obituaries

Dustin DeWitt

Dustin DeWitt
July 30, 2004 - March 2, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dustin DeWitt, who left us far too soon on Monday, March 2, 2026, at the age of 21. Dustin was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend whose warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit touched everyone who knew him. In his short but meaningful life, Dustin left a lasting impression on the many people fortunate enough to cross his path.

Born on July 30, 2004, in Stockton, California, Dustin was the son of David DeWitt and Sokha Hem. He grew up in Stockton and graduated from Lincoln High School, Class of 2022, where his charisma and infectious personality made him widely known among classmates, who voted him “Most Wanted.”

Dustin was attending San Joaquin Delta College, working toward his education while balancing jobs at Marina Market and Dutch Bros Coffee. At Dutch Bros, Dustin quickly became a beloved presence among coworkers and customers alike. Known for his genuine kindness and bright spirit, he had a natural gift for connecting with people—often chatting with customers about school, life plans, or whatever was on their minds. Many looked forward to seeing him, and it wasn’t uncommon for customers to tip him even when he hadn’t made their drink, simply because of the positivity he brought to every interaction. The feeling of being welcomed and remembered that Dustin created will remain a lasting memory for those who knew him there.

Dustin was a gentle and giving soul with a deep compassion for animals and for anyone in need. Over the years he rescued and cared for many animals—including cats, dogs, reptiles, and even toads—always eager to help and protect them. He loved spending time outdoors and found peace in fishing, hiking, surfing, and being near the ocean, where he could swim far out and stay for hours.

Music was another constant in Dustin’s life. A percussionist throughout high school and into his early college years, he played drums, snare, and cymbals, and loved singing karaoke with friends and family, bringing laughter and energy wherever he went. Curious and quick-minded, Dustin could solve a Rubik’s Cube in seconds, enjoyed Pokémon, and was always eager to learn something new.

Dustin dreamed of traveling the world and was pursuing a career as a flight attendant, which combined his love of travel with his gift for connecting with people. One trip he especially looked forward to was visiting Cambodia, his mother’s homeland, where he hoped to connect more deeply with his family’s roots.

Above all, Dustin was a devoted son and an incredible big brother to his sisters, Jenika and Malia, who meant the world to him. He carried that role with pride—always protective, encouraging, and deeply loving. To many others, Dustin was more than a friend; he was a best friend, someone whose loyalty, humor, and genuine care made people feel understood and valued.

Dustin is survived by his loving mother, Sokha Hem, and stepfather, Dean McLain; his father, David DeWitt, and stepmother, Flora Pinnella; his stepsister, Haley Pinnella; his beloved sisters, Jenika DeWitt and Malia McLain; his grandmother, Yay Yean, and grandfather, Soeung Hem; his cherished friends, Alex Padilla and Kimora Gray; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were made brighter simply by knowing him.

Though his journey ended far too soon, Dustin’s bright spirit will continue to travel with the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be profoundly missed, forever cherished, and always lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

“Out of the black, into the blue…think green.”

VISITATION & ROSARY
A viewing will take place on Monday, March 23, 2026 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm with a Rosary at 6:00pm at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 10:00am at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 215 W. Walnut St, Lodi, CA 95240. Interment and Graveside Service to follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Marsha Ann Bindi 

Marsha Ann Bindi 
August 15, 1946 - March 1, 2026

Marsha Ann Bindi, age 79 of Stockton, CA passed away on March 1, 2026. Born on August 15, 1946 in Falls Creek, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Thomas and Mina Hoak. Marsha lived a life devoted to her family and those she loved.

She was the loving wife of Nello, whom she married on December 14, 1963, and a proud and devoted mother to Michael (Leslie) and Michelle (Chris). Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to her cherished grandkids; Alanna (Jakob), Brandon, Matthew, and Alexis. She is also survived by her sister Nancy.

Marsha was a kind woman who never hesitated to help someone in need or feed someone who was hungry. She loved hummingbirds, dragonflies, flowers, and the color purple. In her free time she enjoyed playing slot machines, working on diamond dots, cooking, doing puzzles, and playing games with her family. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and all who were lucky enough to know her.

Marsha has now entered into eternal peace in heaven with our Lord and Savior. A service to celebrate Marsha’s life will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park & Funeral Home as a graveside service on Thursday, March 19 at 11:00 AM, with a repast to follow.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Bindi family.

Russell Scott Jr.

Russell Boye Scott Jr.
July 28, 1945 - February 28, 2026

Russell Boye Scott, Jr. passed away on Saturday, February 28th, 2026. He is survived by his wife Patti; children Lisa Caya, Lori Lowndes, Robert Staffen and Michelle Smith; grandchildren Emily DePiero, Robyn and Ravyn Berggren, Coyote Church, Hanaka and Kathleen and Mathew Staffen.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Yuvonne Scott.

Russ was in business as Russ' Equipment Repair and Valley Line Bore Service, Inc. for 51-plus years. He really liked working, and wasn’t quite ready to retire.

MEMORIAL SERVICE
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 at 1pm in our Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

A reception will be held at our J. Charles Irwin Reception Center immediately following the services.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Scott family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Vivian Kirk

Vivian Lee Kirk
July 7, 1947 – February 24, 2026

Vivian Kirk, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home, on the morning of February 24, 2026,  surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Casa Grande, Arizona, to Ambrosio Seveses (Philippines) and Lucy Antonio (Navajo Nation), Vivian was the third eldest of seven children. She was preceded in death by her sisters Lena McGurk, Victoria Seveses, Evangeline Seveses and brother Amos Seveses.

A graduate of the  Phoenix Indian Boarding school in 1964, Vivian moved to San Franciso to be with her sister Lena, where she began her lifelong involvement in the Bay Area Native community. In 1970, she married Curtis Kirk (Navy, Leoti, KS). She received her B.A. from Sacramento State University in 1985.

Vivian raised her three children while traveling across the county, vending at powwows throughout the United States and Big Times in California.  Her booth was a gathering place, and she treasured every visit from her friends, fellow vendors and family that stopped by.  In her later years, she could often be found trying her luck at the penny slots or participating in Wilton Rancheria’s elder program.  Above all, she cherished the family’s big backyard gatherings and the countless family celebrations.

Vivian will be remembered  for her strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in the beautiful memories she leaves behind.

She is survived by her children: Christina Victoria Kirk-Kazhe (Elk Grove, CA), Curtis Anthony Kirk (Anchorage, AK) and Michael Eugene Kirk (Sacramento, CA); grandchildren, Krista, Jared, Allysa, Lane, Colton James, Vivian and Curtis, her grand dog Harley; and the countless extended family members who called her mom, grandma, sister, aunty and friend.  All of whom will miss her dearly.

SERVICE
Remembering services are being held on February 28, 2026 at Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240 with a viewing at 1:00 pm followed by a reception for family and friends.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Kirk family.

Kazuo Higashi

March 25, 1943 - February 24, 2026

Kazuo “Kaz” Higashi, 82, of Manteca, California, passed away on February 24, 2026, in Modesto, California.

Kaz was born on March 25, 1943, in Manzanaar, California. He served honorably in the United States Army in both Vietnam and Korea.

Kaz was the son of Sadaki and Aiko Higashi. He dedicated his working life to public service and skilled trade. He worked as a plumber at GSA Rough and Ready Island for 16 years, and in 2001 began his career with the Port of Stockton Facilities and Maintenance Department, where he served as a plumber.

Outside of work, Kaz found peace outdoors. He loved fishing, spending time outside, and was an avid gardener who especially enjoyed planting trees.

Kaz is survived by his wife of 56 years, June Higashi; his children Felix Garcia, Lisa George, Kris Higashi, and Kraig Higashi; and his brothers Akio Higashi and Louie Higashi. He was preceded in death by his parents Sadaki and Aiko Higashi; his son Kazuo; his brothers Mitchio and Sid; and his sisters Ann, Rubie, and Janice.

SERVICE
A service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 1:00pm at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Higashi family.

Frank Hernandez

April 21, 1952 - February 23, 2026

Frank Hernandez, born on April 21, 1952, in Oceanside, California, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, in Stockton, California, at the age of 73.

Frank was a devoted family man, cherished as a loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Known for his quick wit, he was a lovable smartass with a sharp sense of humor that could light up any room and keep everyone laughing. His playful teasing and funny stories were a hallmark of his personality, bringing joy and endless smiles to family and friends alike.

Frank loved life’s simple pleasures: savoring a good glass of wine, firing up the grill for lively BBQs with family and friends, heading to the casinos for a bit of excitement and fun, and especially watching his grandchildren play sports—cheering them on from the sidelines with pride and enthusiasm. A die-hard fan, he passionately rooted for the Dallas Cowboys through every season, never missing a chance to watch the games.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him for his warmth, kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Eleanor Ruth Hernandez; his daughters, Miranda Morales and Raquel Perales; his son, Isaiah Thomas Hernandez; his sisters, Anita Vargas and his niece Carisa Morones; 12 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was a pillar of strength, love, and laughter for his entire extended family.

Frank lived a full life filled with hard work, family gatherings, good times, and quiet moments of joy. His legacy of love, resilience, humor, and family devotion—along with his legendary Cowboys fandom—will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who offered support during this difficult time. Frank’s memory—and his infectious laugh—will forever be a blessing.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
 A celebration of life will be held at 2:00pm on Sunday, March 1st, 2026 at Lucille Villareal's residence, located at 1050 South Windsor Avenue Stockton, CA 95205

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hernandez family.

Paris Proestakis

December 3, 1932 - February 21, 2026

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 7:00pm with a Trisagion starting at 4:30pm on Wednesday, March 4th, 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 10:00am on Thursday, March 5th, 2026 at St. Basil’s Greek Orthodox Church, located at 920 W March Ln, Stockton, CA 95207.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Proestakis family.

Sandra M. Childress

Sandra Marie Childress
February 24, 1947 - February 20, 2026

Sandra (Sandy) Childress passed away on February 20, 2026 at the age of 78. She was born in Stockton, California on July 24, 1947. She attended Franklin High School and Delta College, where she met the love of her life, James Childress. She married James on February 11, 1967. Together they raised three children. Sandy is an amazing mom to their three children Tina, James, and Robbie (Rob).

She had a great love for animals and over her life had dogs, cats, birds, fish, turtles, and more. 

Her true love was her family. She always sacrificed for them and gave everything to make sure we knew we were the most important part of her life. She freely gave her time, energy, and love to anyone who needed it, often placing her family’s needs above her own.

Along with being an incredible wife and mother, Sandy was always there for all of her nieces and nephews when they needed her, being a second mom to all of them.

She is preceded into Heaven by her husband, James; mom, Nettie; dad, Jessie; sister, Lois; and brother, Gary.

Sandy is survived by her three children, Tina, James, and Rob, her brother Jessie, six grandchildren, Marina, Natasha (Tasha), Reagan, Vivien, Kylie (Kai), and Zacharias (Zach), as well as many nieces and nephews.

You will be missed and are deeply loved. Nothing will ever replace the space in our hearts we have now that you are gone, but you taught us so much and loved us so deeply that we will never forget you. 

We believe the words of Jesus when he said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die." We know that as believers we will be raised again to a new life and new body when He comes again. Till we see you again in paradise and we can tell you ourselves, know you are loved.

Rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord Jesus . We love you mom.

SERVICE
 A graveside service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, March 6, 2026 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 Childress family.

Annette Elizabeth Kyes

Annette Elizabeth Kyes
June 22, 1937 - February 20, 2026

On February 20, 2026 at 88 years old and with her family by her side, our beloved mother Annette Elizabeth Germann Kyes was welcomed into the arms of Jesus.

She was born to Willis and Nettie Germann in Sisseton, South Dakota May 22, 1937 The family then moved to Valley Springs Ca when she was about four years old. There, she loved playing out on the hills, climbing large rocks pretending they were her stage, singing and dancing around. The family then moved to Stockton Ca. She attended Franklin High School enjoying art class, choir, drama and was a cheerleader her Senior year.

In 1955 she married Donald (Jay) Kyes (deceased). She was beloved mother to 5 children, Gretchen Kyes Shelby, Donald J Kyes Jr, Greta Vollbrecht, David Kyes Sr (Sue) and Gwendolyn Kazemi. She was a cherished grandmother to Annette Byrne, Richard Mason Jr, Donnie Kyes III, Dawn Kyes, Dawnielle Kyes, Dale Vollbrecht Jr, Halie Wood, Hannah Galli, David Kyes Jr, and Amanda Kyes. Adored by many great and many great great grandchildren who loved her very much. Also loved by brother Willis (Melanie) Germann Jr, sister Joann Eaton many nieces and nephews and the many kids/teens that came to her home just needing a place to stay. Annette was preceded in death by Jay, her parents and brother Glenn.

Annette’s faith was very important to her. She was confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Stockton Ca as a young teen. Then later in life became a member of Delta Nazarene Church Stockton Ca. There, she was a member of the choir, sang many solo’s, participated in the church plays and was also on their softball team. Annette loved music, singing and dancing. She had a beautiful soprano voice, almost operatic. Music was on in the house a lot, always a variety. Everything from Ray Price, Roy Orbison to her favorites, Patsy Cline and Timi Yuro. Thank you for our love of music momma. Along with singing and dancing, Annette also played the piano beautifully. We loved hearing her play while coming up the driveway home from school. She was also a hobbyist painter and sketcher. She had a passion for poetry and knew many by heart and loved reciting them to her children and grandchildren. Especially her two favorites, “Little Orphan Annie” and “The Children’s Hour”.

Annette was a huge A’s and Giant’s baseball fan. Attending many games with one of her children or her grandchildren at any given time. She got the baseball bug from her dad while attending Stockton Ports games any chance they got. She was sporty and adventurous. Her adventures mostly came in the form of travel. Annette was the Travel and Recreation Coordinator for the Senior Service Agency in Stockton for several years where she would take seniors on cruises to the Caribbean or Bahamas. A trip to New York, day trips to Reno and many other places. She also a trip across the country with her sister and brother in law, visiting almost every state in the union looking up family genealogy. Annette was definitely the “where and what time do I need to be there” kind of person. But mostly she loved Europe. She took many trips there, even going to Romania just to babysit a great granddaughter. She would often say “Oh, the many beautiful sights I’ve seen”.  She was a great travel partner taking everything in stride and never complaining. Even when her body didn’t want to cooperate. Annette had Multiple Sclerosis, diagnosed in her 30’s, so although she looked amazing, sometimes her body didn’t want to work but she pressed on. Even taking her seated walker on every trip she took to Europe just in case her legs didn’t wanna work on certain days. She never complained about not feeling well although sometimes you would know it.

That’s just the kind of person she was. She had this unwavering strength and resilience. She had a heart full of love, grace, positivity and kindness. Lots of head back somewhat loud laughter. She loved fiercely and most importantly unconditionally. All though she will be deeply missed and our hearts are broken, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

SERVICE
 A service will be held at 9:00am on Monday, March 2nd, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

GRAVESIDE
 A graveside service will be held at 12:00pm on Wednesday, March 18th, 2026 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 Kyes 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.

Monroe W. Summers

March 25, 1929 - February 16, 2026

OBITUARY

Monroe Whitworth (Chuck) Summers passed away on February 16, 2026. He was born in Eastland, Texas on March 25, 1929 and was 96 years old. He joined the Army in Austin, Texas when he was 19 years old. He was sent to Fort Ord, California for basic training and was stationed at Camp Stoneman in Pittsburg, California for the duration of his military service. He was classified as a Corporal with his job designation as an auto mechanic. He was honorably discharged on May 9, 1950. He met and married Clara Tillery in Stockton, California in 1950.

They lived in Stockton their entire lives and raised their children there. He is survived by his children, Brenda Flood (Timothy), Gary Summers (Jackie), Larry Summers (Elaine), and Scott Summers (Lisa). He has 11 grandchildren, Stacie, Kristin, Alicia, Chonta, Gary, Jr., Emilie, Ashlee, Christopher, Joshua, Andrew and Donovan. He also has 10 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and has had many friends over the years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Summers, his daughter, Tammy Dohring, his parents, Jesse and Inez Summers, his brothers, Orville Summers and Clifton Summers and his sisters, Nell Harris and June Riggs.

Chuck worked at and retired from the Marley Company in Stockton, California. He performed various job functions over the years including fork lift driver and truck driver. He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time. He was good at woodworking and building or making things. He made many sizes and shapes of hunting knives as well as wooden cases for some of them. He was often found working on a car, truck, motorcycle or lawnmower that needed his attention. He also enjoyed camping and boating and would go fishing in the nearest lake or river. Chuck was a member of the East Main Church of Christ and attended regularly for many years.

He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

The family would like to thank everyone at River Fountains of Lodi for the kind and compassionate care that was given to their father over the years that he lived there. We would also like to thank the staff at Amore Hospice for the support and care they provided for our dad in his final weeks. It was all very much appreciated.

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 3:00pm on Monday, March 16th, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
 A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, March 17th, 2026 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 Summers 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.

Cherokee Memorial Park is a 501(c)13 non-profit company, owned and operated exclusively for the benefit of the community, serving Lodi, Stockton, Galt, Manteca and the San Joaquin Valley since 1940.

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