James Hamilton Morgan1,2,3,4

M, #36, b. 31 March 1864, d. 4 February 1961

Family 1: Lydia May Houghton b. 16 Apr 1867, d. 15 Nov 1938

Family 2: Lillie Lurene Valentine b. 8 May 1895, d. 19 Sep 1957

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMar 31, 1864near, Boonville, Yadkin Co., NC, USA, age 7 in 1870; Mar 1864, age 36 in 1900 census; age 45 in 19105,6,3,7
Occupationa superintendent of Schools; practiced law; and was a real estate broker8
LetterOct 12, 1885He states that if she ever wants to break up their friendship "to place the pepper box in the road about one inch west from your house."
GraduationDrake University, Des Moines, IA, USA, Ph. B; also did graduate work at the Univ. of California and Univ. of Washington; he was admitted to the Iowa State Bar9
MarriageDec 20, 1887Albion, Marshall Co., IA, USA, at the farm home of her parents10,4
Immigration1891Gilman, Marshall Co., IA, USA11
1900 Census1900Dayton, Cedar Co., IA, USA, age 36, principal of schools12
1910 Census1910Glenwood, Mills Co., IA, USA13
DivorceNov 23, 1912Glenwood, Mills Co., IA, USA14
MarriageJun 4, 192015,16,4
Note1927Cut Bank High School, Cut Bank, MT, USA, music director
Associationthe Democratic party. He was president of the Iowa State Teacher's Assoc., twice chairman of the County Democratic Convention in Iowa; chairman of district Democatic Club in Seattle, precinct committeman for 20 years; member of the Exec. Board, King Co. Democratic Central Committee for 10 years, member of the Doric Lodge No. 92, F. & A. Masons, and member of the McGuffey Reader's Society.
City Dirctbetween 1931 and 1959Seattle, King Co., WA, USA17
Residence1942Seattle, King Co., WA, USA, 431 16th Ave.18
Retirement1958Seattle, WA, USA
LetterApr, 1960St. Petersburg, FL, USA, He was mentally clear.
Address1961Redington Beach, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
DeathFeb 4, 1961Mound Park Hospital, St. Petersburg, Pinellas Co., FL, USA19,4
BurialFeb 7, 1961Liscomb Cemetery, Liscomb, IA, USA, in the Morgan Family plot. He was cremated.20
BiographyHe was born in Boonville, NC in 1864. In 1870 census, age 7, he was at Providence, Hardin Co, IA. He was in school until he was 14. He worked on a farm for 3 years. He lived one summer at Carleton (now Popejoy) with his brother Drew. Drew found him a job with a railroad fence building. He was promoted to "straw boss" and took charge of reports at age 16. Drew insisted he return to school. He attended the Albion Seminary and graduated from the 4 year course in 2 years. He taught his first school at age 17. After finishing the Albion Seminary, he taught for 3 years. He attended Drake Univ. for a year then returned to teaching and began working for the Iowa State Teachers certificate and the study of the law. He passed the state certificate in 2 years passed the exams for Profess. Life Diploma in another year, and the State Bar exam. He coached athletics at Clarence and Sigourney. He was a school and Chautauqua lecturer, trained the town bands, vocal quartets and orchestras where he lived. He directed orchestras, bands and all kinds of vocial music in connection with his school positions, and was director of many Church choirs. He composed 60 or more school songs, and had an unpublished textbook on public speaking. He coached boy's athletics and practiced law in his spare time and had a real estate office. In 1890, he co-edited the Albion Seminary Alumni Magazine with Frank Houghton. He met Lydia at Albion Seminary and in 12/1887 married her. At age 23, he was the principal of the Albion public schools. He lived at the Houghton home until Genevieve was born in 1889. He moved to Gilman, Marshall Co, IA, where he was superintendent of schools. He moved to Clarence, Cedar Co, IA in 1893 where he was superintendent for 12 years. He moved to Sigourney in 1904 where he was superintendent for 4 years. He taught for 43 years, mostly in Iowa. He joined the Masonic Lodge there. He moved to Glenwood, Mills Co, IA in 1908 where he was superintendent for 4 years. The 1910 Census lists him at Glenwood, superintendent of schools, age 45, married 23 years. He was divorced by Lydia in 1912 . He was known as a scholar and read several languages. He was offered a professorship in English at Drake University. In 1938 he sent flowers for his ex-wife Lydia's funeral, and his son Max tracked him down through the florist. His granddaughter Jan Morgan visited him and his wife Lurene in 1948 in Seattle, WA. He and Lurene owned some copper claims located 4 miles northwest of Silverton, Washington, next to Deer Creek, for 7 years. They would make trips there where they had a cabin. He wrote poetry and published a lullaby with music. The Seattle City Directory lists him there in 1931 at 431 16th Ave, with Lurene. He was listed as a teacher in 1931 and 1934. He was listed alone in 1958 and last appeared in the 1959 directory. Lurene died before him . He left everything to her in his will. Marshall Uran was discouraged from visiting him because of family feelings toward him. He was know as "Prof." and "Supt.". He was an educator for 43 years and in the real estate business for 30 years. At age 90 he organized a male quarter in the McGuffey Reader's Society (average age of 80). He was in Seattle, Wash. in 1958 at age 94 (photo). In the last several years of his life, his son Max brought him to live with him at St. Petersburg, FL. He needed nursing home care toward the end of his life and died in St. Petersburg at age 97.

On 2/5/1952, he wrote on a map of his father's journey to Iowa from Boonville, NC: "Copied from the Diary of Hardin Morgan. Left Boonville, Oct. 17-1969. First day, stayed all night at Brooktown, Forsythe Co. Second day, stayed all night near Kernersville. Third day, got to Greensboro; took the cars ten o'clock at night; got to Richmond at eleven next morning. Left at one the same day; went to West Point in 2 hours - 35 miles. Took passage on the Kennebec 20 minutes after 3 P.M. Sailed 215 miles under Capt. Fremont; got to Baltimore at 8 o'clock in the morning. Left Baltimore by train at 4 in the evening; passed through Bellaire and Janusville, all got to Columbus. Passed through Union City, 5 P.M., Friday; reaching Logans in the morning at nine; (snowing very foot). Got to Chicago at 9 P.M; left at 11. Crossed the Mississippi at Clinton. Got to State Center, Iowa at 11, after passing through Cedar Rapids and Marshalltown, and arrived at New Providence, (wagon & on foot-18 miles) Nov. 20th, 1869. Moved to Liscomb, Ia., Nov. 7th, 1870.
I traced our journey from North Carolina to Iowa, as shown by the above Map.

James Hamilton Morgan, youngest son of Hardin and Elizabeth Morgan; now the last living one of the Morgan Family of eleven Children. I shall be 88 on March 31st, 1952. Dated Feb.5-1952." He stated that only his mother, and Ellen and Jimmie rode in the wagon from State Center to New Providence; everyone else walked the 18 miles. Eight children made the trip from North Carolina to IA (Mase, Mattie, Jack, Lou, Emma, Jimmie, and Ellen Annetta).

"The Great Treck of 4 Families" (by J. (Jack) Morgan (spelling as given): "The Morgan Family comprising 12, including Father and Mother; Next comes Mose Cordals Family comprising 8, the next was Isham Copeland--wife and son John, then comes a new married couple Lewis Hall and Manda Cordle, one of Mose's daughters. We started from near Boonville, Yadkin County, North Carolina. Was on the road 3 days and 2 nites before we reached Greansboro where we took the train at 10 o'clock at nite. However Father being better educated and having more business experience, swing to his dealing in his manufacturing and selling tobacco, was chosen Captain and Head Spokesman of the Entire outfit. And when the tickets was bought, which cost $79 for all full fare tickets and $40 for half fare tickets. Mat and I came through for 1/2 fare, although Mat was above the age limit of 12 years. Jimmy and little Ellin came through free. None of us but Father had ever seen a train or large town before and you can bet your bottom dollar we were wide eyed. We reached Richmond, Vaginnia [sic] 11 o'clock the next day. Left there at L - 10. Reached West Point and took the beat Kennebeck 3:30 same day. Reached Baltimore, Marriland 8 o'clock next morning. Remained there 8 hours. Left at 4 P.M. Our Caption's namewas Fremont. Lots of people get sea sich and kept the Limber Legs busy with their mops and pails. We was offered a grand dinner on the beat about 9 P.M . free of charge, but we were so shabbaly dressed Mother would not let us go in the dinning room. Father, nancy, I and I think Sister Lou, went to the door and looked in at the table and it just dazzled our eyes as we had never sean any thing to compare with it before. My recollection is, Father and I think nance went in and dined, but I'm not certain abot it.
Got to Ohio River at Belair, 7:30. Our trian ran onto a Ferry Boat and they took us train and all across. Reached Zanesville, Ohio at 10:30 A.M. Passed Union City, at 5 P.M. Friday evening. Got to Logansport, Indiana 2 o'clock Saturday morning. Reached Chicago Illinois at 9, crossed the Mississippi River 4 P.M. on a wire Bridg reaching from bank to bank composed of 6 heavy wire cables, the First and only rail road bridg crossing the river at that time. Our train cralled across so slow you could hardly feal it move. It sagged down almost touching the water, we arrived at State Center 11 P.M. remained there till 9 Sunday A.M. Father got 3 teams to hall the outfit to friends near New Providence where we staid over nite. Then went on to Quill Spears. Then moved to New Providence. Lived there 1 year. Then moved to Liscomb, where Father and Isham Copeland, our friend and neighbor back in North Carolina bought 2 lots side by each and built houses wher Father and Mother spent the remainder of their lives."

He and Lurene taught school in Montana and after retiring moved to Seatlle WA.

He stated that his grandparents were all born in Virginia, except for grandma Knight who was born in Wales.

On July 19,1887, he wrote to May Houghton: "I commenced at the age of 11 to buy my own clothes. I have never allowed father to buy me one single "dud" since. The spring I was 14 I began work on the farm as a full hand and worked the year round except 2 or 3 months in the winter, giving all my earnings outside of my own expenses to Father until I was almost 20. I left home then simply because father depended upon me and not himself. He at one time was well off and could have been rich if not for his mismanagement, and when I saw that he was able to work, I knew that he ought to do it and not receive so much help from his children, till no longer able to labor, so I left home with $10 in pocket and since then it has been 4 yrs during which time I have gone to school 2 yrs which cost me full $300 nearly all borrowed money, which I have repaid during the two years I have been out of school besides taking the trip to Nebraska which cost me $50 and I now have $50 to my credit."

According to Fern Hauser, James had a fine voice and sang a lead role in the opera, "Barbara Fritchie".4
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S3] Vivian Imogene Uran, Houghton Genealogy - V.I. Uran, p.289, #377.
  2. [S91] City Directory, 1931 to 1959.
  3. [S235] U.S. Census, 1870 Providence, Hardin Co., IA, Box 394, p. 18.
  4. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 149.
  5. [S19] Individual's wife, Lydia May's DAR application.
  6. [S22] E.V. Uran, Family Genealogy, p. 23.
  7. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 6, 149.
  8. [S36] Letter, from James Hamilton Morgan to E. Beulah Hauser, Aug, 1941.
  9. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 86, 149.
  10. [S3] Vivian Imogene Uran, Houghton Genealogy - V.I. Uran, p. 289.
  11. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 155.
  12. [S1229] 1880 U.S. Federal Census , Dayton, Cedar, Iowa; Roll: T623 422; Page: 4A; Enumeration District: 25; line 30, dwl 92-93.
  13. [S235] U.S. Census, 1910 US Census, Glenwood, Mills Co., IA, Box 413, ED 92, S 27.
  14. [S3] Vivian Imogene Uran, Houghton Genealogy - V.I. Uran, from Lydia May Houghton.
  15. [S91] City Directory, Seattle, 1912.
  16. [S601] Family Group Sheet, sent by Jay Morgan to Charles Vella, Aug. 12, 2000.
  17. [S91] City Directory.
  18. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 6.
  19. [S86] Janet Morgan, 1994.
  20. [S990] E. Beulah Hauser & Vivian Imogene MORGAN (28), Morgan Genealogy - V. I. (Morgan) Uran, p. 66, 149.

Anthony Joseph Felice Vella

M, #39, b. 25 March 1948, d. 30 October 1984

Family:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMar 25, 1948Naxxar, Malta
SSNCA, USA, Tony Joseph Vella1
GraduationJun 13, 1970California State College, Hayward, CA, USA, BA
Educationfrom Jul 1, 1977 to Aug 1, 1982California Teaching Credential
DeathOct 30, 1984Sebastopol, Sonoma Co., CA, USA, at home, 848 High School Road1
ObituaryNov 1, 1984San Francisco Chronicle, VELLA, Antonio Felice — in Sebastopol, Oct. 30, 1984; beloved husband of Shama; father of Meisha and Hari; also survived by his parents Angelo and Josephine Vella of San Leandro, his brothers Charles Vella of SF and Louis Vella of Castro Valley and a sister Mary Jane Mordell of San Leandro; a native of Malta; age 36 years. [Errors: not married; father only of Meisha]
BurialNov 2, 1984Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Sebastapol, Sonoma Co., CA, USA1
BiographyHe was born in Naxxar, Malta, and baptized Anthony Felix Joseph Vella at the Naxxar Church. He was confirmed on Dec.10, 1960. Tony, despite his later psychiatric problems, was a very bright, gregarious, warm, and humorous individual. He was interpersonally generous and politically radical in his thinking. He made friends easily, friendships that endured. He went to Burnett School for KG, then 2nd grade at St. Boniface, then St. Paul of the Shipwreck (5-8th), then Sacred Heart High School for 1 year, then 3 years at St. Anthony's Seminary (a Franciscan Order school for the Catholic priesthood) in Santa Barbara, CA. He was captain of the Titan intramural athletic team in his senior year. He graduated on June 4, 1966. He went to San Luis Rey College for 6 months, then to Calif. State College at Hayward, receiving his BA in sociology on June 13, 1970. In 1978 he worked as an orderly and a janitor at a home for seniors. He worked at Lakeshore Equipment Company, at Doctor's Hospital in San Leandro in the kitchen, at Safeway in Oakland, and, for a short time, as a teacher's aide at Hill View Crest elementary school. He received his teaching credential from Sonoma State College. He was a teacher's aide in Sonoma. He suffered from bipolar affective disorder and was psychiatrically hospitalized 3 times at Highland Hospital and Eden Hospital. He was on Imipramine for depression. He supported himself at swap meets. He met and lived with Shama (Cheryl) Morris in Sebastopol; their daughter Meisha was born in 1981. He commited suicide by imipramine overdose at the age of 36 in 1984. His psychiatrist was sued and found negligent.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S5] Death Certificate.

Lewis Vella1

M, #40, b. 6 February 1946, d. 17 March 2021

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthFeb 6, 1946Naxxar, Malta
Graduation1964San Leandro High School, San Leandro, CA, USA
Mil. Serv.between 1966 and 1969He served in the US Air Force for 3 and half years (1966-1969), serving at Lubbeck, TX; Amarillo, TX; and at George Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert, CA for 3 years in base supply.
Occupationcomputer operator for Matson Shipping Comp.
Note2015DNA: Paternal I2b1 Maternal T2b; 3.1 % Neandertal; 55.5% DNA shared across 45 segments with brother Charlie
DeathMar 17, 2021Castro Valley, CA, USA
ObituaryMar 28, 2021Lewis J. Vella was born February 6, 1946 in Naxxar, Malta, and passed away in his sleep at home on Wednesday, March17, 2021 in Castro Valley, CA at the age of 75. He was the second of four children of Angelo Vella and Josephine Micallef. His family immigrated to San Francisco, CA in 1950. He attended Burnett, St. Boniface, and St. Paul of the Shipwreck elementary schools, and then Riordan High School.
His family moved to San Leandro, CA in 1962 and Lewis lived in the East Bay from then on. He completed San Leandro High School in 1964. He attended Chabot College for two years and then joined the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1966 to 1969, at Lubbock, TX; Amarillo, TX; and at George Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert, CA in base supply.
He worked for Lakeshore Learning Co. (school supplies), then as a printer for PIP for 3 years, then for Matson Lines, starting in 1977, first as a printer for several years, then as a computer operator for the rest of his career. He never married and retired in 2007. He liked to bowl, play online multiplayer computer games, collect books and movies, and read science fiction. Louie was a warm and friendly man, who loved life, his friends, and his family. He faithfully attended the Vella Family Annual picnic for 65 years and always brought the donuts. . He was quite the conversationalist and had the most memorable booming laugh. For many years he was part of the Vella pumpkin carving crew for Halloween. We will miss his garlic mashed potatoes and his hugs.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Anthony, and his sister Mary Jane. He is survived by his brother, Charles (and his wife Marilyn); his brother-in-law Howard Mordell; and his nieces and nephews: Lea Vella (David Byrd), Maya Vella, Meisha Vella (Luis Cruz-Rodriquez), Angie and Garrett Mordell.
Due to the Pandemic, a celebration of life will be scheduled at a future date. In Louie’s memory, enjoy each day to the fullest and share your gifts with others.
BiographyHe was born Luigi Aloysius Rosario Gerolamo Vella (per birth certificate #9179; although he thought it was Lewis Jerome until 1993) at Naxxar, Malta at Castro St. at 1 A.M. He was baptized Aloysius Rosary Gerolamo Vella on Feb. 7, 1946 at Naxxar Church (his godparents were Francis and Marianna Sceberras). He went to Burnett School on Palou St., then St. Boniface for 2nd to 6th grades, then St. Paul of the Shipwreck for 7-8th grades . He went to Pelton Jr. High for 1 year, then to Riordan High for 1 year, then to Mission High School for 6 months, (10th), then to San Leandro High for his last two years. He graduated in 1964. He moved to San Leandro with his family in 1962. He attended Chabot College for one and a half year. He got his military induction for the Marines, but joined the Air Force instead. He served in the Air Force for 3 and half years (1966-1969), serving at Lubbeck, TX; Amarillo, TX; and at George Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert, CA for 3 years in base supply. He worked for Arco Gas for 6 mths, then Lakeshore Equipment Co. (school supplies), then as a printer for PIP for 3 years, then for Matson Lines (starting 4/1977), first as a printer, then as acomputer operator. He liked to bowl, play computer games, and horse racing. He retired in 2007. He never married.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S4] Birth Certificate.

Denise Rummelhart

F, #41, b. 11 February 1977

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthFeb 11, 1977Burlingame, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
GraduationJun, 1995Terra Nova High School, Pacifica, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
Education1996College of San Mateo, San Mateo, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
Occupationbetween Aug, 2000 and Aug, 2001Denver, CO, USA, as a social worker at a nursing home
Address2005443 23rd Ave, San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA
Pedigree

Laurie Rummelhart

F, #42, b. 11 February 1977

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
BirthFeb 11, 1977Burlingame, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
Educationbetween 1995 and 1996San Francisco State University, San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA
Occupation2005Able Engineering for 6 years; management of support services
Address2005443 23rd Ave, San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA
NotWebsite
Pedigree

Frank Augusto Vella

M, #43, b. 3 October 1916, d. 2 April 1982

Family:

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
BirthOct 3, 1916Mgarr, Malta1,2
ImmigrationMay, 1939San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, Francis, a stone cutter in Malta, arrived in the United States, on board the Saturnia, in May 1939, en route to San Francisco where he had an uncle Bartolomeo (aka Albert) Vassallo.
Milit-BegDec 8, 1942U.S. Army (medic)
Name:      Frank Vella
Birth Year:      1916
Race:      White, not yet a citizen (White)
State of Residence:      California
County or City:      San Francisco
     
Enlistment Date:      8 Dec 1942
Enlistment State:      California
Enlistment City:      San Francisco
Branch:      Branch Immaterial - Warrant Officers, USA
Branch Code:      Branch Immaterial - Warrant Officers, USA
Grade:      Private
Grade Code:      Private
Term of Enlistment:      Enlistment for the duration of the War or other emergency, plus six months, subject to the discretion of the President or otherwise according to law
Component:      Selectees (Enlisted Men)
Source:      Civil Life
     
Education:      Grammar school
Civil Occupation:      Semiskilled lumbermen, raftsmen, and woodchoppers
Marital Status:      Single, without dependents
Height:      66
Weight:      189
Milit-End1946
SSNPacifica, CA, USA, 547-26-6385; zip 94044
DeathApr 2, 1982South San Francisco, San Mateo Co., CA, USA, of liver cancer2
ObituaryApr 7, 1982Pacifica Tribune, Pacifica, CA, USA
BurialHoly Cross Cemetery, Colma, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
BiographyHe was born Francesco Augusto Vella. He came to the U.S. in 1939. When he came to this country he stayed with Uncle Bob Vassello. Through the Vassellos', he met Nina. He served in U.S. Army in World War II, from 1942 to 1946 (as a medic, in unit 250). He received his U.S. citizenship in Texas; he went to Kansas; and then to England and Germany. He worked in lumber yards (belonging to his Uncle Joe, and to Mr. Woods). He drove a truck for Desolvo for 19 years. He was listed as a lumber yardman for Vassallo and Co. in 1940 and as a clerk in 1951, living at 1224 Mendell. He was listed as driver for Art Hogan Lumber Co, living at 1224 Mendell in 1953-1954. He lived at 1243 DeSoto Dr., Pacifica from Aug, 1954. He was a very personable, friendly individual.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S4] Birth Certificate.
  2. [S98] Social Security Administration.

Joseph Charles Vella

M, #44, b. 10 March 1929, d. 26 October 2014

Family:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMar 10, 1929Mgarr, Malta
ImmigrationJul 26, 1947San Francisco, CA, USA1
Milit-Beg1948Riverside, Riverside Co., CA, USA, U.S. Air Force, aircraft mechanic
Milit-End1952
Occupationa hardwood floor installer
NaturalizationApr 8, 1953San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, #7170762; living at 1500 Kirkwood2
Medicalsay 2003leukemia and cardiovascular disease; had CABG in April 2008
DeathOct 26, 2014San Bruno, CA, USA
ObituaryOct 29, 2014San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, Joseph Charles Vella
Late of San Bruno and San Mateo County resident for 56 years, entered into rest at his home on October 26, 2014. Beloved husband of Mary Vella for 58 years. Loving father of Tony (his wife Andrea), Denise (her husband Dan) and Steven (his wife Vicky). Also survived by his cherished grandchildren Kristin, Daniel, Joseph, Megan and Emily; along with great grandchildren Kaliya and Kaydan in addition to his nieces, nephews, bothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and his many friends.

A native of Mgarr, Malta, age 85 years.

Served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict; a proud member of the Maltese Club in SSF; SIRS; and a hardwood floor layer for over 40 years.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 after 6:00 PM at Saint Robert’s Catholic Church, Oak Avenue and Crystal Springs Road in San Bruno, with a Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, October 30, 2014 at 10:30 AM also at Saint Robert’s Catholic Church followed by committal at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma.

His family appreciates donations to Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.? stjude.org? .
BiographyIn 1953, he was living at 1500 Kirkwood with brother Angelo. He worked on the waterfront for 1 year as a clerk (and knew Harry Bridges) then started laying hardwood floors for 30 years. He worked for Jack Stewart Floors (Howard Mordell's uncle). After retirement he took up golf, bowling, and walking. They traveled alot. He had bypass surgery in 2008. Had leukemia.
NoteFamily nickname: Ta' Lahmar (Red family)
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S26] Self, from Maltese Historical Society family genealogy he submitted Dec. 1, 2011.
  2. [S106] National Archives unknown record type, Colma, San Mateo Co, CA, USA.

Manuel Paul Vella

M, #45, b. 3 December 1921, d. 5 August 1983

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthDec 3, 1921Mgarr, Malta
Living1943England
ImmigrationAug 11, 1947Emmanuel immigrated to the United States, via Southampton and New York City, on board the Marine Tiger, in August 1947;
brother Joe gives Jul 4 1950
Occupationa hardwood floor installer
DeathAug 5, 1983San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, of multiple mylenoma1
ObituaryAug 7, 1983San Francisco Examiner, VELLA, Emanuel In S F Aug. 5, 1983; late of S F; dear brother of Carmen Sant and Jospehine Me-callef. both of Malta. Angelo Vella of San Leandro, Joseph Vella of San Bruno and the late Frank Vella; a native of Malta; aged 61 years; a member of the Maltese Club of S F. and the Carpenters Union Local No. 1861 of Milpitas
BurialHoly Cross Cemetery, Colma, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
BiographyHe worked in the police dept. on Malta. He came to the U.S. in Oct. 1947. He belonged to the Floor Layers Union, Local 1861. He emigrated to the U.S. from Southampton, England, arriving on Aug. 11, 1947 in New York on the SS Marine Tiger (lumber listed as occupation; London as last residence). He came to live at 1500 Kirkwood Ave, San Francisco. He was in the merchant marine in England. He was listed as a carpenter in 1953 and as a floor layer in 1954, living at 1500 Kirkwood with his brother Angelo and his family. Between 1958 and 1960, he was working for Stuart Hardwood Floors as a floor layer, living at 1691 Oakdale and as a hardwood floor layer at 4426 3rd St. in 1961-1963. In 1964-1968, he lived at 1708 Oakdale. He received his naturalization on Feb. 13, 1968. He never married. He died of melanoma (while on dialysis for chronic liver disease). He died at Ralph K. Davies Medical Center (of respiratory failure and multiple myeloma).
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S5] Death Certificate.

Carmella Vella1

F, #46, b. 1912, d. 4 May 1992

Family:

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Birth1912Mgarr, Malta, Her daughter Maria Sant stated she would have been 83 in 1995.
DeathMay 4, 1992Mgarr, Malta
Medicaldiabetes
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.

Josephine Vella1

F, #47, b. between 1917 and 1919, d. 30 January 1989

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Birthbetween 1917 and 1919Mgarr, Malta
DeathJan 30, 1989Mgarr, Malta
MedicalWas psychiatrically hospitalized most of her adult life and had diabetes
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.

Antonia Vella1

F, #48, b. 1913, d. circa 1935

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birth1913Mgarr, Malta
Deathcirca 1935Mgarr, Malta, age 22 of pneumonia
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.

Albert Bartolomeo Vassallo1,2

M, #49, b. 22 December 1885, d. 26 November 1967

Family:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthDec 22, 1885Mosta, Malta, age 23 in 1910 census; age 33 in 1/1920 census (~1886); Naturalization index gives age 55 in 1943 (1883), born in Mosta3,4,5,6,7
ImmigrationOct 17, 1907New Orleans, LA, USA, "Vassallo, Bartholomeo, Mosta, (age) 21, Fruit dealer, (ship) President Lincoln, (emigration date) 1907 17 Oct, New Orleans, LA"; last residence, Vallettta, Malta; father Carmelo Vassallo7
1910 Census1910San Mateo, San Mateo Co., CA, USA, age 23, construction camp laborer (with a group of 9 other Maltese men)8
Occupationlumber and wrecking company owner, with brother Joseph Vassallo
CensusJan 6, 1920San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, 126 Mississipppi St.9
1920 CensusJan 14, 1920San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, 1631 Palou7
SSN569-30-9443 CA at 94403 San Mateo, CA
Mil. Draft19421168 Newcomb Ave, San FRancisco, CA, USA, US draft registration; age 55; worked at Vassallo & Co.
NaturalizationJun 21, 1943San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, Age 55, living at 1768 Newcomb Ave; #5914658; Name changed from Bartolomeo Vassallo; AR 4258053. Says he entered US in New York.
DeathNov 26, 1967San Mateo, San Mateo Co., CA, USA10,5
BurialHoly Cross Cemetery, Colma, San Mateo Co., CA, USA, Sec L2, row 55, grave 410
BiographyHe was baptized Bartholomeo. He came to the U.S. in 1907 at the age of 21, landing at New Orleans. The family believes he lived in New Orleans for several years. The 1910 census lists him on Portola Road in San Bruno in a construction camp with 40 men, 10 of whom were Maltese. The 1910 San Francisco directory lists him living at 1212 Railroad, in business as Tonna & Vassallo. 1920 Census lists him as aged 33, living at 1631 Palou with Joe Cammelleri, and as having emigrated in 1907, and as a foreman of wrecking company. In 1926 he was living at 1810 Oakdale Ave, a building wrecker. In 1927, he was at 1779 McKinnon Ave; at 1762 Newcomb in 1928 (city directory), with Rose, a building wrecker. In 1929, listed as a laborer (Joseph C. started Vassalo & Co with Joseph Fenech). In 1930 listed as Vassallo and Camelleri (A. Vassallo and Joseph Camelleri), blg. wreckers, at 1225 Selby. In 1931 he is listed as a laborer. Between 1932 and 1935, Vassallo and Camilleri, at 1225 Selby. In 1936, manager Bayview Lumber Co. In 1938, joined and co-owned with his brother Joseph C. Vassallo's Vassallo and Company, a lumber and wrecking business (next to Goodman's Hardware at 621 Bayshore) until 1941. In 1941-1945, listed as a laborer. In 1933-1961, he lived at 1768 Newcomb with Rose. In 12/1961 he was living at 3915 Wilshire Ave, San Mateo. He was there in 1963-1964. In 1965-1967 he was living at 436 Portola Dr., San Mateo, age 81. He was living at 436 Portola, in San Mateo, in his last years. During WWII he worked in a lumbar yard for the U.S. Marines, and acted as an air raid warden; and then worked for Sherri Furniture store (Carmel recalls this, although Frank & Antoinette doubt the latter). According to his daughter Carmel, he did not like his stepmother and ran away from home at the age of 12 through North Africa and France. Angelo Vella recalls that Alberto told him he went to live with his maternal Uncle in Tunis, Algeria. This uncle was angered when he decided to go to America. His son Frank recalled only that he lived in North Africa for awhile. Carmel helped teach him to read; he was naturalized on Jan. 21, 1943. He sent to Malta for his bride, Rose. He married at age 40 (when Rose was 26). He gave 12/22/1885 as his birthdate. His medical history included osteoarthritis, scoliosis, pulmonary emphysema, and chronic heat disease. He was sick in the last years of his life. He was hospitalized in 1967 with kidney disease.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S91] City Directory, 1940; middle initial.
  2. [S106] National Archives unknown record type, Colma, San Mateo Co, CA, USA.
  3. [S10] Gravestone, 1885.
  4. [S24] Medical Records, Kaiser Records; 1885.
  5. [S98] Social Security Administration.
  6. [S401] Interview of Antoinette Vassallo, 1996.
  7. [S235] U.S. Census, 1920 San Francisco, CA, M 1551; S#300; Vol. 101, ED 171, S 19, L 49.
  8. [S1231] 1910 U.S. Federal Census , Township 3, San Mateo, California; Roll: T624_104; Page: 3A; Enumeration District: 0056; FHL microfilm: 1374117; line 38.
  9. [S235] U.S. Census, 1920 San Francisco, CA, ED 9, S 6, L 89.
  10. [S10] Gravestone.

Joseph Carmello Vassallo

M, #50, b. 13 March 1898, d. 25 April 1982

Family:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMar 13, 1898Mosta, Malta, age 21 in 1920 census1,2
ImmigrationAug 13, 1916San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, He voyaged on the Duca d’Aosta in Aug 13,1916, sailing from Naples to Ellis Island, age 18; 1916 in 1920 census; alien; 1917 on passport3,2
Mil. DraftSep 12, 1918San Francisco, CA, USA, Holder on, Union Iron Works; He was living at 1635 Palou with his brother Bertu.
CensusJan 6, 1920San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA, 126 Mississipppi St.2
NaturalizationOct 3, 1927San Francisco, CA, USA
DeathApr 25, 1982San Mateo, San Mateo Co., CA, USA1
BurialHoly Cross Cemetery, Colma, San Mateo Co., CA, USA, St. Michael area, row 25, grave 614
BiographyHe was raised in Mosta. He came to the U.S. in 1916. His U.S. passport was dated 1917. He gave himself his middle name when asked at immigration. He left Malta at age 18, being unable to read or write. The 1920 Census listed him living at 126 Mississippi, aged 21, with 3 other men (Peter and Joseph Vallo, Joseph Mustach; they emigrated 1909, 1917, 1917); this census states he immigrated in 1916; working at shipyards as a laborer. City directory listed him as a building wrecker in 1928 at 1779 McKinnon Ave. Between 1929-1945, he was listed as Vassallo & Co (J.C. Vassalo, Joseph Fenech), blg wreckers, at 1800 Army. In 1931-1932, he was living at 1107 Mendel. His lumber and wrecking business was located at 621 Bayshore Blvd, next to Goodman's Lumber. In 1936, business listed at 621 Bayshore. In 1938-1939 listed as Vassallo and Co, with Albert. He bought out Albert Vassallo in 1942 when there were too few male workers. He was listed as a driver in 1944; a clerk in 1945; a laborer in 1951 . He built several homes in the Bayview, including the house on LaSalle St. (his own and next door, that of his son, Jimmie and his first wife). He was listed in between 1948 and 1961 at 1600 LaSalle. Between 1963 and 1980, he lived at 2802 Isabella Ave, San Mateo.
SSN569-30-5739 CA at 94403 San Mateo, CA
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S98] Social Security Administration.
  2. [S235] U.S. Census, 1920 San Francisco, CA, ED 9, S 6, L 89.
  3. [S25] U.S. Passport.
  4. [S10] Gravestone.

Francis Xavier Vassallo

M, #51, b. 1898

Family 1: Theresa Galea

Family 2:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Birth1898Mgarr, Malta
Marriage
DeathMalta1
BiographyAngelo Vella recalls that Bertu was oldest brother, Joe was youngest, and that Catherina was younger than Maria, and that Savior was older than Maria. Frank Vassallo recalled that Savior was the oldest. He had 2 sons and 3 daughters.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S502] Interview, unknown informant, Angelo Vella, 1997.

Catherina Vassallo1

F, #52, b. 1893, d. 30 May 1966

Family:

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
Birth1893Mosta, Malta, per son Anthony age 19 in 1910; Angelo Vella recalled 1898, Mgarr
DeathMay 30, 1966Malta
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.

Rosa Vassallo1

F, #53

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMgarr, Malta2
DeathMalta
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.
  2. [S16] CJV opinion.

Theresa Vassallo1

F, #54

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthMgarr, Malta2
DeathMalta
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Angelo Vella, 1996.
  2. [S16] CJV opinion.

Michele Marie Rummelhart1

F, #55, b. 11 February 1977

Family:

Biography

Corresponded with authorN
A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
BirthFeb 11, 1977Burlingame, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
GraduationJun, 1995Terra Nova High School, Pacifica, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
Educationbetween 1996 and 1998Skyline College, San Mateo Co., CA, USA
Occupation2005marketing at Coen Engineering
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S415] E-mail from Mary Vella Rummelhart, Nov. 2013.

Mary Jane Josephine Vella

F, #56, b. 20 May 1957, d. 15 March 2003

Family:

Biography

A Contributor to Houghton Surname ProjectN
Corresponded with authorN
BirthMay 20, 1957San Francisco, San Francisco Co., CA, USA1
SSNCA, USA, 553-25-7626
Address200023350 Thurston CT, Hayward, Alameda Co., CA, USA
DeathMar 15, 2003San Leandro, CA, USA, at 2: 45 AM, at home of her parents, of metastased breast cancer
ObituaryMARYJANE J. MORDELL Of Hayward on March 15, 2003. Dearly beloved wife of Howard Mordell. Loving mother of Garrett Mordell of Hayward and Angelique Mordell of Hayward. Dearest daughter of Angelo and Josephine Vella of San Leandro. Dear sister of Dr. Charles Vella, Lewis Vella and the late Tony Vella. She was a member of the Tri-Valley Classic Chevy Club. A native of San Francisco, CA. Age 45 years. Friends are invited to attend the Vigil service on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at Church of the Assumption, 1100 Fulton Ave., San Leandro. The Funeral Liturgy will also be at Church of the Assumption on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be private at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Hayward. SANTOS-ROBINSON MORTUARY San Leandro 510-483-0123
NoteMar 20, 2003San Leandro, CA, USA, funeral occurred at the Church of the Assumption
BurialMar 21, 2003Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Hayward, Alameda Co., CA, USA, Section C, 149
BiographyBorn in San Francisco at 1:21 P.M. in the afternoon at St. Joseph's Hospital. She went to St. Paul of the Shipwreck for kindergarten; then family moved to San Leandro in 1962. She attended Garfield Elementary School, then Assumption Catholic school (1st through 8th grade). She went to Bishop O'Dowd High School, graduating in 1975. She worked for Century 21; then attended Heald's for 9 months (in junior accounting). She then worked for Hammon, Jensen, Wallen and Associates as a full charge bookkeeper (between 1976 and 1990). She took a year and a half off of work when Angie was born. She then went to work for San Lorenzo Unified school district in the data processing dept, being in charge of the student attendance database. Her interests included dog training, animals, and traveling. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997 and had a recurrence in 2002. Despite repeated chemotherapy and pain, she worked until 2 weeks before her death, wanting to keep her two children's lives as normal as possible.
Pedigree

Citations

  1. [S401] Interview with Mary Jane (Vella) Mordell, 1995.