The Veterans Foundation of Stanislaus County is comprised of diverse group of dedicated and concerned citizens and professionals; each bringing a special talent and experience to help support vital areas within the Foundation. Many board members are veterans themselves and are enthusiastic about ‘giving back’ to the community and to other fellow veterans.

Bobbi LaFargue – Chief Executive Officer, Director

 

Michael D. Pelucca – Co-Chair, Treasurer

Mike served two tours in Vietnam as a U.S. Marine. He retired, after 38 years in education as a high school Business Education Teacher. Mike is active in the Marine Corps League, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Legion. He is also a current staff member of the annual Stanislaus County Marine Reserves Toys for Tots Campaign. Mike also tutors adults in Reading for Literacy programs.

 

Vicki Patterakis -  Secretary

Vicki was a professional singer prior to marrying Chris Patterakis from Modesto, California. She performed in nightclubs across the country and appeared on several major TV shows. Lt. Col. Chris Patterakis served 24 years in the U.S. Air Force, and was the Commander/Leader and team member of the famous Air Force Thunderbirds precision flying squadron. Vicki was a member of the Greater Modesto Kiwanis Club, served on the Grand Jury for one year and was a member of Doctors Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors.

 

Ben Williams - Director

Ben served in the U.S. Army Combat Engineers during the Persian Gulf Era. He works for the Modesto City School district and has held past leadership positions in the American Legion and the Voiture 40/8.

 

Ron Martin - Director

Ron served in U.S. Air Force at the end of the Vietnam era as a Graphic Design Specialist. He now has over 34 years experience as a senior graphic designer, copywriter, photographer, commercial printer, website designer, marketing specialist, and creative director.

Bob Trout -  Director

 

 

 

Diane Talbert - Director

 

 

 

Tamera Pantejo - Director

 

 

 

Steve Fimbrez - Director

 

 

 

Loretta Laughlin - Director

 

 

 

Carmen Johnson - Director

 

 

 

Mary Wise - Director

 

 

Mr. Sammy White-Ephrain - Director

Honorary Board Members

Carolyn Crown – Honorary Director

Dale Butler – Honorary Director

Patty Stone – Honorary Director

Thomas C. Watling, Ph.D – Honorary Director

Art Rossetti – Honorary Director

Advisory Committee

David Barnes, CFRE

Robert Hawks, CPA

Jerry Warren

Joseph Sicilian

Robert Burns, CPA

Aaron Bazan