Karen Louise Bowler Packwood went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 24, 2023. She was surrounded by her three daughters and family. Karen was born in Redding, CA, on January 14, 1941, to Sidney and Nelda Bowler of Lewiston, CA, the eldest of three children.

Karen was a longtime resident of Redding. She attended grade school at Toyon and graduated from Shasta High School in 1958. Following graduation, she attended Shasta College and worked for Halling’s Jewelry Store. She married Harry Greer, also of Redding, in June of 1960. They moved to Little Rock, AR where he was stationed with the US Air Force and she began her first years of full-time US Government employment. They moved back to Redding in 1962 and started their family, consisting of three daughters.

Karen stayed at home when the girls were little. In March of 1975 the couple purchased a jewelry business and the family relocated to Susanville, CA. They later divorced and Karen remarried Frank Packwood in December of 1983. They were married 14 years. He passed in June of 1997. Karen remained in Susanville and retired from the Bureau of Land Management in 2006. Her remaining years were spent living lots of life with her family, friends, and church family.

Karen is survived by her three daughters – Sherri Yonan (Glen), Kathleen Patton (Chris), and Lori Barry (Jim), and Packwood children – Jim (Maura), Steve (Paula), Pam (Jerry), Sarah (Joe), and Lara (Troy). Twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Karen also leaves behind her brother – James Bowler (Carolyn), and brother-in-law – Lester Stone. Cousins – Sandra Bowler Driver and Cheryl Bowler Strathman. Three nieces and six grand-nieces.

Karen is preceded in death by her younger sister – Loretta Bowler Stone.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 2:00p.m., at the Redding Memorial Park Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at Susanville Community Church on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 1:00p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Honey Lake Hospice, P.O. Box 1166, Susanville, CA 96130.

Phyllis Rose Hodson was born August 10, 1939, in Alpine, Texas to parents Arthur and Myrtle Wilson of Castalon, Texas.

After high school, Phyllis joined the United States Marine Corp in January 1959 at 19 years old and remained proud to call herself a marine throughout her entire life.

She married her first husband and discharged honorably from the military, pursuing and education in nursing and later had her daughter Serena.

After her separation from her first husband, she married Larry Hodson and her son William was born.

Phyllis moved to California with her son and siblings in the mid-eighties and eventually the family settled in Lassen County.

Phyllis had a rich life with multiple hats, working in farming fields in her youth, having taken on multiple licensed vocational nursing positions in her life, helping with sales at the Honey Lake Valley Feed Store, and working a variety of locations for Lassen landfill management. She also took on babysitting jobs in both her younger days and older days.
She was a woman of many hobbies and adventures, playing paintball with her son and friends well into her sixties, enjoyed photography and martial arts classes at Lassen College. She took up crochet projects from time to time, loved to read, and would often do some target practice shooting with her son and brother while supporting them through their gunsmithing degrees.

She passed peacefully in the company of family at St. Mary’s Regional Hospital in Reno, Nevada on December 5, 2023. She will be greatly missed by her family and lifelong friends.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Myrtle (Loghry) Wilson and her sister Pamila Wilson. She is survived by her brother Arthur Wilson of Wendel, CA, her son William Hodson of Wendel, CA, her daughter Serena Tippett of Texas and several grand children and great grandchildren of Texas.

Lupe Marie Carman (nee Granados) passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2023 surrounded by her loved ones. Lupe was born on May 10, 1947 to Jose Matilde and Josephine Granados in Chico, California, member of the Susanville Indian Rancheria.

Anyone who has met or known Lupe is aware of her love for her family. Lupe was one of seven siblings; Susan Hubbard, Ermalynda Hart, Manuel Granados, Katherina Marine Proctor, Amelia Luna and Joseph Granados, including 11 nieces and nephews. Lupe married Edwin Carman on December 14, 1974 and this union resulted in 8 daughters; Twila Carman-Stewart, Tina Edgar, Theresa Carlson, Tamera Molina, Terra Carman, Jennifer Riemann, Rietta Amador and Ericia Allison. She is a devoted grandmother of 27 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, beloved mother-in-law.

Lupe was dedicated to the minds of young children as reflected in a long career for Headstart, Department of Human Services spanning over 50 years in Susanville, Reno and San Diego. She continued her education in early childhood education during her years of service, thus inspiring and motivating young minds to be enthusiastic and eager to learn. Her patience with young children was extraordinary and she accepted the challenge to inspire even the most challenging of them.

She leaves a host of friends to mourn the loss of a good person, one who was a mentor to many. She is loved and treasured by her family and community. Lupe will be missed and never forgotten by all those lives that she touched during her lifetime.

Lupe is preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Susan, and her grand-daughters Isabel Carman and Brianna Wallace.

Funeral services are private.

A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm; the Resource Center located at 735 Joaquin Street, Susanville, CA.

Douglas Elton Millar passed away peacefully on January 1, 2024 at the age of 90. Douglas was a fourth generation Lassen County resident born to Elton and Lola(Bass) Millar on February 1, 1933.

Douglas graduated from Lassen High School in 1950. He served in the Air force from 1952-1956. Doug married Lorena in 1958. They retired in 1993 after 30 years of running Millar Hardware. Doug was a member of the Elks Lodge for 70 years. He enjoyed helping his children with their various activities including Little League, Cub Scouts, and Softball. Doug never missed his kids or grandkids sports events or other adventures they were involved in. He enjoyed woodworking, traveling, hunting, fishing, and camping with his family.

Douglas was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Lorena Millar. He is survived by by his 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(Ethan); and Great grandchildren, Elijah, Caitlyn, McKenzie, Annabelle, and Taylor.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Monticola Club on February 10, 2024 at 2:00pm.

Gerry Roberts passed away January 3, 2024, after a brief illness. She was born,
Geraldine Alta Reuck, in Standish on November 16, 1931, the youngest child of Minnie
and Theodore (Shorty) Reuck. Her only sister, Grace, was the oldest child in the family, followed by 7 brothers, Charley, Archie, Harry, Jesse, Laurie, Neil and Willis.

Gerry went to Lakeside Elementary and graduated from Lassen High School. When she was a teenager her brother, Laurie, caught a wild mustang for her. She tamed and rode “Popeye” for many years and loved horses her entire life. At the age of 17 Gerry and Fay Roberts eloped to Reno. His parents said it would never last but in August of 2023 they celebrated their 74th anniversary.

Fay was an avid hunter so Gerry soon began hunting as well. She loved deer hunting and was not only a good shot but also an excellent camp cook. Gerry didn’t bat an eye at 2 weeks of tent camping, hauling water and using ice chests for refrigeration. It got easier when they got a camp trailer but Gerry would go hunting, no matter what.

Fay and Gerry had 4 children, Leland (Cindy), Darla (Jerry Base), Galen (Linda), and Leslie who preceded them in death in 2011. Gerry loved being a stay at home mom and took great pride in her housekeeping. She doted on her 7 grandchildren and delighted in her 12 great grandchildren.

All who knew her loved her sense of humor and witty comebacks. She will be greatly missed.

Patsy Mae (Kanouse) Dotson was born on March 11, 1931 to Stella and Jay Knouse. She married Jerry Dotson in 1946, they had 4 children Jimmie, Donna, Juanita, and Nancy.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, and son Jimmie, grandson Larry and recently a great grandson Alex. 

She is survived by her daughter Donna(Mike), Juanita Hull, Nancy Riley( Mike), also 9 grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Patsy loved to sing and play her guitar. 

In the 1980’s she formed a “girl” band called “The Hootenanny Grannies”. Words to describe her; kind, loving, friendly, family oriented, welcoming, talented. We were blessed to have her. She will always be loved and missed.  

David Leon Monath, 78, of Susanville went to be with his Lord on January 26, 2024 at Renown Medical Center with his loving family surrounding him, after a hard battle with kidney and lung disease.

David was born on February 21, 1945 in Boone, Iowa as the first child of Earl and Virginia
Monath. When he was an adolescent when his mother moved to Southern California with him and his younger brother Jerry Monath after accepting a job promotion.

After graduating from Artesia High School in 1963 in Artesia California, he started working for General Electric as a cable splicer. He met the love of his life Judy Jones of Cypress, California in February of 1965. They married on February 4, 1967 and have been together for 57 years.

David moved his family to Fall River Mills, California in the summer of 1971 and accepted a job with Citizens Utilities Company as a telephone installation/repairman in Burney, California. By this time our oldest son Lance was a toddler, and our second son Jordan was born in January of 1972, with our beautiful daughter Rachelle being born in the Fall of 1974.

While we lived in Fall River Mills for 13 years our family and children attended the Community United Methodist Church and were involved in Little League, many 4-H projects, Boy Scouts and Brownies. David served as lntermountain Little League President for many years, and also enjoyed helping keep the Little League Fields throughout the community in good condition for all the families to enjoy.

David accepted a supervisory promotion with Citizens Utilities Company in 1984 and moved to Susanville with his family and our beautiful Springer spaniel “Sneakers.” In time he pursued different promotions and eventually became the local manager for many years. After a 36 year career in telecommunications he retired in 2007. In 2005 David purchased JOMO Concrete Products in Janesville California and ran that business for many years until its closing in 2015.

One of David’s hobbies and passions was being a handyman. He has taken care of all the
maintenance projects at Susanville Assembly of God Church for many years. He loved working with all his fancy tools and electrical equipment. He was a jack of all trades. After our SAG Church suffered a fire two years ago he was instrumental in organizing volunteers to help with repairs, buying all new carpet, vinyl flooring and painting a good portion of the church. He also served on our church Board for several years as the treasurer.

David had a gift of management and working well with people. The Salvation Army, Cross Roads Ministries, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Lacy Beterbide Trust just to name a few. He embodied a loving spirit of generosity, humor, and good works his whole life. David would go above and beyond to help a friend in need.

David was preceded in death by his mother Virginia Hartzell of La Palma, California and is
survived by his wife Judy Monath, son Lance Monath (Pat) of Susanville, son Jordan Monath
(Angela) of Chico, daughter Rachelle Klobas (Michael) of Oroville, his five grandchildren, Drew Klobas of Chico, Tyler Monath of Sacramento, Andrea Monath of Susanville, Jaydon Monath of Chico and Emma Klobas of Oroville.

Public viewing will be held on February 9th, 2024 at Fink Funeral Home in Susanville from 4:00 to 8:00p.m. A Celebration of Life Service with be held on February 10th, 2024 at 1:30p.m. at the Susanville Assembly of God Church in Susanville with a luncheon and reception to follow.

All of David’s beloved friends are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Salvation Army of Susanville.

ARTHUR GOULD JR. (1945-2024)

Arthur Gould Jr., 78, of Susanville CA. died of health complications in Susanville CA. on 01-31-2024.

Art was born in Ogden, Utah in 1945 to Arthur Gould Sr. and Beverly Briem-Gould.  Art graduated from Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa. Art lived in Susanville for 24 years where he practiced his scaffolding business. He assisted in the construction of many city buildings as well as helping business owners and local constituents.

He is survived by his sisters: Dianne Gould and Katherine Watkins and his brothers Ken Bunting, Rick Gould, Brian Gould and Michael Gould.

Art’s family will be performing a private ceremony and his family appreciates all of the assistance of his friends and the kind people of Susanville.

Lura Darlene ‘Bunny’ Blosser passed away Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the age
of 96. A native of Montana born to Gladys and Samuel Romine on December 27,
1927.

Bunny was preceded in death by her parents, Gladys and Samuel, her husband
Hugh Sr. and son Buck Hand.

She is survived by her daughter Rhonda, son Hugh Jr. (Cheri} and sister Ada Rae
Lange, 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Bunny left Lassen County in 1977 and moved to Montana then Idaho. She and her
daughter Rhonda moved back to Lassen County in November 2023. She always
loved this valley and was able to spend her last days here.

She was the stability of this family and will be greatly missed.

Private Burial will be at a later time in Idaho.

Douglas Vernon Ewing passed away January 27, 2024 at Renown Medical Center in Reno NV at the age of 79. Doug was born November 21, 1944 as the second child to Vernon and Jewel Ewing at Potters Maternity Home in Susanville CA.

Doug spent his childhood in Susanville on Juniper Street making memories with family and many childhood friends. His best friend was his sister, Lola who always kept a watchful eye over her little brother even after her unfortunate passing at the young age of 13. Doug attended Lassen High School graduating Class of 1963 where he enjoyed his time in FFA learning how to produce quality beef and showing steers. His passion for beef showmanship took him to compete at Cow Palace which created lifelong memories. He took great pride watching his grandchildren grow and learn the many positive aspects of the FFA program.

Doug took on many work ventures in life with his first as a child selling worms for 1 cent each to buy a new bike. As a young man he owned and operated Ewing Custom Hay Works where he spent many hours cutting hay in the Honey Lake Valley with some of his closest friends. He then opened EZ Towing where he spent many long hours on our highways helping travelers. During this time his Dad was by his side always lending a hand whether it be keeping the shop clean or on the highway cleaning up a wreck. As life moved on Doug found himself working for Napa Auto Parts most notably in Kingman AZ where he created a very successful outside sales program. Upon return to Susanville years later he found himself working at the Red Lion helping the Ellena family serve and tend breakfast where he was quick to strike up a conversation with the travelers.

Those that knew Doug are familiar he enjoyed a good conversation. He took great pride in local history and his family lineage in the logging industry. When given the opportunity he would gladly share those memories over a cold beer and maybe a margarita if the mood was right. Doug thoroughly enjoyed his vehicles and ensured they were meticulously maintained and in sound mechanical condition. He enjoyed racing whether it be building an engine for the 70 car in Susanville, sand drags in Kingman or watching a Sunday afternoon Nascar race. He was good at leather work, a hobby he learned at a very young age where he kept his friends and family well stocked with leather belts, holsters, wallets and the like.

Doug was blessed with three children and later in life met the love of his life Doris who he referred to as “my dream”. They were clearly soul mates, and he was quickly and lovingly accepted into her family. They enjoyed travelling reconnecting with friends and making new ones throughout their time in Henderson NV.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents Vern and Jewel Ewing, sister Lola Ewing and wife Doris.

He is survived by his children Eric (Shannon) Ewing of Susanville, Holly (Daren) Mueller of Susanville, Vicki Scherwinski of Tucson AZ, Bonnie Crider NM, Jackie Fletcher MD, Greg Slagle FL; grandchildren Ayla (Matt) Santana of Reno, Reece Ewing, Brynn Ewing, Van Ewing, Saydee Mueller, and Gaven Mueller all of Susanville; Emme Scherwinski, Audrey Scherwinski, Brielle Scherwinski, and Charlotte Scherwinski of Tucson AZ and multiple great grandchildren.

Services are pending with a celebration of life to be held Spring 2024. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made in Doug’s memory to the Lassen High School Alumni Association PO Box 471 Susanville, CA 96130.

Leonard John Matchniff passed from this life on Thursday, February 15, 2024, due to esophageal cancer. He was born in Fresno, CA on March 12, 1950 to John Alex and Roberta (Peterson) Matchniff. He was seventy-three years old).

For most of his childhood years his family lived in a house on Walker’s Grade between North Fork and Fresno. After graduating McKinley High School in 1968 he worked nights at the lumber mill as a heavy equipment operator moving and stacking logs. The following year he joined the United States Navy and served for four years (1969-1973) on the USS Constellation Aircraft Carrier as a signalman. Leonard was stationed in San Diego, CA. In 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Moles. They would continue the whole of their life together for 28 years in Chula Vista, CA where they would raise their three children, Stephanie, Danny, and Karen.

Carolyn’s faith and love for the Lord influenced Leonard early on in their relationship. But, unwilling to take anything at face value, and despite the efforts of other Christians to bring him to faith in Christ Jesus, he wanted only to see and read for himself what the Bible had to say rather than what any man had to say about it. And at the age of 19 he was won over by what the Bible had to say. Eventually, his convictions and growing faith would compel him to be a teacher of the Bible and preacher of the gospel of Jesus. With a strong conviction, a supportive wife, a tireless work ethic, a true sense of discipline, determination, and a keen eye for detail, he succeeded in anything he put his hand to.

After his time served in the military he attended and graduated Southwestern College in 1977 obtaining his Associate in Science degree with a major in Carpentry. He attended night classes after working long, hard days as a carpenter while Carolyn worked at home raising their three children. Having a major role in the construction of Downtown San Diego’s Seaport Village, and with his growing reputation in the home building industry, he advanced into managerial positions as “Director of Construction” and “Vice President” for such home builders as Pierre-Debis and Reynolds’ Construction. He leaves behind him in San Deigo a legacy as a hard-working, significantly influential, and highly respected member of the BIA (Business Industry Association), contributing to the big decisions of major construction projects throughout San Diego County.

God used Leonard and Carolyn together in their marriage to make a big impact on so many people’s lives in bringing them to Christ. After losing Carolyn, his wife and high school sweetheart to melanoma cancer in November of 1999, Leonard would later marry Carlene Baskevich and adopt two children from Estonia (German and Illona). That next chapter of his life would be lived out in such places in California as Del Mar, Livermore, Hollywood Hills, back to Livermore, and last of all, Susanville.

During his time in Hollywood Hills he would try his hand at real estate and acting. He managed to make his way into small rolls in a few TV shows and movies such as “Chuck” (S1, Ep. 12), “Eagle Eye,” and “17 Again.” Getting more settled in Livermore, CA he became a building inspector for Foster City in the Bay Area.

He would spend the final year of his life near his son, Danny and his family, in the little town of Susanville, which fondly reminded him of his childhood growing up in the hills and the trees away from the grind of the city life.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Sue Matchniff and his half-brother, Jim. He is survived by his children and their families: daughter, Stephanie Whiteley with her husband, Kimo and their 3 children; son, Danny Matchniff with his wife Amy and their 4 children; daughter, Karen Rice with her husband, Chris and their 3 children; son, German Matchniff; and daughter, Ilona Matchniff. He is survived also by his three sisters: Sharon English, Roberta (Robbie) Nelson, and Sandee Donaldson.

Memorial Service Info:
Saturday, March 16, 2024, 2:00 pm
Susanville Church of Christ
205 N. Fairfield Ave.
Susanville, CA 96130

Joseph Allan Silva was born to David and Elta Silva on February 3, 1966 at Hazel Hawkins Hospital in Hollister, CA and passed away peacefully on March 5, 2024 at his home in Sparks, NV.

Joe was a very bright child who loved counting train cars and had the United States Presidents memorized at a very young age. Joe attended kindergarten in Hollister before moving to Westwood, CA with his parents and two younger sisters, Jamie and Jodie in 1972.

Joe attended Fletcher Walker Elementary School and graduated from Westwood High School, Class of 1984 and was class Valedictorian. As a child, Joe played Little League and was on the wrestling team. In high school Joe played basketball, football and ran track. He participated in the Academic Olympics and was chosen to go to Boys State as a junior among many other honors. He was also a talented trumpet player in the high school band and received the John Philip Souza award.

Joe started his career as a United States Postal Worker in Westwood, CA in 1988. He worked there until he transferred in 1991 to Sparks, NV. Joe was second in seniority in the Reno/Sparks Post Office when he passed.

Joe was a lifelong Raider fan, Oakland, Los Angeles, Las Vegas; it did not matter where they were. He loved his 80’s rock and roll. He was an amazing Uncle and Great Uncle. Joe took his nephews to WWE wrestling, out for sushi and was known for handing out cash on birthdays and Christmas. He traveled to watch his nephews and niece play sports and attended their livestock auctions. He bought educational toys for his great niece and great nephew but made sure they were loud toys as well.

Joe enjoyed working out and hiking. He and his best friend Jen had been on many adventures seeing new places and looking for waterfalls. They loved to “get in the car and go!”

Joe was preceded in death by his mother Elta, his grandparents and many cousins. He is survived by his father David of Westwood CA, sisters Jamie (Warren) Wilson of Palomino Valley, NV and Jodie Gunn (Jay Stewart) of Westwood CA, his best friend Jennifer Linville of Sparks, NV and Finley their dog. Nephews Gabriel, Jordan, Christian (Zoe), Lance Donat and Kasen Gunn, niece Maddyn Gunn, great niece Hayden Donat and great nephew Miles Donat.

A Celebration of his Life will be held, Friday, March 22, 2024 at MidSparks Events Center, 1745 Sullivan Lane, Sparks NV @ 5:00 pm.

Gregory Keith Fork
September 14, 1956 – February 27, 2024

On February 27, 2024, Greg suddenly and unexpectedly passed away at home at the age of 67. He was born in Willow Creek, CA on September 14, 1956, to Floyd and Shirley Fork. He was raised in Willow Creek, CA and was the oldest of four children. Greg graduated from Hoopa High School in 1974 and started working for the Forest Service after graduation. He eventually moved to Hayfork, CA where he retired from the US Forest Service in 2006 after 27 years as a Wildland Firefighter and Fire Prevention Officer. He and his wife relocated to Susanville, CA in 2007.

Greg was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren camping, hunting, and fishing. He was a Lifetime Member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. He was an avid supporter and enjoyed attending and participating in their banquets, along with supporting several other wildlife sporting associations’ events.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Teresa, his daughter Veronica Owens and husband Vincent, son Ronald Hames, Jr. and wife Natalie, his sister Catherine Leitner and husband Greg, and brothers Gary and Rick Fork. He also leaves behind six grandchildren Ethan, Drake, and Kayne Owens; Johnny, Alana, and Jay Hames; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and aunts and uncles. He was proceeded in death by his father Floyd K. Fork and mother Shirley L. (Bennett) Fork.

He was an amazing man, husband, father, and grandpa. He will be greatly missed by all.

Memorial Services will be held at a later date.

Ryan Scott Welch, 52, of Susanville, CA passed away unexpectedly on March 11, 2024.

Ryan was born on February 23, 1972 in Council Bluffs, IA. He grew up in Quincy, CA and attended Quincy Junior-Senior High School. After graduation, he worked as a mechanic at Willits Motors. 

Ryan enjoyed football and was a loyal 49ers fan. He also enjoyed fishing, metal detecting and gold mining. 

He loved his canine companion Rex and was devastated by his passing last year. 

Ryan is preceded in death by his stepmother Kay Welch and his stepfather Rich Brown. 

Ryan is survived by his father James Welch, his mother Barbara Brown, brother Ron Welch (Liz), sister Laura Fisher (Ken), and sister Lisa Woodward. He is also survived by three nieces, four nephews, and two great-nephews. 

There are no services planned. 

Kay was born in 1938 in Susanville, CA, to Marguerite & Nolan Hallowell. She attended Lassen High School, Reno Business College, Stanford, and graduated with a degree in Social Work from University of Nevada. She retired from Washoe Medical Center after many years as a social worker there. Kay was married for 52 years to Robert T. McDonald, until his death, and several years later formed a close companionship with former high school classmate Russell (Rusty) Milton.

Kay was curious about everyone and everything, and liked to travel. Travel highlights were a train trip through the Canadian Rockies, cruises to Alaska and down the Rhine River, trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Cuba. Kay is survived by daughters Liz Delia (Rob) and Jill McDonald (Joe Jess Iturri), grandson Anselmo Iturri, and nephews Steve McDonald and J.R. McDonald.

We can’t thank the the angels in disguise from Compassion Care Hospice enough for the care they provided to us all. No service is planned at this time. Donations can be made in Kay’s memory to Food Bank of Northern Nevada.

Michael John Gress passed away on February 20, 2024 at his home in Janesville Ca. He was born May 14, 1956 in Boise Idaho to John and Lois Gress. The family lived in New Meadows, Idaho before moving to Susanville CA in March, 1967.

Mike was a lover of the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Mike had many friends and was always someone they could count on for help in any situation.

He worked at Sierra Pacific, Collins Pine and the Sierra Army Depot. He graduated
from Lassen High School in 1974. He married the love of his life, Susan Hunt on
October 24th, 1981. Together, they had 2 children, Brandon and Heidi.

Mike is survived by his wife of 42 years, Susan Gress, son Brandon Gress, daughter
Heidi Ardito (Tony), three granddaughters, Jessi, Brandi and Rylie, two sisters,
Phyllis Wilson and Darla Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents, John
Gress and Lois Roberts.

Robbyn Virginia Mountjoy was born on December 24, 1935, to Robert and Virginia Mountjoy in Denver, Colorado. What a joyous Christmas Present.

Robbyn had two younger sisters: Lois and Carolynn.

Robbyn grew up in Denver and attended East High School. Then she attended the University of Colorado in Boulder, earning a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

After graduation, Robbyn moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she, as a substitute teacher, taught at Redwood City and East Palo Alto schools. She then went to San Jose Unified School District as a full-time teacher.

In 1959, Robbyn married Lenden Edward Walter. They had 3 sons: Bob, John and Ken. Robbyn and Lenden divorced in 1969.

Robbyn met Ron Peters in 1969, who had three children: Craig, Jeff and Laura, from a previous marriage.

Robbyn and Ron married in 1973 and made their home in Saratoga, California. They celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 22, 2023. Ron likes to point out that Robbyn was 2 ½ years older and he always said, “He married the Couger of his dreams”.

Then in 1977, the family moved to Lower Lake, California where she taught elementary school in the Clear Lake Highlands.

In 1981, they again moved to Janesville, California, where they have made their home for the past 43 years.

Robbyn taught at Shaffer Elementary School in Lichfield, California. Robbyn retired in 1993 after 33 ½ years of teaching in California.

After retirement, Robbyn and Ron enjoyed themselves traveling in their motorhome and on their motorcycle. Their travels include all of the USA and Western Canada.

Robbyn’s hobbies were sewing, gardening, and reading.

In 1996-1997, Robbyn was President of the Emblem Club, which is affiliated with the Elks log. At the same time Ron was the Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge. Whenever there was mutual business of the organizations, instead of sending correspondence they would sit down to a “happy hour” at home and have their meeting.

After a Long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Robbyn passed away peacefully on March 22, 2023, at the age of 88.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 4th at Noon at the Elks Lodge.

Vivian L. Crew Faust
December 24, 1943 – January 15, 2024

Born on December 24, 1943 in Standish, California to Gerald and Oba Clark Crew. She was the oldest of their 4 children; sisters, Valerie, LaVonne and brother, Hiram Jon followed. Her father was stationed in Asia during World War II and didn’t meet her till she was a toddler.

She passed away on January 15, 2024 in the early morning hours in the loving care of Jovial Home Care in West Linn, Oregon.

Vivian moved frequently in her youth to various small communities in Northern California (Willow Creek, Weaverville & Truckee) and Southern Oregon (Klamath County) while her dad worked in the logging industry and road construction.  On January 28, 1955 her mother died as a result of burns when her bathrobe caught on fire.  Her father remarried in the early 1960’s to Ruth Flournoy and she became a sister again to their children Cindy and Wade.

She completed her high school studies and graduated from Prairie Bible in Alberta, Canada in 1962. She spent a few of her teenage summers working at her Aunt Geraldine’s Frosty Shop in Paso Robles, CA. She took classes at Shasta College in Redding, CA and completed a Diploma in Bible Course in 1969 at Multnomah School of the Bible.

Vivian met her future husband, Ronald L. Faust in Dunsmuir, CA. and they were married in October 1970 in Reno, NV.  They had 4 children Roxanna (Bend, OR), Megann (San Quentin, CA), Ronald Jr. (Modesto, CA), and Michael (West Linn, OR).

Vivian moved back to the Portland area in 1983 from the Southern California area, she and Ron divorced in 1984. She worked various food service and retail jobs while she raised their children.  Sadly, in December 1994 her apartment in Oregon City caught fire and Michael age 11 spent 2 months in the burn and rehabilitation units of Emmanuel Hospital. She spent the last 40 years devoted to caring for her youngest son Michael’s needs due to his injuries and autism.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; beloved sister, Valerie Range; former spouse, Ron Faust; and aunts, uncles and cousins in the Clark, Crew, Walters and Palmer families. She is survived by her 4 children; 2 grandsons; 3 great-grandchildren; sisters, LaVonne O. and Cindy M. (Bob); brothers, Hiram Jon (Shirley) and Wade (Melissa); nieces and nephews; Phill Range; and former sister-in-law, Shirley A.

A Graveside Service and burial will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at the Janesville Cemetery in the family plot, with a eulogy given by her brother Hiram Jon. For more information please visit www.stehnfuneralhomes.com.

Dexter Lee Gisselberg was born July 29, 1944 in Myrtle Creek Oregon. He left to be with the lord December 8, 2023 in Concord Ca. He was a long time Susanville resident, moving here in 1991.

He is preceded in death by his son, Donald Gisselberg. He is survived by his children, David Anaya, Kennith “Kenny” Gisselberg and Anita Everhart (Gisselberg) as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

His celebration of life will be April 27 at 2:00pm at Riverside park in Susanville. Please bring a lawn chair and a ‘fingerfood’ to share and a drink of choice.

The passing of Herbert Wayne Walters (Herb)

On Tuesday, February 7, 2024, Herb Walters, loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather passed away at the age of 84 at his Eagle Lake, CA home. Herb was born on October 17, 1939, in Lakeport, CA., to John and Roberta Walters. About the age of 11, his grandfather Bob Spencer passed away. Herb went to visit his grandmother Amy Spencer in Fort Bragg. Herb was raised by her until she passed away. Herb was 17 and on his own.

In his senior year of high school in 1958 he joined the US ARMY reserves as a senior at Fort Bragg high school and he served until 1965. When he was honorably discharged from the army. Herb in his hard-working life was a commercial fisherman, managed fish houses, and also managed the Noyo store, a commercial fishing equipment/tackle store at Noyo Harbor, CA. Noyo, a small, but colorful commercial fishing village on the pacific coast. Then between sea sickness and sun damaged skin, his doctor said, “You’d better make a change”. He became a timber faller, skidder operator, and established the tree service named, “The Eeger Beever”. Then ln 1995, he decided to retire, and sold the Eeger Beever.

Life changed, while doing a favor for a friend an accident occurred, and he broke his neck. Fortunately, it was a stable break, but left him with issues. After selling the tree service and breaking his neck, he couldn’t stand being idle. He then added one more thing to his resume. He bought a Wood Mizer sawmill and milled lumber.

He had a passion for the outdoors. Especially hunting, fishing, hiking, gold mining, 5th wheel traveling and gardening. In retirement he added quad riding (logging over 3000 miles on the quad), exploring new areas and digging for Obsidian in the Modoc county Obsidian mines. In the 1990’s Herb fell ln love with the Eagle Lake area and in 2005 made it his home.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years Ruthelen (Ruthie) Walters, son Tom Walters, (Victoria), grandsons Taylor (Alexis) and Austin (Savannah), great granddaughters Delaney Marie, Melinda Lee, and Kinsley Laine Walters, brothers Lloyd Martin and Richard Woody, sister Jerrii Costa and many wonderful friends. Herb was preceded in death by his grandson Brayton, daughter-in-law Mindy, brother Buster and Sister Daisy.

At Herb’s request no funeral services will be held. The family will have a celebration of life at Herb’s Eagle Lake home, 509-445 Stone Road, at the North End of Eagle Lake, CA on Saturday, June 15, 2024 between the hours of 1:00pm and 5:00pm. Anyone wishing to honor Herb is welcome.

If you wish to make contributions, in Herb’s name, may be made to the Stones-Bengard volunteer fire dept., 509-695 Stone Road., Susanville, CA 96130 or the charity of your choice.

Herb was known for giving a helping hand to friends and strangers in need, but most of all he was known for his infectious smile. It has been said, “There are some who bring a light so great to the world … that even after they have gone, the light remains”. That was Herb in a nutshell.