OBITUARY

Arthur Leonard Jacobson, 77, a longtime architect in Southern California,

died Dec. 8 at his home in Laguna Beach.

After receiving both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in architecture

from the University of California, Berkeley, Mr. Jacobson set up his

architecture practice in Riverside.

He was among the pioneers in post-World War II architecture, reflecting

the burgeoning prosperity of the area and the changing landscape of

Southern California.

Among his many accomplishments was the design of the area’s first

subdivided tract housing development at Edwards Air Force Base. Mr.

Jacobson designed the Riverside Plaza, the first major shopping center

anchored by a large department store in California. His practice included

several commercial structures and custom homes. He designed the Laguna

Royal “Own-your-own” apartments in Laguna Beach, a new form of home

ownership at the time that preceded the modern condominium. He also

pioneered early chain store prototypes with the designs for Farrell’s Ice

Cream Parlors and Chief Auto Parts retail stores.

He retired from his practice in 1997 after being licensed in 30 states.

Mr. Jacobson served active duty in the United States Air Force from 1943

to 1946 and continued as an active reserve until 1972. He rose to the

rank of lieutenant colonel.

Mr. Jacobson owned property on the Balboa Peninsula for nearly 30 years.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jacqualine; two daughters, Joy

and Joni; a son, Jay; and four grandchildren.