Haruko Helen Kishida

Haruko Helen Kishida, born February  7, 1917 , passed away peacefully on March 7, 2015 at the age of 98 years. She was born in Lodi, and attended local schools. In 1933 she married Shigeo Kishida, and together they raised their three children in Lodi. During World War II they were interned to Rohwer Relocation Camp in Rohwer, Arkansas. In 1943 they moved to Spanish Fork, Utah, and returned to Lodi in 1946.

Helen worked as a housekeeper for a teacher, doctor, and at a furniture store before retiring. She was a member of the Lodi Buddhist Women’s Association, Lodi Japanese American Citizen’s League, and the Lodi Buddhist Church.

She enjoyed many trips with her daughter to the East Coast, to enjoy the “Fall Colors”, Niagara Falls, and to Japan, where she got re-acquainted with some of her relatives and always made new friends along the way.

Helen’s greatest passion was growing plants and flowers. She had one tangerine tree which was tendered with loving care. Her many friends and relatives were recipients of its fruit. Her ready smile, laugh, love of family parties, and generous nature will be greatly missed by family and friends. She provided us with many happy memories.

She is preceded in death by her husband Shigeo, son Howard, her parents, Kaichi and Shinayo Sakoda, brothers Kazuo, Gunji, Shigeo, and Tom Sakoda. She leaves behind her daughters, Barbara Daijogo (Tom), Patricia Kishida, granddaughters, Lori Hirasawa and Kendra Daijogo, great grandchildren, Tyler, Spencer, and Alyssa Hirasawa and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private service was held with Rev. Kusunoki officiating. In lieu of koden or flowers, contributions may be made in Helen’s memory to Buddhist Church of Lodi, 23 N. Stockton St., Lodi, CA 95240-2214 or the charity of your choice.

Please leave your condolences in the comments below.

VISITATION

No visitation will be held.

SERVICES  

No additional services will be held.

Arlene Mae Walker

Arlene Mae Walker passed away in her sleep at her home in Stockton, Calif. on Friday, February 27, 2015 at the age of 83. Arlene was married to Joseph Garland Walker for 23 years and they had four children, Linda, Joseph (Joey), Patricia (Patty) and Patrick Steven.

Arlene was born in Lodi on March 15, 1931. Arlene worked at Del Monte Cannery for 19 years. She enjoyed quilting with her sisters, hosting pickling parties over the years with her family and playing cards.

Arlene is survived by her daughters, Linda Carol Wallace and Patricia Arlene Needham, her son, Patrick Steven Walker, her brothers, Theodore Wagenman, Harvey Wagenman, her sisters, Betty Batterton, Evelyn Busby, Marion Sell, and Alice McCready. Survived by 9 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Arlene is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Garland Walker; her parents, Jacob Wagenman and Elizabeth Layer; her son, Joseph Dewain Walker; her grandsons, Christopher Reed and Jesse Joe Walker; her sisters, Florence Sexton and Nancy McDaniels.

The funeral service will be held in Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, at 1 p.m. March 20. Patrick Steven Walker will be officiating. A reception will immediately follow at Arlene’s home. Cherokee Memorial will be taking care of funeral arrangements.

For more information call (209) 462-1482. Donations can be sent to Patricia Needham, P.O. Box 14, Pollock Pines, CA, 95726.

VISITATION

No visitation will be held.

SERVICES

A memorial  service will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday,  March 20, 2015, Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA

INTERMENT

Inurnment will take place at El Dorado Cemetery, El Dorado Hills, CA

Ruby Patricia 'Patty' Willyard

Ruby Patricia “Patty” Willyard entered into the presence of her Lord February 24, 2015. Born in Burbank, Calif. Jan. 3, 1927 to John Granville Martin and Lillian Ruth Martin, she was reared in the San Fernando Valleyand Ventura, where she would meet and fall in love with Navy 2nd Class Petty Officer Paul Willyard during WWII, marrying him August 11, 1946.

She was preceded in death by her husband Paul of 59 years, and is survived by her eldest son John and his wife Debbie, son Daniel and his wife Cathy, Ann and her husband Charles as well as nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Faith and family were of paramount importance to her and she nurtured her family while her husband Paul pastored many churches throughout California and Nevada. She was most recently a long standing member of the Stockton Alliance Church, where her celebration of life will be held Monday, March 2, at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to The Great Commission Fund, c/o the Stockton Alliance Church, 825 Highmoor Ave., Stockton, CA 95210.

VISITATION

No visitation is scheduled

SERVICES

A celebration of life will be held Monday, March 2, 11:30 a.m., at Stockton Alliance Church, 825 Highmoor Ave. Stockton, CA 95210

INTERMENT

No public service is scheduled

Leroy Frank Grohman

Leroy Frank Grohman, born Nov. 22, 1934 in San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, in his home in El Dorado Hills, Calif. on Feb. 22, 2015. After graduating from high school in San Antonio, Leroy (Lee) served our country for four years in the Navy with extensive overseas duty. Lee moved with his family to the San Jose area in 1959 and worked as a machinist for Lockheed Martin and other companies in the Bay Area and gained recognition for his skill as a tool cutter grinder who could achieve best-in-class tolerances on critical parts.

After his retirement in 2000, Lee moved with his wife, Joan, to El Dorado Hills, Calif.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Hattie Grohman, father, Frank Grohman, his beloved wife of 54 years, Joan, three sisters and four brothers. He is survived by his daughters, Debbie Leija, Elaine Small and Janet Martin, sons, Jack and Glen Grohman, two sisters, three brothers, nine grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

Remembrances in lieu of flowers, can be made in Lee’s name to Bristol Hospice ~ Sacramento LLC,, 2140 Professional Drive, Suite 210, Roseville, CA 95661.

VISITATION

Friends and family are invited for visitation at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, CA 95240  Thursday, Feb. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 7 p.m.

SERVICES

Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 at St. Anne’s Church, 215 West Walnut St., Lodi, Calif.

Mary Irene (Elston) Twitty

Mary Irene (Elston) Twitty, 90, of Galt went peacefully into the arms of Jesus on February 21, 2015. She was born July 12, 1924 to Anna Gertrude (Garity) and Alvy Dean Elston in Mount Ayr, Iowa. She graduated from Hail High School; Hamburg, Iowa in 1944 after taking a couple of years off to assist in raising her siblings.

Mary met her husband Glen in Iowa. She came out to visit him in California while he was serving in the Army. They were married in Stockton on January 30, 1946. They moved back to Iowa for a few years, before returning to California. They resided primarily in the San Joaquin & Sacramento Counties, settling in Galt after purchasing their lifelong residence in 1964.

She worked primarily in the food service industry, at such notable places as The Camelot, Al the Wops, Lay’s Restaurant, Sunshine Café and Vienna Convalescent Hospital. She retired in 1988.

Mary was a tough, ornery, but loving lady who enjoyed camping, dancing, shopping, fishing, gardening, garage sales, sewing, and just spending time outdoors, especially on her front porch in her later years.

She is proceeded in death by her husband, Glen Twitty (2003); son, Terry Glen Twitty (infant); and daughter, Ginger Lee Billingsly (1995).

She is survived by her daughter, Jackie Lynn Twitty, son, Timothy Dean Twitty, both of Galt. Ten Grandchildren; Lorna (Tom) Dillon LaRoe, Tonya (Eric) Hartwell, Wayne Billingsly, Glenda Greenhaw, Amber (Jack) Brixey, Anthony Hubbard, Stephanie Desersa, Katie Goff, Mashauna Twitty and Casey Twitty. As well as sixteen Great Grandchildren and one Great-Great Grandson.

Services will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park (Harney Ln. & Hwy 99) in the Chapel of Flowers on March 5, 2015 @ 11:00 AM. Pastor Tim Stevenson of Horizon Community Church officiating. A potluck Celebration of Life Reception immediately following at the Lodi Moose Lodge, 3824 E. Woodbridge Rd. Acampo. All who knew her are welcome to attend.

VISITATION

No visitation will be held

SERVICES

Services will be held Thursday, March 5 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Flowers, Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA 95240

Celebration of Life reception immediately following at the Lodi Moose Lodge, 3824 E. Woodbridge Rd. Acampo

Donald Eugene Gould

Donald Eugene Gould was born July 18, 1934 in Kansas City, Missouri and passed away February 20, 2015 at home due to sudden heart failure. He left this world quickly, unexpectedly, and without suffering. His strong belief and faith in God was his strength to all of his family and that was demonstrated by being a pillar and active member of Mayfair Christian Church for the past 50 years. Don’s greatest passion was bowling and despite being 80 years old, he bowled weekly since his early twenties. Don married Rita E. Gould in 1962 and enjoyed 53 years of shared life.

Don came from a meager upbringing where he learned the true value of making a living. He started working at his family owned business, “Gould’s Café” in Texas from ages 13 to 17 years old. He completed the 11th grade and since times were so financially tough, he found a job as manager of a small drive in restaurant from age 18 to 19. Next, he was fortunate to land a better paying job as a driller in the oil fields from ages 20-23 as he also became a father of three little boys, Donny, Danny, and Michael from his first marriage.

God always took Don into a new direction when a better paying opportunity presented itself; he found that in becoming a welder for the next 30 years. During that time, he moved to California, where he met Rita, his soul mate. They were married three months later and their first child and Don’s only daughter, Cathy was born. A few years later, his last born, David came along.

Through the years, Don continued his welding profession until he retired at the age of 53. His next venture was going into business with his son, David who lived with Muscular Dystrophy his entire life. Don’s devotion to David’s well being was displayed by his support in helping David realize his own goals and dreams in starting a print shop from the ground floor. Together, they remained in business until David’s passing 16 months ago and it was 27 years up to Don’s own passing.

Don was a man who was well loved and respected in his church and bowling community and was a man who was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was truly a self made man with his faith in God to lead him every step of the way.

Don left behind his loving wife and life partner, Rita, his children, Danny Gould (Carol), Michael Gould (Aura), and Cathy Gould-Harrison (Richard), his daughter in laws, Shannon Gould, Bridget Gould and Rita Gould. He also leaves 9 grandchildren: Jamie, Brandon, Brittany, Bethany, Marisa, Jonathan, Takashi, Todd, and Jennica as well as 8 great grandchildren: Mina, Tierstyn, Camdyn, Brayden, Samuel, Evan, twins, Mackenzie and Madison.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Wilbur Gould, his three brothers, Wilbur, Charles, and Norman, his oldest son, Donny in 1985, his grandson, Stephen in 2001, and his youngest son, David in 2013.

Please join us in attending a "Celebration of Life" on Saturday, February 28th at 11am at Mayfair Christian Church, 5 West Swain Road, Stockton, California to give Don the honor of being celebrated for his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Defying Muscular Dystrophy at www.defyingmd.com or by mailing to Defying Muscular Dystrophy at 3031 W. March Lane, Ste. 134, Stockton, Ca 95219. Viewing will be held at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home at 831 Industrial Way, Lodi Ca during the following days and times: Friday, Feb. 27th 3:00 8:00 pm, Saturday, Feb, 28th 1:00-6:00 pm and Sunday, March 1st from 1:00-4:00 pm.

VISITATION

Visitations will be held at: Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home at 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, Calif. 95240 during the following days and times: Friday, Feb. 27th 3:00 8:00 pm, Saturday, Feb, 28th 1:00-6:00 pm and Sunday, March 1st from 1:00-4:00 pm.

SERVICES

No services

INTERMENT

No public service will be held

Ruby Irwin

Ruby Irwin, teacher, amateur gardener and longtime resident of northern California, died Friday, Feb. 20 in Lodi. She was 95. Born Feb. 25, 1919 to Matthew Tripp Jr. and Bessie Fields Tripp in La Grange, N.C., Ruby Isabel Tripp moved away from the self-proclaimed “Garden Spot” after graduating high school to attend classes at Southern Junior College (now Southern Adventist University) in Collegedale, Tenn. While there, she met John D. Irwin, of Jacksonville, Fla. They were married soon after he began service in the U.S. Army as the country entered World War II. The couple moved to California while John awaited his transfer to overseas duty.

While her husband served in the South Pacific, Mrs. Irwin attended classes and worked at Pacific Union College in Angwin, Calif. After the war, the couple lived in Calistoga and, soon after, moved to Lodi, where both remained for the rest of their lives.

After a brief employment as a social worker in Stockton, Mrs. Irwin began teaching grade school classes at New Haven Elementary in Manteca. She spent the majority of her time at New Haven -- more than twenty years -- teaching kindergarten, which she most enjoyed. She retired in 1984.

Mrs. Irwin loved growing things and she turned her spacious backyard on Watson Street in Lodi into a small orchard, with peach, pear, cherry and apple trees yielding bountiful fruit and a large, raised-bed garden providing tomatoes and other vegetables, most of which she gave to neighbors and family.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother and churchgoer and served in retirement as librarian at English Oaks Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Lodi.

Mrs. Irwin is preceded in death by her husband, John D. Irwin. She is survived by her two sons, J. Charles Irwin, of Lodi and James Irwin, of San Francisco; granddaughters Laura Gore, of Angwin, Calif. and Kathryn Irwin, of New York; grandsons Zachary Irwin of Boise, Idaho and Kent Irwin, of Reno.

VISITATION

Visitation is scheduled for 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26, at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home at 831 E. Industrial Way, Lodi, CA 95240

SERVICES

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27 in Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi, CA 95240

INTERMENT: Evergreen Chapel Garden, Old Park

Burial will take place after the funeral at Cherokee Memorial Park. 360-degree view of approximate location of burial space shown below. Contact us at (209) 334-9613 regarding burial spaces near this location

Joe Tsuda

Joe Tsuda passed away on February 18, 2015 at the age of 69. Born on January 8, 1946 in El Centro, California, Joe grew up in Reedley and Fresno, where he graduated High School. He served in the United States Air Force, where he trained in Flight School and specialized as a helicopter medic. He retired in Stockton after over 40 years working for the United States Post Office.Joe is survived by his partner, Donna Wilson, children, Patti M. Tsuda, Elisabeth Smith (James), and Caroline Tsuda, and his grandchildren, Alex Baptist, Kenneth Smith, Katelyn Smith, Wayne Russell, and Tesla Russell. He also leaves behind his siblings, Tom, Tak, Tosh, Yuri, Fumi, Amy, and Elaine Tsuda, and Mio Shimizu, his aunt Barbara Marion, uncle John Marion (Tillie), and numerous nieces and nephews. Please sign the online guestbook at www.cherokeememorial.com.

VISITATION No visitation will be held.

SERVICES

Memorial Service will held Saturday, March 14, 2015 , 1:00 p.m. Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99  at  Harney Lane ,Lodi, Calif.

http://cherokeememorial.com/cmpfh-cemeteryvisitinfo.html

Avery Charles McQueen

Avery Charles McQueen, 84 of Lodi passed away in his sleep at his home on Monday, February 16, 2015. He was born February 26, 1930 in Lindsey, CA. Avery graduated from Lodi High as part of the class 1948. He served in the U.S. Air Force and in 1950 married Mary Lou. Avery farmed both row crops and grapes. He was proud to serve on the Woodbridge Irrigation District and in his early years was active in Young Farmers. He was also a member of the 1st Baptist Church in Lodi. Survivors include: daughters, Sheri (David) Silva, Debbie Malone all of Lodi, Kathleen Shires of Stockton, son Michael “Mick” (Jeanette) McQueen of Lodi and eleven grandchildren.

His wife, Mary Lou McQueen and sister, Elsie Babcock precede him in death.

Please sign the guestbook at www.cherokeememorial.com

VISITATION 

Will be held on Thursday, February 26 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 E. Industrial Way, Lodi, Calif. 95240

SERVICES

Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 27, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi, CA 95240

Norma Isabelle (Westman) Jolitz

Jan. 21, 1923 - Feb. 15, 2015 Isabelle was born to Swedish immigrant parents, Gust and Henny Westman in Duluth, Minnesota.  She graduated from Denfeld High School in 1941.  Following graduation, Norma enlisted in the Navy as a member of the Women Accepted for Voluntary Service (WAVES) during World War II.  Awarded a World War II Victory Ribbon, her service to her country as a WAVE was one of her proudest accomplishments, providing her with lifelong friends and memories of their times together. After the war, Norma used her benefits under the GI Bill of Rights to earn her business credential and went to work at the Duluth Herald Tribune.

Shortly thereafter, Norma met Bill Jolitz and they were married in 1949. Together they raised a family of four, while moving across five states, including Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, ultimately residing in San Jose, California.  In California, Norma served as church secretary at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Saratoga, was employed by the Cupertino Union School District, and was very active with the Bay Area WAVES of Northern California as a charter member.

Norma and Bill enjoyed travels to visit their numerous friends across the country, celebrated 25 years together in Hawaii, and traveled throughout Europe, rekindling connections with distant relations in Sweden.  Following the death of Bill on September 5, 1993 due to complications from heart surgery, Norma once again soldiered on and enjoyed the company of her close friends and neighbors in San Jose, California.  In later years, Norma moved to Jackson to be closer to her daughter Brenda and son-in-law Chip, and later moved again to Lodi, California.  Norma passed away peacefully on February 15, 2015, surrounded by the love of her family.

Norma is survived by her three children, Brenda Walker, Bill Jolitz Jr., and Kim Jolitz Steingraber, their spouses, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to the American Cancer Society, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, or the American Heart Association.

VISITATION

No visitation will be held

SERVICES

A military funeral for Norma Jolitz will be held on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at San Joaquin National Cemetery, 32053 McCabe Rd, Gustine, CA 95322.

Marion Driscoll

Marion Driscoll died peacefully on Valentines Day in the care of Hospice of San Joaquin and with family. She was born on Dec. 5, 1936 in Oil City, Pennsylvania to the late Clayton and Alyce Sheats. Marion was the younger of two daughters.

In 1954, she married Francis Driscoll, also of Oil City. They began their family and in 1969, Francis and Marion relocated to Stockton, California. Marion was a life long housewife, a dedicated wife, a loving mother and grandmother, with many friends and acquaintances. Marion attended Bear Creek Community Church in Lodi.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Francis Driscoll, and sister Janice Dumpe of Seneca, Pennsylvania. She is survived by her daughter Leslie Morrow (Raleigh) and son Mark Driscoll (Sandy), all from Stockton. She was blessed with three grandchildren, Jennifer Morrow and Derek Driscoll are from Stockton while Jonathan Driscoll (Jane) reside in Escalon. She was a cousin and aunt to many.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of San Joaquin in Marion's memory.

VISITATION

Visitation will be held at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

SERVICES

A celebration of life will be held at Evergreen Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015 with committal immediately following.

Charlene Kelly Herrmann

Charlene Herrmann, 86, of Lodi, California died peacefully on Feb. 13, 2015. Charlene was born in May 1928 in Wray, Colorado, to Todd and Eugenia Weaver.  When she was thirteen, her Mother married Edward Kelly and they traveled to California where Mr. Kelly was in the Army.  They ended up in Grass Valley, where she met her best friend Melba’s brother Garry, who was the love of her life.  While in high school she was a lifetime member of CSF.

After Garry was discharged from the Navy, Garry and Charlene married in June 1946. They had four children. They moved to the Bay Area, then the Sacramento area and, in 1966, to Lodi.  Charlene loved Lodi. Garry and Charlene enjoyed dancing, and were excellent dancers together.  She loved Mariachi music and the Mexican culture. They traveled to Mexico many times, often taking their family, well before Mexico was a tourist destination. They also traveled to Egypt, China, Spain, Italy, England, and all across the U.S. as well.  Following their retirements, Garry and Charlene would go to anyplace warm during the winter  -- usually Desert Hot Springs.  After 47 years of marriage, Garry died with Charlene by his side.

Charlene worked at the Lodi Marshal’s office for 20 years, and made many lasting friends while working there.  She also assisted in Garry’s Bail Bond Business.  She was an active Lodi Police Department Partner for 14 years and enjoyed the friendships and support that the Partners provided.  She received several commendations for work she did with the Partners.

Charlene had a wonderful sense of humor and had many friends with whom she told jokes.  She had boundless energy and enthusiasm and a zest for life.  She never complained and had a wonderful positive attitude.  Charlene was a people person who never met a stranger and made a special effort to remember the names of everyone she met.  She will be sorely missed.

Charlene is survived by her son Jerry (Cathy) Herrmann, of Morada, daughter Laurie (Ron) Tinkey, of Lodi, son Tom (Barbara) Herrmann of Groveland, Florida, and daughter Barbara (Trevor) Thor of Walnut Creek, California, as well as nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

At her request there will be no services.  Memorial contributions may be made in Charlene’s memory to the Lodi Partners through the Lodi Police Department at 230 W. Elm Street, Lodi, CA 95240 or to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA, 95204.

VISITATION

No visitations will be held

SERVICES

No services will be held

INTERMENT

Private

John Douglas 'Buddy' Harrison Sr.

John Douglas “Buddy” Harrison, Sr. was born February 12, 1940 in Lawton, OK. He was less than two years old when his family moved to Stockton, where he lived the rest of his life. He graduated from Stagg High School with the class of 1958. He was a demolition contractor in Stockton for many years with his father. Buddy shared his love of antiquing and attending auctions with his entire family.

He had a great love for family and friends, and he always gladly extended his charity and home to those he knew. John passed away peacefully with his family beside him, on February 9, 2015.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, John W. Harrison and June Ingle Harrison. He is survived by his children - John D. Harrison, Jr. (Jaquie), Jackie Williams (Roger), and Billy DeRieux (Cindy); his siblings - Jim Harrison (Stephanie) and Bobbie Bjorneboe (Bill); his grandchildren – Jared Jones, Victoria and Katelyn Williams, William and Elizabeth DeRieux; his extended family and many friends.

VISITATION

A visitation will be held on Thursday February 12, 2015 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICES & INTERMENT

A memorial and graveside service will be held for John at 1 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 , at Evergreen Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park , Hwy 99 @ Harney Lane, Lodi.

Leonard M. Tachera

Born Nov. 12, 1939, Leonard M. Tachera age 75 passed away at home on Feb. 9, 2015 in Vale, Oregon. He served in the Navy from 1956 to 1960. Leonard was a Welder for PG&E, Plumbers & Steamfitters Union and Stockton Unified School District prior to his retirement.

His passion was hunting, showing and breeding his English bulldogs, and fly Rolling pigeons.

He always loved living in the country with many animals and land to keep him busy.

Leonard is survived by his brothers Ron Tachera, Dennis Tachera and wife Susan Tachera; son Allen Tachera, Jason Tachera, and daughter Daniece Lozano, and four grandchildren.

VISITATION

No visitations will be held.

SERVICES

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi, CA 95240

Matt Golden

After a valiant year and a half fight with cancer, Matt Golden died peacefully in his home on February 7, 2015 at the age of 64. Born Sept. 7, 1950, his wife of 44 years, Barbara and his daughter Kristi survive him. Matt was a proud member of the U.S. Army reserves for 6 years. He then served on the Stockton Police Department for 27 years in a variety of capacities including as a patrol officer, canine officer, school resource officer and as a field training officer.

He earned his BA in social sciences from Stanislaus State University and his Juris Doctor degree from Humphrey's College School Of Law.

After retiring from the police department he served the Patriot Guard Riders organization and was the Assistant State Captain for the California North Central Region.

Matt was also a member of the Stockton Sunrise Rotary Club.  Matt was the driving force behind this club teaming up with the Northern California Patriot Guard to provide a Christmas dinner and toy drive for the Army National Guard Troops and their families who have been stationed here in Stockton for the last three years.  Both Matt and Barbara became Paul Harris fellows during this time with the Rotary.

Matt touched everyone he came in contact with and will be missed by all.

Matt's family requests that in lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made in Matt's name to The Wounded Warrier Project, Hospice of San Joaquin or a charity of your choice.

VISITATION

No visitations will be held

SERVICES

Services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 at First Baptist Church, 3535 N. El Dorado St., Stockton, California 95204.

INTERMENT

Private

Donna Jeanne Tichenor-Shutts

Donna Jeanne Tichenor-Shutts, 58 died peacefully in Lodi Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015. Donna was born in Springfield, Ohio, Nov. 2, 1956. She was raised in Southern California where she graduated from Foothill High School in Tustin. In high school, she enjoyed swimming, horseback riding and being a member of the drill team.

After high school, Donna moved to Sonora, Calif., where she attended Columbia College. In Sonora, Donna met and later married Steve Sparaco. She then moved to Lodi, where she lovingly raised her four children and was an active member at Zion Christian Fellowship.

In 2004, Donna re-married to Ricky Shutts and returned to Sonora. Donna worked various jobs as an Administrative Assistant in both Lodi and Sonora.

Donna’s greatest joy was being a mother to her four children. Donna also enjoyed riding motorcycles, playing guitar, singing, dancing, photography, gardening, bible study, journaling and writing poetry. Donna was truly a Proverbs 31 woman. She was wise, an advocate for the truth, generous, self sacrificing and loved unconditionally which left a powerful impact on the lives of her friends and family.

Survivors include husband Ricky Shutts of Lodi; son, Blake Stevens, of Atascadero; daughters, TeAnne Sparaco of San Jose, Jennah Sparaco and Sarah Sparaco, both of Sonora, as well as a grandson, Talen Sparaco; her mother Billie Tichenor of San Luis Obispo; sister, Deborah Ramsgard of San Luis Obispo; aunt, Diane (Steve) Webster of Grover Beach, Calif.; uncle, Duane Tichenor of Canada and her cousin, Amy Linn of Paso Robles, Calif. She is preceded by her father, Robert Tichenor.

VISITATION

Saturday, Feb. 14,  1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 E. Industrial Way, Lodi.

SERVICES

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015 at 3  p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home.

INTERMENT

Private inurnment at Los Osos Valley Memorial Park in Los Osos, Calif.

Bertha Weaver

Bertha Weaver, a resident of Elk Grove, California since 1946, died peacefully at her home on Feb. 4, 2015 at the age of 95. Bertha was born on June 20, 1919 in Diamond Springs, Calif., where she grew up on a ranch and graduated from El Dorado County High School in 1937.

She was employed  by the State of California Employment Development Department as a stenographer for 25 years, where she was known as Bertie. She retired in 1976.

Bertha loved animals, sewing, gardening, the outdoors and playing her harmonica.  Bertha had a gift for humor and helping others.

Bertha was preceded in death by her parents Julia and Antonio Pavia, sisters Caselda Zade and Adeline Anderson.  She is survived by her nieces Sandra Thayer and Barbara Rodriguez, nephews Robert Anderson and Manual Lomba; 7 great nieces and nephews; 10 great-great nieces and nephews; and one great-great-great nephew.  Aunt Bertha was dearly loved by all her family and friends. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association through their website: alz.org

VISITATION

Viewing will be at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home in Lodi on Wed. Feb. 11 from 11 a.m to 8 p.m.

SERVICES

Funeral services in Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, Thursday, Feb. 12 at 10 a.m. A celebration of Bertha's life will follow.

INTERMENT

Private

TJ Nightengale

TJ Nightengale, 90, of Lodi, died Jan. 25, 2015. Born Aug. 15, 1924, in Homestead, Major County, Oklahoma, TJ served in the U.S. Army Air Corp from 1946-1949 and did a tour of duty in occupied Japan.

He married the love of his life, Rose, in 1951, and 2 children were born from their union. While in Oklahoma, TJ worked as an auto mechanic, both independently and for auto dealers, and upon moving to Lodi, he worked for over 30 years at General Mills. He drove the same car the whole time -- his maroon 1947 Pontiac.

He attended First United Methodist Church, and belonged to the SIRS at General Mills, Local #59, and was a member of the Stockton Moose Lodge, #391.

TJ enjoyed working on cars, yardwork, gardening, golfing, fishing, bowling, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren.

TJ leaves behind his children, Bonnie (Mark) Sherwood, Tobias (Amy) Nightengale, grandchildren, Joanna, Katie, and Timothy Nightengale. His wife, Rose, son, Gary, and parents, Tobias and Christina Nightengale precede him in passing.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

VISITATION

Visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015 from 12-5 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 Industrial Way, Lodi, Ca 95240.

SERVICES

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Mon., Feb. 2, 2015 at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 and Harney Lane in Lodi. 

Shirley Jean McDowell

Shirley Jean McDowell was called home to be with the Lord on Jan. 24, 2015. Born Shirley Jean Holzapple on Jan. 22, 1938 to Vera and Robert Holzapple in Peoria Ill., Shirley is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Robert McDowell of Stockton, and 5 adult children: Bryan and Tammy McDowell of Galt; Bobby and Charlene McDowell of Valley Springs; Ronny McDowell and Joan McDowell of Lodi and Stockton; Cristy and Larry Gillam of Lodi, and Shirley and Rick Valdez of Lodi.

She also has two step-daughters in Oregon, 18 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren, a loving brother, Gerry Holzapple of Grass Valley as well as many nieces and nephews of Fairfield and Vacaville. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Vera and Robert Holzapple.

Shirley absolutely loved life and spending time outdoors. She was a true lover of fishing, camping, RVing across country, and attending Stockton Thunder hockey games with her family and friends. Shirley had a great love of animals. Two of her closest companions were her Scotty dogs, Jacpot and Morris, who she loved like her children. Along with her husband, Shirley proudly helped establish and build the family business of 30-plus years, Bruce’s Body Shop.

In her spare time she enjoyed reading James Patterson novels and was a dedicated member of the American Business Women’s Association.  She was president 2 years running and voted Woman of the Year!

At the time of Shirley’s passing at her home, she was surrounded by her loving family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Bear Creek Community Church at 11171 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. Lodi Ca. 95242 at 1:30 pm on Feb 9th 2015. Flowers may sent to the church the morning of the service.

VISITATION

No visitations will be held

SERVICES

A Celebration of Life will be held at Bear Creek Community Church at 11171 N. Lower Sacramento Rd. Lodi Ca. 95242 at 1:30 pm on Feb 9th 2015. Flowers may sent to the church the morning of the service.

Robert Gerard Sprake

Robert Gerard Sprake of Lodi passed away suddenly at his home on Saturday, January 24th at the age of 53 years. Robert was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on January 31, 1961. The family moved to California in 1962 and he lived in Lodi and Stockton since 1965.

A graduate of St. Anne’s School and Tokay High School, Robert was active on the Diving and Wrestling teams and attended Drafting and Design classes at San Joaquin Delta College.

In 1984 he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on active sea duty aboard the USS Fox CG33  and the USS McKee AS-41 achieving the rank of HT3. He was awarded the Sea Service Deployment ribbon with one bronze star. In 1987, Robert re-enlisted and was transferred to the Naval Reserve Center at Rough and Ready Island in Stockton where he served until his honorable discharge in 1992.

Robert worked for many years as a welder and pipe fitter for Holly Sugar in Tracy; a brief time as subcontractor in the construction industry; and currently was a traffic safety engineer for Far West Safety in Lodi.

Robert loved working on vintage automobiles and muscle cars from the late 1960’s and was preparing to restore a 1958 GMC pickup. He was a jack of all trades and his talents as a fabricator were impressive. He enjoyed vehicle auctions, travel and vacations and the company of family and friends. Robert was an avid fisherman and could be found fishing on the Mokelumne River during salmon season daily after work and on days off.

Robert was preceded in death by his brother Thomas and is survived by his daughters Brenna and Karli;  parents Robert and Marilyn Sprake; sister Diane Koenig (Mark) nieces Lissa, Julee Sharyl Koenig; brother John Sprake (Kelly) nephews Michael, Nicholas and nieces Marissa and Natalie Sprake.

VISITATION

No visitation will be held

SERVICES

A Rosary will be held on Feb. 2, 2015  at 6:00 p.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, 831 industrial Way, Lodi CA.

A  memorial service will be held on Feb. 3, 2015  at 10:00 a.m. at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home.

INTERMENT

Private service