Zora Mann

January 19, 1935 - February 19, 2024

It is with great sadness Zora’s family announces her passing to the loving arms of Jesus, on Monday, February 19, 2024, at the age of 89 years at her Lodi home attended by her family.

Zora was born January 19, 1935, to Boyce and Frances (Golden) Ashford in Modesto, CA. As a child, Zora enjoyed music playing the violin and singing in the choir at Modesto High School. She played with the Modesto Symphony Orchestra while in high school.

She and John Mann met at First Christian Church of Modesto. They married June 14, 1952, and she joined him as an Air Force military wife moving from post to post as his duty station changed. They settled in Lodi in 1955. After twelve years in town, they purchased an almond and grape ranch west of town. Through the years, they removed the grapes and planted more almond trees.

Zora had a green thumb and enjoyed both vegetable and flower gardening. She spent many hours of pleasure watching and listening to the budgies in the aviary John built her.

Zora was a faithful member of Lodi First Christian Church and Grace Point Church where she sang in the choir.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 71 years, John Mann, and children, Kathrine Robertson (Don) of Fresno, CA, Donna Benson (Bob) of Kalispell, MT, Steven Mann of Lodi, CA, and Edith McLennan (Pat) of Port Angeles, WA, ten grandchildren and six great- grandchildren. Zora is also survived by her brother, Bud Ashford (Helen) and sister, Karen Wiggins of Fort Collins, CO.

A celebration of Zora’s life will be held on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., at Cherokee Memorial Vineyard Chapel 14165 Beckman Rd. Lodi, CA, with Paster Ray Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park. Reception to follow at Grace Point Church 801 S. Lower Sacramento Rd. Lodi, CA. In lieu of flowers donate to your favorite charity in her name.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Mann family.

Norman Gesler

Born into Life
July 13, 1932 

Entered into Rest
February 19, 2024

Norman was born in a small clinic in Lodi in 1932. He attended Lodi elementary schools and graduated from Lodi Union High School in 1950. He was on the high school championship swim team for four years and was given a life pass to all future LUHS sporting events. His friends gave him the nickname "Bubby". Following high school, he served in the US Air Force during the Korean conflict and attended San Jose State University.

Norman had an entrepreneurial spirit. He started Hoppe's Pizza with his lifelong friend Bill Hoppe, the first pizza restaurant in the area. Later ventures included Milk Stop, L and M Hamburgers and insurance adjusting. 

He loved his annual fishing and hunting trips to Idaho with his long time friends and his weekly golf game on the greens. Norman was also active in the Clements-Lockeford Lions Club. Later in his life, he traveled extensively with his beloved wife Betty to Hawaii, Mexico, and throughout the United States. They enjoyed cruising to Alaska and Mexico.

Norman is survived by his wife of 16 years, Betty Jean Shannon and her 4 children who welcomed Norman into their family with open arms.  

He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Dorothea Gesler, his sister Fredene Earll and first wife Patricia Ann Haley Gesler. Norman is survived by his 3 children, Bradley Gesler, Kelli Gesler Buck, Dr. Stewart Gesler, numerous grandchildren and his sister Carlyn McKindley.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Lodi Boys & Girls Club in honor of Norman's memory.

Norman wanted to go home to his Lord and Savior. John 14:1-6 

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Gesler family.

Norman Wilson

Born July 16, 1931 in Gilroy CA
Died February 17, 2024 in Stockton
92 years young

Norm will be deeply missed beyond measure. He was one of a kind and held a special place in so many lives.

Norm started adulting when he was just 10 years old, when his little sister Wanda was born. From the moment he saw her, he wanted to take care of her, and he did just that.

When Norm was 22 years old, he went to a Halloween dance in Soulsbyville California, where he met Vivian. They were married 23 days later on November 21st 1954. They would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this year. After getting married, Norm worked in many different jobs doing ranching, mining, excavating and finally landed in manufacturing where his innovations were used across the industry. Norm and Vivian sucessfully ran their company together for the last 45 years. They had three boys and moved all over the west coast including California, Nevada, Idaho, and Oregon, but Lodi is where they called home.

Norm enjoyed going to work everyday, and coming home to his wife, grabbing a handful of mixed nuts, a beer, and sitting on the back patio to puff on a cigar.

Survived by his wife Vivian, children Michael (Debbie), David (Leigh), & Eric (Debby). Sister Wanda Deaton, Sister-in-law Lila Teczon and brother-in-law Ernie (Ada) Steinhauser. Grandchildren Erica, Ashlee, Stacey, and Roxanne. Nieces and nephews Matthew Teczon, Leesah (Dean) Marvin, Tammy Miggelosi, and Julie (Joey) Lovel, David Deaton, Daryl Deaton, Ellina (Jeff) Campbell, Louie Steinhauser Greatgrandchildren Abigail, Brody, & Kayla

Preceded by parents Viola & Milton, Sister Crystal, granddaughter Sylvia and brother-in-law Ruben.

We love you Norm!

SERVICE
A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, February 29th, 2024 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 Wilson family.

Roy Kirsten

January 17, 1926 - February 16, 2024

Roy Kirsten, a life long Stocktonian, died peacefully on February 16, 2024, at age 98.

Roy was born on January 17th, 1926, to Frieda and William C. Kirsten. He graduated from Stockton High School and excelled in football as a wide receiver with the Tarzans.

After graduation, Roy was drafted into the United States Army, serving as a tank crew member and eventually a tank commander in General Patton’s 3rd Army. His service took him to the heart of the European Theatre, where he was actively involved in pivotal combat operations. These included the decisive Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes and military engagements across Central Europe. He was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat in Zwickau, Germany.

Following his return to civilian life, Roy attended the College of the Pacific, where he continued to pursue his passion for football as a member of the Pacific Tigers. While at Pacific, Roy met the love of his life, Mary Ann Ferguson. In 1950, after his graduation, they were married. Roy and Mary Ann enjoyed 72 years of marriage until her passing in 2022, a testament to their enduring love and profound partnership.

In 1951, Roy embarked on a successful career in business, first with Seaboard Finance, then with Klein Brothers of Stockton, CA, in 1959 as a bean commodities trader. In 2001, he joined his son, David, at the Kirsten Company of Lodi, where he was proud to work alongside his son and grandson. In 2011, he retired after 50 years in commodity trading.

Roy was an avid golfer and pilot throughout his adult life, finding joy and freedom in the skies and on the greens. However, Roy’s greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He raised three children with Mary Ann: Bruce Edward Kirsten of Henderson, Nevada, David Alan Kirsten of Lodi, California, and Carol Elanor Miller of Stockton. His legacy lives on through his six grandchildren, Aaron Kirsten, Kevin Burnett, Mark Kirsten, Carolyn Montgomery, Alex Miller, and Kelsey Miller, as well as his seven great- grandchildren, all of whom he cherished.

Roy Kirsten will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend—a man whose kindness, generosity, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew him.

A private service honoring Roy's life will be held at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery in Lodi, California, where he will be laid to rest alongside his beloved Mary Ann. A celebration of life is being planned for March, offering family and friends the opportunity to gather, reminisce, and honor his remarkable life.

Beverly Case

October 3, 1933 - February 15, 2024

Beverly Oehler Case passed away on February 15, at the age of 90, following a lengthy illness. Bev was born on October 3, 1933 to Elmer and Nadine Oehler. She lived in Lodi her entire life. Bev attended local schools and graduated from Lodi High School in 1951. While at Lodi High she met Walter Case. They would marry in June, 1953 and be together for 51 years. After High School, she attended Humphrey’s Business College and later worked at the City of Lodi, Kiino’s Flower Shop, and Pacific Coast Producers, doing clerical and bookkeeping. After her bookkeeping career she worked as a Para Educator in a Special Day class at Tokay High School. She retired from this position July 31, 1995 after 15 years of service.

In 1956, Beverly and Walter welcomed their first daughter, Lynette. A second daughter, Lisa, was born in 1960. Beverly was a devoted wife, mother, and Nonnie to her 4 grandchildren, and two great granddaughters and is expecting her third great grandchild later this year.

Bev was a wonderful seamstress and both daughters never had to worry about a dress for Rainbow Girls or High School dances. She loved to spend a day out shopping with her girls and having lunch, especially if it was in San Francisco. Nightly dinners and weekend breakfasts were enjoyed together as a family. She will always be remembered as an excellent cook.

Bev enjoyed the Lodi community and social affairs. She was a member of Omega Nu Sorority(Nadine Oehler, her mother, was a founding member) and Women’s Club. In earlier days, she loved spending afternoons with girlfriends playing Bridge and evenings playing Bunco.

Beverly and Walter enjoyed traveling together, especially cruising to various destinations: Hawaii, Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal. Family vacations to Lake Tahoe, Carmel and Palm Springs will be fondly remembered by both daughters and their families.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband Walter in 2004. She is survived by two daughters, Lynette Dickey(Bradford)of Woodbridge CA, and Lisa Robinson(Kirk)of Lodi, CA, her 4 grandchildren, Jarrett Robinson(Leslie) of San Francisco CA, Elyse Dickey of Lodi CA, Brennan Dickey(Jenna) of Acampo CA, and Lauren Nabors(Dylan) of Lodi CA. She is also survived by two great granddaughters, Addison Dickey and Nixx Nabors. A great grandchild is due in 2024.

She is survived by her companion Roger McCormick and Sister-in-Law, Marlene Manna Oehler.

A celebration of life will be held privately by the family. Donations can be made in Beverly’s name to Loel Senior Center, 105 Washington Street, Lodi California 95240, Vitas Hospice Healthcare, or the charity of your choice.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Case family.

Myrna Garces

January 16, 1956 - February 14, 2024

Myrna Cabana Garces, 68, of Stockton, CA, passed away on February 14, 2024. She was born on January 16, 1956, in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines to parents Esteban and Rita Cabana. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Florentino Garces, her daughter Kathlyn Bone, her son Nicholas Garces, and her brother Marcelo Cabana. Myrna was preceded in death by her father Esteban Cabana, her mother Rita Cabana, and her brother Dominador Cabana.

Myrna received her education from Pacita Education Institute and later went on to attend St. Rita College of Nursing. There she graduated in 1977 with her BSN, kickstarting her career in healthcare.

Myrna was a devoted Registered Nurse for 35 years, working at St. Joseph Medical Center, Valley Garden Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center, and in multiple facilities around the globe. Throughout her career she was called from her native Philippines, to Cherry Hill, NJ, and to Stockton, CA where she dutifully served each community. She was known for her excellence and compassion in caring for patients.

Myrna was also known for her unwavering faith in God and was an active member of the Church of the Presentation. She served as a Eucharistic Minister, facilitator, and volunteered in various church activities. 

She will be fondly remembered for being a loving mother and wife, deeply treasured by many. Myrna's legacy of kindness and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Myrna's life at visitation and funeral services hosted in her honor.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 8:00pm with a rosary starting at 6:00pm Monday, February 26th, 2024 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
Mass will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024 at the Church of the Presentation located at 6715 Leesburg Pl in Stockton, CA. The final committal will follow at San Joaquin Catholic Cemetery, located at 719 E Harding Way, Stockton, CA 95204.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Garces family.

Karen Atwell

July 4, 1953 - February 14, 2024

Karen Marie Atwell was born July 4, 1953, and left this earth February 14, 2024. She was 70 years young. A beloved mother to her two adoring children, Amy and Jeremy Mueller. Karen was born in Alameda, California, the daughter of Bill and Sybol Robertson. She worked in the dental field for many years and ended her career at a daycare center captivating the hearts of many children.

Karen, a.k.a. nana was an extremely engaged grandma to her six grandchildren. Anthony, Kayla, Isabelle, Nathan, Isaac, and Joseph. The best friend to her sister, Freda Hall, and the most entertaining and warm hearted aunt to all of her nieces and nephews.

Karen knew how to celebrate all that life had to offer. Never taking a moment for granted. She lived every day to the fullest. Even until her last breath, She fought  with determination, perseverance, and fearlessness. Passing away on Valentine’s Day, the day, which represents unconditional love, which Karen possessed so much of.

The memorial service will be held Friday, March 15, 2024 at Cherokee Memorial Park(15165 Beckman Rd. Lodi) in the Vineyard chapel at 1 PM. A celebration of life to follow at the Oddfellows lodge 6 S. Pleasant Ave. Lodi California.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Atwell family.

Robert Kontos

Robert (Babe) Kontos
July 7, 1929 – February 13, 2024

Robert (Babe) Kontos, age 94, passed away on February 13, 2024 in Lathrop, California. He was born on July 7, 1929 in Oakland, California.

Robert has honorably served in the United States Navy. He worked at Breuner’s Furniture as a refinisher for many years.

Robert is survived by children, Pam Steele (Bob), Chris Kontos (Becky), and Priscilla Kontos; grandchildren, Robert Steele (Adrianne), Peter Kontos (Julie) and Kara Parker (Sean); also survived by great grandchildren, Cooper, Riley F., Riley C., Regan, River, Ian, and Avery.

He is preceded in death by wife, Joan Kontos.

Services will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Kontos family.

John Hoellworth

November 17, 1939 - February 12, 2024

John James Hoellworth, age 84, of Lodi, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024. Many of his fondest memories were of his youth in Spencer, Iowa. His family moved to California in 1951 and he graduated from Lodi High School, class of 1957. After serving in the Air Force, he and Phyllis Herbel married in 1963, for forty-one years. Following an employment transfer to the Bay Area, John proudly completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from John F. Kennedy University. He spent most of his professional life in insurance management. He will be remembered for his love of animals, music, learning, as someone who accomplished whatever he put his mind to, and who worked too hard and did not play enough.

He is survived by Phyllis; daughter, Joanna; and sister, Myrna Joy Vaughan. He was preceded in death by his parents Clinton and Irma, and brother, Clinton, Jr. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, February 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Cherokee Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Hydrocephalus Association.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hoellworth 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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