"Loud and Clear, With Feeling"

That is the title of a booklet he created for students preparing to speak to an audience.  And it is exactly how he lived his life.

At age 10 he built his first crystal set receiver, expanding his world and sparking a lifelong love of music and communication. Ham Radio gave him a global perspective. It also gave him the skills he used as a radioman on a destroyer during WWII and to make a living during the McCarthy era.

Mary, Travis, Sheila and Frank Lafferty grew up in Oakland, with an enlightened mother who encouraged their artistic and intellectual development. At UC Berkeley, he majored in political science and minored in English, fueling an appreciation for literature and dedication to political activism. It was there that he met Noriko Ikeda, passing out political leaflets at Sather Gate. He later joined the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) where he met people from all parts of the country, dug trails, fought fires, and gained an appreciation of the outdoors.

Travis and Nori married on April 1, 1943. Together, they created a vibrant family life, and spent many summers camping and hiking their beloved Tuolomne Meadows with their sons Travis and Michael. Travis returned to UC Berkeley for his teaching credential and taught Junior High for a brief period. Travis and Nori were committed to peace and justice and  spent much of their lifetime working with organizations that focused on workers' rights, anti-war activism, and the civil rights movement.

Even in his eighties and nineties, Travis continued his dedication to the community by volunteering at Allendale Elementary and tutoring students.

He was a loving grandfather and great grandfather, always there to support and encourage their artistic and educational pursuits.

He was a remarkable man who savored every day of his life.

A Celebration of the Life of Travis Lafferty

Friends and Family will gather on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 1pm to share their stories, read his writing, and enjoy his photography. Please RSVP  mikelafferty@earthlink.net if you would like to attend. Nori Lafferty and his sister Sheila Pedersen will be in attendance.