Condolence: Thank you for the many years dedicated to serving our great community. You are a true American. RIP Senator Deddeh.

Condolence: Our family would like to offer our deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved. We were so proud when we heard that a Chaldean had become a senator. He was such a friendly man. I remember my daughter and son had a long conversation with him on the bus on the way to Los Angeles to vote in the Iraqi election. He shared his wisdom about Chaldean culture and the past. He gave us advice on how to raise well educated children. May God bless his soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We know he is singing in Heaven with the angels.

Condolence: I have fond memories of both of you from helping with the chicken dinners at St. Pius to catering for you and also friendship. My condolences on your loss.Georgia Langhorst

Condolence: On behalf of myself, my husband Sarchel, and the entire Jaff family, we extend our deepest sympathy to Mary Lynn, Peter, and the Deddeh family. We have nothing but fond memories of our time spent together in the 1980's at your home and your annual Christmas parties. Your pride in Peter's soccer adventures made for great stories. Our pride in your political success was only surpassed by your gracious friendship. You indeed had a life well lived. We shall miss you dear friend. Sherri & Sarchel Jaff

Condolence: Bill and Ruth Blank and family wish to send their sincere condolences at the passing of their dear friend Wadie. The two couples spent much time together in their younger years. We have the highest respect and admiration for the work and commitment to the community and the state of California by both Wadie and his lovely wife Mary Lynn. May God bless the family and friends of Wadie with the comfort, guidance, and strength of Our Lord. Prayers and love to all.

Condolence: Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary-Lynn and family during this time of transition. My wife, Nancy, and I have great memories of times with Wadie and Mary-Lynn. I was privileged to be on the same school faculty as Mary-Lynn for many years.(Hilltop Middle School). The Deddehs often hosted faculty parties in their home in Bonita which were enjoyed by all who attended. My favorite memory of Wadie was in 1987 when our family was on a camping trip. We passed through Sacramento and decided to show our kids (ages 7 and 10) the state capitol building. We were able to find Senator Deddeh and he was kind enough to spend a few minutes explaining to our kids how the legislature works. Then it was time for the Senate to be in session and Wadie invited us to sit in a special visitor section on the main floor. He escorted us there and we saw a sign over the door, "Coat and Tie required". I stopped and asked him if it was OK for us to enter, because we were dressed for camping (shorts and t-shirts). He told us it would be OK and that if anyone said anything about our clothes to tell them to see him about it. Wadie was involved in the floor debate (They were discussing an Education Bill) and after he spoke he would come over to our kids and explain what was happening...A great memory! I am a life long Republican and Wadie Deddeh is the only Democrat I have ever voted for. (And no, I didn't and won't vote for Trump). If all Democrats were like Senator Deddeh, I would be a Democrat. May God grant peace and grace during this time to the family and all those knew and enjoyed the friendship of Wadie Deddeh.

Condolence: Very sorry to hear of Wadie's passing. We enjoyed many wonderful dinners and poker games at my home during his years in the Legislature here in Sacramento. He was a true gentleman and so proud of who he was and where he came from and accomplished so much! Barbara Hussey

Condolence: Please accept my condolences on your loss of the Senator. I have not met the Senator, but heard my father and mother talking of him and how proud they are to know the Senator. My Mom mentioned that the Senator's mother was my grandmother Wardanee's cousin, both Hakim Family. God bless you, Bashar Jamil Alhajjar