Philip Barrette

August 23, 1932 - February 13, 2026

Philip A. Barrette, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours of Feb 13, 2026 after a long struggle with congestive heart failure. He was 93 years old.

Born in San Luis Obispo on August 23, 1932, he soon relocated with his mother, Freja Dahlstrom, to Arbuckle, California. After some time, they settled in the Stockton, California area where he grew up and went to school. As an only child, Phil spent most of his time in Stockton, but he fondly remembered his summers working on his maternal grandparents' farm, harvesting almonds and walnuts. It was hard work, he would say, but he loved it and held those days as some of his most cherished memories.

Phil attended Stockton High School, where he met the love of his life. In June of 1952, he married Lorraine Adelle Sutton in Morris Chapel in Stockton, beginning a wonderful life together filled with family and friends. Over the years, they enjoyed countless adventures, shared much laughter, and always put family first.

Phil served in the Korean war from 1954 to 1956 as an Army Specialist First Class. He was fortunate to be one of a few men in his platoon to be given stateside orders to repair helicopters. This opportunity came after he began repairing all the broken floor waxers in the barracks. His Sargent noticed his mechanical capabilities, and he was given a post to helicopter repair school in Washington state.

Phil attended Stockton City College and after completing his studies, worked for the City of Stockton as a draftsman. After several years, he pursued bigger aspirations and started his own business as a building contractor, a career he continued until his retirement.

Phil was a deeply religious man whose strong faith was central to his life. He was very active in his church and generously gave his time and energy to helping others. A patient and gifted teacher, he enjoyed teaching others about building and guiding them in projects in his shop- whether for Boy Scouts, church activities, or family crafts.

Father of three, he often said that his daughters where his greatest gift and that family was life's greatest joy. He is survived by his Wife of 73½ years, Adelle, and their three daughters along with 9 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers-in-law as well as several nephews and nieces.

We are forever grateful for our Care Giver and the Hospice workers and that came in to help take such tender, loving care of Phil. They are truly a blessing; beautiful souls committed to a holy calling.

Although we are heartbroken, we rest in God's promise: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life".

MEMORIAL SERVICE
 A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1510 W Century Blvd, Lodi, CA 95242.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Barrette family.

Norman Robert Way

October 30, 1937 - February 12, 2026

Norman Robert Way received his wings at the age of 88 years old on February 12, 2026. He was known to most friends as Norm or Bob. Norman was born October 30, 1937, in Honolulu, HI to Betty May Knowlton. They returned to California where he attended Stockton schools graduating from Stockton College. He enlisted in the United States Navy as an Aviation Maintenance Electrician on the U.S.S. Hornet (CVA-12) aircraft carrier returning to Pearl Harbor, HI. He and the U.S.S. Hornet served admirably during the Korean war. On November 22, 1957, he married Gretchen Ann Holt in Stockton. They have two daughters, Beth and Susan. Upon discharge from the U.S. Navy, Norman joined the City of Stockton Fire Department in 1959. He served honorably for 34 years. During his career as a firefighter, he attended San Joaquin Delta College earning his Associate of Arts degree in fire science. He always had a fascination with airplanes and flying as a young man. Also tinkering and building things. He got his pilot & instructors license. With the help of a friend, he built his first biplane for aerobatic competitions. He continued to build, fly, teach and share his passion for flying with family & friends. Willing to take you for a ride anytime! August 1979, Norman took first place in the intermediate category of the International Aerobatic Competition in Fond du lac, WI. On January 27,1987, he married Constance Clare Kaiser in Clark, Nevada. He retired as a Captain for the City of Stockton Fire Department in 1994. Norman & Connie moved to Manteca on an almond orchard, where they grew almonds for Blue Diamond. He was a good pet dad to his dogs & cats. His pride & joy was completing his third biplane, “Magic” which he used to soared to new heights! Not only built for aerobatics but he was at the front of the pack when it came to racing! Norman competed in twenty annual National Championship Air Races in Reno. Placing second or third in the Biplane Gold Class race each year!

Norman- Go Fast, Turn Left!         

Norman was preceded in death by his mother Betty Knowlton Koster, stepfathers, Elton Inman Way, and Marvin Koster, his first wife Gretchen Smith and his stepson Patrick Murray.

He is survived by his loving wife, Constance Way, his stepbrother Elton Inman Way, Jr. (Joe), his daughters, Beth Way and Susan (Tim) Shanahan, and stepson John Murray and his three boys Francis, Jack & Charlie.

Memorial contributions can be made to:

Stockton Firefighter’s Relief Association, P.O. Box 691434, Stockton, CA 95269.

Or Veterans Service Organization

 SERVICE
 A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Way family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Vera Irene Valente

May 25, 1932 - February 11, 2026

Vera Irene Valente, 93, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. She was born on May 25, 1932, in Marion, Missouri, to Mildred and Robert Nelson.

Vera lived a life centered on hard work, family, and devotion. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose strength and warmth touched all who knew her. She dedicated many years of hard work to Tri Valley Growers, from which she later retired. Her strong work ethic and commitment were qualities she carried into every aspect of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tony Valente; her son, Anthony Valente; her granddaughter, Stacy Redden; her parents, Mildred and Robert Nelson; and her brothers, Gerald, Delmer, Robert, Lynn, and Carl Nelson.

Vera is survived by her sons, Mike Valente (Tammy), Joe Valente (Claudia), and Steve Valente, all of Lodi, California. She was a proud grandmother to Jennifer Valente-Bonnett (Anthony), Michelle Valente, Amy Blagg (Tyler), Timothy Valente (Chelsea), Gary Valente (Alexandria), and Jimmy Valente (Maryssa). She was also blessed with eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, who brought her great joy and pride.

Vera will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her resilience, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind in the generations she nurtured. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family of Vera would  like to thank Arbor Place for taking care of her. 

Services for Vera will take place at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi, CA. Services are on Tuesday, February 24th at 1:00pm. Visitation will take place at 12:00 pm on the same day.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tokay FFA.

SERVICE
 A service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at 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 Valente family.

Dennis Nichols


December 18, 1945 - February 11, 2026


OBITUARY

Dennis Lee Nichols passed away on February 11, 2026 at the age of 80. Dennis was born on December 18, 1945 in Stockton, CA to Elmer and Marjorie Nichols. He grew up in Lodi and attended Lodi Union High School before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1965 and served four years in the Vietnam War. After his service, he returned to Lodi and married Idella Mae (Schlenker) on August 22, 1971. He worked for the Lodi Unified School District in the Maintenance and Operations division for many years and made many life long friendships with his co-workers before retiring in 2010.

Dennis loved spending quality time with his family, especially with his two grandsons, in which he had wonderful memories and adventures with traveling, camping, fishing, trips to the range and talking about cars. He enjoyed working on his 1957 Chevy Bel Air, attending car shows and was a member of the American Steel Car Club. Dennis was known for his witty humor and made friends easily, often running into someone he

knew no matter where he went.

He is survived by Idella Nichols; son, Brian Nichols; 2 grandchildren, Lucas Nichols and Henry Nichols; sister, Linda Nichols; brother, Gregory Nichols. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Marjorie Nichols.

A private service will be held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church with committal at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.


Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Nichols family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Louis Ignacio Garcia

June 15, 1950 - February 10, 2026

On February 10, 2026, Louis Ignacio Garcia passed away, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He fought a hard battle for the last 16 years and now he is at peace with the lord.

Louis joined the United States Army at the age of 17 and proudly served for 10 years, achieving the rank of Segreant and was a combat veteran in the Vietnam war. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Defense Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Airborne/Assault Medal, Combat Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Service Medal, Armed Forces Expert Marksman Medal, Overseas Bars Medal, Foreign Expeditionary Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal for his dedicated service. His time in the military has shaped his character, his commitment to freedom and discipline throughout his life.

Louis was known for his humor, friendship, generosity and faith. He was a member of the Karl Ross American Legion Post #16 Honor Guard in Stockton, CA. He enjoyed traveling, garage sales, going out to eat, listening to music and watching TV.

He was preceded in death by his parents Antonio (Yvonne) Garcia and Bertha (Roberto) Villegas - Diaz, his Mother-in-law Ofelia Santoyo, his Brother Roberto Diaz and his precious daughter Jayme Garcia.

He is survived by his devoted wife Luz Elena. His daughters Miranda (Rangel) Perez, Alicia (Juan) Sauceda, Angel Garcia and his cherished grandsons Chris Quintero, Brandon Perez, Diego Sauceda and Santiago Sauceda.

SERVICE
A service with full military honors will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Lodi, CA on March 14, 2026. Viewing will be at 8:30am with a rosary at 9am followed by a mass and burial. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16, Stockton, CA in honor of Louis Garcia.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Garcia family.

Darlene Huss

June 4, 1946 - February 10, 2026

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 1:00pm - 7:00pm on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
 A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, February 25th, 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 Huss family.

Ronald Bambico

Ronald Bambico
August 25, 1951 - February 8, 2026

Ronald R. Bambico of Lodi, age 74, passed away on February 8th, 2026. Ronald was born in Hawaii on August 25th, 1951. 

Ronald was the beloved husband of Debra F. Bambico. Loving father of Ronald S. Bambico, Christina Bambico Travis (Yorba), Stacy Bryson (Audrey Bailey),Jennifer Bryson and Samantha Cromwell (Ben). Dear grandfather of Jr. Bambico, Kelsey Bambico, Anastasia Bambico, Abby Cromwell, Addy Cromwell, Jordan, YJ Travis and Coleman Travis. Brother of Lloyda Murphy, Norma Bambico, and Rick Bambico (Tina).

He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Tanghal Bambico, father Venancio Bambico, brother Van Bambico and daughter Samantha Cromwell.

Ronald was deeply loved by his family and was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. Ronald was an Army Veteran and worked at General Mills for over 30 years. He was devout in his faith, and enjoyed reading the bible daily. He was passionate about playing golf, singing in the church choir, taking care of his pets, and traveling. He loved hosting casual family get-togethers to laugh, share stories and connect all those he loved. 

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A celebration of Ronald Bambico's life will be held at The Home Church on Friday, February 27th at 1:00pm.  11451 N. West Lane, Lodi, CA 95242

Fond pictures and expressions can be shared here https://www.forevermissed.com/ronald-r-bambico?short_code=DZROl80o

Thank you, Christina 

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Bambico family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock
August 1, 1953 - February 8, 2026

Cheryl Joan Hitchcock, 72, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at her daughter Allison’s family home in Galt, California. She met a diagnosis of ALS with unwavering resilience and her signature wit, surrounded by her beloved family and best friend Melissa at the time of her passing.

A native of Lodi, Cheryl was the daughter of the late Orville and Viola Bohnet. She spent her adult life in Stockton, where she balanced a distinguished career in nursing with the joys and challenges of raising her family. While she was a dedicated caregiver by trade, she was best known for her unique sense of humor—delightfully irreverent, sometimes toeing the line of appropriateness, and always bringing laughter to those around her.

After the death of her beloved husband, Bob, to whom she was married for nearly 45 years, Cheryl moved in with her daughter Emily. Together, they spent several years in San Diego, where Cheryl volunteered at the San Diego Zoo, embracing new experiences and sharing her warmth with both visitors and staff. Later, she moved with Emily's family to Virginia Beach, where she formed many close friendships and continued to bring joy to everyone she met. She then returned to her roots in her hometown of Lodi, focusing on her health and nurturing friendships both old and new, before finally moving into her eldest daughter Allison’s family home in Galt.

Cheryl was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob, her parents, and brother Dalton. She is survived by her brother, Keith, and his wife, Shirley; and her sister, Marcia, and her husband, Ron. Her legacy of care and laughter lives on through her four children and their spouses: Mike and Andy, Allison and Derek, Lindsey and Patrick, and Emily and Max. She was the immensely proud grandmother of nine—Savannah and her husband Josh, William, Avery, Adrian, Gabriel, Axel, Barrett, Clyde, and Victoria—and great-grandmother of two—Jace and Lane, Savannah and Josh’s children.

Private services will be held at Cherokee Memorial.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the ALS Association in Cheryl’s memory.  

Scan QR code below to visit the ALS Association Donations link:

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hitchcock family.

Mary Jane Turley Sgheiza

Mary Jane Turley Sgheiza

August 31, 1938 - February 7, 2026

A loving wife, mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, great grandmother, Sorority sister, volunteer, and friend; Mary Sgheiza was born to Everett John and Eva Marjorie Turley, along with her twin sister Merle, on August 31, 1938, in Stockton, California. She attended Lottie Grunsky Elementary, Stockton Junior High School, and Stockton College (Lower Division). In school, Mary excelled in both tennis and track, and was very involved in Job’s Daughters. When she was 19, Mary afford worse joined the Beta Sigma Phi service sorority, and was a committed and loving member of the Alpha Pi Master chapter here in Stockton, where she held many chapter and regional positions on many boards, committees, and councils, as well as volunteering with her chapter sisters in local events such as the annual Asparagus Festival. Sorority was a commitment throughout her adult life and she was as active member for 69 years.

In November, 1956, Mary wed Alfred Sgheiza in Morris Chapel with a reception in the 540 Building. Shortly after their marriage began, Alfred began service in the U.S. Army in Germany. Upon his return, Mary and Al purchased a home in Stockton’s Mayfair District, in which they lived until Afred died in 2004. Mary remained at their home until her passing, on February 7, 2026.

Professionally, Mary spent years in the Financial Services Industry, for 38 years with Bank of America and another 10 years with Merrill Lynch. During her daughter Laurie’s school years, Mary served as a leader for both Bluebirds and Camp Fire Girl groups, as well as being a competitive bowler in Women’s Leagues at Pacific Avenue Bowl. From the late 70’s through the 90’s, Mary and Al were active members of the Stockton Water Ski Club, and also loved attending state conventions for Mary’s sorority, where they met new friends who became lifelong travel companions.

After Alfred’s passing, Mary enjoyed bi-monthly Bunco Night’s with friends; she and close friend and fellow Beta Sigma Phi sister, Jan Gerst, volunteered each month as docents at Haggin Museum, and she spent many hours preparing creative materials devoted to making Holiday and get well cards for Veterans, serving members of the military, as well as get well and birthday cards for friends and family and her sorority sisters. During the summers, Mary and her girlfriends loved being a part of the Stockton Port’s’ Silver Sluggers senior citizen cheering section during home games.

Through her entire life; by way of family, friends, and her much loved sorority sisters and affiliated groups, Mary’s life was about loving and giving, and service to others.

Mary is survived by her daughter Laurie Davison, her granddaughter Ashley Deja, and her great-grandchildren Mia, Henry, Connor, and Tommy, all of Michigan; sister-in-law Rose Marie Wall, of Morada, nieces Toni Chavarria (Scott) of Lenore, California, and Lisa Gunn of Durham, California; nephews Dennis Jones, Bob Bartman (Susan), John, and Chuck, grand-nephews Charles and Shawn Bartman, all of Stockton, and Alex Fisher Bartman of Austin, Texas. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Sgheiza, her parents, Ed and Marge Turley, her twin sister, Merle Schauer, and her brother-in-law, Harry Schauer.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you consider a donation to the service charity of your choice.

SERVICE
 A service will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240, with a reception to follow.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Sgheiza 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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