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