Eric James Hemphill   1965 – 2015

Eric James Hemphill, 49 years old, passed away suddenly of a heart attack on January 23, 2015, in Walnut Creek.   He was born on September 15, 1965, in Susanville.   Eric was in the 1983 class at Lassen Union High School where he was a lineman on the football team.  He graduated from Lassen Community College and Chico State University.

For many years, Eric was a salesman for Inland Industrial Tires.   He had recently started a new career with the California State Lottery.     Eric was a natural storyteller who enjoyed a good glass of wine and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Eric is survived by his parents, Dr. Jerry and Marka Hemphill, twin sister Audrey Gold and twin brother and sister Craig and Sonja Hemphill.   He was admired by his nieces Allison and Rachael Gold, and his nephews Evan Gold and Robert Hemphill.    He will be missed by his extended family including many cousins, aunts and uncles as well as friends.  

Graveside services will be held on Friday, January 30^th at 12:00 p.m. at the Janesville Cemetery where he will be laid to rest near his grandparents Otho and Mildred Hemphill, and his uncle.  Lunch to follow at the Eagle Lake Village.   Eric was also preceded in death by his grandparents Alice Davis and Dr. Fred (Grandpa Bun) J. Davis.  

Donations in his memory may be made to the Lassen High Alumni Association, P.O. Box 471, Susanville, CA 96130 or Lassen County Historical Society, P.O. Box 321, Susanville CA, 96130.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Jack Edward Burk

Jack Edward Burk, 73, of Susanville, California passed away on January 29, 2015 in Reno, Nevada. He was born on February 15, 1941 to Ernest and Dorothy Burk in Nubieber, California. He was raised in Anderson, California, where he attended middle school and graduated from Anderson High School in 1958. He attended Shasta College, where he studied Criminal Justice.

Jack dedicated his professional life to public service. He was hired as a dispatcher by the Anderson Police Department in 1959 and became a police officer in 1962. Before leaving the Anderson PO in 1967, he advanced to the ranks of Sergeant and Lieutenant.

In 1967, Jack and his family moved to Susanville, where he worked for the Susanville Police Department for 28 years. He was hired as a patrol officer and worked his way through the ranks to sergeant, lieutenant and Chief of Police before retiring in 1995. In 1980, he was named the Susanville Police Officer of the Year. He served as an NRA Police Firearms Instructor at both departments.

Jack was an avid outdoorsman. He served as an NRA Hunter Safety instructor, was a member of the Westwood Rifle and Pistol Club, Oregon Knife Collectors’ Association, National Knife Collectors’ Association, Boone Society, Abraham Lincoln Association, and was a lifetime member of the NRA.

Jack enjoyed spending time with his family. He celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary in September 2014 and visited Washington D.C. with his wife, daughter and son-in-law in October 2014. He enjoyed photography and was a freelance photographer in his youth.

Jack is survived by his wife Sally, brothers Ray and Hal, son Andy, daughters Kate Clegg (Darrin) and Dorothy Bond (Benjamin), and grandchildren Kaitlyn, Savana and Warren. Jack was preceded in death by his father and mother and by his brothers , Don and Roy.

Services will be held on Friday, February 13 at 11:00 a.m. at Community Church in Susanville. The family requests that donations in Jack’s name be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675, or to the church or charity of your choice.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Norma Lee Yorg

Norma Lee Yorg, of Susanville, California, died peacefully at home on Wednesday morning, February 4th, 2015. Norma was born January 18th, 1949 in Lakeport, California, to Gordon and Genevieve Thrash.

She dearly loved her only sibling Sharon who raised Norma after her parents died when she was an adolescent. She spent her childhood in Covelo, California, moving to Susanville in 1972. Norma is survived by her loving husband Floriano Yorg, brother-in-law Jack Brown of Covelo, son Jarrett Black and his wife Alicia, step-daughter Nicole Yorg, grandchildren Myranda Heard, Stevee Heard, Teagan Pearsall, Anna Black, Rachel Black, Samantha Brill, Isabella Brill, and Kenny Brill, niece Melody Brown, and nephews Gordon and Lloyd Brown. Norma was preceded in death by her sister Sharon and her daughter Veronica.

Many knew Norma from her years waitressing at Denny’s restaurant in Susanville. She loved people and keeping up on the happenings from everyone in town and also faithfully kept in touch with her family out of town. She was an avid reader and was never without a stack of library books. She was a caring presence in her family’s life and will be greatly missed.

Memorial services will be held Saturday February 28th 10:00 a.m. at the Susanville Community Center on Weatherlow St. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you tip a waitress generously in Norma’s memory.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Bruce Evans

Date of death: 02/23/2015
Place of death: Susanville, California
City of residence: Janesville
Date of birth: 10/10/1958
Place of birth: Santa Cruz, California

Survived by:  Father and Mother Ronald and Janet Evans, sons Bryce and Andrew Evans,daughters Melissa and Michael, Danille and Matt, brothers, Dave and Scott Evans, sisters, Ronette Scarbrough, Karen and Mel Graruinger and four grandchildren.

Visitation: Chapel/Memorial: Saturday, March 14, 2015  at 10:30 am.m, at the Church of the Nazarene ( up next to Banner Lassen Medical Center).

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Thomas Neil Eilers

Thomas Neil Eilers was born June 7th, at Potter’s Nursing Home to August W Eilers and Eva Thomas Eilers.

Thomas graduated from Lassen High and then Chico State with a degree in archaeology. He served in the Navy on the USS Columbus from to 1967 to 1973 as a Fire Control Specialist. He married Sharon Louise Eilers on July 23rd, 1978.

Thomas was a practicing Wiccan. He was a great photographer and he grew some of the most amazing tomatoes and managed the farmers market for a while.  He worked at the local Walmart in the Garden Center and in Sporting Goods.  One of his great loves was archeology and anthropology.  He knew a great deal about the history of the Great Basin and indigenous peoples and he was proud of his work at GateCliff, with David Hurst Thomas, the curator of the National Museum.  His works have been published and are available at the library.

There was just about nothing Tom couldn’t do, from building kayaks to making wine.  He was most known for his giving and generous nature and his ability to turn any combination of words into a profanity.  He was able to travel in his final years and passed at home as he wanted.

Thomas is survived by  his Wife, Sharon Eilers, daughters, Katrina, Tamsin, Elizabeth and Heather, 10 grandchildren and his older sister Eva Jean Willis.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Tom tomorrow, Saturday, February 28 at 6:00 p.m., at Walton’s.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Mardel Dawn Marlatt

Mardel Dawn Marlatt, passed away on March 3, 2015 at the age of 68 after an extended illness at Renown Medical Center in Reno, Nevada. She was born on January 28th, 1947 in La Grande, Oregon to Lester and Maida Wells.

Mardel spent the first 12 years of her life in the little Eastern Oregon logging and lumber town of Pondoasa, OR. She attended a two-room school for her grade school years in Pondosa. In 1959 the family relocated to Baker, Oregon where she graduated from Baker High School in 1965.

Mardel met the love of her life, Daniel Marlatt while roller-skating and dated for nearly a year before they were married at the First Christian Church in Baker, Oregon on July 17th, 1965.  They were happily married for nearly 50 years. Mardel spent the first part of their marriage as a homemaker, giving birth to two sons in Baker, Oregon. In 1968 the family moved to a lakefront property in the Adirondack Mountains, in the small town of Newcomb, New York. While there, she enjoyed water skiing, snowmobiling, square dancing and sightseeing and was very active in Eastern Star. Mardel was an avid water-skier. She could take off from the dock, ski on one ski and come back to shore without getting wet above the knees. Her family was completed when she gave birth to a daughter in Kingston, NY. Shortly thereafter Daniel’s work would take the family back to Baker. Oregon. After returning to Baker, she earned a degree in Practical Nursing at Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, OR, in June of 1977.

In July of 1977, the family relocated to Susanville, CA, where she put her nursing training to use at Lassen Community Hospital. She worked there for 17 years until disability forced her retirement. She continued her hobby doing ceramics with her daughter and granddaughters. She also enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and going on cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and the New England states and Canada. After Daniel’s retirement, she greatlyenjoyed spending two months in Australia and New Zealand as well as two months a year at their property in New York. Mardel was an avid fan of NASCAR and went to several races.

Mardel was preceded in death by her parents Lester and Maida Wells and her younger sister Darlene Riggle.

Mardel is survived by her husband Daniel of Susanville, CA; her sons David (Margaret) Marlatt of Lakeside, CA, and Duane (Melinda) Marlatt of Anderson, CA and her daughter Michelle (Robert) Godman of Susanville, CA. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

A visitation will be held at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary 115 S Lassen St., Susanville, CA Friday March 13th from 5:00-7:00 pm. Family will be there to greet friends and relatives. A celebration of her life will be held at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary, Saturday, March 14th at Noon. Burial will follow at the Diamond Crest Cemetery in Johnstonville CA.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, 2000 L Street NW Suite 410, Washington, DC 20036. (202)349-1155 or www.lupus.org.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Gladys French

On the 13^th of March, a few minutes before midnight, Gladys lost her final battle; the victor was lung cancer. Her final battle began in June 2013 with a small spot on her left lung. Gladys didn’t want chemo or radiation due to her age.

Gladys was born in Chicago in 1925 to Joseph and Monica Barbeaux. She began her schooling and graduated from Wells high school in Chicago in 1943. She worked as a bookkeeper until her enlistment in the Marine Corps.

A short time later she met and fell in love with her first and only husband, Clyde A. French, CPL. They were married and their son Mark arrived about 9 and a half months later. She continued working as a bookkeeper.

Gladys and her family followed the adventures of now GySgt Clyde French. They moved from coast to coast and would stay just long enough to see a flower, then off to the next assignment.

Gladys is survived by her sister, Valerie Barbeaux of Susanville, her son Mark French, twin grandsons Sawyer French of Monrovia, California and Dillon French of Chico, California, The family expands with nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and cousins Mike and Kathy Barbeaux of Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Gladys is now on her final patrol and rejoins the ranks of the few, the proud, the Marines. Semper Fi.

Graveside service will be Thursday, April 2^nd at 3:00 p.m. at Diamond Crest.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Kenneth Lyle Erb 

Longtime Susanville resident, Kenneth Lyle Erb passed away at the age of 93 on March 27, 2015. Ken was born on June 19, 1921 in Albany Oregon. He was the first born of five children of Elmer and Jennie Erb. Ken attended schools in Albany, graduating from Albany High School in 1939. He was active in football, baseball and band. Upon graduation, Ken attended technical school to learn to be an airplane mechanic. He then went to work for Boeing Aircraft in Seattle Washington, building B-17 airplanes. He also obtained his pilot’s license. Ken served in the Army Air Corp during World War II, as an airplane mechanic working on P-38 planes. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sargent after four years of service.

Ken met the love of his life, Mildred “Jean” Hanson shortly after his discharge from the service, living in Albany, Oregon.  They had two boys, Kim and David Erb. The family moved to Brookings, Oregon in 1955 and Ken worked in the Brookings Plywood Mill Cooperative as a shareholder.  He also worked second and third jobs as an oil truck driver and worked in the lily fields. Ken coached little league baseball and served as a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America.

In 1965, the family moved to Susanville, Ca. after Ken and Jean had bought the A&W Drive In. Their son Kim went into business with them and they eventually sold the business in 1987. Ken was active in the community including helping to form the Boosters Club for High School athletics, attending the First Baptist Church and later the Methodist Church.

Ken was very active in the Emerson Lake Golf Club (now Diamond Mountain Golf Club) and played until his mid-eighties. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge for over 70 years, in Oregon and in Susanville. Ken served as an elected Board Member for the original Lassen Municipal Utility District and served on the Susanville Planning Commission for 16 years.  Ken and Jean were able to travel extensively in their retirement years.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Jennie Erb, his wife Jean Hanson Erb, two brothers, Richard Erb and Darrell “Sam” Erb and one sister, Betty McKee. He is survived by one sister, Donna Moen, his sons Kim Erb (Virginia) and David Erb (Susan), four grandchildren, Cyndy Martin (David), Julie Erb, Jamie Holt (Josh) and Ryan Erb (Jill), eight great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

The family is especially thankful to the staff of Eagle Lake Village for their wonderful care and compassion in caring for Ken the past few years.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary at 1:00 P.M.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to B.P.O.E. (Elks) # 1487 in memory of Ken, C/O Kim Erb, 240 South Gay Street, Susanville, Ca. 96130 or C/O of David Erb, 416 Mulholland Drive, Ripon, Ca. 95366.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Viola June Wood

Viola June Wood, the Granddaughter of two neighboring long Valley pioneer families, Doyle and Ferris, and the step granddaughter of another pioneer family, the Robinson’s, passed away peacefully with family by her side on March 29, 2015.

One of three children , she was born on June 5, 1922 in Doyle, California to Jessie Luella Doyle and Levi Leonard Armstrong. June, as she was commonly known attended school at Long Valley and in the seventh grade took the janitor job. For five dollars a month, June walked to school an hour early every morning and built the fire, swept the floor, cleaned blackboards, dusted and cleaned the cloakroom. She did her job, even when it was so cold no one else showed up.

On June 6, 1938 she married John Henry Wood and became mother to 8 children. Widowed in April 1959, June continued to live and work in Doyle, supporting her children. She worked first at local grocery stores and motels, taking in washing and ironing, and then as school janitor at Long Valley, once more. A job she performed for thirty-five years, retiring in July 1987.

She served in many organizations including CSEA Representative, Mother’s Club, 4-H, Civic League, Fire Department and Auxiliary, Chamber of Commerce, little league, Park Committee, Doyle Historical Society, Lassen County Council on Aging, and Election Board. June, also did many fundraisers such as Bingo, Raffles, Rummage Sales, Fun Fairs, Pancake Breakfast and Dinners. She was also known for her Indian Tacos.

As a lifelong Doyle, resident June had a wide collection of history, photos, journals, and memorabilia that she willingly shared with researchers from Sullivan, Maine to San Diego, California and all points in between.

June was preceded in death by her Husband, John Henry Wood, Brother Harry Armstrong and Son David Eugene Wood. She is survived by her Sister, Jessie Mildred Bosenko of Sacramento, CA. Sons, John Wood and Raymond Wood of Reno, NV. Daughters, Viola Smith, Beverly Houdyshell, Rose Roberts, Gloria Day all of Doyle, and Sharon McAllister of Milford, CA., 22 Grandchildren, 35 Great Grandchildren and 23 Great Great Grandchildren.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Pat Workman

Pat was born in Idell, Arkansas to Jesse and Martha Workman. He is survived by his daughters Jean (Dennis) Jones of Susanville, Mavis Wenger (Bob) of Atkins, Iowa. Lisa (John)Kuenzelok of Gold Beach, Oregon, six grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, brothers; Russell Workman of Pawnee, Oklahoma, Curtis Workman of Laurel, Montana, sisters; Wanda Roden of Van Buren , Arkansas and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his brother Elmer Workman, sisters, Edyth Withrow and Imagean Prince and grandson’s Scott and Danny Jones.

He was a quiet man, a gentle giant, an awesome father, brother and uncle.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Rodney James Hoffman

Rodney James Hoffman, of Susanville, California, passed away on April 5, 2015, after a short illness surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 10, 2015 at 11:30 a.m., at Calvary Chapel, 450 Richmond Road.  Pastor Mike Scanlan will be officiating.  Inurnment will follow at the Diamond Crest Cemetery in Johnstonville.

Rod was born in Harbor City, California, to Barbara Hoffman November 16, 1964.

In 1989, Rod met the love of his life and best friend, Brenda, in Upland, California, and they were married a year later awaiting the birth of their first son.  They were married for 25 years.

Rod worked construction in Southern California until 1995 when he and Brenda relocated to Susanville for Brenda’s job with the Department of Corrections. After moving the family to Susanville, Rod stayed at home and watched the boys while Brenda was at work, but then worked many long hours over the years for Susanville Real Estate, Susanville Towing and then  Amerigas in Susanville so that Brenda could be home with their family.  Rod was devoted to his family and loved his wife and boys more than anything.  Rod enjoyed camping with his family, he loved watching the Price is Right, playing golf and beer league softball and buying vehicles.  He loved hanging out with his son Zach and Zach’s Army battle buddies. Rod was also devoted to his grandchildren, Brooklyn and Jaxon.  The family dogs Zeus, Willy and Blade were devoted to Rod and Rod’s buddies.

Rod is survived by his wife Brenda, their son Zachary; his two grandchildren Brooklyn and Jaxon; his sisters, Pam (Rich), Lydia, brothers Fred (Jeanne); Roger (Lori);  niece Colby Hoffman, and many other family members.

Rod is preceded in death by his son Alan Hoffman, mother Barbara Hoffman, and sister Carol Stevenson.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Northern California Cancer Advocates, P.O. Box 270938, Susanville, CA  96127.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Viola Madden Means

Viola Madden Means passed away Monday, April 6, 2015 at her home in Susanville surrounded by her loving family. 

Viola was born in 1924 in Gillette, Wyoming to John and Flossie (Scull) Madden.

She was raised in Oshkosh, Nebraska on the Madden family farm, which her grandmother and children homesteaded in the Great Land Rush.  Viola attended the Penn Valley School District.  She was able to complete school through the 8th grade due to the distance to the high school, but she taught her eight children many grandchildren, great grandchildren and others from her community lessons throughout her whole life.

Viola married Willard Means at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Oshkosh, Nebraska on February 21, 1949.  To this union was born:  Steven Means (Brenda) Theresa Santoro (Steve), Beth Hyde (Mike) Rosemary Pierce, Sabrina Morrow (Jim), Walter Means (Ikuko), Margaret DeSantis (Pete) and Nancy Cardenas (Terry).

Willard and Viola moved to Janesville in 1964, in a brand new blue Dodge Coronet packed with themselves, 7 children, the family dog plus luggage.  They made their home in Janesville, California and their youngest child Nancy was born 5 years later. Over the years their grandchildren and great grandchildren loved being at their grandparents home.

Viola wrote a column for the hometown paper in Broadwater, Nebraska, she sold Stanley products in Lassen County and worked at the Sacred Heart Parish House. She was very active in her community as a room mother for her children and grandchildren, catechism teacher, member of the Janesville Jolly Elders, volunteer for Sacred Heart’s Caring and Sharing, member of the Standish Sewing Circle, and volunteer for the Janesville commodity program. She helped anyone who ever needed it and will be missed by many.

Viola is survived by 7 children, 22 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. Viola is preceded in death by her parents, loving husband Willard Means, and son Walter Means.

Services will be held in Susanville, California. The Rosary will be held on April 9th at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary. The funeral will be held on April 10th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church followed by interment at Diamond Crest Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Sacred Heart Caring and Sharing in Viola’s Memory: 120 North Union St., Susanville, CA, 96130

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Darrick Jesse James Cochell

Darrick Jesse James Cochell passed away April 7, 2015 in Herlong, California.

He was born November 9, 1975 in Everett, Washington.  He moved to Southern California with his family as a small child, eventually ending up in Susanville, California as a teenager in 1990.  He graduated from Lassen High School in 1995.  A few years later he met his future wife Shirley. They were married May 5, 2002.  Throughout his life Darrick accomplished many things and wore many different “hats”.  From being a firefighter to a ski instructor to working on oil rigs in Texas.  Finally he worked for Sierra Army Depot in Herlong, California.  He had a great love of the outdoors, something instilled in him by his life of growing up on a ranch with his family.  He spent much of his free time fishing, camping and riding dirt bikes.  Darrick was incredibly kind and loyal, as anyone who had the privilege of knowing him would attest to.  He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Cochell;  three kids – Joshua Richards, Nick Richards and Joseph Cochell;  parents – Rickey and Gayla Cochell;  sister and brother-in-law – Seth and Holly (Cochell) Haley;  grandparents – George and Ingrid Pearson, Doris Blanchett and Alice Close;  aunts and uncles – Larry and Leahla Cochell, Kathy Wilson, Wayne Cochell, Jay Leal;  cousins – Scott Cochell, Staci Cochell, Cheri Anguiano.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents – JR and Catherine Cochell and his uncle Lee Wilson.

A memorial service will be held Saturday April 25, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Walton’s Colonial Mortuary.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Alyce Elaine Edwards

Alyce Elaine Edwards, simply known to family and friends as Elaine Edwards, passed away on Tuesday April 21, 2015 with her husband of almost 63 years, Howard, by her side.  Elaine was born on February 24, 1936 in Maryville, Missouri to George and Lucille Hepburn.  Elaine spent her early years growing up on the family farm in Missouri before the family moved to Lassen County.  Elaine would go on to meet and marry on May 15, 1954 her husband Howard Edwards.  Elaine worked for C.P. National and the Lassen National Forest before raising her 4 children.  Elaine received her Bachelor’s Degree through the Chico State Extension Program and returned to the work force.  Elaine would then go on to work for Lassen Community College for 30 years, holding various positions.  The final position she held before retiring in 1999 was the Work Experience Coordinator.

Elaine was very active with The Red Hats and was a longtime member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.  Elaine was an avid antique collector for the most of her life.  Elaine was well known for her doll collection.  A hobby that would lead to her attending many doll shows throughout California and Nevada.

Elaine is proceeded in death by her parents George and Lucille (Chambers) Hepburn.

Elaine is survived by her husband Howard Edwards; her brother John Hepburn of Colorado; four children, Linda (Randy) Brown of Reno NV, Mark Edwards of Susanville, Mary (Bob) Loflin of Susanville and Ryan Edwards of Chico; 8 grandchildren, Cierra (Jenna) Brown of Oregon, Jason Shilo Brown of Reno NV, Cassandra Edwards of Roseville, Cody Loflin, Chance (Sarah) Loflin, Chaylyn Loflin of Susanville, William and Avea Edwards of Chico; 3 great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Colovos and two great-grandchildren that will be born later this summer.

A celebration of life for Elaine is scheduled for Saturday May 9, 2015 at 11:00am at the Monticola Club, 140 S. Lassen St, Susanville.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Helen Elaine Johnston

Life and Times of Helen Elaine Johnston.

Helen Elaine Johnston was born on January 6, 1951, in Long Beach, CA and died very peacefully in Susanville on April 25, 2015 at the age of 64 with her brother and sister-in law by her side. She was the fourth child and only girl of Alex and Helen Johnston. She attended school in Long Beach and worked at a sheltered workshop and Home Depot as a young adult. She was very active in Special Olympics and loved to compete in swimming and bowling and proved this by winning several medals. She moved to Lassen County in April, 2003 with her mother and older brother, Douglas, and enrolled in the programs at Lassen Life Skills. She continued to win medals for bowling in Special Olympics in Reno and loved the many outings and activities that Lassen Life Skills provided. As recently as January, 2015, she was crowned Queen at the Cinderella Pageant in Reno, Nevada. The last three years of her life she lived independently for the first time with help from Lassen Life Skills and her brother, Bruce.

Her father, brother Roger and mother preceded her in death. She leaves behind her brothers Douglas and Bruce (Norma), Aunt Ruth Weakley (her second mother) several nieces and nephews and many cousins. She is already missed by everyone that loved her.

The family would like to thank the staff and many friends she had at Lassen Life Skills for helping make her life as full and rich as it was. A celebration of her life will be held this summer at a date to be arranged.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Wanda Faye Thomas

Wanda Faye Koster was born June 29, 1933 in Arkansas, to Charles and Lucy Koster, the oldest of 6 children. She attended the local schools and the Junior College in Beebe, Arkansas, obtaining her teaching credential.  She married William (Bill) David Thomas December 7, 1957.  They had four children- Veronica (Ronna) Charlene, Evadine (Deni) Denise, David Louis, and Jeffrey Steven Thomas.

Wanda moved to Susanville in 1975, where she was active in her children’s activities, including Cub Scouts, Little League, Rainbow Girls and Music Boosters.  She worked and volunteered at Johnstonville School – primarily in the Kindergarten class, and especially enjoyed working with her reading group. She also provided day care for several families, becoming not just a day care provider, but part of their families.

Wanda was also active in the Order of the Eastern Star, serving as Worthy Matron and as Deputy Grand Matron.  Through her husband and son David, she was also active in the Masonic Order.

Wanda loved the outdoors, and gardened with a passion, particularly in her flower garden.  When remembering Wanda, think of flowers and sunshine.

Wanda is survived by her children Ronna (Joe), Deni (Ralph) Jauch, David Thomas, and Jeff (Kirby) Thomas, grandchildren Sarah Freeman, Alex and Allison Jauch, Kody, Kolby, and Jacob Thomas, sister Nellie Morris, brother Charles Koster, numerous nieces and nephews, and many, many friends.

Services are Saturday, May 9th, at the Masonic Hall in Susanville.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Raymond Turek Sr.

In Loving Memory of Raymond William Turek Sr. beloved son, husband, brother, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He passed away peacefully into eternal rest on May 3, 2015 at the age of 88 years in his home at Spalding Resort Eagle Lake.

He was born January 19, 1927 at Beaver Crossing, Nebraska, where he grew up on a farm with his parents John and Lucy and his brothers Louis, Jerome, and Vernon.

Married in Central City Nebraska May 20, 1949 to Lois Marie Smith.

Raymond served in Korea 1945-1947 US Army Infantry, spending time in Occupation Forces after WWII. Raymond and Lois first lived in Ulysses, Nebraska where he was a custodian at  Ulysses Public School. In 1950 they moved to Lodgpole, Nebraska where he was employed by Sioux Army Depot. In 1953 they moved to Sidney, Nebraska and then in 1964 transferred to Herlong, California, where he was employed at Sierra Army Depot as a blocker and bracer, then as a carpenter. Raymond retired in 1982 where he and Lois built their home at Spalding Resort, Eagle Lake.

Raymond’s favorite hobby was wood carving, he was known as The Eagle Lake Wood Carver. He would carve life like waterfowl, upland birds, different kinds of fish, deer, bear and  various kinds of figures. He  won numerous awards and ribbons at various wood carving shows. “You name it he could pretty much carve it!” He had a great love for Country, Western and Polka music.

He also enjoyed snowmobiling, exploring old ghost towns and the desert with his son Raymond Jr..  He enjoyed fishing, camping and just being a husband, father and grandfather.

Raymond leaves behind his wife Lois Marie Turek, son Raymond William Turek Jr., daughter-in-law Theresa Maria (Baros) Turek, from Herlong, CA, daughter’s Kathleen Claire (Turek) Maxwell, son-in-law Rick Maxwell, from Sparks, NV, Roxanna Jean (Turek) Moore, son- in-law Edward Moore, from Wheatland, CA, 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. “He will be deeply missed! ” God Bless you

For if we live, we live to the Lord. Or if we die, we die to the Lord. If therefore we live or die, we are the Lord’s. (Romans 14:8)

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Irene D. Trout

Longtime Susanville resident and community volunteer Irene D. Trout passed away the morning of May 12th, following a short and pain-free fight with cancer. She celebrated her 90th birthday in January at a surprise birthday party in Chico arranged by her daughter, Linda Purdy From. Friends and family from throughout California and as far away as Oslo, Norway, and Idaho attended.

She was born January 25, 1925, in Boise, Idaho, to Jesus “Jess” and Josefa (Pagoaga) Bengoa, who were both born in Spain. The family soon moved to California where her brother, Louis, was born in 1926. Her father worked at the California Fruit Exchange and the family lived in the Fruit Growers area of Susanville.

She attended local schools, graduating with the Class of 1943 at Lassen High School where she worked on the yearbook, “Rays of Purple.” Following her passion to become a nurse, she moved to San Francisco and attended classes at Children’s Hospital. She then completed post-graduation course work at Cook County Hospital in Chicago.

Irene worked as the Nursing Supervisor at the Lassen County Hospital for 10  years. In 1963, she became Nurse Supervisor II at the opening of the California Correctional Center, working there until retirement in 1987. She attended nursing conferences in numerous locations, including Tokyo and Singapore, and kept her nursing license throughout her life, making many life-long friends over her career.

In retirement, she remained busy with community organizations, ever in service to others. She was appointed to the Lassen Community College Board of Trustees, Area 1, in 1994, and successfully ran for a four-year term in 1996. She also served for a period as board chair. She was instrumental in organizing a local volunteer base for the Red Cross in 2002, and helped originate the local hospice organization.

Every month Irene was a dependable volunteer for the community commodities distribution, and was a volunteer for the local Salvation Army. She chaired the Citizen’s Advisory Committee for the California Correctional Center and High Desert State Prison, and helped organize yearly retiree activities for the California Correctional Center.

She also served as a past officer and participant in several local senior citizen organizations.

Her other memberships included the California State Employees Association, the Nataqua Neversweats RV group, and area Basque associations. She was also active in the Lassen High School Alumni Association.

Irene was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, serving many years on the church’s Caring and Sharing Committee and delivering the sacrament to homebound parishioners. She routinely visited the sick and “adopted” persons who could use her assistance. Throughout her life, she was committed to charity and service to others.

She married James Purdy of Purdy Brothers’ Logging and raised a daughter Linda Marie. Later in life, she was a 35-year companion to Chuck Mankins, who died in 2007. She is survived by her daughter Linda Purdy From (Nick) of Oslo, Norway; Sarlat, France; and Chico; grandsons Nikolai of Los Angeles and Alexander of San Francisco, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 16th, followed by a reception at Monsignor Moran Hall.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Candace Toft

Candace leaves behind her beloved husband Mathew Levine, daughter Julie Laura Gallegos of Los Angeles, sons Scott Johnston and Mark Johnston of Utopia, Texas, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Candace Boughn Toft was born in Wheatland, Wyoming in 1942.  She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education at the University of Wyoming and her Master of Arts at Denver University. She taught in Montana, Colorado and San Diego and was an administrator in three districts, including principal of two middle schools. She was Director of Credentials at National University.

Candace won writing awards for fiction, essays and poetry; she published four novels (Mingled Yarn, Thousand Strands,  The Trap and A Tangled Web) and a biography, Off the Ropes:  The Ron Lyle Story.

Candace and her husband moved to Susanville in 2007.

Candace obtained a grant from the California Council for the Humanities and, with the help of other writers in the community, created and edited, Small Moments in Time:  Memories of Lassen that the Lassen College Foundation published in 2009. 

She served on the Lassen County Historical Society Board and edited the Historical Society Newsletter, along with historical books by local authors. She was working on the dual biography of Cindie Tamietti and Sam Williams at the time of her death.

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 13th at 2:00 pm at the Old Clubhouse on Wingfield Road.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home

Albert (Al) Allan Fizer

October 20, 1940 to March 26, 2015

After less than one year battle with pancreatic/liver cancer, Albert (Al) Fizer passed away peacefully in his sleep with his wife of 29 years, Candy Fizer, at his side on March 26, 2015 at their home in Janesville. Al was preceded in death by both his parents, Delbert and Cecelia Fizer and sister Marilyn Fernandez. He is proudly survived by his wife Candy Fizer, daughters Lisa (Randy) Winton and their four children, Erika (Bill) Kubik and their three sons, step-daughter Kelly Kelly of Washington, step-son Chad Smith, three additional grandchildren, and 15 plus children that called him Bahboo. Al is also survived by his brother Delbert (Johnny) Fizer of Sacramento, California; Sister Carol (Delbert) Barnett of Nampa, Idaho; Sister Joann (Primo) Flores of Auburn, California; Sister Phyllis (Frank) Ketcherside of Elk Grove, California and numerous nieces and nephews.

Born in Torrance, California where he was raised and worked on his family’s dairy farm. In 1958 Al graduated from Elk Grove High School, Elk Grove, California. After graduation he served in the U.S. Coast Guard for 2 years, then joined the U.S. Air Force where he started his career as a Fire Fighter. After moving from Japan to Germany, and 15 years in the Air Force he left the military to raise his two girls in Roseville, California. Hired on at the Roseville Fire Department, Al spent 32 years as a Fire Fighter Engineer before he retired in 1988.

Al and his wife Candy moved to the Susanville area in 1992. Al temporarily dispatched for the Lassen County Sherriff’s Department for 4 months, and kept the scoreboard for Lassen Union High School for 20 years. One of his greatest loves was to watch the boys of the teams graduate, become men and return to shake his hand and introduce their families. Al’s hobbies and activities included debating on the LCC Debate Team, quilting, ceramics and self expression through his paintings. Al played in the local 269 Cribbage Club for 15 years and volunteered at the local chapter of Special Olympics for 20 years and active in the local politics of Lassen County. Another passion of Al’s was cooking and enjoyed meeting people wherever he went; and he never met a stranger.

To celebrate Al’s life, family and friends are meeting Saturday, June 13, 2015 at noon at the Susanville Assembly of God Church in Susanville, California. There will be full military graveside service, followed with a potluck at S.A.G church following.

Why Pre-plan?

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time. Click here to visit Walton’s Funeral Home