Gloria Stange
May 2, 1948 - September 4, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Stange family.
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Gloria Stange
May 2, 1948 - September 4, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Stange family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Carol Jean Laughlin
October 24, 1941 - September 4, 2026
OBITUARY
Carol Jean Laughlin (Summers) was born in Stockton, Ca. on October 24, 1941.
She was the beloved daughter of Rachel and Max Summers. She had four siblings that she remained very close to her throughout the years, Tommie, Earl, and Jerry Summers and one sister, Iva Harmon.
Jean graduated from Stagg High School and began her career in banking. She started with Bank of America as a teller and rose to bank manager for Guarantee Savings. She loved the banking business and has lifelong friends that she worked with.
She married the love of her life, Bill Laughlin, in 1963 and they were married for over 50 years until his passing in 2013. They had one son Marc Laughlin whom she treasured. She was blessed with the addition of her adored daughter-in-law, Amparo, in 1998, and then double blessed with the birth of her beloved grandchildren, Ashley and Tyler a few years later.
In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind her brother Earl Summers (Nancy), her sisters-in-laws, Evelyn Crane, Mary Laughlin and Helen Crane and her brother-in-law Ron Laughlin. She also leaves behind the wonderful and caring family of her daughter-in-law, Amparo, Ida and Neil Amos, Elda Diaz and Irma Brisene (Manuel), and many nieces and nephews, whom she adored.
During the last year, Jean fought the battle with dignity, honor, grace, kindness and most of all love for all of those around her right to the end. She will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her and especially those who shared in her life. She set a wonderful example for all of us to follow in so many ways and she will be forever loved and missed.
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 1:00pm in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Laughlin family.
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Marcus Erdman
October 9, 2003 - January 1, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Erdman family.
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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.
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Dario Orion Raygoza-White
December 23, 2004 - September 3, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Raygoza-White family.
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Fawnette Faye Jenkins
November 25, 1971 - September 3, 2026
VISITATION
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 9:00am-10:30am in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
GRAVESIDE
A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 11:00am at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Jenkins family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Lourdes Cortes Fernandez
February 11, 1958 - September 2, 2026
VISITATION
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026 from 3:00pm - 8:00pm in Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 3:00pm - 8:00pm with a rosary starting at 6:00pm on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at the Vineyard Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
MASS
Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 10:00am at Church of the Presentation located at 6715 Leesburg Pl in Stockton, CA. Country Club Blvd, Stockton, CA 95204
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Cortes-Fernandez family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Clara Joyce Sobaszkiewicz
July 9, 1939 - September 2, 2026
OBITUARY
Clara Joyce Sobaszkiewicz, 87, of Lodi, California, passed on to her forever home with our Lord in Heaven on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. Clara was born on July 9, 1939, in South St. Paul, Minnesota, where she spent her childhood surrounded by her parents, two brothers, extended family, church family, friends, and neighbors.
She enjoyed foods from her Mexican and German heritage, spending time with family and friends, and participating in school activities. She was crowned Snow Queen at her high school. Clara also loved ice skating, which is where she met her future husband, Louie. She married Louie, also of Minnesota, and they soon welcomed four children into their family: Mark, John, Anna, and Nora.
Following other relatives, Clara and Louie moved to California while their children were very young. They traveled across the country by train and settled in Stockton. Several relatives also moved to California, and three families lived within blocks of one another. The neighborhood was lively, and the many families shared wonderful times together.
Clara enjoyed providing daycare and working as a private seamstress. The family later moved to Lodi, California, where they lived together for many years and enjoyed country life with land, animals, and a large, wonderful garden. Clara worked at Mervyn's for many years, where everyone enjoyed visiting her and shopping.
Clara and her family were extremely close and celebrated all aspects of life's journey together.
They shared countless holidays, gatherings with neighbors, and camping trips by the lakes and ocean. Clara and Louie were a truly loving couple and devoted parents. Sadly, Louie passed away at a young age, but he left behind a beautiful legacy of love.
Clara remained very close to her children, spending treasured time together at family gatherings, holidays, and many vacations throughout the years. Clara, our mother and grandmother, was an amazing human being. She had a generous heart and was often called the "favorite" by family, friends, and caregivers. She will be dearly missed, but she will always live on in our hearts, leaving us a beautiful legacy of love.
Clara is survived by her son, Mark Sobaszkiewicz (Zoe; daughters, Anna Rodacker (Steve) and Nora Hoffman (Rob); and grandchildren, Braeden Dillon, Preston Dillon, Grayson Dillon, Shannon Sobaszkiewicz, Zoe Merck (Daniel), and Jenna Merck.
Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Louie Sobaszkiewicz; son, John Sobaszkiewicz; brothers, Richard Mauricio and Bob Mauricio; and parents, John and Elizabeth Mauricio.
A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Sobaszkiewicz family.
Please leave your condolences below.
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.
DARLENE LAVERNE AVERY (NÉE POTTER)
June 8, 1935 - September 2, 2026
OBITUARY
Darlene Avery passed away peacefully at Lodi Memorial Hospital on September 2, 2026.
Darlene was born June 8, 1935 in Visalia, Ca to Albert and Ruth Potter. She was the youngest of
four girls.
After high school Darlene attended Saint Luke’s School of Nursing in San Francisco. She graduated in 1956 with an Associate’s Degree in nursing. A little later in life Darlene went back to school and obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in nursing. She attributed her desire to becoming a nurse to losing her mother when she was just 16.
Darlene moved back to Visalia and got a job as a nurse at Dr. John Castiglione’s pediatric practice. In the midst of starting her career, Darlene managed to find the time to go on a blind date with Glenn Avery. She must have known that she had met the love of her life because they were married six months later in Las Vegas. 11 months later Glenn and Darlene welcomed their son, Michael.
In 1962 Glenn’s job brought them to Lodi, where they’d settle and raise their family. In June of 1964 Glenn and Darlene had their daughter, Diane. Darlene stepped away from nursing to raise her children.
Darlene managed to stay busy during this time by becoming the first Parent’s Club president at Vinewood Elementary and joining the Lodi Democrats Club. She eventually served as president of the Lodi Democrats Club and often organized ‘Candidate Forums’ for many local politicians running for office. Darlene also served on the Board for the Lodi Public Library, where her name can be found on a plaque at the entrance. In 1974 Darlene and Glenn opened House of Coffees. She enjoyed this venture and loved having a business in this community, but something was missing; nursing.
In 1976 Darlene returned to nursing, becoming Dr. Ken Mullen’s first RN in his budding family practice. In 1977 she took a nursing job at Lodi Memorial Hospital, where she stayed for 15 years. In her tenure at the hospital Darlene worked her way up to Director of Nurses in the Medical/ Surgical units. She retired in 1992.
After retirement Darlene found herself volunteering in the community. Darlene counseled abused women at the Lodi Women’s Center, she gave injections at the Salvation Army, joined organizations like The Breakthrough Project, United Methodist Women and American Association of University Women (AAUW). In 2003 Darlene received the San Joaquin County Susan B. Anthony Award to honor her significant community contributions. In 2004
Darlene served as president of AAUW and organized the ‘Sister-to-Sister’ summit for middle school aged girls that focused on building self-esteem while encouraging girls to explore science, technology and math. Even through all her volunteering, Darlene and Glenn managed to travel the world and serve as the primary daycare providers for their granddaughters Brittney and Kate.
Darlene is survived by her husband of 68 years, Glenn Avery, son Michael Avery, daughter Diane Avery-Kaufman, granddaughters Brittney Kaufman (Christy) and Kate Hanson (Brennan). As well as her beloved dog Cordelia and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Ruth and Albert Potter, sisters Lois McAlpine (Edward), Edythe Owen (Roy) and Ethelyn Potter.
The family would like to thank the amazing nurses and doctors at Lodi Memorial Hospital and Hospice of San Joaquin County.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Avery family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Betty Jean Shannon (née Sayler)
November 27, 1932 - August 31, 2026
OBITUARY
Betty Jean was born in Underwood, North Dakota. The family moved to Walnut Grove in 1939 and to Lodi in 1942. She attended Lincoln and Needham schools, graduated from Lodi High School in 1950, and graduated from Delta College in 1976. In 2025, she moved to Anthem, Arizona to be with family.
In 1945, Betty Jean accepted the Lord into her heart. She had a deep and abiding faith in Jesus, her Lord and Savior. She was a member of Temple Baptist Church (Grace Point) for 55 years and served the church as a teacher, youth leader and deaconess.
She loved music and sang in church choirs, community choirs, ensembles, and the Stockton Chorale. She was the proud co-writer of the Tokay High School Alma Mater and wrote the theme song for the Mr. Lodi contest.
Betty was employed by LUSD Child Welfare and Attendance for 35 years. After retirement, she volunteered in Lakewood kindergarten classes and made weekly visits to residents of convalescent hospitals.
Betty Jean devoted her life to a deep love of the Lord and was a true beacon of His word. She had a knack for remembering everyones birthdays, knowing just when to call to check in, and projecting Gods light to all who crossed her path. She had a significant greeting card ministry and sent words of encouragement and support to many. She was a people person and took great joy in sewing, cooking, gardening, homemaking, canning, reading historical novels, and studying her bible. During the Christmas season, she would make over 30 lbs of English toffee to gift to her family and friends. She loved traveling to Europe, around the United States, and she took several cruises to Alaska and Mexico.
On August 31, Betty Jean went to be with the Lord surrounded by her loved ones. She will be greatly missed, but her ministries will live on through those whose lives she touched.
Just ahead of her passing, Betty selected some of her favorite verses that her family would like to share in celebration of her life:
1 Timothy 1:12
And I thank Christ Jesus, our Lord, who hath enabled me, in that He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.
Psalms 27:4
One thing I have desired of the Lord, that I will seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.
Throughout her life, Betty supported Gospel for Asia, In Touch Ministries, Lodi Boys & Girls Club, Samaritans Purse, and Tunnels to Towers.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Lodi Boys & Girls Club, Hospice of the Valley (Arizona), or the charity of your choice.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Betty is predeceased by her parents George and Rose (Landenberger) Sayler, her husband of 54 years, Stan Shannon, Norman Gesler, her spouse of 16 years, baby son, Stanley Shannon, Jr., siblings Verna Brown, Bernice Thacker, Emerald Sayler, Ray Sayler, Bernard Sayler, and Adrian Sayler. She is survived by four children: Renee Henry (Steven), Andrea Arterburn (Jon), Lisa Waters (Leonard), Mitch Shannon (Kelly), 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Shannon family.
Please leave your condolences below.
January 12, 1932 - August 30, 2026
OBITUARY
Lindell Ray "Lin" Johnson, 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 12, 1932, Lin lived a remarkable life filled with family, friendship, service, hard work, laughter, and an unwavering determination to prove that he could do whatever he set his mind to.
Lin was the youngest of five children born to Otis and Hazel Johnson. He was preceded in death by his siblings Ruby, Paul, Harold, and Zelda. He carried the memories of his family with him throughout his life.
Lin proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War, serving aboard the USS Reclaimer. Following his military service, he built a long and successful career in the engineering department at Lockheed Martin, where he dedicated 36 years before retiring.
But Lin's greatest pride was always his family. He was the devoted father of three daughters, Sheri, Barbara, and Kathleen. During their childhood, he coached their softball teams and could often be found on the field cheering them on, teaching them, and encouraging them to give their best. He also enjoyed playing on his own company softball team.
Lin loved staying active and never seemed to believe that age should tell him what he could or could not do. He enjoyed taking long hikes, sometimes walking as far as nine miles. He survived a quadruple bypass and COVID, seemingly just to prove everyone wrong. At 94, after breaking his back, Lin once again defied expectations. He worked with doctors and therapists and walked again-because, as anyone who knew him would say, Lin was not about to let anyone tell him he couldn't.
To call Lin a strong fighter would be an understatement.
He was also quick-witted, independent, and never lacking in the sarcasm department. His sense of humor was one of the things people loved most about him. That wonderful sarcastic streak has been passed down through the family-even to his youngest great-granddaughter.
Lin loved bringing people together. He was famous for cooking his favorite crockpot dish for family gatherings and gatherings with friends. He was a member of the Moose Lodge #2049 in Sunnyvale, California, where he enjoyed Taco Thursdays and his weekly poker games. He also looked forward to meeting with his Saturday Breakfast Club each week, enjoying good food, good conversation, and the friendships he had built over the years.
Lin is survived by his daughters, Sheri Dimas (Jim Dimas), Barbara Keele (Christopher Keele), and Kathleen Garza (Cindy Miller); his 5 grandchildren, Daniel, Anthony, Francisco, Ashley, and Raymond; and his 7 great-grandchildren, Kayla, Audrey, Sophia, Cruz, Anthony, Axton, and Collyns.
Lin's life was defined not only by the years he lived, but by the lives he touched. He was a Navy veteran, a dedicated employee, a coach, a friend, a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather-and, above all, a fighter who refused to give up.
He leaves behind a family who will carry his stories, his humor, his stubborn determination, and his love with them always.
Lin may have finally met his match, but knowing him, he probably still had the last word.
Please reach out to the family directly for service details.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Johnson family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Annette Katherine Faszer
August 7, 1934 - August 27, 2026
OBITUARY
Annette Katherine Faszer, 92, of Lodi, passed away on the morning of August 27th of a brief
illness after being blessed with a long, healthy life.
Annie was born on August 7th, 1934 in Linton, North Dakota to Fred and Katharina Wohl. The youngest of seven children, she spent her early childhood on her father’s farm before moving to Lodi with her family at thirteen. During school and after graduating from Lodi Union High School in 1951, she worked at the Sunset Theater in its first few years, as a carhop at Billy’s Diner, and as a housemaid. She then began a long and impactful career at Farmers and Merchants Bank, where she worked in various roles including as a teller and in the Mastercard department.
Annie married Charles Faszer on September 8, 1956 at Emanuel American Lutheran Church in Lodi. The two settled into a house built by Charlie and welcomed two sons: Christopher in 1959, and Stephen in 1964. She stayed home to raise her sons until they were both in school and, after returning to work at F&M Bank, continued to be a devoted wife and mother as well as a working woman. Following her career at the bank, she went on to work with her husband, handling the business side of their construction company, Charles J. Faszer, Inc.
Family was very important to Annie and Charlie. Many memories were made in their home where she continued to live until 2024. Holidays were always spent with extended family, her sisters and brother living nearby with their children, and they would often take their sons to camp in their trailer, especially at their favorite spot at Silver Lake. Her grandchildren most loved her Christmas Eve dinners and playing the board game Aggravation with their Grandma Annie. She was a very skilled player and always held the kids accountable to the rules, no matter their age.
Following the passing of Charlie in 2002, Annie continued to be an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Lodi. She was involved in Friendship Ministries, a program through which she was a companion to elderly church members, organized the baking of bread for communion each week, and played dominoes each Sunday after church with friends from the congregation. Annie loved to take care of people. With each new baby born, family or friend, she would knit a blanket for them, some of which have been passed down to the next generation. She could always be counted on to have something special homemade in her kitchen. Being of German-Russian heritage, her most savored work was her kuchen. In her final years, Annie enjoyed playing card games, bingo, and making jewelry with new friends at her senior home.
Annie is survived by her sons Christopher, Stephen and his wife Irene, grandchildren Alexander, Kylie, Brooklyn, Adam, Bailey, and Emma, great-grandchildren Liam, Hunter, Mila, and Remmy, as well as several nieces and nephews. They will miss her dearly.
She is reunited with her husband of 46 years, Charles, her parents, Fred and Katharina, and her siblings, Edgar, Leona, Esther, Ella, Alvin, and Agnes.
Her funeral will be held on September 10th at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Lodi.
A private interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Annie can be made out
to Hospice of San Joaquin or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Faszer family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Leonette Belling
December 11, 1935 - August 27, 2026
OBITUARY
Leonette (Knese) Belling passed away on Thursday, August 27th, 2026 in Galt, CA.
Leonette was born in St. Cloud, MN to Al & Bernice Knese on December 11, 1935. She lived in Lisbon, ND from 1941 to 1956 and graduated from Lisbon High School May 1953. She married Harvey Belling, from Litchville, ND on September 24, 1956. They lived in Fargo ND and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and moving to Lodi, CA in October 1962. They lived in Lodi, Stockton, San Jose, Galt, and Elk Grove, CA until moving to Salome, AZ in December 2005 and then moving to Surprise, AZ in April 2020. August 26, 2025 moved back to Galt, CA. Leonette was a bookkeeper all her adult life with the last being 17 years with Cal State Home Loans/Mortgage where she retired in July 2005. She enjoyed bowling, gambling, puzzles and computer.
Leonette is survived by her loving husband, Harvey, of 69 Years; 4 daughters, Debra Bateman, Pamela Nicholson, Sherry Ervin and Michele Perez; 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.She also leaves a brother, Donald (Carolyn) Knese and sister, Ruby (LeRoy Belling) She was preceded in death by her loving son Steven Harvey Belling, twin sisters Adalene and Adarene Knese, and parents Al and Bernice Knese.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Belling family.
Please leave your condolences below.
Allen Mooney
June 4, 1951 - August 27, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Mooney family.
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Grace Alcaraz
April 2, 1946- August 27, 2026
GRAVESIDE
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Cherokee Memorial Park, 14165 N. Beckman Rd, Lodi, CA 95240.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Alcaraz family.
Please leave your condolences below.
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.
Joan Marie Olson
June 16, 1942 -August 26, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Olson family.
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Harold Eugene Staggs
December 17, 1939 - August 26, 2026
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Staggs family.
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In Loving Memory of
Marilyn June Dutcher
December 30, 1937 - August 26, 2026
Marilyn June Dutcher passed away on August 26, 2026, at the age of 88.
Marilyn was born in Fresno, California, on December 30, 1937, to Harold Thomas Sr. and June Thomas, both of whom came from large families. She grew up in Fresno, graduated from Fresno High School, and attended Fresno State University, where she earned her degree in Education. As the oldest of eleven cousins, Marilyn naturally became the leader of the pack — an early role that would later inspire her passion for teaching.
While in Fresno, Marilyn met her husband, Bob Dutcher, just before beginning her career as a kindergarten teacher. They later moved to Stockton, California, with their daughter, Cindi Lynn, and soon welcomed their second daughter, Jodi Lynn.
Marilyn was one of the inaugural teachers when Mable Barron School in Stockton opened, and she spent many years teaching children in numerous grades. She touched the lives of countless students and families throughout her teaching career.
Marilyn was also deeply involved in her daughters’ activities and in the community. She was the ultimate Blue Bird and Camp Fire Girl leader to numerous neighborhood friends and children, a fierce and dedicated softball manager for Bobby Sox, and the ultimate horse-trailering mom, driving to countless gymkhana events and supporting her family every step of the way.
Outside of teaching and family activities, Marilyn enjoyed an active and creative life. She was a lover of the Sierras and her vacation home in Kirkwood, loved golfing with her many wonderful friends at Woodbridge Golf and Country Club, and enjoyed boating on the Delta along with her numerous craft projects.
Above all, Marilyn was immensely proud of her family, especially her four grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Dutcher, and is survived by her daughters, Cindi Dutcher Hoyt and Jodi Dutcher; her loving brother, Harold Thomas Jr., and his wife, Jan; and her four grandchildren, Sierra Faith, Keely Anne, Robert Bruce, and Connor Thomas.
She was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Lodi, where she attended for many years and enjoyed the fellowship.
The family would like to sincerely thank Sunnyplace of Stockton for their continued care and compassion over the last few years, and especially her main caregiver, Eleanor, for the loving care she provided to Marilyn.
She leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, in memory of Marilyn, please support a cause meaningful to you. Services to be held privately.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Dutcher family.
Please leave your condolences below.
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