The Most Rev. Stephen E. Blaire, bishop emeritus of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Stockton, died early Tuesday after a prolonged illness, the diocese reported. He was 77.

Blaire had been under hospice care at his retirement residence at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Modesto.

Father Mark Wagner, pastor of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Modesto, said a rosary at the bishop’s bedside Monday and said, “He just looked peaceful.”

Wagner called Blaire his “spiritual father” of many years. “I appreciated his zeal and hard work and his compassionate way. And also he was very sincere in his beliefs.”
– from a June 18 story in the Modesto Bee.

Founding Bishop of the Diocese of San Jose Pierre Dumaine passes away peacefully

Bishop DuMaine will long be remembered for his dedication to the teachings and principles put forth by the Second Vatican Council.  Among these were the call to holiness that is extended to all the baptized, the inclusion of lay and religious women and men in decision-making positions within the Church, and a commitment to Catholic Education and Formation in all of its forms.
– from the San Jose diocese website