Lasting Memories

Arthur J. Sullivan
Dec. 21, 1923-March 8, 2011
San Mateo, California

Arthur J. Sullivan passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2011, succumbing after a valiant three-year battle from Parkinson's disease, minor strokes and other ailments. Despite the diminished quality of life he endured over the past three years, Art maintained his positive spirit and sense of humor.

His lifespan of 87 years was one of great accomplishment and had a tremendous impact on all of those fortunate to have known him.

Art was born and raised in San Francisco, and graduated from Saint Ignatius High School in 1941. After enrolling at the University of San Francisco, Art, like most of his generation, answered his call to duty following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He enlisted in the Army and fought bravely in the European theater. His battalion played an instrumental role in liberating several slave camps.

After the war, Art met and married Evelyn Lavelle, his companion and soul mate for 62 years. They moved from San Francisco to the Peninsula, where they helped found St. Pius Catholic Church and remained a vital part of that community for over a half century.

During this time, Art and Evie raised their six children and provided each with a college education. Art spent most of his business career in the building trades, culminating in a very successful window distributorship which bore his name. He spent his free time playing golf at the Olympic Club in San Francisco, following the 49ers and Giants, and traveling with Evie.

In addition to his beloved Evie, Art is survived by his six children: Nancy (Hal), Joan, Jim, Martha, Paul (Claire) and Jerry (Betsy), and nine grandchildren. Art also had a very special relationship with Brian and Tim Sullivan, sons of his deceased brother Harry.