What appears on most death certificates other than specific death details is only as good as the family member who offers the information. Many of the certs. I've gotten (from elsewhere) ask about parents including place of birth and mother's maiden name. We, as researchers, are surprised when someone doesn't know their parents' birth place or mother's maiden name. But, it's not unusual. I don't believe I've ever seen questions about other family members. I have a death certificate that gives my great grandmother's birth place in Germany but the copy is poor quality and even a second copy wasn't any better. I haven't found anyone who might be able to look at the original, yet. Such frustration!! Also, beware of spelling and legibility. (Do you know if your grandfather served in WW2? You might be able to gain access to some military records.) I do have several death certificates that offer just what I needed, too!! All is not lost in every case! There are people on this list, especially George, who can give you Alameda-specific info much better than mine. Marla