obituaries

Ofelia Mallari Dela Cruz

Ofelia Mallari Dela Cruz

April 17, 1930 - October 7, 2026

VISITATION

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026 from 12:00pm - 5:00pm in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

FUNERAL SERVICE

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 12:00pm in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Dela Cruz family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Richard Alan Bastear

Richard Alan Bastear

January 30, 1930 — October 6, 2026

 OBITUARY

Richard Alan Bastear was born January 30, 1930, in San Gabriel, California. He passed away on October 6, 2026, in his home in Stockton, CA at the amazing age of 96!

 He is survived by his blended family, including his wife Marilyn Duren, daughter Suzanne Bastear-Gruner, son Steve Bastear, stepdaughter Lynette Frontera, stepsons Mike Dorville, Jim Dorville and Ken Duren. His grandchildren include Jenna and Jessica Bastear, Amanda and Tim Frontera, Andy Dorville, Allison Carlson, Matt and Mark Chambers, Ashley Williams, Brittany Evans, Jason and Nichole Dorville, Austin Dorville, Ben, Shaylyn and Tristin Duren.

 Richard (many knew him as Dick) lived in San Gabriel, CA through his youth and young adulthood. He later went on to college at UC Davis, where he began studying political science.

 Dick had also been training to become a missionary pilot when, in December 1951, he received his draft notice. He joined the US Army in 1952 during the Korean War and was stationed in Trieste, Italy for peacekeeper duty. In 1954 he was honorably discharged.

 Back at UC Davis, while continuing his study of political science and history, he immersed himself in the Cal Aggie Christian Association. With the guidance of a few mentoring pastors, Dick eventually was given the opportunity to lead groups in religious studies and other related activities.

 In 1955, Dick furthered his education at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, CA. His first church assignment was Point Richmond Methodist Church. In 1959, once ordained, he became the minister at the Kerman Methodist Church, near Fresno. Later, he began ministering at the Methodist Church in Lamont, located near Bakersfield. Much of John Steinbeck’s famous novel The Grapes of Wrath takes place just outside of Lamont. While in Lamont, Dick found himself ministering to both the farm laborers as well as to the farmers in the community—a tricky situation, at times. Then, eventually, Dick was transferred to the Martinez Methodist Church. He served in United Methodist Churches for fourteen years.

 Still an ordained minister, Dick went from being a full-time preacher assigned to a church to being a teacher. In 1970, he graduated from University of the Pacific with a Master’s Degree in History. He briefly taught history but then was offered a job at San Joaquin Delta College to teach political science where he taught for 34 years. In addition to classroom lectures, he would take some of his students to Sacramento to meet and interview figures in our state politics. He and his students would meet with people like Governor Jerry Brown, Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, Rose Bird, and State Speaker of the Assembly, Willie Brown. As one might imagine, Dick was elected as one of the top ten teachers on the San Joaquin Delta College campus.

 Dick had many interests over the years including:

  • Being an active member at the First Baptist Church in Stockton for many years.

  • Feeding breakfast to the homeless in downtown Stockton each weekend, until his body could no longer do that type of activity.

  • Playing tennis in local tournaments and with his Delta College faculty friends.

  • Backpacking was always an adventure and a joy which he shared with his children. Now some of his grandchildren have grown to love the same kind of beautiful and gratifying outdoor adventures.

  • Dick became an avid traveler visiting such places as the Czech Republic, South America, Israel, Africa, and places closer to home such as Alberta, Canada. He went to the Pacific Coast Islands and beyond to do missionary work.

 He lived a full and rich life. He wrote in his autobiography entitled The Refiner’s Fire: An Odyssey of Faith, “I vowed to learn to love God with my whole heart,” for His love,” as St. John said, “casts out fear.” “We know that we have passed from death into life,” St John’s letter reads, “because we love the brethren.” My aim was that kind of love.

GRAVESIDE

A graveside service will be held on October 30, 2026 at 11:00 AM Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Richard’s burial location is located in our Garden of Gospels, Block 3736, Space 1.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Bastear family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Maxx Esau Chavez

In Loving Memory of Maxx Esau Chavez

September 12, 1990 – October 5, 2026

OBITUARY

Maxx Esau Chavez, 36, of Stockton, California, passed away on October 5, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him beyond words and a lifetime of memories that will forever be cherished.

Born and raised in Stockton, California, Maxx spent his life surrounded by family, friends, and the community he called home. He was the beloved son of Eliab Chavez and Sylvia H. Chavez, the loving husband of Trina Chavez, and the proud father of his daughter, Iris, and son, Maxx. He was also the younger brother of Eliab “Popeye” Chavez and the twin brother of Veronika “Nika” Brown.

Maxx was a man whose character was reflected in the way he lived his life. He was hardworking, generous, dependable, and always willing to lend a helping hand. He believed in taking care of the people he loved and rarely hesitated to put someone else’s needs before his own. His kindness was genuine, his loyalty unwavering, and his generosity came without expectation of anything in return.

Throughout his career, Maxx dedicated many years to working for Platinum, where his strong work ethic, dedication, and willingness to lend a hand were evident. He took pride in his work and developed meaningful friendships along the way. His days on the job sites were filled with hard work, laughter, and countless memories with coworkers who became an important part of his life.

Outside of work, Maxx had a passion for cars and an appreciation for the possibilities others sometimes overlooked. He enjoyed working with his hands, taking on projects, and finding beauty in things that others might have passed by. He also had a natural connection with animals and a gentle way of earning their trust.

A loyal and passionate Raiders fan, Maxx proudly supported his team through every season. His love for the silver and black was one of the many things that made him unmistakably Maxx.

Above all, Maxx was a family man. As a husband, he took pride in providing for his household and ensuring that his family was cared for. He understood the value of hard work and the importance of being someone his loved ones could depend on. His dedication to his wife and children was evident in the life he worked so hard to build for them.

As a father, Maxx brought love, playfulness, and laughter into the lives of his children. He enjoyed joking with Iris and little Maxx, creating memories through the simplest everyday moments. His love for them was evident in his affection, his dedication, and the countless ways he worked to give them a life filled with love and security.

Family and friendship were central to Maxx’s life. Whether spending time with loved ones, enjoying a family gathering, or simply sharing a laugh, he had a way of making ordinary moments memorable. His sense of humor, adventurous personality, and generous heart brought joy to those fortunate enough to know him.

Maxx leaves behind his loving wife, Trina Chavez; his cherished children, Iris and Maxx; his parents, Eliab Chavez and Sylvia H. Chavez; his older brother, Eliab “Popeye” Chavez; his twin sister, Veronika “Nika” Brown; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and coworkers.

Although his life was far too short, Maxx leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, dedication, generosity, and family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, a beloved son and brother, a hardworking man, and a loyal friend whose presence made a difference in the lives of so many.

The measure of Maxx’s life will never be found in the years he lived, but in the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the memories he leaves behind.

Forever 36. Forever Loved. Forever Maxx.

FUNERAL SERVICE

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 1:00pm with the visitation starting at 12pm, in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

In honor of Maxx and his lifelong love for the Raiders, family and friends are encouraged to wear their favorite Raiders gear.

A Respectful Request to Family and Friends

As we gather to celebrate Maxx’s life, we kindly ask everyone attending to respect the funeral home’s strict no-alcohol policy. Alcohol is prohibited on the premises, and the funeral home has advised that any violation will result in the service being shut down.

We sincerely appreciate everyone’s understanding and cooperation as we come together to give Maxx the beautiful and respectful farewell he deserves.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Chavez family.

Please leave your condolences below.

William Blue

William Blue

October 4, 2026

OBITUARY

William T. Blue PhD. ("Bill"), 78, passed away in Stockton, CA on October 4, 2026 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Bill was born in Chicago, IL to the late James and Alma Blue. He was a lifelong fan of his hometown teams, the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Family was important to him and he loved camping, fishing and golfing trips with his brothers and cousins. Holidays with family were among his favorite times.

He received his PhD in microbiology from Loyola University of Chicago in 1975. After postdoctoral studies in Virology, he taught in the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine for 15 years. He retired from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014 after 22 years. During his tenure he held the position of Chairman of the Division of Structural Biology and was granted the honorary status of Professor Emeritus after his retirement. William's professional career was focused on research and teaching, but teaching is what he loved best.

In 1995, Bill married his beloved wife, Christine, with whom he shared 31 wonderful years of marriage. He was a man of integrity and quiet wisdom. Although his sense of humor was subtle, his laugh was hearty. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories that will forever be held in the the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Christine, his sons, Adam M. Blue and Daniel R. Blue, and grandchildren, Owen Blue and Emmett Blue. He also leaves behind his siblings, Kathy (Joe) Giannesci and Todd (Susie) Blue, and numerous friends and family. Preceding him in passing are his parents, James and Alma Blue, and brother Kenneth Blue.

SERVICE

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Blue family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Marilyn Lucille Van Tassel

Marilyn Lucille Van Tassel

December 29, 1932 - September 16, 2026

OBITUARY

With heavy hearts and gratitude for her life, we announce that Marilyn Lucille Van Tassel entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 16, 2026. She was 93.

Marilyn was born on December 29, 1932, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Herman and Lorraine Swenson. As a teenager, she moved with her family to California. She graduated from high school there and later earned her degree from San Jose State University.

After college, Marilyn considered joining the family business. Instead, at a roommate’s encouragement, she applied to United Airlines and was hired as a stewardess. Though she had vowed never to date a pilot, a blind date introduced her to William “Bill” Van Tassel, the love of her life. They shared 63 years of marriage until his passing in 2024.

Together, Marilyn and Bill built a thriving, large-scale cow-calf operation, working side by side through the years. Marilyn spent many days on horseback, and her strength, devotion, and tireless work were essential to the ranch they built together.

Family was Marilyn’s greatest joy. She was a devoted and steady presence in the lives of her children, faithfully supporting them at games, 4-H events, and other activities. Her love and encouragement shaped her family and remain an enduring part of her legacy.

A devoted Christian, Marilyn lived her faith through kindness, humility, and service to others. Her trust in God guided her throughout her life and remains a source of comfort to her family.

Marilyn served her ranching community through the San Joaquin Stanislaus CattleWomen. She also enjoyed bowling and especially treasured the friendships she formed through her Friday bowling league.

She is survived by her sons, William (Vicki), Robert, and Jim (Kim); her stepdaughters, Nancy (Rick) Lopez and Carol (George) Alves; and her sister, Sharon Shultz. She is also survived by eight grandchildren—Nathan Lopez, Brett Lopez, Dustin Alves, Lindsay (Alves) Gogna, Jillian (Van Tassel) Carnes, Luke Van Tassel, Ellie Van Tassel, and Ezra Van Tassel—and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, William “Bill” Van Tassel; her loving parents, Herman and Lorraine Swenson; and her dear sister, Beverly Kulberg.

Interment will be private. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on October 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Gypsy Bistro in Lockeford, California.

Though Marilyn will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. They will forever cherish the example she set through her steadfast faith, devotion to family, and strength throughout her life.


Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Van Tassel family.

Please leave your condolences below.


Ramona Sandoval Ramirez

Ramona Sandoval Ramirez

July 12, 1953 - October 1, 2026

In Loving Memory of Ramona S. Ramirez

With heavy hearts, we share that Ramona S. Ramirez went home to be with Jesus on October 1, 2026. She passed peacefully at her home in Stockton, California, surrounded by family, at the age of 73. Her presence was a blessing, and her love will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

Ramona leaves behind her devoted husband of 51 years, Jesse Ramirez; her three beloved children, Felix, Felicia (Miguel), and James (Ann); her cherished grandchildren, DeAngelo, Kailey (Kody), Jessie, Nick, and Desiree; and her precious great-grandchild, Kayden. Each of them carries a part of her love, strength, and spirit. Her family will hold close to the countless memories they shared and will forever be grateful for the love she gave so freely.

Ramona was born on July 12, 1953, in Ashland, Oregon, to Eleanor and Jose. As the eldest of six children, she became a loving protector, trusted guide, and fierce guardian to those she held dear. Being the eldest sister was more than a responsibility to Ramona—it was a calling she embraced with devotion, strength, and an open heart.Through every season of life, she remained the steady anchor of her family, offering comfort, wisdom, and a love they could always depend on.

For more than 50 years, Ramona was a devoted Pentecostal Christian whose faith was at the heart of her life. She was the first in her family to be saved, and through her steadfast example, her belief in Jesus took root and spread throughout her family. The spiritual legacy she began will live on through the generations, continuing to guide and strengthen those she loved.

Ramona was preceded in death by her mother, Eleanor Hidalgo, whose memory remained a treasured part of her life and family.

FUNERAL SERVICE

Family and friends are invited to gather in loving remembrance of Ramona at a memorial service on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240. Together, they will honor a life filled with devotion, strength, and enduring love.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Ramirez family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Tania Langone

Tania Langone

May 31, 1968 - September 29, 2026

OBITUARY

Our beloved daughter Tania Langone suddenly left us for Heaven on September 29, 2026.

Born May 31, 1968, to Bob and Linda Langone. Beloved sister to Shane (Vicki); nieces and nephew Gianna Myles (Michael), Nicolas (Payton), Gabriella and three great nephews.

Tania was full of love and loved by all who knew her.

A mass will be held at the Church of Presentation on October 16 at 10:00 AM followed by a celebration of life at the Italian Athletic Club on Cherryland.

Donations can be made to the Williams Syndrome Association in memory of Tania Langone.

MASS
Mass will be held at 10:00am on Friday, October 16, 2026 located at Church of the Presentation located at 6715 Leesburg Pl in Stockton, CA

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Langone family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Janet Hart

Janet Lee Layton Hart

April 16, 1932 – September 29, 2026


OBITUARY

Janet Lee Layton Hart, 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 29, 2026, in Lodi, California. Fittingly, she rejoined her beloved husband on what would have been their 75th wedding anniversary.

Janet was born on April 16, 1932, in Layton, Utah, to Bessie Fern Hyde and Ezra James Layton. At the age of four, she moved with her family to Oregon, where she attended grammar school, before returning to Utah to complete her education. As a youth, Janet excelled in math and English, and she developed a lifelong passion for sewing—once crafting a wool coat in high school that she proudly entered into a competition in Salt Lake City.

After graduating from Davis High School, Janet worked at Hill Air Force Base as a mechanic's assistant. Her time at the base gifted her a unique hands-on skill set, making her incredibly handy with tools and a talented fixer who could repair almost anything. She knew her way around a toolbox so well that if you asked her for a crescent wrench, you got exactly that—a crescent wrench, no questions asked.

It was also at the base that she met the love of her life, James Robert Hart. The couple married on September 29, 1951, in Layton, Utah, and shared 57 wonderful years of marriage before his passing.

Janet’s greatest joy was her family. She welcomed her firstborn son, Jeffery, in 1953, followed by her second son, Scott, a year and a half later in 1954. Her boys were the absolute center of her world.

A faithful and devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Janet dedicated much of her life to service. She served in the genealogy department in Omaha, Nebraska, the Relief Society office in Salt Lake City, and held numerous other callings within her local wards.

Janet was an exceptionally talented seamstress who loved sewing for others. For years, she collaborated with Weber State University to sew custom uniforms for their cheerleading squad. In her later years, she cherished visits from her sister Pauline, loved spending time with her family and friends, and could often be found cheering on the San Francisco Giants with a bowl of ice cream and a pocket full of Hi-Chews.

Janet was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Robert Hart; her parents, Bessie and Ezra; and her five siblings, Donna, Vance, Anna Rae, Pauline, and Glen.

She is survived and deeply missed by her sons, Jeffery L. Hart (Terrie) and Scott R. Hart (Jane); her six grandchildren and their spouses, Christy, Jackie, Nichole, Jared, Rachel, and Jill; and seven great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bristol Hospice for their profound compassion and dedicated care during Janet’s final weeks.

A private family viewing and graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 7th, with interment to follow in Concord, California

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hart family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Charles Gritts

Charles Gritts

January 26, 1934 - September 28, 2026

Charles passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, surrounded by family in Lodi, CA. Born in Vian, OK on January 26, 1934 to John and Grace Gritts. They belonged to the Cherokee Indian Tribe in Oklahoma. Charles was very proud of his heritage.

Charles graduated from Lodi Unified School District in 1953, followed by graduation from Stockton Jr. College and attended Sacramento State University. Before graduation from Sac. State, he served in the U.S. Army for two years, serving in the Honor Guard and playing baseball. He then returned to Sac. State and earned his teaching and administration credentials. He also earned two Master Degrees along the way. He started and ended his career at Linden Unified School District. He stayed with the district for 49 years. After retiring, he worked for the State of California as a Retirement Counsellor for CALSTRS.

Charles enjoyed playing sports all his life. He excelled at baseball. He played baseball for LUSD, SAC. STATE, U. S. ARMY. Following that he played for the semipro team called the Guild Wine baseball team in Lodi. He was also an avid fan of the Oakland A’s. He looked forward to weekly golf and monthly poker games with his administrator buddies from Linden.

While playing baseball in the army, a scout from the Philadelphia Phillies was at the game and offered to sign him to a contract. Instead he decided to go back to college. In 1952 Charles was awarded the Lodi News Sentinel “Sport Hall of Fame with Special Honors” for playing for the Lodi High School Baseball team.

Charles found his forever wife and companion at a UOP football game where brother Joy was playing. He met Marlene Schlotthauer and their marriage occurred October, 1960 and lasted 66 years. They had one son, Michael John Gritts. Two grandsons Westly and Christopher arrived and he became known as “Papa Charles”. They were the pride of his life.

He enjoyed his family time at the Arnold cabin, especially taking his grandsons to the Pine Drive pond to practice catch and release of blue gills and bass. Loved his neighborhood walks, talking with his wonderful friends along the way, as well as his love for his family.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Marlene. His son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Christine Gritts and Grandsons, Westly and Christopher. Surviving siblings are Glendola Cooper and Dianna Gritts. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, John and Grace (Myers) Gritts. Also, three brothers, Dwight, Joy and Gerald.

Charles was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Lodi. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Methodist Church. Graveside services will be Private.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Gritts family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Ina Jean Schultz

Ina Jean Schultz

March 7, 1931 - September 25, 2026

OBITUARY

Ina Jean “Jean” Schultz passed away on September 25, 2026, at age 95. She will be remembered for her love of family, strong faith, years of service, and lively personality. Jean was born in Iowa in 1931 to John and Lela Defenbough. She moved to Lodi, California, and graduated from Lodi High School in 1948. She began working at age 13 and held several jobs throughout her life. She later worked for the California Department of Motor Vehicles, where she retired. Many people in the Lodi area may even remember Jean as the person who passed, or perhaps failed, them on their driving test.

Jean met James “Jim” Schultz through Methodist Youth Fellowship when they were in high school. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and service. They shared 62 years of marriage before Jim passed away in 2014. Jean found comfort in her faith and in the hope that they would be together again.

Jean and Jim raised four children: Mark, Kathy Robinson, Tim, and David. Jean was proud of her family and especially proud of her children’s accomplishments.

Faith and helping others were central to Jean’s life. She joined the Methodist Church in 1946 and remained a devoted member. At First United Methodist Church of Lodi, she and Jim helped feed people in need through Sacramento Street Ministries and took part in home-building and repair projects in California, Louisiana, Mexico, and elsewhere. Jean's commitment to serving others extended well beyond church. She also volunteered for 30 years with the Women’s Club and the LOEL Center, where she made many lasting friendships.

She was a proud grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of six. Jean loved cheering for her family at sporting events and was never shy about sharing her opinions with the officials. She also enjoyed playing Skip-Bo, Rummikub, and Uno with her family—and loved winning. She was a loyal fan of the San Francisco 49ers and Giants.

Jean was direct, feisty, and always willing to speak her mind. She loved her family deeply and brought warmth and personality wherever she went. She enjoyed baking, especially rhubarb desserts, and caring for her rose garden.

Jean is survived by her children Kathy (Frank) Robinson, Tim (Kim), and David (Suzy); her daughter-in-law Marie; her seven grandchildren, Scott Schultz, Justin (Kaila) Pyle, Ashley (Geoff) Siebel, Jesse Robinson, Casee (Josh) Killing, Rosie Schultz, and Carli Schultz; her six great-grandchildren; her brother, Rex Defenbough; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her son, Mark; her parents, John and Lela; and her siblings, Marjorie and Richard.

Jean lived a full life and will be deeply missed. In her memory, her family invites everyone to remember one of her simple habits: make your bed every day.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 9th, 11:30am, at the First United Methodist Church of Lodi, 200 West Oak Street. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Grace & Mercy Charitable Foundation, 425 Sacramento St, Lodi, CA 95240

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Schultz family.

Please leave your condolences below.