obituaries

Carmen Beas

September 4, 1932 - January 28, 2026

Carmen Beas passed away January 28th, 2026. She Born in Brawley, CA but grew up in Pittsburgh and Oakley CA, where she attended schools.

Her passion was cooking, owning her own restaurant in Brentwood. Then later in life, she and her family moved to Lodi California, where she worked  for Tri Valley Growers for many years. She loved to travel, especially to the casino.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hector, and her son Fernando. Her parents, Antonio Melendez, Rosenda Melendez, her brothers Bonifacio, Nolbert, Bobbie and Joe. Sisters :Helen Mendoza  and Flora Coan.

She is survived by her  daughter, Laura Perkett (Jim) Granddaughter  Paige Loveland(Rory) Grandson James Perkett (Kaitlyn) Her sisters Rosemary Tiscareno, Julia Bellah Lulu Melendez and Brother, Tony Melendez. Her special fur babies, and grand fur babies.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Friday, February 27th, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, February 27th, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240. The final committal will immediately at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Beas family.

Robert Lamberton

March 10, 1944 - February 17, 2026

OBITUARY

Robert James Lamberton 81 of Lodi, Ca passed away after a lengthy illness on February 17, 2026

Robert was born March 10, 1944 to Clifford and Elaine Childs Lamberton in Cuba, New York

He worked for Northrop Gruman formerly Worthington in Wellsville, New York for numerous years. Thence headed west to be near his children and worked for Westington House in Sunnyvale, Ca till he retired in the early 2000’s.

He is survived by a daughter Amy Jo Lamberton of Lodi, Ca; a son Robert D Lamberton of Cool, Ca and daughter Bonny J Lamberton Poage of Auburn, Ca

He was predeceased by seven siblings; Elizabeth “Betty” Chapman, Richard Lamberton, Flora Colley, Clinton Lamberton, Lucy Schwerk, Isabel Gray and Eva Foster.

He loved country music, old western movies, watching the Buffalo Bills and UFC-MMA Fights as well as Taco Tuesdays.

To honor his wishes, there will be no funeral services.  Cremation services provided by Cherokee Funeral Home in Lodi, Ca

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Lamberton family.

Philip Barrette

August 23, 1932 - February 13, 2026

Philip A. Barrette, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours of Feb 13, 2026 after a long struggle with congestive heart failure. He was 93 years old.

Born in San Luis Obispo on August 23, 1932, he soon relocated with his mother, Freja Dahlstrom, to Arbuckle, California. After some time, they settled in the Stockton, California area where he grew up and went to school. As an only child, Phil spent most of his time in Stockton, but he fondly remembered his summers working on his maternal grandparents' farm, harvesting almonds and walnuts. It was hard work, he would say, but he loved it and held those days as some of his most cherished memories.

Phil attended Stockton High School, where he met the love of his life. In June of 1952, he married Lorraine Adelle Sutton in Morris Chapel in Stockton, beginning a wonderful life together filled with family and friends. Over the years, they enjoyed countless adventures, shared much laughter, and always put family first.

Phil served in the Korean war from 1954 to 1956 as an Army Specialist First Class. He was fortunate to be one of a few men in his platoon to be given stateside orders to repair helicopters. This opportunity came after he began repairing all the broken floor waxers in the barracks. His Sargent noticed his mechanical capabilities, and he was given a post to helicopter repair school in Washington state.

Phil attended Stockton City College and after completing his studies, worked for the City of Stockton as a draftsman. After several years, he pursued bigger aspirations and started his own business as a building contractor, a career he continued until his retirement.

Phil was a deeply religious man whose strong faith was central to his life. He was very active in his church and generously gave his time and energy to helping others. A patient and gifted teacher, he enjoyed teaching others about building and guiding them in projects in his shop- whether for Boy Scouts, church activities, or family crafts.

Father of three, he often said that his daughters where his greatest gift and that family was life's greatest joy. He is survived by his Wife of 73½ years, Adelle, and their three daughters along with 9 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law as well as several nephews and nieces.

We are forever grateful for our Care Giver and the Hospice workers and that came in to help take such tender, loving care of Phil. They are truly a blessing; beautiful souls committed to a holy calling.

Although we are heartbroken, we rest in God's promise: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life".

MEMORIAL SERVICE
A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1510 W Century Blvd, Lodi, CA 95242.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Barrette family.

Vera Irene Valente

May 25, 1932 - February 11, 2026

Vera Irene Valente, 93, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. She was born on May 25, 1932, in Marion, Missouri, to Mildred and Robert Nelson.

Vera lived a life centered on hard work, family, and devotion. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose strength and warmth touched all who knew her. She dedicated many years of hard work to Tri Valley Growers, from which she later retired. Her strong work ethic and commitment were qualities she carried into every aspect of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tony Valente; her son, Anthony Valente; her granddaughter, Stacy Redden; her parents, Mildred and Robert Nelson; and her brothers, Gerald, Delmer, Robert, Lynn, and Carl Nelson.

Vera is survived by her sons, Mike Valente (Tammy), Joe Valente (Claudia), and Steve Valente, all of Lodi, California. She was a proud grandmother to Jennifer Valente-Bonnett (Anthony), Michelle Valente, Amy Blagg (Tyler), Timothy Valente (Chelsea), Gary Valente (Alexandria), and Jimmy Valente (Maryssa). She was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, who brought her great joy and pride.

Vera will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her resilience, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind in the generations she nurtured. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family of Vera would  like to thank Arbor Place for taking care of her. 

Services for Vera will take place at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi, CA. Services are on Tuesday, February 24th at 1:00pm. Visitation will take place at 12:00 pm on the same day.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tokay FFA.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Valente family.

Louis Ignacio Garcia

June 15, 1950 - February 10, 2026

On February 10, 2026, Louis Ignancio Garcia passed away, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He fought a hard battle for the last 16 years and now he is at peace with the lord.

Louis joined the United States Army at the age of 17 and proudly served for 10 years, achieving the rank of Segreant and was a combat veteran in the Vietnam war. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Defense Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Airborne/Assault Medal, Combat Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal, Armed Forces Expert Marksman Medal, Overseas Bars Medal, Foreign Expeditionary Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal for his dedicated service. His time in the military has shaped his character, his commitment to freedom and discipline throughout his life.

Louis was known for his humor, friendship, generosity and faith. He was a member of the Karl Ross American Legion Post #16 Honor Guard in Stockton, CA. He enjoyed traveling, garage sales, going out to eat, listening to music and watching TV.

He was preceded in death by his parents Antonio (Yvonne) Garcia and Bertha (Roberto) Villegas - Diaz, his Mother-in-law Ofelia Santoyo, his Brother Roberto Diaz and his precious daughter Jayme Garcia.

He is survived by his devoted wife Luz Elena. His daughters Miranda (Rangel) Perez, Alicia (Juan) Sauceda, Angel Garcia and his cherished grandsons Chris Quintero, Brandon Perez, Diego Sauceda and Santiago Sauceda.

SERVICE
A service with full military honors will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Lodi, CA on March 14, 2026. Viewing will be at 8:30am with a rosary at 9am followed by a mass and burial. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16, Stockton, CA in honor of Louis Garcia.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Garcia family.

Darlene Huss

June 4, 1946 - February 10, 2026

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 1:00pm - 7:00pm on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Huss family.

Priscilla Montantes Mikaio

February 3, 1957 - February 10, 2026

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Mikaio family.

Ronald Bambico

Ronald Bambico
August 25, 1951 - February 8, 2026

Ronald R. Bambico of Lodi, age 74, passed away on February 8th, 2026. Ronald was born in Hawaii on August 25th, 1951. 

Ronald was the beloved husband of Debra F. Bambico. Loving father of Ronald S. Bambico, Christina Bambico Travis (Yorba), Stacy Bryson (Audrey Bailey),Jennifer Bryson and Samantha Cromwell (Ben). Dear grandfather of Jr. Bambico, Kelsey Bambico, Anastasia Bambico, Abby Cromwell, Addy Cromwell, Jordan, YJ Travis and Coleman Travis. Brother of Lloyda Murphy, Norma Bambico, and Rick Bambico (Tina).

He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Tanghal Bambico, father Venancio Bambico, brother Van Bambico and daughter Samantha Cromwell.

Ronald was deeply loved by his family and was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. Ronald was an Army Veteran and worked at General Mills for over 30 years. He was devout in his faith, and enjoyed reading the bible daily. He was passionate about playing golf, singing in the church choir, taking care of his pets, and traveling. He loved hosting casual family get-togethers to laugh, share stories and connect all those he loved. 

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A celebration of Ronald Bambico's life will be held at The Home Church on Friday, February 27th at 1:00pm.  11451 N. West Lane, Lodi, CA 95242

Fond pictures and expressions can be shared here https://www.forevermissed.com/ronald-r-bambico?short_code=DZROl80o

Thank you, Christina 

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Bambico family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock
August 1, 1953 - February 8, 2026

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock, 72, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at her daughter Allison’s family home in Galt, California. She met a diagnosis of ALS with unwavering resilience and her signature wit, surrounded by her beloved family and best friend Melissa at the time of her passing.

A native of Lodi, Cheryl was the daughter of the late Orville and Viola Bohnet. She spent her adult life in Stockton, where she balanced a distinguished career in nursing with the joys and challenges of raising her family. While she was a dedicated caregiver by trade, she was best known for her unique sense of humor—delightfully irreverent, sometimes toeing the line of appropriateness, and always bringing laughter to those around her.

After the death of her beloved husband, Bob, to whom she was married for nearly 45 years, Cheryl moved in with her daughter Emily. Together, they spent several years in San Diego, where Cheryl volunteered at the San Diego Zoo, embracing new experiences and sharing her warmth with both visitors and staff. Later, she moved with Emily's family to Virginia Beach, where she formed many close friendships and continued to bring joy to everyone she met. She then returned to her roots in her hometown of Lodi, focusing on her health and nurturing friendships both old and new, before finally moving into her eldest daughter Allison’s family home in Galt.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob, her parents, and brother Dalton. She is survived by her brother, Keith, and his wife, Shirley; and her sister, Marcia, and her husband, Ron. Her legacy of care and laughter lives on through her four children and their spouses: Mike and Andy, Allison and Derek, Lindsey and Patrick, and Emily and Max. She was the immensely proud grandmother of nine—Savannah and her husband Josh, William, Avery, Adrian, Gabriel, Axel, Barrett, Clyde, and Victoria—and great-grandmother of two—Jace and Lane, Savannah and Josh’s children.

Private services will be held at Cherokee Memorial.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the ALS Association in Cheryl’s memory.  

Scan QR code below to visit the ALS Association Donations link:

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hitchcock family.

Jerry Dwain Brand

August 19, 1946 - February 7, 2026

Jerry Dwain Brand, 79 years old of Lodi, CA went home to the Lord on February 7, 2026. Born on August 19, 1946, in Chickasha, Oklahoma. He was a devoted husband of 59 years to Janice L. Brand and father to Timothy Brand, Paul Brand, and Kathryn Shelton. Jerry was not only a father to his children, but he was also supportive and loved his daughters-in-law, Angel Brand and Crystal Brand and his son-in-law, Tim Shelton.

Jerry spent several years as a truck driver and loved to cruise around the foothills of California, fishing whenever and wherever he could, visiting family, or just enjoying the scenery. Jerry is also a Veteran of the United States Army and the Oklahoma National Guard from 1965 to 1971.

Jerry is survived by his wife Janice, siblings, Carmie Barlow, Judy Cosgrove, Leon Brand, Rick Brand, and Johnny Brand, 3 chidren,11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren as well as many other friends and family.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A celebration of life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 1PM at 4999 Bear Creek Rd, Lodi, CA.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Brand family.

Annie Katherine “Kitty” Sterling

August 10, 1927 - February 6, 2026

Annie Katherine “Kitty” Sterling passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at the age of 98, after a long, healthy life marked by strength, purpose, and joy. She was born on August 10, 1927, and lived through nearly a century of history with resilience and grace.

A strong and devoted woman, Kitty experienced and persevered through some of the most defining moments of the twentieth century, including the Great Depression and World War II. These early experiences shaped her steady character and deep appreciation for hard work and community.

Kitty dedicated her professional life to the Pacific Bell Phone Company, where she worked as a loyal and skilled switchboard operator. She retired honorably just as Pacific Bell transitioned into AT&T, closing a career defined by commitment, professionalism, and service.

Outside of work, Kitty found joy and connection through music and creativity. She was a devoted member of Sweet Adelines, where her love of harmony and fellowship shone. She also cherished quieter pursuits, spending countless hours quilting and playing her ukulele—simple pleasures that reflected her warmth and creativity.

Kitty is survived by her loving family, who were by her side when she passed and who will continue to carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

She will be remembered as a woman of strength, kindness, and quiet determination—someone who lived fully, loved deeply, and left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 1:00pm - 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 1:00pm - 7:00pm on Thursday, February 19th, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Sterling family.