Marlena Wagner

Marlena Kuhlmann Dietz Wagner
Nov. 1932- August 2025

Marlena passed away at the age of 92 on August 31 2025. She graduated High School in Lodi in 1950. Then married her childhood sweetheart Donald Dietz in 1951. After Donalds passing she married Mel Wagner. She worked at Pacific Bell as a telephone operator. Later Pacific Bell became AT&T where she was a telephone communicator. After retiring in 1989 she was active with The Telephone Pioneers.

Marlena enjoyed boating, camping RVing fishing with Mel and friends. She loved watching her Cowboys and Rams especially when they played Mels favorite team the 49ers. She bowled in several leagues. She loved to decorate for the holidays.

Marlena is survived by her three children Susan Stapleton of Lodi Ca, Wendy Weiss (Ron) of Woodbridge Ca. and David Dietz of Lodi Ca. Step daughters Melody Westin of Woodbridge Ca. and LaRhonda Wagner of Lodi Ca. She leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her parents Ervin and Helen Kuhlmann, brothers LeRoy Kuhlmann and Lavern (Bim) Kuhlmann, Husband Donald Dietz and Husband Mel Wagner. Stepdaughter Candy Holloway and Stepson Rick Wagner.

We would like to thank the staff at Vienna Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Hospice of San Joaquin for the great care of our mom.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, September 19th, 2025 at the Evergreen Chapel  at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Wagner family.

Lucia Toyorada

December 13, 1941 - August 27, 2025

Lucia “Lucy” Zara Toyorada, aged 83,  passed away peacefully on 27 August 2025.

Born on 13 December 1941 in Manila, Philippines. She migrated to the U.S. in May 1994 and resided for 31 years. Lucy was the beloved daughter of the late Amado Zara and Melchora Crisostomo Zara. Fondly known as “Lucy” to family and friends, she will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, warm smile, compassionate heart, charitable acts, and generous spirit that touched the lives of many.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Pete Toyorada; their children and their families—Raymond, Sonia, Rhaymrald; Teresa and Joe—as well as her cherished brother, Apolonio Zara.

SERVICES:
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, 16 September at 4:30 PM at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Homes. A memorial mass will follow on Wednesday, 17 September at 11:00 AM at St. Anne's Catholic Church, 215 W Walnut St Lodi, CA  95240. Interment will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 Beckman Rd., Lodi, CA 95240.

Lucy’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Toyorada family.

Katherine Bufton

Katherine Marie Bufton
April 17, 1949 – August 25, 2025

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Katherine Marie Bufton, 76, on August 25, 2025, leaving a void that can never be filled. Katherine was born on April 17, 1949, to parents James W. Riley and Betty Jo (Riley) Turner. She is a lifelong Stockton Ca. resident graduating from Franklin High School. In her early years she was a candy striper volunteer, worked in a nursing home, then moved on to work in retail for a few years before she finally decided to stay home and raise her family.

Katherine was creative, she could paint landscapes and flowers, she liked to make Macrame plant holders for her friends and family (in the 8o’s) and she enjoyed the plants and flowers she had all around the house, especially her hydrangeas and roses. She also loved living on the farm and taking care of the animals. The experience of raising a new baby, feeding time, vaccinations and branding was all work, but it was also time spent with family.

Katherine was passionate about Antiques which she proudly displayed in her home. She spent many years at antique auctions and searching thrift stores to find meaningful pieces that will be passed down. She lived a life of compassion and caring for others as was evident in the many family members she took care of during her lifetime. However, the role she cherished most was that of being a mother to her 3 children and later a grandmother.

Katherine is preceded in death by her father, James W. Riley; her mother, Betty J. Turner; cherished sister Elizabeth ‘Janie’ Noonan; brother-in-law Mark Noonan; Mother-in-law Audry L. Bufton; brother-in-law Marvin (Carrie) Bufton and best friend, Pamela Martinez.

She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, James Bufton of Stockton, Ca; daughter Janel (James) Sansom of Linden Ca; daughter Shelly (Mark) RayRay of Wallace Ca; son James ‘Benjamin’ Bufton II of Stockton Ca; Her Grandsons Dillon (Elena) Sansom of Justin, Tx; Zachary Sansom of Lodi Ca; Wyatt Sansom of Linden Ca. and many nieces and nephews, sisters in law and cousins.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at
Waterloo Gun & Bocce Club
4343 N. Ashley Ln.
Stockton Ca. 95215
September 28, 2025 1:00PM to 5:00PM

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Bufton family.

Pauline Gullans

October 31, 1926 - August 24, 2025

Pauline Cargill Turnbull Gullans was born in Rose County, OK on October 31st,1926. She was born of the Willmett family within the Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribe. Pauline lived a very long and fulfilling life of 98 years. She passed away on August 24th,2025 in Stockton,CA. Pauline worked various jobs over the years, including different packing and manufacturing plants, as a cook, and a caregiver. Although nothing compares to the love and care she gave her family. She was the matriarch of the family. Pauline was a wonderful Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Sister, and Daughter. She gave her whole heart to everyone she loved. Pauline loved to sew, crochet, and garden. She is survived by her Daughter Teresa Nicole Eritano, Her grandchildren, Lisa Primasing, Tracie Hays, Teresa Merritt-Brummett, and Tyler Johnston; many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.Pauline is predeceased by her husband August Gullans, Daughters, Charline Ambrose and Dorothy Merritt; grandchildren, Danny Delk, Brian Delk, and Rod Hays. As well as all her siblings and parents.

SERVICE
A graveside service will be held At Cherokee Memorial Park on September 10th,2025 at 10am. 14165 Beckman Rd. Lodi,CA 95240.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Gullans family.

Barbara Covey

August 14, 1936 - June 13, 2025

Barbara Loretta Covey was born in Springfield, Missouri, to Elmer and Lorene McCroskey on August 14, 1936, and passed away on June 13, 2025, in Stockton, California.

She was raised on a farm alongside her sister Betty and brother Bill. After high school, she enrolled at St. John’s Hospital School of Nursing in Springfield, graduating with her RN diploma. Around that same time, she eloped with the love of her life, Paul Covey, as he began his naval career.

Barbara and Paul raised three daughters: Julie Covey, Lori Peck (Jim), and Sallie Covey.

Her nursing career was rich and varied. She worked at hospitals across the country as she traveled with Paul’s military assignments. One of her most memorable roles was serving as a public health nurse in Guam, where she fearlessly drove a jeep deep into the “boonies” to treat and vaccinate islanders.

Once back in the United States, she continued her calling at Oak Park Hospital, and later at St. Joseph’s Medical Center, where she eventually retired as Regional Director of Admissions. Along the way, she earned her BS in Health Services. In retirement, she continued to serve others as a Parish Nurse at Central Church of Christ.

After surviving breast cancer in 1985, she became actively involved with the American Cancer Society, dedicating many years to education and support for others facing the same battle, specifically in the Reach to Recovery and Relay for Life programs.

Her devotion to others earned her many honors, including the Susan B. Anthony Woman of Achievement Award (2002) - a testament to her service, strength, and impact on her community. Barbara truly had the heart of a servant—always giving, always caring, always present.

She was a gifted writer who loved crafting devotionals. She wrote essays, short stories, and poetry. Her hobbies included scrapbooking and sewing.

She is preceded in death by her husband Paul. She is survived by her beloved daughters, son-in-law, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Included in her heart as family is granddaughter, Leona Taia, and her family, who were all dearly loved.

The family would like to thank Cesia Amaya, O’Connor Woods and Suncrest Hospice for their loving care in her final years.

Donations can be made in Barbara’s name to the American Cancer Society and Suncrest Hospice.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A Celebration of Life will be held for Paul and Barbara Covey on Saturday, August 23rd at Central Church of Christ, 4799 E. Foppiano Ln, Stockton at 11:00 AM.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Covey family.

Rick Voyer

January 18, 1945 - August 22, 2025

Rick Voyer was born in St. Joseph’s Hospital on January 18, 1945 to Joseph Oswald Voyer and Zelda May Jackson and passed peacefully on August 22, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Maggie, his children Joseph Voyer(Alexa) and Denisa Hammond(Dennis), his grandchildren, Dustin(Alyssa), Dani, Drake, Mikayla, and Trevor. His siblings Ginger Post, Jerry Voyer(Alicia), Doug Voyer(Tammy), Christy Cech(Alan). He was preceded in death by his brother Kerry Voyer. Rick grew up in French Camp and attended French Camp Grammar School before moving to Stockton. He attended local schools and graduated from Stagg High School before enlisting in the United States Airforce. During his tour in Vietnam, he was proud to have worked on the SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. After his honorable discharge, Rick began his journey with Southern Pacific Railroad as a brakeman in 1969. After 41 years of service, he retired from Union Pacific Railroad as a locomotive engineer. Rick’s greatest joy was being around family. Whether it was little league baseball, soccer, or BMX racing, he was always there to show his support. He was an avid SF Giants and SF 49ers fan and always liked getting together to watch the games. Rick enjoyed researching the local history of Stockton and French Camp.

Private services have been held. Burial is in the Garden of Freedom in Cherokee Memorial Park.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Voyer family.

Dolores Kelley

February 14, 1932 - August 21, 2025

Dolores Jean Neff Kelley, aged 93, passed away on August 21, 2025, in Methodist Hospital, Sacramento, CA. Born on February 14, 1932, Dolores led a life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep commitment to her family and community.

Dolores’s early education took place in a one-room school on Franklin Blvd, sparking a lifelong love for learning. She later attended Galt High School and graduated from Union High in Sacramento in 1950. Dolores’s career was characterized by her roles in various service positions, from working as a fountain waitress at Hale’s Department Store to assisting the elderly in their homes. Her work at Richmaid Ice Cream and Restaurant, Campbell Soup Company, and Thornton Cannery highlighted her dedication and hardworking nature. She was PTA president, an elected official on the Galt Fire District, which lead to president of the Regional Fire Board. She was also served as president of the Galt Women’s Club. She enjoyed giving back to her community.

Beyond her professional and volunteer life, Dolores was passionate about genealogy, tracing family histories back to the 1700s. She enjoyed traveling extensively with her husband James and friends, exploring Mexico, camping at various lakes, and meeting distant relatives. Dolores and James were also involved in real estate, buying and selling local properties, and they raised guinea pigs and calves, which brought them much joy.

Dolores’s life was enriched by her extensive family. She is survived by her brothers Jack, Forrest, Bill, Bob, and Cecil Neff, and sister Margaret (Neff) Hanno; daughter Kathy (Randy) Kirchhof; grandchildren Tommy Kirchhof and Jennifer (Dan) Foster; and great-grandchildren Rustin, Coltin, Karter, Callie, and Savannah Kirchhof. She was preceded in death by her parents Rose Mae (Jones) and Joseph Thomas Neff, brother J.T. Neff, and grandson Randy Kirchhof.

SERVICE
A small, private funeral was held on September 3, 2025, at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery, where she was laid to rest next to her beloved husband, James O. Kelley, sharing 61 years of marriage.

Dolores’s life was a testament to her loving nature and zest for adventure, leaving a legacy of cherished memories and enduring family bonds.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Kelley family.

Noemia Oliveira

November 20, 1942 - August 21, 2025

VISITATION

Visitation will be held from 12:00pm to 1:00pm at Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

ROSARY
A rosary will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, September 4th, 2025 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

BURIAL

Burial will take place at Cherokee Memorial Park at 2:00pm, following services.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Oliveira family.

Lupe Castillo

January 6, 1940 - August 19, 2025

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 9:00am - 10:00am on Wednesday, August 27th, 2025 at the Chapel of Flowers in Cherokee Memorial Park, located off  Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held at the 10:00am on Wednesday, August 27th, 2025 at the Chapel of Flowers in 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 Castillo family.

Audrey Marlin

December 10, 1935 - August 18, 2025

Audrey Faye Marlin, age 89, passed away on August 18, 2025.

Born in Morris, Oklahoma in 1935, Audrey married her beloved husband Samuel (Sam) Marlin in 1957, and together they began a journey that would take them to Southern California, where they continued to build their life together and their daughter Karen was born. Audrey and Sam eventually settled in Tracy, where they raised their daughter, and later moved to Lodi to be near Karen and their son-in-law Dave.

While living in Tracy, Audrey found much joy as a daycare provider for 38 years, nurturing generations of children with patience, warmth, and gentle guidance. Her dedication left a lasting imprint on countless families in the community.

Audrey loved traveling with Sam in their motorhome and exploring the country, finding joy in the open road and the quiet beauty of new places. She was an avid reader who enjoyed reading the local newspaper, magazines, and especially faith-based books that deepened her spiritual life. Audrey cherished the simple joys of spending time with family, eating, talking, and laughing over friendly competition during board games. She especially enjoyed visiting with Karen, Dave and their dog Sasha, who adored her—staying by her side during every visit. When it was time for Audrey to leave, Sasha would sit quietly by the door waiting for the next visit. It was a silent devotion that spoke volumes—Audrey was deeply loved, not just by people, but by the furry companions who sensed her kindness and warmth.

She had a quiet, mischievous sense of humor that would catch you off guard—in the best way. Her specialty was the one-liners she’d deliver with perfect timing, totally unexpected because she was normally soft-spoken and reserved. Her wit was subtle, and it lingered—like a smile you couldn’t quite shake.

Audrey was preceded in death by her husband Sam, her brother Earnest Darden, and her sisters Frances Vaughn and Jean Smith.

She is survived by her daughter Karen, son-in-law Dave Sea, her sister Martha Alverson, nieces Tamara Rider and Toni Masters, nephew Curtis Smith, and extended family Judy Sea, Kelly Lucas, and Lauren Lucas. Each of them carries forward her legacy of kindness, resilience, and grace.

“Mom’s faith never wavered, even in the hardest moments. She taught me that faith is not just belief—it’s how you live, how you endure, how you love. Her courage shaped me, and her strength lives on in those of us who knew and loved her.” —Karen

A private memorial will be held by the family to honor Audrey’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the LOEL Senior Center or animal shelter/rescue of your choosing. 

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Marlin family.

Juventina M. Herrera

Juventina M. Herrera
August 18, 1934 - August 18, 2025

Juventina M. Herrera, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, Tia, and friend, entered into eternal rest on her 91st birthday, August 18, 2025. She was born on August 18, 1934, in Nostic, Jalisco, Mexico, where she spent her early years surrounded by ranch life and in devoted service to her family, especially her parents.

Her family later relocated to Guadalajara, Mexico, and eventually Juventina made her way to Acampo, California. It was there that she married Santana Herrera, and together they raised their two sons, Juan and Carlos, her greatest gifts in life.

Juventina was a woman of quiet strength, hard work, and deep faith. She dedicated much of her life to agricultural work in the vineyards, various crop fields, packing sheds, and canneries in the Lodi area.

A gifted homemaker, Juventina filled every home she lived in with love, warmth, and the aromas of her legendary cooking. Her tamales and handmade tortillas will be remembered by all who were blessed to enjoy them. She took great pride in her beautiful garden of plants and flowers which she loved showing off to visitors. She was skilled and creative at crocheting, sewing, and needlepoint- creating treasured pieces that decorated her home and were also given to friends and family as gifts.

Juventina’s grandchildren and great grandchild were a source of immense pride and happiness. She would journal all their milestones big or small and saved every doodle, card, picture and art made by them.

Above all, her deep Catholic faith sustained her throughout her life. She held a special devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe with prayers that touched not only her life but those of her family and friends.

Juventina is preceded in death by her husband, Santana; her parents, José Angel and Abigail Martinez; and her siblings Emilia, Concepcion (Concha), Maria Auxilio (Chilo), Juan, Enrique and Luis Humberto.

She is survived by her sons: Carlos Herrera and his son Andrew Herrera; and Juan Herrera and his wife Patty, along with their children Cristina, Jonathan (wife Chelsea and their son Joseph), James, Matthew, Amanda, and Emily Herrera. She is also survived by her sisters, Elvira and Francisca (Pachita) as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. She was a second mother to many and an honorary grandmother to the Aguiar Family with her best friend Esperanza Aguiar.

Juventina’s legacy of love, faith, generosity, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May her soul through the mercy of God rest in peace.

Juventina M. Herrera
18 de Agosto de 1934 - 18 de Agosto de 2025

Juventina M. Herrera, querida madre, abuela, bisabuela, hermana, tia y amiga, entró en reposo\ eterno en su 91 cumpleaños, el 18 de agosto de 2025. Nació el 18 de agosto de 1934 en Nostic, Jalisco, México, donde pasó sus primeros años rodeada de la vida en el rancho y en dedicado servicio a su familia, especialmente a sus padres.

Su familia más tarde se mudó a Guadalajara, México, y finalmente Juventina se establesió en Acampo, California. Fue allí donde se casó con Santana Herrera, y juntos criaron a sus dos hijos, Juan y Carlos, sus mejores dones en la vida.

Juventina era una mujer de fuerza tranquila, trabajo duro y fe profunda. Dedicó gran parte de su vida al trabajo agrícola en los viñedos, varios campos, empaques y canerías en el área de Lodi, California.

Una talentosa ama de casa, Juventina llenó cada hogar en el que vivía con amor, calidez y los aromas de su legendaria cocina. Sus tamales y tortillas hechas a mano serán recordados por todos los que fueron bendecidos para disfrutarlas. Le daba orguello su hermoso jardín de plantas y flores que le encantaba mostrar a los visitantes. Ella era hábil y creativa en el ganchillo, la costura y el punto de aguja, creando piezas preciadas que decoraban su hogar y también le daba a amigos y familiares como regalos.

Los nietos y el bisnieto de Juventina fueron una fuente de inmenso orgullo y felicidad. Ella escribía en un diario todos sus hitos, grandes o pequeños, y guardaba cada tarjeta, imagen y arte hecho por ellos.

Sobre todo, su profunda fe católica la sostuvo durante toda su vida. Ella tuvo una devoción especial a Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe con oraciones que tocaron no solo su vida, sino también la de su familia y amigos.

Juventina está precedida en la muerte por su esposo, Santana; sus padres, José Angel y Abigail Martínez; y sus hermanos Emilia, Concepcion (Concha), Maria Auxilio (Chilo), Juan, Enrique y Luis Humberto.

Le sobreviven sus hijos: Carlos Herrera y su hijo Andrew Herrera; y Juan Herrera y su esposa Patty, junto con sus hijos Cristina, Jonathan (esposa Chelsea y su hijo Joseph), James, Matthew, Amanda y Emily Herrera. También le sobreviven sus hermanas, Elvira y Francisca (Pachita), muchas sobrinas, sobrinos, familia extendida y queridos amigos. Fue una segunda madre para muchos y una abuela honoraria de la familia Aguiar con su mejor amiga Esperanza Aguiar.

El legado de amor, fe, generosidad de Juventina vivirá en los corazones de todos los que la conocieron. Que su alma descanse en paz a través de la misericordia de Dios.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 8:00pm with a rosary starting at 6:00pm on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

MASS
Mass will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 at St. Anne's Catholic Church  located at 215 W. Walnut St Lodi, CA 95240.  

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Herrera family.

Theresa De Lashmutt

April 20, 1963 - August 18, 2025

Theresa Anne De Lashmutt, age 62, of Stockton, passed away on August 18, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton, California. She was born on April 20, 1963, in Stockton and was a proud resident of the city for 60 years.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Ysidro G. Armenta and Virginia C. Armenta, and her brother, Manuel E. Armenta.

She leaves behind her beloved spouse, Richard J. Pelchat, who stood by her side through all of life’s joys and challenges.

Theresa was a devoted mother and mother-in-law to Virginia B. Garcia, Lydia R. McFarland, Tereyl McFarland, Daniel De Lashmutt Jr., Melissa S. De Lashmutt, Kimi L. Pelchat, Avion Thompkins, Kristi N. De Lashmutt, and Joseph J. Martinez.

She was a loving grandmother to Micah A. Samuel, Zephaniah A. Samuel, Neriya R. McFarland, Nina-Simone McFarland, Ayven T. McFarland, Emiko S. Thompkins, and Olivia A. De Lashmutt.

Theresa is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Joe Armenta, Benny C. Armenta, Lydia Gonzalez, Gloria Armenta, and Virginia Hernandez.

Theresa was a valued and respected Secretary at William McKinley Elementary School and dedicated over 20 years of service to the Stockton Unified School District. She will be most remembered for her genuine kindness, her unwavering love for family, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her.

She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Friday, September 5th, 2025 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, September 5th, 2025 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240. The final committal will immediately follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, 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 De Lashmutt family.