Francis Sargent; Ex-Massachusetts Governor

Francis W. Sargent, 83, former Republican governor of Massachusetts whose tenure was marked by racial tensions prompted by school busing in the 1970s. He proposed a “freedom of choice” plan, which was actually a one-way busing program for black students, instead of a plan that covered children of all races. He gained a reputation as an environmental activist during his tenure and tightened rules for Medicaid qualification. He was appointed governor in 1969, replacing John Volpe, who was named U.S. secretary of transportation. Sargent defeated Boston Mayor Kevin White in his first gubernatorial election in 1970, but was defeated for a second term by Michael Dukakis in 1974. On Thursday in Dover, Mass.

Robert A. Neher; Administrative Law Judge

Robert A. Neher, 67, who was a state administrative law judge based in Los Angeles for over 20 years. He presided over cases involving every aspect of administrative law, from airport noise statutes to car dealership licensing. Services are 2 p.m. Friday at St. Edmund’s Episcopal Church, 1175 San Gabriel Blvd., San Marino. Survivors include his wife, Mary, of San Marino, two children, a brother and a sister. On Oct. 22 in Los Angeles of complications from leukemia.