catholic who encouraged everyone in the family to observe all the religious customs. Her religion was very important to her because Ray's father had major psychological problems which left her with the sole responsibility to hold the
family together. She wanted Ray to become a priest. He started to work towards that goal, but changed directions and earned a degree in English Education with a Masters in Counseling.
After working several years at a college in Wisconsin, Ray move to California to study telecommunications and film. While working at KPBS, a co-worker suggested he work part time at a Driving Under the Influence Program (DUI) in Chula Vista. Ray said, "I fell in love with the work because it has a very spiritual aspect to it. We help people look at their lives and reset their priorities by cutting down or cutting out their drinking /drug use. I am especially touched when children are saved from a lifetime of pain, because their parents become sober while in our program." Ray has been with the North County DUI program for over 19 years and currently works as a supervisor.
In his first months in California Ray met his wife-to-be, Joan Godfrey, who was also from Wisconsin. They celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary last month. While members of St Marks and Resurrection, they occasionally attended St Timothy's services at the Del Dios School and decided to become members shortly after the new church was built. Ray has been involved with the Men's Ministry, and both he and Joan are in the Choir.
Ray's father-in-law was a Knight and Joan was highly supportive of Ray when he joined the Knights a few years ago. Ray, a Fourth Degree Knight, explained, "It feels good being part of a group that can make a difference."
Tony Bufalini, Treasurer. Tony moved to Escondido and joined the Knights in October 2003. Prior to moving "Up North", Tony and his wife Maryann, lived in San Diego for the last 33 years where they attended Our Mother of Confidence Church. Both Tony and Maryann were active in their parish. The Bufalini's were married on August 26, 1961 in Los Angeles. They moved to Buena Park a year later and lived there for 8 years. The next move to San Diego was the result of a job transfer.
Tony and Maryann have three children, Don, Lisa and Lori, and six grandchildren who all live nearby. Tony states that "We are very blessed to have all our family living near us".
Prior to his retirement last December, Tony worked in Sales and Sales Management in the wholesale printing paper and packaging industry for 38 years. Over the years he has been involved in various community organizations such as the Jaycee's and Optimist Club International serving as Lt. Governor.
Tony recently started working part time in his old industry. He also does volunteer work for the California Highway Patrol, which he states is very exciting and rewarding.
Maryann and Tony enjoy entertaining in their new home, going out to dinner with family and friends, traveling, and best of all spending time with all their grandchildren.
Upon joining the Knights, Tony committed to being involved. He states, "I've always felt that if you are going to belong to any organization, you should become a participant and not just an observer. After completing his 4th Degree in 2006, Tony noted, "Experiencing the 4th Degree exemplification was spiritually and personally rewarding. My direct involvement with our council has brought both Maryann and I many new friends within our parish community and brought us spiritually closer to Our Lord."
Jim Healey, Advocate. Jim was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. He graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in 1958, and married Nancy Ann Turner in its Chapel on June 7, 1958. He then spent four years as a Navy Destroyer officer, home-ported in Norfolk and Charleston. He worked in Washington, DC and Honolulu for a defense communications contractor, then was hired by UNIVAC and trained as a Programmer and Systems Analyst. He worked on Apollo, Skylab and many unmanned space programs for NASA, and for Social Security Administration, all in Maryland. He earned a Masters Degree from American University (DC) at night. Jim worked for the US Government (GSA) for 22 years as a Supervisory Computer Specialist, and retired in 1995. He now works part time as a Consultant helping small businesses get GSA Schedule Contracts.
Nancy and Jim raised four daughters - Mary, Angela, Christina, and Susan - and enjoy six grand children.
As members of St. John the Baptist Parish in Silver Spring, MD, Jim and Nancy coached CYO basketball, worked in the Pre-Cana Ministry and the Parochial School Board, and Jim sang in the Choir for fifteen years. They joined Teams of Our Lady in 1991, and served as Responsible Couple, Liaison Couple, and Sector Couple. In 2002, learning that Angela was expecting, they moved to Champagne Village in Escondido.
The Healey's joined St. Mark's Parish in San Marcos where they sang in the choir. In October 2004, they toured Ireland with the St. Timothy's group led by Father Rafferty, and liked them so much they decided to transfer to St. Timothy's where they both now sing in the choir.
Brother Jim joined the Knights in November 2004, and is a 4th Degree Knight. Responding to why he volunteered for Advocate, he stated, "I love God, the Church and the Knights of Columbus, and want to serve them well!"
Joe Gold, Warden. Joe was born and raised in Wyoming. His father was a sheepherder, while his mom was a housewife and part time worker. Joe was the youngest of three sons. Since one other son was also named Joe, they were referred to by their middle name. In Joe’s case, “Archie.”
Joe spent his Army military career at White Sands Proving Grounds. After his discharge, he returned to Wyoming where he worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for 36 years. Joe and Margi were married on April 10, 1982. They both have children from previous marriages, Karen and Roger for Joe, and Doug and Betsy for Margi.
Margi recently graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a Master of Divinity degree. She worships at Christ Community Church in Mira Mesa. She is also a Chaplain at the Family Justice Center in San Diego, and is employed as Manager at their mobile home park at Carefree Ranch.
When Joe, a 4th Degree Knight, joined the Knights he made a commitment that he would be as involved and committed as possible. Additionally, Joe serves the church in the Hospitality Ministry, and is also a member of St. Michael the Archangel small church group.
Joe’s unique hobby is making Christmas decorations from shells he finds at the beach, or any other material he can find. Joe also likes to paint with acrylics. When not working on his handcrafts he can be found outside working on his flowers/cactus or exercising in some fashion.
Justin (JP) Panlasigui, Recorder. Since he moved to Escondido in 1997, JP has provided service to the church through the Eucharistic Ministry, Youth Ministry, teaching elementary Religious Education, and committing seven years to Altar Serving. JP decided to join the Knights of Columbus to expand his own outreach experience, and to help branch the youth into a more active role in the church; he is a Fourth Degree Knight.
JP attended Escondido Charter High School where he achieved the honor of Valedictorian for the Class of 2003. He also received awards from Phi Beta Kappa for academic excellence, and served as ASB President from 2001-2002. He currently attends the Art Institute of Califonia, majoring in Media Arts and Animation. Additionally, he maintains a freelancing career in graphics design, digital photography, and web mastering.
PGK Pat Burke, One Year Trustee. Pat was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended the Universitary of Missouri where he earned a BS in Agriculture with a major in Wild Life Mamagement. He retired after 25 years from the U.S.D.A., Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Since 1990, Pat worked in the Garden Department at Home Depot, sold unique shade trees for a nursery wholesaller, and worked at Heller Ford in Escondido. He currently works at the Jeep/GMC Dealership in Escondido's Auto Row. Somehow, Pat also finds time to manage the Knights of Columbus Hall in Escondido.
Pat and Harriet celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary last month. They have two children, Jeffrey in San Diego and Elizabeth in Seattle, and four grand children.
During a three year assignment with NRCS in Pocahontas, Arkansas (1970 – 1973), several Catholic gentlemen invited Pat to join the Knights. Within 18 months, Pat attained all four degrees, but, because of the demands of his job, he was not able to be active – he paid his dues, participated in fund raisers and socials, and beyond that he was a "Silent Knight." Some years ago, when Pat found himself with free evenings and weekends, he decided to get active – we all know the results from there! Pat served Council 10802 as Deputy Grand Knight, Grand Knight, and now, Trustee. Additionally, Pat volunteers with the Annual Life Resources Network Program and Culture of Life Family Services projects.
In addition to their own family, the Burke's enjoy the Parish family through the Men's Ministry, Choir, and Women of St. Timothy. Their annual highlight is crusing with their friends from St. Timothy. They always look forward to get togethers with friends and "settling the Nations problems."
PGK Jim McAllister, Two Year Trustee. Jim and his wife Marlene were born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. They have three children, Jim, Kevin, and Leslie Ann as well as four grand children. The McAllisters celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary last month.
After graduating from Kent State University, Jim entered the Navy and began his career as a Navy Flight Officer, and finished with 21 years of service. His career was highlighted with flying assignments from the Cuban Missile crisis to combat operations in Viet Nam. Jim spent three years at the University of Kansas as a NROTC instructor and sophomore class officer. He also worked on his Masters Degree in Finance.
Jim's eldest son, James, followed in his father's footsteps and entered the Marine Corps after graduating from UCSD, piloting the UH-1N Huey attack helicoptor. Jim's oldest grandson, Michael Ryan, has been accepted to West Point and will be in the graduating class of 2008. Ryan will be the fourth generation of McAllister's to serve their country. Jim's father served in the Navy during World War I.
Jim's hobbies include golf, gardening, and travel. After retiring from General Dynamics in 1999, Jim took up full time retirement but soon tired of it and began his Real Estate career at Jim Roberts Realty Associates. Jim looks forward to an active role in the Knights of Columbus for many more years to come.
PGK Frank Tooker, Three Year Trustee. Frank was born in New Jersey. He has lived in San Diego since 1959, attending St. Brigid's elementary school in Pacific Beach, University High School and the University of California, San Diego where he graduated in 1972.
Frank met Patty while they were both working at Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation. They were married in October, 1976. The Tookers have two daughters, Angela and Michelle.
Patty is a Research Scientist for a pharmaceutical company. Frank spent the last 20 plus years as a computer programmer, systems analyst and manager. Currently, he is the I.T. Director for a medical device distributor.
The Tooker's enjoy travel and camping in National Parks where they get plenty of opportunity to pursue there interest in photography.
After living in Mira Mesa (Good Shepherd parish) for 18 years, the Tookers moved to Escondido and joined St. Timothy's in April, 2000. Frank and Patty both sing in the choir. After being invited by then Grand Knight, Ralph Landmesser, Frank joined the Knights in November, 2001. He received his 4th Degree in February, 2003. Frank says, "I joined the Knights because of the type of person Ralph was and feel priviledged to have met many like him in the Knights. I became an officer because I believe that if you join an organization like the Knights, you owe it commitment and participation."
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