Frances Adele Johnson

Frances Adele Johnson

April 15, 1929 - June 21, 2026

Celebrating the Life of Frances Adele Johnson

Frances Adele Johnson passed away on June 22, 2026, at Riverbend Nursing and Rehab. She was 97 years old. Adele was born on April 15, 1929, in Jacksonville, FL to John Frederick Gries and Serena Gries. She graduated from Robert E. Lee High School and went on to earn an associate degree. She built a successful career as a life insurance underwriter at Pacific Standard Life Insurance Company, where she was the only woman authorized to write policies over $1,000,000 on her own signature – a remarkable achievement for a woman of her generation.

On September 11, 2004, Adele married William “Bill” Johnson at Davis United Methodist Church. Over two decades, Bill and Adele shared a love of the water, spending countless weekends exploring on their yacht and hosting fellow members of their yacht club, where Bill served as president. Every Christmas, they made their famous fudge together, selling it to loyal customers at the local craft fair. When Bills health declined, Adele cared for him with the same determination that marked her whole life. He passed in March 2024, and Adele – though she slowed down after losing him – remained her sharp, funny self until the end.

Adele was known for doing everything with style. She dressed to the nines, always. She was known for her cooking skills and loved hosting elegant dinners with her fine china, and she had a gift for making every guest feel special. Alongside her daughter Patti, she ran a ceramics business for years, creating and teaching pottery she loved to give away as gifts. She was tough, she was bossy, and she was hilarious – the kind of woman her family loved to laugh with and about, right up until sepsis took its toll.

Adele was on the Endowment Board for Lodi First UMC for years, something she was very proud to be a part of. As a member of Davis UMC, she provided beautiful arrangements every Sunday for the alter.

Adele is survived by her children, Patti Miller (David Miller), Robert Stivers, and James Stivers, along with step-daughter Catherine Evans; grandchildren Tasha Hays, George Hays (Michelle), Tony Hays (Liz Carden), Jeremy Higgins (Kristen), and Britney Galvin (Isaiah); and a large circle of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who adored her. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Johnson, and her daughter, Zoelynda Hays.

A Celebration of Life service for Adele will be held at Lodi First United Methodist Church in Lodi, CA on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 11:00 am. All friends and family are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to Lodi First United Methodist Church.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Johnson family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Natividad Sanchez Rabadan

September 8, 1951 - June 20, 2026

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 2:00pm - 8:00pm with a rosary starting at 6:00pm on Wednesday, July 1st, 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, July 2nd, 2026 at St. Anne's Catholic Church  located at 215 W. Walnut St Lodi, CA 95240. The final committal will be follow 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 Sanchez Rabadan family.

Charlotte Ruby Konrad

Charlotte Ruby Konrad

July 30, 1949 - June 20, 2026

OBITUARY

Charlotte Ruby Konrad passed away peacefully after a long illness on June 20th, 2026 in Stockton, California. Charlotte was born July 30th, 1949 in Lodi, California to Edgar H. Konrad and Florence Anna (Vaux) Konrad. The family moved to Carmel, California in the early 50’s and then to Stockton in 1956. She attended all of her school years in Stockton and graduated from A.A. Stagg Senior HS in 1967. She attended Joaquin Delta Junior College and then transferred to UCLA where she graduated with a BA in Art in 1972.

Charlotte spent her working years at Konrad’s Ice Cream and later Sharpe Army Depot. Pursuing her dream in motion picture production, she attended and then graduated with a Masters of Fine Arts in the School of Cinema and Television at the University of Southern California in 1985. Charlotte had some success in the film industry. She was the primary film editor of the cult classic Space Mutiny. She also contributed in editing of other projects such as the documentary Michelangelo: A Self Portrait and feature films such as the Bounty Hunter, Earnest Rides Again and Slam Dunk Earnest.

In later life, she was involved with many science fiction events and memorabilia. She was an avid supporter of the ASPCA and the Equestrian Olympic Team. She adored her dogs Emma and Silkie.

Charlotte is survived by her younger brother Edgar G. Konrad, and her niece Kim Konrad and nephew Chris Konrad. Her other brother Donald E. Konrad preceded her in November 2022.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Konrad family.

Please leave your condolences below.

George Swofford

George Swofford

January 29, 1942 - June 19, 2026

VISITATION

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 at 9:00 am in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

FUNERAL SERVICE

A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 at 10:00pm in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Swofford family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Nova Amera Boccia

April 10, 2025 - May 27, 2026

OBITUARY

With profound sadness and broken souls we announce the passing of Nova Amera Boccia on May 27, 2026. Born April 10, 2025, Nova filled every day of her life with joy, wonder, and unconditional love.  

Nova is survived by her loving mother Amanda Boccia, devoted brother Steven Gonzales, (SJ) grandparents Kim and Pete Boccia and Vera Quesada and Bernie Quesada. Nova is honored among many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her beloved father Zac Sebastian Boccia, who tragically passed before Nova was born. Nova Amera Boccia is now in the arms of her Daddy. 

Nova's beautiful smile, embracing demeanor and sweet spirit brought light wherever she went. She was a treasured daughter, sister, granddaughter, and beloved member of a family that adored her beyond measure. In her short life, she taught those around her the power of love, resilience, and the importance of presence in every precious moment.

We are forever grateful for every second we spent with Nova and the light she brought to our lives. Her memory will live on in every story, every smile and every act of love carried out by her family.

Nova will forever be our sunshine, our precious angel, and our greatest blessing. She will be deeply missed and always remembered for her perfect love. 

Nova Amera Boccia will symbolically be laid to rest on Thursday, June 25th, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Service will be held at Cherokee Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 14165 Beckman Road Lodi CA, 95240.

Forever our sunshine. Forever in our hearts. Forever loved. Forever Nova

SERVICE
A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, June 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 Boccia family.

Mary Louise Mitchell

Mary Louise Mitchell
January 6, 1950 - June 18, 2026

Mary Louise Mitchell, born Mary Louise Frazer, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on June 18, 2026, at the age of 76.

Mary was born on January 6, 1950, in San Diego, California, to William Frazer Sr. and Katie Mae Robinson, who preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Robert Frazer, Juanita Henke, and William Frazer Jr.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Michael Mitchell; her children, Tammy Derichsweiler (Erik), Kati Bradshaw (Keith), Eugene "Robert" Courtemanche (Jennifer), and Michael James Mitchell (Michelle); her brother, Joseph Frazer; her beloved niece, Stephani Keith, whom Mary and Michael lovingly raised during the early years of her life; ten grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Mary worked in a variety of occupations, but she was best known for her years at Keystone Lanes in Norwalk, CA where she served as League Coordinator before later managing the coffee shop until her retirement. She made lasting friendships there and will be remembered by many whose lives she touched.

Mary found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved spending time outdoors, tending her garden, fishing, camping, and especially cooking. Nothing made her happier than preparing meals for family and friends. Her kitchen was often the heart of every gathering, and those fortunate enough to enjoy her cooking knew every meal was made with love.

One of Mary's greatest gifts was caring for others. Whether family, friends, or someone she had just met, she had a compassionate heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand. She was a natural caregiver who lovingly cared for several family members during times of illness. She never met a stranger, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

In 2006, Mary rededicated her life to God.  Her faith became the foundation of her life, bringing her peace, strength and hope.  In 2012, she and her husband, Michael, moved to Stockton, where she continued to grow in her faith and deepen her relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Those closest to her witnessed the transformation in her heart and the unwavering trust she placed in God.

In the final days of her life, Mary faced her journey with remarkable courage and peace. Knowing her time on earth was drawing to a close, she shared with her family that she was ready. Her calm spirit and unwavering faith brought comfort to those around her and reflected the deep trust she had placed in her Savior.

Mary's legacy is one of unconditional love, compassion, generosity, hospitality, and unwavering faith. She will be remembered for the meals she lovingly prepared, the comfort she offered to those in need, the warmth she extended to everyone she met, and the deep love she had for her family.

In her final days, Mary simply said, "I'm ready. I've been waiting for the Lord." Those words now serve as a lasting reminder of the faith, courage, and peace with which she entered eternal life. Though her family will miss her beyond measure, they rejoice in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior.

Her family would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers, kindness, and support shown during this difficult time. Mary's memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Mitchell family.

Please leave your condolences below.

Debra Kay Irwin

Debra Kay Irwin

September 9, 1955 - June 17, 2026

OBITUARY

Debbie Irwin went to rest with our Lord Jesus Christ on June 17, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was born on September 7, 1955.

Debbie attended school in Lodi and graduated from Lodi High School in 1973. She met the love of her life, Mike, in 1972. They dated throughout high school and were married in 1974. Together, they had two sons, David (Jenn) and Daniel, and were blessed with a grandson, Luke.

Debbie was a Senior Escrow Officer and Branch Manager in Lodi's escrow industry for 42 years.

Debbie enjoyed spending time with family and friends, as well as swimming, camping, Jeeping, boating, riding motorcycles, tending her garden and chickens, and taking vacations. She was an avid animal lover. 

Debbie’s strong faith in the Lord gave her strength everyday to continue to fight her battle against cancer. 

Debbie is survived by Mike, her loving husband of 53 years; her sons, David (Jenn) and Daniel; her grandson, Luke; her mother, Marion Favia; her sister, Debbie Turner (Rod); her nieces, Molly Abel (Nick) and Mindy Williams (Tyler); and her great-nieces and great-nephews, Kirra, Chris, Scarlett, and Charlie.

She was preceded in death by her father, Johnny Favia; her brother, Gary Favia; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ralph and Mary Irwin.

SERVICE
A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, July 2nd, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Irwin family.

Please leave your condolences below.

James Russell Burgess

James Russell Burgess
April 16, 1950 – June 16, 2026

James Russell Burgess passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, following a brief illness.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Nancy A. Burgess; his sisters, Teresa Burgess, Debra Burgess, and Susan (Burgess) Gallardo; his nephews, Geoffrey Burgess, Benjamin Burgess, and Cameron Clegg; his nieces, Sarah (Burgess) Mateer and Genevieve Burgess; and eight cherished grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Burgess and Frances (Murdock) Burgess, and by his brothers, Barry (Burgess) Hopcroft, Steven Burgess, and Brian Burgess.

Jim had a lifelong love of music of many genres, especially rock and roll. He also loved to travel with his wife, Nancy. Together they explored many far-flung destinations across Asia, Europe, Turkey and Egypt, as well as countless places throughout the United States. Jim was an excellent photographer and captured many of these destinations in beautiful slide collections which he often shared with family and friends. Through every adventure and every day in between, Jim was a loving, devoted, and steadfast partner to Nancy.

An avid gardener, Jim took great pride in creating a beautiful yard and thriving vegetable garden with Nancy at their longtime home in Lodi. In recent years, he enjoyed staying active at the gym, where he formed many valued friendships. Throughout his life, he could often be found tinkering, repairing, and fixing things, including cars—well at least until they became too damn complicated.

Jim dedicated more than 25 years of service to East Bay Municipal Utility District, where he worked as a Supervising Senior Hydrographer. He was respected by his colleagues for his knowledge, professionalism, and strong work ethic, and he developed several lifelong friendships during his career.

Jim will be remembered for his love of music, his passion for travel, his devotion to his home and garden, his ability to fix almost anything, and, above all, the love, kindness, and quiet strength he shared with family and friends. He will be especially missed by Nancy, with whom he shared a life filled with love, companionship, and adventure. Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In accordance with his wishes, Jim will be interred at Cherokee Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in his memory to a medical charity of your choice.

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Burgess family.

Gwyn-Ella Florence

August 26, 1936 - June 16, 2026

"Gwyn-Ella Florence, 89, of Orangevale, California, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. She was a cherished mom, Grammy and Great-Grammy.

Born in August of 1936, in Wagoner, Oklahoma, she was married to her sweetheart, Jack, in, 1953, at the age of 17. They were married 62 years. Jack preceded Gwyn in death in 2015. She dedicated her life to her family and happily made their home, and raised their two sons, in Stockton, California. After many years, in 1995, they moved to Rancho Murieta, California.

Gwyn was an accomplished musician and led her church choir at Harmony Baptist Church in Stockton for over 30 years. When Gwyn wasn’t leading music she was playing the piano and was often sought after for her beautiful singing voice.

Gwyn is survived by her son, Bryan (Carrie) of Modesto, California; her son Bart (Terri) of Orangevale, California; her grandchildren, Stacie (Todd), Jeffrey (Jessica) and Allison (Blake); and four great-grandchildren.

We’ll miss her infectious laughter and loving spirit and how she brightened the lives of all who knew her.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A celebration of Gwyn’s life will be held at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery in Lodi on Monday, June 29, at 10:00 a.m., with a reception immediately following at the J. Charles Irwin Reception Center on site. The family invites all who knew her to attend and share their favorite memories."

Please leave your condolences below.

Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Florence family.

Marian Changco Mata

April 15, 1959 - June 14, 2026

ROSARY
A rosary will be held from 1:00pm - 1:30pm on Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

SERVICE
A service will be held from 1:30pm - 2:30pm on Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.

VISITATION
 A visitation will be held from 2:30pm - 7:00pm on Friday, July 3rd, 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 Mata family.

Mary Ellen Rasmussen

February 8, 1929 - June 13, 2026

Mary Ellen Rasmussen (née Estepa) passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on Saturday, June 13th. Born on February 8, 1929, as a tiny but determined baby weighing just over two pounds, Mary Ellen demonstrated a strength and resilience from the very beginning that would define her entire life. Born a twin during the height of the Great Depression, she was the beloved daughter of Diego Estepa and Josephine Jurado, whose journey from Spain to America helped shape her lifelong values of hard work, faith, and family.

In her youth, Mary Ellen worked the canneries and prune orchards in Santa Clara, California, before marrying her beloved Donald J. Rasmussen in April of 1951. The pair shared 60 wonderful years of marriage before Donald’s passing in 2011. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that they are finally reunited.

Mary Ellen found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved listening to the music of the 1950s and '60s, dancing the foxtrot, cooking fabulous meals, and baking the best desserts for her family. She was also a passionate traveler who successfully visited 49 of the 50 states—leaving Kentucky as the only one left unseen.

Above all, Mary Ellen treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose guidance, wisdom, and unconditional love shaped generations.

In addition to her husband Donald, Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, ten siblings, and her beloved baby granddaughter, Dawn Marie Horst.

Her legacy of love lives on through her three daughters, Patricia (Jack) Arnold, Julie Getty, and Mary Primeau; her grandchildren, Kenneth and James Arnold, Daniel Horst, Kristin Upton, and Taylor Primeau; and her great-granddaughter, Bronte Upton. Mary Ellen also leaves behind her sister, Josephine “Jay”  Moore, whom she cherished deeply. She leaves behind a family who adored her and who will carry her memory forward through the vibrant stories she shared and the values she instilled.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Mary Ellen throughout her life and during her final days. Her life was a true testament to perseverance, faith, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 at the Evergreen Chapel  at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 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 Rasmussen family.

Vieng Nasovann

September 5, 1946 - June 10, 2026

OBITUARY

Our beloved grandmother Vieng Nasovann, lovingly known as “Ma,” passed away surrounded by family and love.

Born in Cambodia, Ma later immigrated to the United States as a refugee in search of a better life for her family. She eventually settled in Stockton, California, where she became widely known in the community as “The Fried Chicken Lady.” From her apartment on Kentfield and later at Jill Circle, Ma spent many years selling her famous fried chicken wings and papaya salad, feeding generations of family, friends, neighbors, and loyal customers with love and care.

To her grandchildren, Ma was more than a grandmother—she was a mother figure, protector, best friend, and the heart of our family. She cherished time with her grandchildren and found great joy in bringing loved ones together. In recent years, some of her happiest moments were spent camping, traveling, taking road trips, visiting Thailand, tending to her garden, and enjoying spontaneous casino trips and adventures with family.

Ma’s kindness, warmth, generosity, laughter, and unconditional love touched everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she nourished, cared for, and brought together. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.

SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Sunday, June 21st, 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 Nasovann family.

Gordon Piffero

Gordon Alfred Piffero

June 11, 1950 - June 9, 2026


OBTIUARY

Gordon Alfred Piffero, beloved husband, father, Nono, educator and community leader, passed peacefully into the arms of the Angels with his family by his side on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Stockton, California, just two days shy of his 76th birthday. 

Born on June 11, 1950, in Salinas, California, Gordon was the son of Art and Eunice Piffero and was raised in Gonzales, a community he proudly called home throughout his life. In 1968, he graduated from Gonzales High School where he played football and was named MVP one season. He  continued his education at Hartnell College, where he earned an Associate of Arts Degree. He then attended California State University, Fresno, where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Social Science and Physical Education followed by a Master's Degree in Education Administration from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

On December 27, 1975, Gordon married Linda, the love of his life. Together they built a marriage that spanned more than fifty years and created a family that was the center of Gordon's world.

Gordon dedicated more than three decades of his life to education and public service. He began his career in 1974 as a substitute teacher and football coach with the Gonzales Union High School District before becoming a teacher for grades 6-8 for the Mission Union School District. From 1974 to 1976, he served as teacher, principal and superintendent for the Mission Union School District. He then became principal of La Gloria Elementary School, serving from 1976 to 1986. In 1986, Gordon was appointed Superintendent of the Gonzales Union Elementary School District, a position he held for 16 years. He later served as Principal/Superintendent of Gold Trail Union, Leggett Unified and Big Sur Unified School Districts. Throughout his decades in education, Gordon was respected for his leadership, integrity and unwavering commitment to students, teachers and families.

Although he held many leadership positions throughout his career, Gordon was happiest when he was with students. Whether he was sitting in a classroom reading stories, helping a child work through an assignment, joining the kids for lunch or heading out to the playground to shoot baskets during recess, he found genuine joy in connecting with children. He believed every student deserved encouragement, attention and the opportunity to succeed. Those who worked alongside him knew that despite his titles, his heart was always in the classroom and with the students, staff and families he served.

While Gordon was proud of his accomplishments as an educator, his greatest joy came from his family. He cherished every moment spent with those he loved and took immense pride in their accomplishments. His favorite role was being Nono to his grandchildren, a title he carried with endless love and pride. Whether playing soccer with Cooper, making Kenzie laugh or sharing a Hershey bar with Maddie, Gordon delighted in his grandchildren. 

Gordon loved to cook. Family favorites were his burritos complete with potatoes and guacamole, spaghetti with meat sauce and chocolate chip cookies - counters full of chocolate chip cookies!! And, of course, he never forgot his all-time favorite, Coca-Cola! 

Gordon’s daughters remember riding in his truck and singing along to Dad’s favorites - Elvis, the Everly Brothers and the Beach Boys. Linda fondly remembers PBS specials with Peter, Paul and Mary that she and Gordon would enjoy together.

Gordon had a lifelong love of the outdoors. He and Linda spent many precious hours watching the ocean and driving to “look for the deer” at all their favorite spots in Monterey. His daughters remember Dad sharing every animal he saw on drives around Monterey County and trips to visit them in Stockton. There wasn’t a deer, elk, hawk or fox that escaped his notice. 

Gordon was a devoted fan of the San Francisco 49ers. If he couldn’t watch on television, he would listen to the radio! Gordon was proud of his Swiss heritage and often remembered traveling to Switzerland with his parents in 1988. He inherited his love of John Wayne movies from his Dad and shared many happy hours watching his favorites with Linda and his girls. 

Gordon is survived by his wife, Linda Piffero; his daughter Cathy Carlson and her husband, Max, and their daughters, Kenzie and Maddie; and his daughter Melissa Faukner and her husband, Ben, and their son, Cooper. He is also survived by two aunts, numerous cousins, extended family and dear friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Eunice Piffero; his sister, Kathleen Claire; and several cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and life long friends. 

Gordon will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, humility, steady presence and deep love for his family and community. His legacy lives on through the generations of students he helped guide, the schools he served and the family he loved so dearly.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Gordon's influence and example will continue to be felt for years to come through the countless lives he touched as an educator, mentor, husband, father and Nono.

In honor of Gordon's lifelong dedication to education, donations may be made to the Gonzales Unified School District or to a school district that holds special meaning to you. 


Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Piffero family.

Please leave your condolences below.