Harriet E. Pace

August 10, 1937 – October 21, 2020

Harriet was born on August 10, 1937, in San Francisco, CA to Evan and Juen (Bangham) Chappuis. She was raised in Susanville, CA, where she met the love of her life E. Fred Pace. They raised three sons, Evan, John and Ross, and one daughter, Mary Jane. Harriet passed away peacefully at home under hospice care on October 21, 2020, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Although Harriet’s main focus was family and home, she worked for years as a school secretary in Turlock, Hughson, and Modesto. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hughson where she was also involved with YLI. She was a member of the Hughson chapter of Red Hats where she enjoyed socializing with her numerous friends. Harriet enjoyed watercolor painting, photography, singing in the church choir, traveling, sailing, reading, gardening, playing piano, and cooking and baking for family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of sixty-five years E. Fred Pace, her four children Mary Jane (Rodney) Owen of Modesto, Evan W. Pace of Olympia, WA, John R. (Rosa) Pace of San Jose and D. Ross (Elenore) Pace of San Jose, her sisters Jane Hail of Livermore, and Catherine (John) McMahon of South Dakota, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Harriet will be remembered for her generous loving spirit, her sense of humor and her willingness to always help others.

A memorial will be scheduled for the spring of 2021 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hughson.

Hazel Mae (Avant) Adams

Born February 11, 1931, at Tagus Camp 7 in Tulare County, CA to Howard and Mary (Stanitzky) Avant, Hazel Mae Adams came to the end of her long journey through the darkness of dementia on November 6, 2020, at the age of 89, in Reno, NV. The youngest of six children, she was the last of her generation. Hazel was predeceased by her parents and siblings Howard (Adele), Theodore (Carolyn), Alice, Gertrude (Eugene) Bussey and Betty (Donald) Farias as well as niece Cathy Bussey Bradley.

Hazel was a very special lady with a kind heart and soul. She had a smile for everybody, right until the end. A very generous woman, she knew and cherished the value of family and friendship above all else.

Being a Depression-era child, Hazel learned and passed on a great many bits of wisdom that still remain valuable tips for life. She made good with everything she had and was great at repurposing what other people would throw away. Her family often called her a true pioneer who was known for her strength and will. Being proud of her Polish heritage, she often said she rose above adversity because she came from sturdy Polish stock.

Throughout her long work career, Hazel was known as a hard-working and exceptional employee. While still in high school, she worked at the local telephone office in Yerington, NV and also at the local soda fountain. After she graduated from Yerington High School in 1949, she made her way to Sierra Army Depot, working as an ammunition canner. Over the years, she held several positions at Sierra Army Depot, as well as a short stint at the VA in Reno and Anaconda Mine in Yerington.

Hazel returned to Yerington in 1979 then went back to work at the Intelligence Office at Sierra Army Depot until her retirement. She made the most of her retirement, thoroughly enjoying her beloved home and property above Doyle. Severe dementia dictated specialized care and Hazel spent the last year of her life at Brookdale Senior Living in Reno, NV, where she was well-cared for and much loved by the staff.

Hazel is survived by her children, Richard Fowler and Denise Roberts; grandchildren Chris (Joy) Roberts, Richard Fowler, Jr., William (Megan) Johnson, Angela Fowler and Travis (Tia) Fowler; seven great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Donald Farias; six nieces and nephews and a great many dear friends and colleagues. Due to COVID-19 issues, a memorial service will be scheduled later. Hazel will rest in peace with her family at the Yerington City Cemetery. As she often said, “I got the job done.”

Linda Lee (King) Wilson

It is with saddened heart’s that we inform you of the passing of our beloved Mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend Linda Wilson. Linda passed Friday October 9, 2020.

Linda was born in Orange County, CA on August 16, 1943 where she spent most of her life with a brief stint in Arizona and 2 years in Canada with her late husband Jim. Linda settled in Susanville, Ca with her daughter Kelly. Linda had a big heart and to know her was to love her. She always wanted to lend a hand, this led her finding her calling in life as a RN. She worked in hospitals, doctors’ offices, as a traveling nurse and as a hospice nurse offering help wherever she could.

Linda was a fun-loving woman who loved EVERYONE! If she liked you, that was it; you were family and she loved you unconditionally. She was a devoted mother of 3 girls, a wonderful wife, and an energetic grandmother who enjoyed her retirement spoiling her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James Wilson, her daughter Kimberly Ambrose, and her grandson Joshua J. Osip. Linda leaves behind 2 daughter’s, Kelly Wyman of Susanville, Ca and Kathy Bumgardner of Sanford, Florida, her brothers Jess “Pete” King of Corona, CA and Albert “Butch” King of Sturgis, South Dakota, her 7 grandchildren Michael Sims, Sanford, FL Stevie Sims, Sanford, FL, Melinda Stoney Summerville, FL, Eugene Davis Medford, OR, Tiffany Moos, Townsend, Mt, Jessica Lomeli, Moreno Valley, and Coral Pregill, Susanville, CA.

Linda also had 13 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandson and another great great granddaughter that’s on the way. Linda was loved by a very large family.

Her love was being a nurse on the med/surg floor and hospice. After she buried her mother and two husbands on hospice it just got too much to handle and she retired to take care of her youngest daughter Kelly. so we thought we would end with one of her favorite Nurses Prayer.

Let me dedicate my life today to the care of those who come my way.
Let me touch each one with a healing hand and the gentle art for which I stand.
And tonight when day is done, o let me rest in peace if I helped just one.

Linda Lee (King) Wilson 1943-2020. You will be truly missed.

Gilbert ‘Gib’ Ketchcherside

Gilbert ‘Gib’ Ketchcherside passed away at his home on November 25^th, 2020 in Standish California at the age of 81.

Gib is survived by his brother Donald Ketcherside of Newcastle Ca, children, Scott Watson of Roseville, Ca, Preston Ketcherside of Lodi/Standish, Ca, Jesse Ketcherside, of Vacaville/Standish, Ca, stepson Troy Freels and wife Liane Freels of Fair Oaks, Ca. Grandchildren Tyler Ketcherside of Chico Ca, and Sidney Ketcherside of Stockton Ca.  He is preceded in death by parents Dean and Eunice Ketcherside, wife Merrilee Ketcherside, and brother Ronald Ketcherside.

Gib was born on October 18th, 1939 in Boise Idaho to Dean and Eunice Ketcherside. He graduated from Grant Union High School in 1957. During and after high school, Gib worked for the family business Ketcherside Equipment in Sacramento Ca,. Gib then went to work for the California Department of Fish and Game as a Game Warden.  In the late 1960s, Gib started his own business Ketcherside Trucking that he owned and operated for over 50 years up until his death. In the early 1980s, Gib moved his home and business to Standish California, Lassen County.  While operating his business Gib employed many employees over the years providing stable employment and opportunity while providing positive economic impact to the local communities.

Gilbert was an accomplished and early pioneer of the sport of Endurance Riding, completing Western States (The Tevis Cup) 100 hundred mile ride in 1964.  Gib was an avid outdoorsman and hunter, Gibs first deer hunting trip was at age 9 and he never missed a hunting trip up until his death. Gib was an accomplished trap shooter attending and winning many local and international events.  Gib was an active member of the Elks Lodge.  Gib was an animal lover and has always had horses and dogs his entire life. Gib was a philanthropist giving to many nonprofit charities. Gib was a gracious and giving host to many events hosted at his home, including an annual Superbowl party of over 35 years. Gib was witty, smart, caring and fun to be around. Gib was a very giving, knowledgeable person and was always available to lend a helping hand.

A funeral is scheduled for December 10, 2020, at 1:00 PM at East Lawn 5757 Greenback Ln, Sacramento Ca 95841.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate Gilbert’s life. The family would like to thank all that assisted Gib in his final months.

Joyce Irene Malone 1932-2020   

Passed away peacefully on November 27, 2020. She was born in San Francisco California on May 15, 1932 to Angelo and Irene Giomi.

Joyce was a dedicated mother, grandmother and great grandmother first and foremost. She treasured every moment with family. She made friends everywhere she went.  She loved her animals. In memory please donate to your local animal shelter.

Joyce is survived by her son and two daughters James Van Rappard , Deborah Palmberg, Cheryl  Nichols, Grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She is survived by sister Barbara Cashion and Terrence Giomi.   She will be Missed

Scott David Simpson

‘The Ride of Your Life’

Scott David Simpson was born December 19, 1959, in Susanville, California, the youngest of five children.  His parents, Paul, born in China to missionary parents, and Joann Simpson, born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma,  met in Oakdale, CA, in high school and married there in 1951, where the first four children were born.

Around 1958, they moved their family to Susanville, when his father, who worked for the California Dept. of Water Resources was transferred. There, Paul fell in love with the arid desert and plentiful lakes and streams and clear blue skies and became a self-employed licensed Land Surveyor and Registered Civil Engineer.  Scott was born in Riverside Hospital and brought home to live for 11 years at 1212 Fifth Street.

All five children attended McKinley School and Scott began his relationships with the many, many friends who are here today.  Tragedy struck the family when sister, Rachelle Gwen Simpson, was killed in an automobile accident April 13, 1969.  The fractured family moved, establishing the Diamond S Ranch on Johnstonville Road.  Shortly after Shelley’s death, oldest sister, Rhonda Jo, married Vernon Templeton, and blessed the family with four children, Shelley, Casey, and Alison and Matthew Johnson, who are all still with us today.

Scott was a happy boy, preferring outdoor activities to school, especially riding his purple stingray bicycle, sledding at Hoolies Hill, ice staking at Trussels Pond, camping with the family, playing Little League and later, riding his horse, Rebel, and eventually, his beloved dirt bikes and street bike motorcycles, snowmobiles, cars, and pick-up trucks.  Faster, faster, faster.

Tragedy struck the family again December 30, 1977, when beloved brother Paul Warren “Beaver” Simpson was killed in an automobile accident. Scott would never recover from the crippling loss. He graduated from Lassen High School in June 1978, and worked for his father in the surveying business, at the lumber mill, and surveyed for the Bureau of Land Management in Nevada by helicopter. Around 1986, he moved to Marin County, reconnecting with friends from school and cousin Bruce Fifer.  There he worked for a landscaping firm and learned many elements of the building trades such a framing, sheetrock, texturing, and carpentry, becoming a member of Carpenters Local #35 in Marin County.

He snow skied, played on the water, hunted and fished; an avid fan of all sports.  Through all his activities, he steadfastly nurtured his long-standing friendships, making new friends throughout his life.  He was a very good friend to many, connecting easily with kids and the elderly.  He always found time to stop by and visit or faithfully attend a youngster’s sporting event.

September 3, 1995, father Paul Simpson died suddenly and Scott’s mother asked him to move in with her, now living at Lake Almanor West, Chester, CA.  Scott did so immediately, where he gave his mother the next 20 years of his life, caring for her with daily love and companionship on the beautiful shore of Goose Bay. Scott made many new friends in the Chester area, worked in the construction trade, eventually becoming a Licensed California General Building Contractor, working many years with Delucchi Construction.  Scott and mom raised many litters of German Wired-Haired Pointer dogs, his last dog, Ft. Sage, is with us today.  Mother Joann passed away July 28. 2015.

Scott bought his much-loved cabin-style home in Pine Town, continuing his work, fixing up his yard and house, and of course, his many friendships, never missing an opportunity to hunt, dirt bike ride, attend a parade, birthday, wedding or unfortunately, many funerals.

Scott passed away suddenly on Saturday, December 12, 2020, in the comfort of his home.  He is survived by his sisters Rhonda Templeton and Rebecca “Becky” Guess, both of Susanville.  Also, his nieces and nephew by Rhonda, mentioned above.  And Becky’s boys, Jeffrey-Scott Warren Guess, John-Michael Denver Guess, and James-Paul Jordan Guess.  It would be remiss not to acknowledge the close, loving relationship he held with Warren and Jordan, even to the end.

Scott lived a wildly-free, rich and full life, always accompanied by fantastically loud music and great friends.  Often extreme, never boring, he will be greatly missed by many, many wonderful people whose lives he touched and who loved him.

Memorial Services for Scott David Simpson will be held Saturday, December 19, 2020, 12:00 noon, at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary, 115 S. Lassen St, Susanville, CA 96130.  Flowers are welcome or donations may be made to: The National Rifle Association or the Lassen County Animal Shelter.

Alma Wallace

Alma Wallace, beloved, wife, mother and Nana, passed away on September 10, 2020, in Anderson, Ca, at the age of 94.

Alma was born on June 13, 1926 in Clinchco, Virginia to Courtney and Zilphia Rose. Alma was one of six children born into the Rose family. To say Alma came from humble beginnings would be an understatement. Being raised during the Great Depression and enduring a difficult childhood taught Alma many things, most importantly, the value of a home and a family. It was these two things that Alma would go on to dedicate her life to.

In 1945 while working as a waitress, Alma met a handsome young sailor named Conn. They were married on June 9, 1945 in Norfolk, Virginia. After Conn’s honorable discharge from the Navy, they moved to Monroe, Louisiana, where they resided until 1947. In June of 1947, Alma and Conn moved to the place they would forever call home, Westwood, Ca. From a young age, Alma knew she wanted a big family and it wasn’t long before she and Conn welcomed 7 children, 3 boys and 4 girls.

Their children along with their 21 grandchildren and over 30 great grandchildren were the light of Alma’s life. In addition to caring for children, Alma enjoyed cooking, baking, embroidering and celebrating the Holidays. Alma never met a thrift store, yard sale or slot machine that she didn’t like, but her real winnings and treasures came from spending time with her family.

She found great joy in decorating her home for Christmas and her yard for Halloween, beaming with pride when her yard decorations made the local newspaper. Alma’s selflessness knew no bounds. If you mentioned you liked something in her home, chances were you’d be leaving with it. And, if you came to her home it didn’t matter who you were, you could count on three things : a full stomach, sweltering temperatures and hot coffee. Except if you were the intoxicated neighbor who got into a tussle with Conn in their front yard, he got a frying pan upside the head.

Even as Alma approached her mid nineties, she never viewed herself as old. She had numerous roommates at the long term care facility where she resided. She would call family to tell them about her new roommate, shocked, she would whisper, “she must be about 90 years old!!.” Alma’s sense of humor, generous nature and kind heart will be dearly missed by all that knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her 5 siblings, her husband of 68 years, Conn, grandson, Michael Wallace, and daughter, Tammy Franke. She is survived by her sons Bruce (Diane) Wallace,  Rick (Judy) Wallace, Benny (Karen) Wallace, daughters Trish (Vic) Rigling, Connie (Larry- deceased) Haskill,  Shirley (Mike) Mesa, son in law Eric Franke, and many, many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A memorial service in her honor will be held at a later date.

Richard B. McIntosh

One or other must leave, one or the other must stay,

one or the other must grieve, that is forever the way.

That is the vow that was sworn, faithful ‘til death do us part.

Braving what has to be borne, widening the ache in the heart.

One how so ever adored, first must be summoned away.

That is the will of the Lord- one or the other must stay!

                                                ~Anonymous

Kevin Scott Merrill

Kevin Scott Merrill passed away unexpectedly from complications of Light Chain Multiple Myeloma on January 27, 2021 in Susanville, CA.

Scott was born October 10, 1951, in Westwood, CA.  He was predeceased by his parents Kevin and Laura Bell Merrill and first wife Barbara Green Merrill (2011).

Scott remarried and had a second chance for happiness.  He is survived by his wife Toni, stepdaughter Buffy Stowell Bennett (Scott), and granddaughter Karlie, of Ontario, OR.  He is also survived by his sister Linda Runoverra and nieces and nephews of Las Vegas, NV.

Scott, “Scottie,” affectionally called by many, attend the local elementary schools, and graduated from Lassen High School in 1970.  He was an all-around athlete, playing basketball, baseball, football, and golf.

After graduating, Scott continued summer league fast pitch baseball and also worked for USFS.  In 1988, he began a new job with Lassen Municipal Utility District as a lineman and line foreman.  He worked for CPNational and Lassen Municipal Utilities District as a lineman, for a combined total of 39 years.   His loyal and valued service and work ethics were clearly visible to those who knew him best.  You could count on him at his word; he was reliable, true blue, thoughtful, generous, and humble.

He was community-minded and volunteered as an assistant coach for Little League baseball. His coaching skills and knowledge of the game were invaluable to the many young boys he helped.   He instilled in the youth he coached to never give up, think of your teammates, and always do the best you can.  He believed that those values applied in life as well as sports.

Retirement was good for Scott.  Besides Scott’s love of sports, he had other interests that included hunting with his beloved dogs, fishing, bowling, and more.  But his passion for golf eventually surpassed those activities.

He loved golfing daily, and over the years, developed a strong bond of friendships with his golfing buddies and the “Rat Pack” guys.  He played in many Travel Tournament Teams, Couples Tournaments, traveled to warmer destinations during the winter to golf, and loved every minute of it!

He was especially passionate about participating in tournaments that supported student scholarships and those that benefited community members in need.

Several years ago, he and members of the Men’s Golf Club attended City Council Meetings to advocate their ideas in keeping the course open when revenues were an issue.  This resulted in many volunteer hours in which he and other men’s club members worked to keep the course open and playable. It was said the course looked better than it ever did, and Scott was proud to be part of the solution.

Anyone who knew Scott, knew he liked his vehicles “clean as a whistle” – his vehicle was always the cleanest one in the parking lot!

The closeness of brotherly love that he shared with his life-long friends will never be forgotten.  He cherished all his friendships, especially with his golfing pals, as they were an important part of his life as well.

Scott leaves a gift of love and integrity for his wife Toni, family, and friends, and all those who knew him.

At his request, there will be no services held.

Brenda Lorraine Roadifer (Matthews)

Brenda Lorraine Roadifer (Matthews) passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 23, 2021, at Northern Nevada Medical Center. She was born August 16, 1969 to Ralph Matthews and Marilyn Matthews.

She was happily married to William Roadifer on July 4, 2013. Brenda truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures: chatting with friends and family and spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Brenda had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way. Her smile would light up a room and her laugh was contagious.

She is survived by her husband Bill Roadifer, son Ryan Matthews, daughter in-law Jenelle Matthews, granddaughters Meleea and Tristen, her father Ralph Matthews, sister Caron Beckett, brother Bradley Matthews, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Family, friends and others whose lives were touched by Brenda are invited to the Milford Community Center for a Celebration of Life on March 13, 2021, at 1:00pm.

Gary Mueller February 1, 2021

The family of Gary Mueller sadly announces his passing on February 1, 2021, at the age of 79 following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Gary was born August 2, 1941, in Medford, Wisconsin to parents Melvin and Nora Mueller.

During his childhood he and his brothers formed a band called The Mueller Brothers.  Gary, on the accordion, spent many evenings with his brothers playing polka and waltz music at the Old Corner Dance Hall. They loved playing their theme song, “Melody of Love”, and ending the night with “Goodnight Irene”.   Gary graduated from Medford High school and attended the University of Wisconsin in Platteville, WI. Upon leaving college he proudly served in the United States Airforce from 1962-1966 being stationed at Travis Airforce Base.  After completing his tour of duty, work opportunities took Gary to Spalding, Lassen County, CA where he worked, married, and raised two sons, Dustan and Daren.

Gary lent a helping hand to the family business, Mueller Bros & Company while living in Medford, WI, and later built his own business, Gary M. Mueller Construction Company, in Spalding, CA.  He proudly served his community for many years. His precision backhoe work was a major community asset, helping friends with projects and ensuring all were plowed out when it snowed. He finished his professional career with the United States Forest Service, Lassen National Forest, as a heavy equipment operator.

Upon retirement, Gary enjoyed attending classic car shows with his 1955 Chevrolet pickup and participating in the Spalding July 4^th parade. He enjoyed many years of leadership and fellowship as a member of the American Legion Post 162.

Gary was proceeded in death by his wife of 42 years, Malinda, sisters Judy and Melva and parents Melvin and Nora. He is survived by his sons Dustan and wife Lauren, Daren and wife Holly, and 5 grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as “PaPa”, Austan, Tenley, Ayla, Saydee and Gaven.  Gary is also survived by his brothers Lorin Mueller, Vern (Karyl) Mueller, Dean (Linda) Mueller, and his sister Karen (Scott) Kersten.

A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post 162 in Spalding on May 15, 2021 at 2PM. An additional celebration of life will be held in Medford, WI on a date and time to be announced.

Larry Alan Larimer

Larry Alan Larimer, 73, was born September 21, 1947, to Ellsworth and Alice Larimer in Los Angeles, CA.  He passed in his home February 6, 2021. Larry served in the Army in the 82^nd Airborne Division from 1967-69, then moved to Susanville in 1970, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator and later part owner of Larimer Surian Construction with his father and brother, Lee.  He then worked at Sierra Army Depot as a Stacker Operator and retired in 2016.

Larry is survived by his wife Dottie, daughter Darcy Jorgensen, grandson Elliott Jorgensen, daughter Sally Montoya, son Tim Smith, four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, brother Jerry Larimer and sister Linda Royalty and was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Lee.

Larry volunteered as a handyman at MAMA’s Nearly New Treasures and enjoyed maintaining the church grounds. He enjoyed studying the bible, traveling, square dancing, woodworking and kayaking.

The family is grateful to Honey Lake Hospice for their superlative, caring help. Donations may be made to them.

Orrin Allen Bill

Lifetime Lassen County resident Orrin Allen Bill passed away on December, 31^st, 2020 after a battle with COVID-19 at Banner Lassen hospital, where he was surrounded by his family.  He was 73 years old.  He was born to Orrin and Carrie Bill, in Susanville, CA on August 6^th, 1947.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Connie Bill, one brother, two sisters, and 4 uncles along with his father were known to many as the “Bill Brothers Clan”. Orrin is survived by his second wife of 39 years Ginger Bill. His children Richie Bill (Sandra), Christy Bill, and Becky Bill (Marshall), and his grandchildren Cory Bill, and Kaci Bill.

Orrin graduated from Lassen Union High School in 1967.  Orrin worked at Sierra Army Depot in Herlong, California until his retirement after 27 years of service, where then he went to Wal-Mart in 1998 and started working as their main assembler, and was deeply cared for by many of his coworkers there. He had worked there for the past 22+ years. He was also a respected member of the Standish Volunteer Fire Department for many years.  Orrin was instrumental in the design, and building of the Susanville Little League Fields where he also volunteered as a coach for youth teams for many years.  Additionally, he spent many years as a volunteer coach and mentor to the Susanville Youth Soccer Teams.  As an avid horse lover, he could always be seen in numerous trail endurance rides throughout Northern California and Nevada. Along with being in many Lassen County Parades with his family and friends throughout the many previous years.

Orrin was known to many far and wide by the name “Willie” Bill. He was and very respected person by those who knew him. He was also very loved by everybody that ever had the pleasure of getting to be part of his life, and he will be greatly missed by all. Orrin’s family would like to say thank you to each and every one of you that came into and was part of Orrin’s life. Whether it was for a long time, or just for a brief period you all made his life what it was. Dad we love you very much, and will miss you every day. Go and rest, and be free from pain. Until we see you again.  RIP.

Lorena Lee (Luke) Millar

Lorena Lee (Luke) Millar passed away peacefully at her home on February 17, 2021, at the age of 82.  Lorena was a fourth generation Lassen County resident born to Loren “Buzz” and Doris (McQueen) Luke on August 4, 1938.

Lorena graduated from Lassen High School in 1956.  Lorena and Doug retired in 1993 after over 30 years of running Millar Hardware.  Lorena enjoyed helping her children with their various activities including being their Campfire and Cub Scout leader. She never missed her kids’ or grandkids’ sports events or other adventures they were involved in.  Lorena enjoyed traveling, sewing, gardening, and camping with her family.

Lorena is survived by her husband of 63 years, Douglas Millar; children, Linda (Galen) Roberts, Larry (Bonnie Lou) Millar, Darrel (Cindy) Millar, and Cheryl (Steve) Phillips;  grandchildren, Michelle (Mike), Clinton (Amy), Emily (Andy), Kayla, Amy, Scott, Karly, Justin, Jason, and Jennifer; and great-grandchildren, Elijah, Caitlyn, McKenzie, Annabelle, and Taylor.

Graveside services will be held at a later date.

Robert Basinger

Robert Basinger 09-30-1947 – 02-11-2021

Robert has lived a hard life. He made a lot of great friends along the way. Robert set the bar for what it means to be someone’s friend. If you are lucky enough to be one of those people, you know what I mean. He always had something to help a friend in need.

He was born to Robert William Basinger and Alice Irene Johnert on 9-30-1947. He is survived by his son Martin, his sister Susan and his brothers Johnny and Kenneth.

Robert is the proudest Marin I have ever met. Serving during the Vietnam war, Robert still talked about his life-long marine family with me almost every time we talked. He enjoyed the company of many great marines long after his service.

Wherever you are Robert, you will be missed by all that have had the pleasure to know you

Kenneth Winningham Jan 2, 1953 – Feb 3, 2021

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 25 years Debbie, his sons Matthew and Christopher, his daughter-in-law Leah and grandson Gavin. A private memorial to celebrate his life will be held in the near future.

George Harrison

George Harrison passed peacefully in his sleep on February 11 after a long battle with heart disease.  George was the great-great-grandson of William R. Harrison who died in 1870 and is buried in the Pioneer Cemetery in Susanville, CA.  George was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years Joy Lynne Harrison, his parents, Richard and Helen Harrison of Susanville, and brothers Rick (Suzie), Ron (Elvira), and Robin Harrison.  George leaves behind his loving daughter Katelyn Gorbet, son-in-law Corrie Gorbet, two granddaughters, Aylah and Brystal all of Susanville, and multiple cousins, nieces, and nephews.

George was born on March 4, 1951 in Oakland, California.  He graduated from Lassen High School in 1969.  He then worked for the forest service as a tree faller.  He then went into the Army where he spent time in Germany and married his high school sweetheart, Joy Wooldridge.  After his stint in the U.S. Army, he attended Lassen College and studied criminal justice.  George worked briefly at Herlong as a security specialist from 1978 to 1979.  He joined the Susanville Police Department in 1979 and in 1983 started to work for the California Department of Corrections in Susanville until 1994.  In 1996, George opened and operated Harrison’s Cycle in Johnstonville.

George loved to hunt and fish.  He was an accomplished fly fisherman and he truly relished his time on the water.  Also, an avid chukar hunter, he was often unsure of his sanity while unrelentingly chasing those grey birds.  He used setters for his hunts, all his dogs would enhance his never-ending enthusiastic pursuit of those birds.  One dog, Sage, was his most accomplished and beloved.  George would follow that dog anywhere.  His two granddaughters, Aylah and Brystal gave him immeasurable joy and he loved entertaining and playing with them.  The time he spent with them was very special and had a positive and profound influence on his later years.  

George was a man who was sure of himself and he would let you know it.  But he would do it in a way that would ensure you knew his opinion without stepping on any toes.  George was not afraid to tell you how he felt on any issue.  He was quick to argue a point, but one to listen to the other side of any argument and politely let you know who was correct, and that was usually himself.  George was the type of person who would do anything for a friend or even a stranger.  His genuine care and understanding of others showed a unique quality of empathy that too few people demonstrate.  A quality that more people should emulate.  To put a life into a few sentences on a piece of paper is an accepted practice, George Harrison’s life was so, so much more.  We have lost one of the good ones.  George, you will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 PM on March 13 at the Community Church, on Numa Road, Susanville.

Louie Irvin Templeton Jr.

Louie Irvin Templeton Jr. was born in Westwood, California to Hazel and Louie Sr., and died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Susanville, California on June 27, 2020.

Just after the Second World War, along with older sister Shirley Ruth Workman (Toby), (who early on thought her brother worthy of the nickname “Bub”), the Templeton family moved to their home in Susanville. Two more siblings, brothers Spencer Dean and Vernon Howard were later born in Susanville, bringing more action into the household.

Louie Jr. was introduced to various outdoor recreational opportunities of Lassen County by his dad, family and friends and soon took active participation with a lifetime of appreciation and passion, especially hunting deer, and then later, elk. Humor was often part of the adventure, and it must have carried over into the classroom. He also played football and was recognized by his Lassen High classmates as “the wittiest” in his senior year annual. He graduated with the class of 1957.

Louie Jr. was a public servant who did his best to provide a good life to his family, help his fellow man, and honor God and his country. He served four years in the Marine Corps, then returned to Susanville after an honorable discharge. He completed some courses at Lassen College, earned a contractor’s license, and worked in the family business of Templeton’s Electric for about 20 years.

He met the love of his life, wife Georgia Pauline Nield, and they married even though it was the opening day of deer season in 1962. They had one son, Kenneth Alan Templeton and one daughter, Laura Marie Shinn (Richard). Laura and Richard Shinn have one beloved daughter, Madilyn Kenzie Shinn.

Louie Jr. served on the Susanville City Council and Lassen Municipal Utility District board. After the close of Templeton’s Electric, Louie Jr. worked for the city of Susanville for approximately 20 years before retiring from the position of Public Works Director.

Louie Jr. was preceded in death by his mom Hazel, dad Louie Sr. and big sister Shirley.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a cause of your choice.

David M. Farano

David M. Farano of Susanville, California entered into eternal rest on February 27^th, 2021.  Born on October 1^st, 1957, he grew up in Susanville and graduated from Lassen High School.  Dedicating himself to many jobs throughout his life, he excelled at his profession as a maintenance custodian.

David is survived by his wife Sharon, mother Norma, sister Debra, two nieces, and brother Darin.  Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 20^th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Private Interment.

RUSSELL ERNEST HEWETT

Born January 21, 1940 to parents Delbert and Vera Pace Hewett – Died February 05, 2021.

His sister Della Marie Hewett Alosi preceded him in death November 2018.

Russell was a lifelong resident of Susanville, CA with a stint in Ravendale as a youngster and many good times at Eagle Lake.  His last years were in Port Hadlock, WA with his son Reese, and his wife Tiffany, who lovingly cared for him until the moment he passed. He came to know most in Port Hadlock; and, just like in Susanville, he left a lasting impression.

This man could clean, fix or do anything. He was one of a kind. A long lost breed of men. He was a force to be reckoned with; yet, he had a soft side. He was the hardest working person most will ever encounter. He was a friend to many; some were lifetime friends. He was good at making connections and keeping them.

He loved driving fast – motorcycles, race cars, classic cars, 50’s Music, Amsoil, square dancing, car shows, cutting wood, camping in the desert and most of all his wife of nearly 30 years, Judy Christeen Hewett, who preceded him in death in September 2015.

He was a member of the stock car Sierra Racing Association “#97”, the Lassen Motorcycle Club, long time rider of the Virginia City Grand Prix MC Race and recognized as the oldest rider in 2010.  He also rode Enduros, and Hair Scrambles.  He owned D & G Service for many years (with his Pop); inspiring many including son Reese, nephews Keith and Nick Alosi to keep auto enthusiasm alive. He retired working for Lassen County. He served in the US Army and CA Air National Guard.

If you knew Russ his common sayings were:

“Any Rate, I’ll have a smart beer.” ’Smart Beer’ was code for a Budweiser.

“Any Rate, you better get the good shit on!” ‘Get the Good Shit On’ was code for you better get your ass in gear…

His favorite cuss word was, “Son of a Bitch!” and he used it often.

He was a good husband, a dedicated father (Pop), a steady friend and a playful grandpa. He will be sorely missed and remembered fondly by his son Reese and wife Tiffany of Port Hadlock, WA, daughters Terri of Reno, NV, Dorinda and husband Rick and Gina and husband Charles of Ashland OR.

The family would like to extend a huge Thank You to Claude Neely for taking care of business in Susanville (the check is in the mail!)

A memorial service will take place at a later date, with better weather and less COVID.  Until then, during coffee at McDonald’s some morning please raise a coffee toast to him.