Ex-Auburn mayor, arts exponent, dies at 92

A two-term Auburn mayor, known for promoting the arts and historic building preservation, Bud Pisarek has died at 92. Raymond Leo "Bud" Pisarek came to Auburn in 1960 after a stint publishing the Brooking-Harbor Pilot in Oregon. The Milwaukee-raised World War II Army veteran would never leave his adopted city, imprinting his personal stamp on Auburn art and political circles, while also making a lasting impression on Colfax and Loomis. In Auburn, Pisarek would hold a job as photographer and design artist at the Auburn Journal while teaching art at Sacramento City College. In 1962, Pisarek would branch out with publication of his own WestArt, a semi-monthly that catered to artists, with critiques and event listings. Pisarek, who graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison with a master's degree in applied art, would go on to publish both the Colfax Record and Loomis News before eventually selling both papers. They're now owned by Brehm Communications — owner of the Journal. After attempts to unseat Placer County Supervisor Terry Cook in 1976 and 1980 elections, Pisarek won office for the first time to the Auburn City Council in 1982. He would serve two terms as mayor. Pisarek would play key roles in preservation of the Placer County Courthouse and the Auburn Grammar School. The school buildings are now the homes of Auburn City Hall, the Auburn Civic Center and the Auburn Police Department. Pisarek also played a major role in establishing the Auburn Arts Commission and ARTcetera, which evolved into the Arts Council of Placer County. His art work would grace the City of Auburn logo and his "Above All" angels would be an integral part of the Journal editorial page for a decade. In later years, Pisarek would be part of the group that established the Auburn Placer Performing Arts Center at the State Theatre. WestArt, which reached thousands of readers, would cease publication in 2000. "He was the glue that kept a lot of things moving forward," said son Joel Pisarek. Pisarek is survived by his children Joel, Gary, Todd and Kay; 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 70 years, Nancy, who died in 2018. Pisarek died in Auburn on Aug. 20. A memorial will be held at the General Gomez Arts and Events Center, 808 Lincoln Way in Auburn on Sept. 25. There will be an open house, refreshments and an art exhibit from 5-6:30 p.m.. A service is at 6:30 p.m.