R. Brian Kidney

Age 82, former chief clerk of the California Assembly, passed away Dec. 22 from injuries suffered in an automobile accident. He began work in the Legislature in 1961, advanced in the clerk's office from 1963 until 1987 when he became chief clerk and established a paid internship program that is still in force. After retirement in 1991, Brian served as a parliamentary consultant to governments in Hungary, Malawi, Namibia and South Africa. A native of San Mateo, he earned an undergraduate degree in Russian history from the University of Michigan and a masters degree in government studies from the University of San Francisco. He resided in Sacramento since 1961 and was a supporter of the Sacramento Ballet, Sacramento Opera and Crocker Art Museum. He was parliamentarian for the Board of Directors of the Renaissance Society, a learning-in-retirement organization affiliated with CSU Sacramento; and a member of the Rotary Club, the Knights of the Vine of America and the California Wine Society. Brian will be remembered fondly as a man who loved the company of his friends, preferably over a glass of good wine. He is survived by his sister, Brenna Quebbemann of Newport Beach, CA, two nephews and two nieces. A Funeral Mass will be held Jan. 10 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 3235 Arden Way. Burial will be private. Brian requested that in lieu of flowers, friends make donations to the Father Leo McAllister Scholarship Fund, care of the Sacramento Regional Community Foundation, 955 University Ave., Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95825 or to a charity of the donors choice .