Obits
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- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — David Earl Retherford, 73, of Nice, California, passed away on Feb. 14, 2025, at the VA Hospital in San Francisco, California.
David was born on Aug. 12, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Earl and Colleen Retherford.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret, of Nice; his brother, Stephen, of St. Louis, Missouri; his children, David Earl Retherford Jr. of Wasilla, Alaska, Desiree Leahy of Gaston, Oregon, Brandon Mosby of Lacey, Washington, and Bradley Mosby of Nice; his grandchildren, Ben Retherford, Malichi Retherford, Joanna Leahy, Joshua Leahy, Xander Mosby and Harrison Mosby; and his great-grandchildren, Kiley and Bowen Retherford.
David grew up in St. Louis, Missouri and served in the U.S. Navy from 1971 to 1975. After his service, he moved to Lake County, California.
An Eagle Scout in his youth, David worked as a drywall contractor in Lake County for many years. He was also active in several organizations, including the Christian Motorcycle Association, where he contributed to prison ministries; the North Lake Garden Club; the Traveling Vietnam Wall through the Vietnam Veterans of America; and he served as a Vietnam veterans representative at the national convention.
David was deeply devoted to his family. He enjoyed traveling, sailing on Clear Lake and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He and his wife Margaret also loved attending steampunk festivals together.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael A. Icay on Feb. 16, 2025, at the age of 83.
Michael was a devoted father, grandfather, uncle, brother and a cherished friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his humor will not be forgotten.
Born on July 18, 1941, in Upper Lake, California to Samson Zabel Icay and Verna Treppa Icay Ramos.
Michael grew up on the Upper Lake Rancheria and graduated from Upper Lake High School in 1959. He served in the Army and graduated from Heald Business School.
He worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family, and his dedication and strength were evident in everything he did.
Michael's greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He was the proud father of Michael D. Icay, Danielle Icay-Cirelli and Eric F. Icay and he was blessed with seven grandchildren. His grandchildren, Gabby Cirelli, Drew Cirelli, John Cirelli, Ava Icay, Dylan Icay, Sophia Icay and Carmella Icay loved to spend time with him enjoying many days on Clear Lake.
His family was his world, and he shared many happy memories with them traveling, watching his grandchildren excel at many sports, and spending time enjoying the lake. He would always say, “Lake life is the best life!” He also had a passion for gardening, antiquing and all things nautical.
Michael was a proud member of the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake where he had previously served on the Executive Council, chaired several committees and most recently served as Chairman of the Tribal Gaming Commission. Michael also worked as executive director at Lake Country Tribal Health as well as general manager at Robinson Casino. He was committed to helping the Native American community.
Funeral service will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1, where family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Michael’s life. Interment will follow at Upper Lake Cemetery.
Though Michael is no longer with us, his memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Lee Allen Woodruff.
Lee Allen Woodruff, 42, of Kelseyville, California (by way of Inverness, Florida), passed away on Feb. 11, 2025.
He was born on Dec. 14, 1982, at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Port Hueneme, California, to Leslee and Steven Woodruff.
Years after his family put down roots in Inverness, Florida, Lee’s heart led him back to California. He embraced both states as his hometowns, always finding his way back to the people and places that meant the most to him.
Lee never met a stranger, lived unapologetically on his own terms and found happiness in the simple things. His love for people was undeniable, whether it was family, friends or those who blurred the line between the two.
He could strike up a conversation at a gig or even a quick run to the store and many of those conversations would turn into lasting connections. This past year, he found love with Sammie, and together they had just celebrated their one-year anniversary.
A talented guitarist, Lee recently joined the band G.NADA (Spotify), pouring his heart into the music he loved. But his passions extended far beyond music. He was a black belt in karate and a die-hard hockey fan. His love for the Tampa Bay Lightning (Bolts) ran so deep that he even decorated his home in their team colors, making sure everyone knew exactly where his loyalty stood.
Lee leaves behind his parents, Leslee and Steven Woodruff; aunts and uncles; his fiancée, Samantha Barton; their dog, Lucy; his sister, CaSandra Minichiello (Christy); his brothers, Scott Robbins (Koey) and Michael Robbins; many cousins; and nieces who adored their Uncle Lee, including his newly welcomed great-nephew.
He also leaves behind his “California Family,” Cindi (aka “Ma”), Steve and their daughter, Kim Brozynski. We are forever grateful for the kindness, love and care they showed him.
Lee's presence was a force, and his absence will be deeply felt by the countless people whose lives he touched. He wouldn’t want a sad goodbye, so a celebration of life in Florida is planned for March 8, in which details will be shared privately through friends, family and social media.
Private cremation will be handled by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary in Lakeport, California.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
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