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Obits
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- Written by: Brian Sumpter
Terry Knight
Feb. 18, 1936-April 12, 2026
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Terry Knight, 90, died Sunday, April 12, surrounded by family and friends.
A loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather and great-grandfather who served his country, he was known for his love of all things outdoors.
An avid hunter and fisherman who grew up in Minnesota before moving to Lake County, Terry acquired a knowledge of Clear Lake that was second to none.
One of the lake’s fiercest protectors, Knight spoke of his love for America’s oldest lake often in a column he penned for the Lake County Record-Bee newspaper for nearly four decades, and on a radio show along with co-host Greg Giusti for several years until health issues forced him from the airwaves.
Terry helped run what was America’s largest team bass tournament for a time in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a tournament that continues to this day.
A fishing guide on Clear Lake, Knight also held guided deer, pig and turkey hunts. He was inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame in 2020.
Knight spoke at many events highlighting the beauty of Clear Lake and was one of Lake County’s biggest proponents. Though he believed in speaking up for the lake and county, he never was one to hold back when criticism was warranted, and he tried to bring all sides in a debate together to work for the betterment of the lake and county.
Terry’s collection of stories acquired over a lifetime were truly amazing. From the time he was surrounded on a hill as a civilian engineer in Vietnam to the time he watched an engine fall off a plane that he was aboard, Knight lived a full and complete life. There were also many, many stories about that big fish that got away.
Knight always had a smile on his face and kind words for his many friends. He will be sorely missed.
A celebration of life for Knight is being planned and will be announced at a later date.
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- Written by: Lake County News Reports
Ellen Ann (Locke) Thomas
1954-2026
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Ellen Ann (Locke) Thomas 72, of Kelseyville, California, born on March 9, 1954, entered into rest on April 9, 2026.
Ellen is preceded in death by her parents, Stan and Toni Locke; brother, Jeff Locke; and son, Jacob Mayfield-Brown.
Ellen was born in San Francisco and grew up in Kelseyville at Ski Haven Resort.
Ellen graduated Kelseyville High School, class of 1972. She was a champion speed water skier on Clear Lake and Lake Tahoe.
She had a creative mind and loved making beautiful things: Elaborate decorative cakes, gardening, quilts, all other types of needlework, and even made dollhouses from scratch.
Ellen dedicated her life to caring for her handicapped son, Jacob.
She is survived by daughter, Jayme Thomas and partner Thomas Angel; grandson, Anakin Mitchell; sister, Kelly Locke-Larsen-Youell and husband Shawn; nephew Nickolas Larsen; and most loving brother and best friend, Chris Locke.
Please join us in a celebration of life on Saturday, April 18, starting at noon at Konocti Shores Park and Resort, located at 8920 Soda Bay Road in Kelseyville. Once in the park, follow the signs to the celebration.
The family would really appreciate it if friends took time to write out one or more of your favorite memories of Ellen to make a book (a picture or souvenir to show as well, if you wish). If you aren't able to attend but are still willing to share a memory you can email
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Lake County News Reports
John William Coyne
May 17, 1939 – March 5, 2026
John William Coyne, 86, of Lakeport, California, passed away on March 5, 2026, at 11:36 a.m.
John was born May 17, 1939, in Portland, Maine, to William and Louise “Peggy” Coyne. He grew up with his brothers, Donald, Bill and Rick, enjoying camping, fishing, and evenings playing guitar and singing with family.
On Sept. 30, 1960, John married the love of his life, Gloria Jean Coyne, in San Jose, California.
The two met at a skating rink in San Jose, where John quickly knew he wanted to ask Gloria out. Their marriage became a lifelong partnership centered on love, family and community.
After graduating from high school and joining the plumbers’ union, John worked as a plumber for more than 60 years. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his trade. He also spent time as a math teacher at a local high school in San Jose.
John and Gloria raised three children: David William Coyne, Steven Lee Coyne and Kimberly Jean Coyne. He loved spending time with his family, especially camping, boating, attending town festivals, and supporting his children and grandchildren at school and community events.
He was active in the community through organizations including the Indian Guides, Boy Scouts, Kiwanis Club, and the YMCA.
John was predeceased by his brothers, Donald and Bill Coyne, and wife, Gloria.
John is survived by his children, David William Coyne, Steven Lee Coyne and Kimberly Jean Robinson; his grandchildren, Christopher Wilcox, Jason Coyne, Tyler Coyne, Markie Mercado and Hannah Robinson; and his younger brother, Rick Lee Coyne of Montana.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at Kelseyville Presbyterian Church, 4021 Church St., with a reception to follow in Friendship Hall.
John will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.