obituaries

Carole A. Champion

Carole Ann Champion

March 27, 1944 – September 4, 2026

In Loving Memory of Carole Ann Champion, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, in Stockton, California. She was born on March 27, 1944, in Hemet, California.

Carole will be remembered for the deep love she had for her family. She cherished her husband, John Champion, and her children, Joel, Jonas, and Mary Ann Champion, with all her heart.

Her family was the center of her life, and she took great joy in watching her family grow through the generations.

She is survived by her husband, John Champion; her children, Joel, Jonas, and Mary Ann Champion; her grandchildren, Thomas, Amanda, Zachary, Jessica, Leila, Jack, Mason, and Garrett; and her 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Johnny Champion.

Carole had a special place in her heart for the San Francisco Giants and loved cheering them on. She also loved her roses, taking pride in their beauty and finding happiness in caring for them. Above all, Carole deeply loved her husband and family. Her devotion to those she loved was evident in everything she did. Carole’s love extended across generations. She treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and the memories they created together. Although the loss of her grandson Johnny was a deep sorrow, he remained forever a cherished part of her family and her heart.

Carole leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and memories that will be treasured for generations to come. Though she is no longer with us, her love will continue to live on through her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and everyone whose life she touched.

Funeral Service

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM in Chapel of Flowers at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Family and friends are invited to gather together to celebrate Carole’s life, honor her memory, and share in the love she gave so freely.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Champion family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Dr George A Schilling

Dr George Albert Schilling

May 16, 1942 - September 4, 2026

OBITUARY

Dr. George A. Schilling, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and physician, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to his family and community. Born on May 16, 1942, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, George was the beloved son of Helen Krohn and George Schilling Sr., and stepson to Henry Krohn.

George's journey in life was marked by his unwavering commitment to helping others. After completing his studies at the University of Guadalajara, he pursued a residency in internal medicine at St. Michael’s in Newark, New Jersey. His passion for medicine and patient care led him to open his own practice in 1982, before joining Generations Medical Group in 1996 and later Sutter Gould Medical Group in 1997. Even after his official retirement in 2021, George continued to dedicate his time volunteering at St. Mary’s Medical Clinic, a testament to his enduring compassion.

In his personal life, George found immense joy in the company of his family. On December 31, 1966, he married the love of his life, Elaine, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Together, they shared a bond filled with adventure, laughter, and mutual respect. George was a doting grandfather to Marissa Jordan, Sarah Rose, and Daniel Rose, and a proud great-grandfather to Vanna Reimer and Brenden Kahre. He was predeceased by his beloved children, Danine Schilling Rose and Todd Schilling, and is survived by his devoted wife, Elaine, his sister Connie Quida and her husband Donald, as well as his son-in-law Ricci Rose.

George's interests were as vibrant as his personality. He had a lifelong fascination with trains and bear collectibles, and he relished the opportunity to take his family on vacations, often to his favorite destinations like Las Vegas and on cruises. Known for his great sense of humor, George's love for life was contagious, and his presence brought joy to all who knew him. He was an active member of both the Zion Lutheran Church and the Free Masons, reflecting his deep sense of community and faith.

A celebration of George’s life will be held on September 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, located at 808 Porter Ave, Stockton, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in memory of George.

The Schilling family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of condolences and support during this difficult time. George touched many lives with his kindness and dedication, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Schilling family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Rosalina Ochoa

Rosalina Ochoa

March 15, 1970 - September 2, 2026

VISITATION

A visitation will be held from 5:00pm - 8:00pm with a Rosary starting at 5:00pm on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

MASS
Mass will be held at 10:00am on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at St Christopher's Catholic Church located at 950 S Lincoln Way, Galt, CA 95632

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Ochoa family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Tristan Speck

July 14, 2003 - August 27, 2026

OBITUARY

Tristan John Speck, 23, passed away on August 27, 2026, while recovering in the hospital following an appendectomy performed on August 24, 2026, at Lodi Memorial Hospital in Lodi, California.

Tristan lived with his loving mother, Stephanie Elise Speck, his brother and best friend, Donivan Keith Speck, and his protective father, Clifford John Speck Jr. Known for his joyful spirit and kind heart, Tristan was often the happiest person in the room. Despite the challenges that came with autism, he had a remarkable ability to brighten the lives of those around him. He always found a way to make others smile, offering comfort and light even on the hardest days.

He had a deep passion for video games and loved playing with friends and family. Tristan enjoyed capturing memories through photography and video recordings at family gatherings, preserving moments that meant so much to him. He was also a creative builder, spending hours assembling Bionicles and Gundam models without ever needing the instructions. In quieter moments, he loved reading anime stories and exploring books on the computer. Tristan had a few simple favorites that brought him happiness, especially his beloved Dr Pepper and chicken nuggets.

Tristan is survived by his mother, father, and brother, who will forever cherish him and his memories, along with the countless people who were fortunate enough to have known him.

A special message from his family:
“Despite his challenges, Tristan always made the world a brighter place. He did not have a single bad bone in him and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”

SERVICE

A celebration of Tristan's life will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., with viewing from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Bear Creek Community Church, 11171 N. Lower Sacramento Rd., Lodi, CA.

Roberto Rodriguez Cardenas

September 28, 1945 - August 24, 2026

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 5:00pm - 8:00pm with an evening service starting at 6:00pm on Thursday, September 10th, 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 Friday, September 11th, 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 Cardenas family.

Sandra "Sandy" Green

In Loving Memory of Sandy Green
September 20, 1948 - August 24, 2026

Sandy Green passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24th, 2026, at the age of 77. She was born on September 20, 1948, in Oakland, California, to William and Mary McLeish.

Sandy spent the last 23 years of her life in Ione, California, in the home she and her late husband, Ron, built together. Her home was her favorite place to be, especially after Ron’s passing, and it was filled with such great memories and love. 

Sandy and Ron moved to the Lodi area with their three children in the late 1970s. She enjoyed a long career in banking, most notably with Union Safe Deposit Bank and Bank of the West in Lockeford, California, where she worked for many years before retiring.

Sandy enjoyed gambling, watching the Game Show Network, and, most of all, Hallmark movies. Christmas in July was her favorite. Above all, she loved her family and the time she spent with them.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Mary McLeish; her husband, Ron Green; and her sister, Gloria Salazar.

She is survived by her children, Tracy (James) Kves of Idaho, Kim (Troy) Wailly of Ione, and Jason (Kelly) Green of Ione. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, T.J. and Karli, Justin and Lexy, James Jr., Emily and Jimmy, Jacob and Gianna, Ashly, and Wyatt; and her great-grandchildren, Colton and Gianna, with little Wesley arriving in October. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews.

At the family’s request, there will be no services at this time. Sandy will be honored by her family at a later date.

We take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace with her husband and the family she missed so very much.

If you would like to honor Sandy’s memory, please make donations to the American Heart Association in her name.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Green family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Marco Antonio Hernandez Lara

May 16, 1996 - August 23, 2026

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:30pm - 8:00pm with an evening service starting at 5:00pm on Thursday, September 1st, 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 Friday, September 2nd, 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 Hernandez Lara family.

Donna Lucile Sola

March 10, 1943 - August 19, 2026

Donna Lucille Sola, known lovingly to her family as Noni, passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 83 in Stockton, California. Born on March 10, 1943, in Carmel, California, Donna lived a life rich in love, laughter, and devotion to the people she held dear.


Donna graduated from Calaveras High School and went on to wear many hats throughout her working years. She served with the San Joaquin County Sheriff's office, worked for the Escalon school district, and retired from Macy's, where she worked the Estee Lauder counter. Wherever she went, she brought her warmth and easy charm along with her.


For 63 years, Donna shared her life with her husband, Richard Sola. Their long marriage was a testament to the kind of steady, enduring love that grows deeper with time. Together they built a family that meant everything to Donna. Nothing in this world mattered more to her than her children, grandchildren, and great grandson. She truly lived for them.


Those who knew Donna knew she was a phenomenal cook. She had a remarkable gift for tasting a dish and recreating it at home, more often than not improving on the original. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy, and her table was always open. When she wasn't cooking, Donna loved to get away with her friends, delighting in trips to Tahoe and Las Vegas.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Karen Sola. She is survived by her husband, Richard Sola; her daughter, Valorie Gilbert; her son, Steven Sola; her granddaughters, Emily Willett and Alexandria Sola; and her great grandson, Eli Willett. She leaves behind a family shaped by her love and a legacy that will carry on through them.


A woman of faith, Donna now rests in the loving arms of her Lord, reunited with those who went before her.

SERVICE

A service will be held on Friday, September 4th at 10am in the Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 Beckman Rd, Lodi, California. A reception will follow at 12:30 in Angelina's Spaghetti House, 1563 East Fremont Street, Stockton. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Hospice of San Joaquin.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Sola family.

Brenda Joyce Scott-Gordon

December 4, 1953 - August 19, 2026

CHURCH SERVICE
 A church service will be held at 10:30am on Friday, August 28th, 2026 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, located at 715 S Windsor Ave, Stockton, CA 95205. The final committal will follow immediately at 1:30pm 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 Scott-Gordon family.

Kathleen "Molly" Margaret Fleming

May 14, 1942 - August 19, 2026

Kathleen "Molly" Margaret Fleming passed away peacefully in Modesto, California, on August 19, 2026, at the age of 84. She was born May 14, 1942, in Stockton, California, the eldest daughter of Francis and Ruth Quinn.

Molly married John Fleming; together they shared 58 years of marriage and raised their three sons in Stockton. Family was at the center of Molly's life, she especially enjoyed the gatherings, laughter, and time spent with those she loved.

Molly worked in the food service industry for several years and was an active member of her neighborhood, including participating in the Neighborhood Watch program on Longview Avenue. She was known for her warm smile, quick sense of humor, infectious laugh, and genuine willingness to help others. Molly had a natural ability to make people feel welcome and often turned strangers into friends.

Her parents, Francis and Ruth Quinn; her brother, Patrick Quinn; her husband, John Fleming; and her son, David Fleming, preceded Molly in death.

She is survived by her siblings, Michael Quinn and Margaret "Peggy" Quinn; her sons, James Fleming and his wife, Rebecca, and Paul Fleming and his wife, Linh; daughter-in-law Lissa Fleming; niece Sheri Soxman; grandchildren Shaun, Christopher, Kyle, Benjamin, Jared, Jessica, Andrew, Charles, and Quinn Fleming; and great-grandchildren Haley, Christopher Jr., Kayley, and Kian Fleming.

Molly will be remembered for her humor, generosity, and devotion to family. Her presence will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Molly's memory to a charity of your choice.

SERVICE
 A service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, September 26th 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240. A reception will follow at the J. Charles Irwin Reception Center, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Fleming family.

Mark Aaron Begley

In Loving Memory

MARK AARON BEGLEY

April 25, 1960 • August 19, 2026 • Age 66

"Gentle Giant" • Dad • Doctor Lurch

Mark Aaron Begley, lovingly known as Dad, "Gentle Giant," and "Doctor Lurch," passed away on August 19, 2026, at the age of 66. Born in Missouri on April 25, 1960, Mark made his home in Stockton, California. Though Missouri was where his story began, his soul was that of a California boy.

A Life of Skill and Service

Mark graduated from Lodi Academy High School and spent much of his career as an RV mechanic. He was one of the best in his field. But his greatest work was not what he fixed with his hands— it was what he helped repair in the lives of others.

His Greatest Accomplishment

Mark's greatest achievement was his sobriety. He worked hard at it every day, then devoted his sober life to helping others. He was the person people called when they needed help finding AA, getting to rehab, or simply having someone who understood. He spent his sober days in acts of service and dedicated himself to saving lives from addiction.

His motto was simple: save as many lives from addiction as possible. By that measure, Mark succeeded. The lives he touched will carry his legacy forward.

A Father, Grandfather, and Friend

Mark adored his three daughters, Wendi, Megan, and Brittany, and his grandchildren, Holden, Bryson, and Tinzlee. If his children or grandchildren wanted something, Dad did everything he could to make it happen.

He shared a particularly special bond with his granddaughter Tinzlee Nicole. Their connection was one of a kinda bond that can never be replaced and will live on in her heart forever.

The Man We Will Remember

Mark was stubborn, funny, mischievous, and a true jokester. He loved with every fiber of his being. He loved beaches, pools, and the water, and never completely grew out of the little boy inside him. He was a chameleon who could blend into almost any environment and connect with just about anyone.

"You spent your life saving lives, loving your family, and showing people that another day was possible. You were our Gentle Giant, our Dad, our protector, our comedian, and our hero. We will spend the rest of our lives telling your stories, laughing at your jokes, and carrying your love with us.”

Survived by: daughters Wendi, Megan, and Brittany; grandchildren Holden, Bryson, and Tinzlee; siblings Dianne, Steve, Randy, and Jerry; and stepmother MelaVee.

Predeceased by: brother James, father Donald, and mother Eleanor.

Celebration of Life:

A service was held in Mark's name on August 19, 2026, at the clubhouse where he resided. His presence filled the room as family, friends, and members of his community gathered to celebrate his life, share stories, and remember the man who gave so much of himself to others.

UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN, DAD. WE LOVE YOU MORE THAN WORDS COULD EVER SAY.


Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Begley family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Harminder Kaur

May 1, 1943 - August 18, 2026

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 9:00am - 10:00am on Saturday, August 29th, 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 Saturday, August 29th, 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 Kaur 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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