Toyoki Matsuda

January 22, 1933 - July 27, 2026

Toyoki “Toy” Matsuda was born on January 22, 1933, in Livingston, California. He passed away peacefully at his home on July 27, 2026, at the age of 93.

Toy loved visiting and talking with family and friends and was always eager to share stories about growing up on the family farm in Livingston. He enjoyed taking daily walks around his neighborhood, where he formed many lasting friendships with his neighbors.

Toy proudly served in the United States Navy. Throughout his working years, he drove big rig trucks, worked for the railroad, and spent most of his career as a mechanic. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

In his free time, Toy enjoyed staying active and keeping busy with his yard work, beautiful rose garden, and the vegetable garden he faithfully planted each year. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family. He loved being surrounded by his grandchildren and created many treasured memories during family vacations and holiday gatherings.

Toy is survived by his grandchildren, Michelle Reyes (Paul), Amy Montenegro (Carlos), and Anthony Moreno, all of Stockton, California; Danny Burton Jr. (Kristina), Wesley Burton (Destiny), Jewel-Lee Burton (Andrew), Sheila Wilson (Eric), and David Burton Jr. (Rachel), all of Dover, Arkansas. He is also survived by 17 great-grandchildren, numerous great -great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, his loving sisters, Shigeko Kurosaki (Tad) and Masako Matsuda of California, who called him often just to chat, his brother, Seigo Matsuda of Virginia, and his devoted caretaker, Yolanda Basua.

Toy was preceded in death by his loving partner of more than 40 years, Jewell Dosier; his two stepsons, Danny Burton Sr. (Kasandra) and David Burton Sr. (MaryAnn); his great-great-grandson, Marcello Reyes; his parents, Zennouske Matsuda and Kimiko Iwamara; his sisters, Hazuye Nishimura, Toshiko Kiyoi, Akiko Nishida, and Kiyoko Tanaka; and his brother, Yoshito Matsuda.

Toy will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, strong family values, and the friendships he built throughout his long and meaningful life. His stories, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

SERVICE
 A graveside service will be held at 12:00pm on Thursday, August 13th, 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 Matsuda family.

Thea (Theresia) Pieternella Hess

Thea (Theresia) Pieternella Hess

April 1, 1945 - July 24, 2026

OBITUARY

It is with deep sadness and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Thea Hess on July 24, 2026, at the age of 81. Daughter of Klaas and Alaberta Terlouw, Thea was born on April 1, 1945, in Den Helder, Netherlands. She was the youngest of four children. As a child, she enjoyed ice skating on the canals in the winter, gymnastics in school, and playing the organ at home.

Her family immigrated to Stockton, California in 1957. She was known as Dutchie Girl to the new friends she made and went to Beauty College after high school. She married Hugo Hess in 1963, resided in San Mateo and then back to Lodi. Thea was highly creative in all aspects of her life. She was a very good cook and created her own recipes appreciating different flavor profiles. She enjoyed crafting, gardening, singing, and loved animals, especially dogs. Her favorite place to be was by the ocean.

Thea is survived by the following: her husband, Hugo; her daughters, Elaine (Kevin) Teague and Heidi (David) Huff; her grandchildren, Joshua, Ryan, Megan, David, Caitlin, Heather, and Joe; 8 great-grandchildren; her brother Klaas Terlouw, and other close family members who will forever cherish the love, sense of humor, and joy she shared.

Thea was preceded in death by her parents, Klaas and Alaberta Terlouw, and her siblings, Nel Knight and Frank Terlouw.

If you would like to make a donation in her name, please donate to Sharks4Kids, www.sharks4kids.com/donate

FUNERAL SERVICE

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 10:00am in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Reception to follow in J Charles Irwin Reception Center at Cherokee Memorial Park

Thea wanted her celebration of life to reflect the joy she brought to others. In her honor, please wear cheerful, vibrant colors instead of traditional black attire.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hess family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Nelly Wong

Nelly Wong

August 19, 1927 - July 23, 2026

VISITATION

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 9:00am-10:30am in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

GRAVESIDE

Graveside service will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11:00am at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Wong family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Marvin Schwartz

April 29, 1937 - July 18, 2026

Marvin Lee Schwartz was born on April 29, 1937, in Willows,California. He enjoyed 89 wonderful years, he sadly passed from cancer on July 18, 2026. Just two months after he was told he had cancer.

Marvin loved to talk and share stories of his life. He told of his younger years growing up in California being the youngest of 6 children of Henry and Eva Schwartz. He was preceded in death by all of his siblings. Esther [Merle] Thompson, John [Janette] Schwartz, Helen [Leroy] Suess, Loraine [Art and John Quasnick] Saul, & Don Schwartz.

Marvin was blessed to have many jobs that he loved. He was in the US Air Force, Worked at Lockheed Aerojet, owned and operated Scott Valley Auto Parts and Grubstake Restaurant, to finish off his working life he returned to Lockheed Martin from 1984 to 2002,

When he retired he traveled from Florida to California in his RV. He decided to settle in Fortuna, California. He lived in his RV while his house was being built. He stopped by daily to see how things were going and made little changes. He moved into his home in 2003, and was very excited to get his backyard turned into his happy place. It was filled with antiques, bonsai trees, humming bird feeders, blueberries, little areas to sit and enjoy nature, and many trees.

Marvin enjoyed life and kept busy with his many hobbies. He played golf and met some of the famous golfers. He loved to get in his truck and go for an adventure. He was a fisherman, especially enjoyed deep sea fishing. He was kept busy in his later years watching football, golf, and Nascar on TV. 

Marvin was known for wearing his bib overalls, which he is buried in. For ordering ice tea without ice. Enjoying a good meal. He was very grateful for all God had blessed him with.

He was very passionate about his genealogy research. He spent many years researching and documenting his findings. He wanted to make sure his nieces and nephews knew all about their Germans from Russia roots. He told them about their family traveling from Nebraska to Lodi, California, going to church, big family get-togethers, he shared many family recipes, and more stories. He passed down his German Sausage, dill pickle, and his favorite German dessert Grebbel recipes. 

He enjoyed his last family get together in May 2026, He was so happy to see everyone, sharing stories, looking at pictures, eating specially made German desserts, and getting lots of hugs. 

Marvin is survived by his nephew Steve [Lori] Schwartz who lovingly cared for him in his last months. He always said, “ Steve was the son he always wanted.” Marvin is survived by their children Carrie [Scott] Kendricks, and their son Bryson, who was Uncle Marv’s little buddy. Amy [Jeff] Lozano and their children Erik, Taylor, Nick and Lexi.

Marvin is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Lorine [Bill] Sukow,  Brenda [Pete] Peterson, Rick [Susan] Thompson, Caryn Bailey,  Nancy Thompson, Dave Evans,and  Ken [Chris] Schwartz and all of their families. Preceded in death by his niece Diane Evans, and nephews Gary Thompson, Ron Schwartz, Larry Thompson, and Eric Schwartz. Preceded in death by Kelli Leigh Kovack, survived by her children Michael, Meigan, and Brandon.

Marvin had a strong faith in God, which helped him accept his diagnosis of stage four cancer. He wanted God to take him when it was his time to go. He knew that he would soon join his loved ones. The last few days we talked about how he was ready to go and wasn’t afraid of dying as he knew God’s love. We hugged and said I love you often. We will miss you very much Uncle Marv. 

His favorite saying was...

UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN

SERVICE
 A graveside service will be held at 10:00am on Friday, August 7th, 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 Schwartz family.

Robert Harry Conner

Robert Harry Conner

March 11, 1929 - July 19, 2026

OBITUARY

Robert Harry Conner, 87, of Woodbridge, California, passed away peacefully on Sunday July 19, 2026 at Lodi Memorial surrounded by his family. 

The son of Fred and Sallie Conner, he was born on March 11, 1939 in a tent in Oklahoma. He married Linda Jean Allen in McFarland, California on June 15, 1963, and was with her until she passed in 2005. They had two children, Kimberly and Bobby. On December 19, 2009 he married Carol Ford, and was with her until her passing a few months ago. 

Robert is survived by his brother Donald Conner; his sister's Betty Sherill and Debra Davidson; his children Kimberly Conner, Bobby Conner(Candace), Brenda Reed, Dawn Michele Gorden, and Debra Flores(Edgar); his grandchildren Matthew Conner(Shelby), Cheyenne Conner, Tanner Husman(Alyssa), Tiffany Facile(Cameron), Tabbitha Heisinger(Jake), Ashley Gorden, Joshua Gorden, Madison Flores, and eight great grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Linda Conner, and his second wife Carol Ford Conner; his parents Fred and Sallie Conner; and siblings Fred Conner, Gordon Conner, Ruth Thompson, Mary Ford, Lee Conner, and Ed Conner.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 24 at 11 am at Faith Community Church, located at 18621 N. Highway 99, Acampo, California 95220.

The family requests that donations be made to the church in lieu of flowers (https://www.faithlodi.org/give)

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Conner family.

Rubin B. Guerra Sr

In Loving Memory of Rubin B. Guerra Sr
November 24, 1951 - July 17, 2026

Rubin B. Guerra, 74, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026 surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on November 24, 1951, in Stockton, California.

Rubin was a proud Stockton native and attended Stagg High School. He spent 12 years working at the Port of Stockton Grain Elevators before pursuing his innovative spirit. Alongside his brother Vito, they owned and operated a waterbed shop during the 1970s, where they handcrafted and sold waterbeds throughout the community.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Rubin played softball for many years on various Stockton city teams and dedicated his time to coaching youth baseball with Oak Park Little League during the 1980s. He found his calling in public service with the San Joaquin Regional Transit District, where he worked for 20 years before retiring. During his career, he proudly served as union president for nine years, advocating for his fellow employees with integrity, fairness, and dedication. Rubin also enjoyed competing in annual bus rodeo competitions, where his exceptional driving skills earned him numerous awards and recognition.

Rubin loved traveling to Mexico and Hawaii with family and friends, where some of the happiest memories were made. In retirement, he could often be found at kings card club, enjoying card games, laughter, and the company of good friends.

Above all, Rubin treasured his family. He is survived by his partner of 26 years, Sandra Cravens; his children, De Ana Guerra Ormberg (Ryan), Shelly Ana Guerra, (Jon ) Lisa Guerra, and Allison Guerra; and his beloved grandchildren, Emilia Guerra, Madeline Guerra, Maseus Meeker, Blayne Robert Ormberg, Brenner Rubin Ormberg, Jacob Caravalho and (Andrea)

Rubin was preceded in death by his parents, Lilia Sanchez Guerra and Jose Luis Guerra; his son, Rubin Guerra Jr. (“Duby”); and his siblings, Gilbert Guerra, Josefina Elisarraraz, Olivia Cardona, Louis Guerra, Francisco Guerra, Guadalupe (“Vito”) Guerra, and Bertha Guerra Turrietta.

He is survived by his sister, Rosalinda Rodriguez, and Ellie Guerra Stearns, (Edward) along with many extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, strength, and unwavering love.

Rubin will be remembered for his hard work, his dedication to his family, his passion for sports, and the lasting friendships he built throughout his life. His legacy will live on in the many lives he influenced and the memories his loved ones will forever cherish.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Friday, July 31st, 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, July 31st, 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 Guerra family.

Donald Lovecchio

August 30, 1938 - July 16, 2026

Donald David Lovecchio passed away on July 16, 2026 at the age of 87. Don was born in Stockton, CA on August 30, 1938 to Bessie and Joseph Lovecchio of whom preceded him in death along with his sister Jackie Addison and his wife Delores Adelaide Lovecchio of 66 years of marriage. Don is survived by his brother Albert "Al" Lovecchio, his son Darren Lovecchio and his children Aiden and Jessica and her son Jude. Don's youngest son Jason Lovecchio and his wife Janice Lovecchio, their daughter Amberly Macias and the newest addition, great granddaughter Amelia, amongst many other relatives. Don owned and operated a well-known wholesale produce business, Joe Lovecchio & Son's Produce & Citrus Fruits for over 60 years alongside his brother Albert, with his son Jason and niece Monica by their side. In Don's spare time you could find him hanging with friends at either Chet's or the Waterloo Gun & Bocce Club. He loved his 1968 El Camino, horse races, hunting and fishing but most of all spending time with his dogs. Don was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back if needed without a second thought. He was a very kind man and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

GRAVESIDE
A graveside service will be held at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery 14165 Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240 in the Garden Of Azalea on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 10:00a.m. for those who wish to come pay their respects.

We will have a Celebration of Don’s Life at a later time.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Lovecchio family.

Than Lam

February 3, 1950 - July 15, 2026

Obituary - Than Lam

Born on February 3, 1950, in Dongkawpane Village, Battambang, Cambodia, Than was the beloved daughter of Thuy Lam and Ry Mong. She is lovingly remembered by her nine children: Samol, Samath, Samoeun, Buntoeun, Buntha, Rina, Thannasy, Ranny, and Rudy.

During the Khmer Rouge conflict in the 1970s, Than and her first husband, In Un, were forced to flee Cambodia in search of safety. After finding refuge in Thailand and the Philippines, they settled in Long Beach, California, in 1986 before making their final move to Stockton in 1990, where Than spent the rest of her life.

Following the passing of her first husband, In Un, in 2000, Than later married Prek Sin, warmly welcoming his seven children—Jerry, Julie, July, Chavy, Tony, Maria, and Salina—into her family. Even after Prek's passing in 2019, she remained devoted to her children, stepchildren, and grandchildren, finding her greatest joy in spending time with them.

Than appreciated life's simple pleasures. She loved gardening, fishing, and trying her luck at the casinos. She was also an exceptional cook who shared her favorite Cambodian dishes with family, friends, the Lodi Temple, and her community.

Than will be remembered for her loving heart, quiet strength, and generous spirit. Her warmth, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family will live on in the many lives she touched and in the memories her loved ones will cherish forever.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Lam family.

Ronald Gene Sheridan

Ronald Gene Sheridan
August 30, 1949 – July 13, 2026

Ronald Gene Sheridan passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, at his home in Lockeford, California. He was born on August 30, 1949, to George and Betty Sheridan.

Ron is survived by his loving family. His wife, Patty Sheridan; his daughters, Carrie (Chris) Colbert and Jenny Sheridan; his son, Michael Sheridan; his grandchildren, Eric Colbert, Kate Colbert, and Kiersten Mayers; his sister, Lynette Goans; and his brother, Gary Sheridan.

Ron will be remembered for his love of family and the many lives he touched throughout his years. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 30, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at a private residence located at 12875 Locke Road, Lockeford, California. Family and friends are welcome to attend as they gather to honor and celebrate Ron’s life.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Sheridan family.

Stephen Kent Jackson

Stephen Kent Jackson

January 15, 1945 - July 8, 2026

Stephen Kent Jackson passed away on 7/8/2026 in Stockton CA after a long battle with cancer.  He was born in Annapolis Maryland on 1/15/1945 and moved to Stockton CA in 1955.

Stephen was a veteran of the Vietnam war serving in the Army.  He married Susan Simmons in 1966 just 3 days before shipping out to Vietnam.  Upon his return he and Susan had 2 children they raised in Manteca CA. Both were involved in their children’s after school activities such as Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Band.  On many weekends in the 1980s they could be found at high school band reviews and became parents to more than just their own children. 

Stephen found joy in his second marriage with Sharon Ryan and added 2 grown stepchildren to the family.  Family filled his life with daily activities, holiday celebrations and vacations such a memorable trip to New York City in 2010.

Stephen spent 34 years working for the California Department of Corrections working primarily at Duel Vocational Institution in Tracy CA.

He enjoyed woodworking, home remodeling and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. He could always be counted on to lend a hand with anything anyone needed. His advice on all matters of life will be cherished by all that knew him.

He is survived by his children Shannon Elmlinger (Doug), Stuart Jackson and stepdaughter Michelle Hernandez (Richie). Grand-children Kieran Jackson, Mando Canez, Michael Canez, Jacob Sigman and Sara Gallagher-Metcalf (family by love).  Great-grandchildren Noah Canez and Jace Sigman.  Nieces Jocelyn Beauregard, Heather Barnes and Meghan Johnson.

Stephen is predeceased by his mother Nadene Esposeto, stepfather Daniel Esposeto and his younger brother Robert Jackson.

By his request, no funeral will be held, there will be a small family gathering at his home.

In lieu of flowers please make any donations to the American Cancer society.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Jackson family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Jeanette Jane Barber Blixt

September 27, 1937 - July 12, 2026

Jeanette Jane Barber Blixt, 88, of Stockton passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Born on September 27, 1937, in Lodi to James and Marguerite Barber, Jeanette was raised on the family ranch in Thornton along with her brothers, George L. Barber and James H. Barber, who preceded her in death.

Jeanette was a graduate of Galt High School and Humphreys College. She spent her career as an agricultural underwriter for Royal Insurance, from which she retired.

She took great joy in spending time with her family and friends, enjoying dinners, BBQs, dances, etc. Most especially, enjoying travelling throughout the United States with her daughters and granddaughter.

She leaves in mourning in her daughters Lori Blixt Remington and Suzanne Blixt Bullington (Michael), and granddaughter Sarah Remington, all of Stockton.

SERVICE
Funeral Services will be held Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 1:00pm in the Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi, CA. Committal will follow at Lodi Memorial Park and Cemetery.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Barber Blixt 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.

Contact Us

CEMETERY OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sunday Closed

Mausoleums Daily
8:00 am - 4:30 pm


FUNERAL HOME OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Weekends by Appointment
*Staff available 24/7
for immediate need