In Memory | CalTax

In Memory: David R. Doerr, California’s Foremost Tax Expert

June 17, 2022

David R. Doerr, recognized as California’s foremost tax policy expert for more than five decades, passed away June 15 at his home in Carmichael. “We have lost a giant,” Jim Asay, chair of the CalTax Board of Directors, said. “Dave knew everything there was to know about tax policy, and he generously shared his knowledge. He leaves a legacy of fighting for taxpayers and mentoring younger generations to continue the fight.” CalTax staff remembers Doerr for his knack for explaining…

Respected Legislative Tax Consultant Martin Helmke Passes Away

February 5, 2021

In Memory

Martin Helmke, former longtime consultant to the Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee, passed away January 30 after a long battle with dementia. Helmke (pictured at a CalTax open house in 2012) was remembered by friends and colleagues as a dedicated public servant who provided expert advice to lawmakers and gave generously of his time to help others understand the intricacies of tax issues. “Martin earned the respect of taxpayers by providing thoughtful, intelligent analysis of every tax policy that came…

Longtime Taxpayer Advocate Reed Royalty Passes Away

January 22, 2021

In Memory

Longtime taxpayer advocate Reed Royalty, founding chief executive officer and former president of the Orange County Taxpayers Association (OCTax), passed away January 7, the association announced. The association did not identify the cause of death. Royalty helped found OCTax in 1986 and served as its president and CEO until his retirement in 2012. Royalty often worked in partnership with CalTax and other organizations to support good tax policy. “Reed spent decades fighting the good fight for taxpayers, and his tireless…