Legacy Circle

Jack Killan was a veteran of the Korean War, a mathematician, a scientist, and a beloved middle school teacher for 35 years. Mr. Killan was a respected member of the Salinas community, a talented trumpet player, golfer, and a bridge player. Above all, he was a caring community member and a loyal contributor to United Way Monterey County.

Emilie Koontz, a first-generation American, pursued her life here in 1950's Monterey as a strong-minded woman determined to accomplish business success and financial independence. As a successful real estate professional, she had her own brokerage and held leadership positions in homeowners and neighborhood associations. She also served on the Board of Directors of United Way Monterey County and other charitable organizations. She fought cancer until her last breath and did not let it interfere with her unique persona. Ms. Koontz passed away at the age of 87.

Stephen Lucas, a dedicated supporter of United Way Monterey County, contributed regularly through UWMC’S workplace giving campaign, a payroll deduction program that supports our work. He chose to bequest a lasting legacy by leaving half of his estate to UWMC. He believed in the social responsibility of each person to provide help to others without judgement. Mr. Lucas lived his last 50 years as a California resident and had a 25-year career in information technology with Monterey County. Mr. Lucas was an avid reader and wrote science fiction short stories and poetry.