Obits
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
In Loving Memory of Sheila Kay Porter
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Sheila Porter, a cherished soul, passed away on Feb. 10, 2025.
Born on Sept. 8, 1955, she filled every space with warmth, laughter and love.
Sheila lived with an open heart, spreading kindness and joy effortlessly. Her bright spirit and compassion, and unwavering love will never be forgotten. She was a blessing to the world and will always remain in our hearts.
She is survived by her children, Ray, Christi and Julie; her sisters, Selena and Catherine; her mother, Marcia; her nephew and niece, Patrick and Jessica; grandchildren, and extended family.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
IN LOVING MEMORY OF BILL DRYDEN
Bill Dryden was born on July 10, 1944, in Sacramento, California, and went to heaven on Jan. 16, 2025.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and song, plus a lifetime of unforgettable memories.
Bill loved deeply. He is survived by his brother, Mike Dryden; his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth Dryden; his three daughters, Cindy Conway, Debbie Dryden-Bera and Robyn Bera; and his sons-in-law, Jim Dryden-Bera and Dennis Bera. His memory lives on through his five grandchildren, Shoun, Montana, Kody, Skylar and Maya; and his great-granddaughter, Lilith. Bill cherished his family and each of his grandchildren.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter Arielle Dryden-Bera, who passed too early in life. They are reunited now, along with the rest of Bill’s family, fishing together in heaven. It was his fun-loving smile, deep belly laugh, generosity and warm hugs that won hearts.
Bill worked in agriculture in the almond industry in management and sales. He was loved by his employees who viewed him as a mentor. He freely shared his wisdom and kindness. He traveled to several countries selling almonds and was respected in his field before retiring in 2003 and moving to Lake County.
Bill enjoyed the beauty and friendliness in Lake County and he made it his home for the last 22 years of his life. He had the time to travel with his family to beautiful places locally and all over the United States. Elizabeth is grateful to have shared 59 years of marriage with her best friend. Life was exciting and adventurous and every new road, restaurant, or destination, started a new journey and carved a new memory.
Bill’s daughters and sons view him as accepting and generous. He was a “second father” to countless friends throughout the years. He was known to welcome most anyone to his dinner table and often said a “good steak will cure ya.” He lives on through his family recipes and a shared love of cooking.
His grandchildren are devastated by this loss but they find solace in the many memories of camping and fishing and outdoor trips. They remember the lessons about plants and animals and the campfire stories. They will remember him saying that “nature is my church” and the youngest of grandkids will remember being chased by “Grandpasaurus” while roaring and stomping through the house.
During the final years of his life, Bill had chronic illnesses but he was determined to fight and do what he needed to live. Life was still joyful with surprises interwoven into everyday routines.
He was smiling until the very end. He was a role model to everyone he met. We will miss this wonderful person. May Bill’s love, wisdom, strength and hugs live forever in our hearts.
Please join us in celebration of Bill Dryden’s life on Saturday, March 15, at 1 p.m. at the Chapel of the Lakes at 1625 N. High St. in Lakeport, California.
- Details
- Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Jose Sonato
March 17, 1979 - Jan. 31, 2025
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Jose Sonato was born on March 17, 1979, in Charo Michoacan, Mexico.
Jose was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend who now leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and unforgettable memories.
Jan. 31, 2025, was the day his family had to say goodbye as he took his last breath.
Jose is survived by his wife, Luz Maria; his three daughters, Karina, Sarahi and Liliana; and his only son, Josue.
He was not only a great husband but also an amazing father who will be greatly missed. He ensured to let his family know that no matter what he was going through, they were always his first option. Jose was completely and entirely dedicated to his loved ones.
Jose was the kind of person who worked tirelessly to provide for his family, ensuring that everyone around him was cared for and happy. He was kind, patient, generous, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether fixing something around the house or sharing a laugh with friends, he made life brighter for everyone.
Jose came to the US at the young age of 14, with a dream to help his family that he left behind in Mexico live a better life. On his path he found a love for agriculture and continued to work in the fields for over 30 years.
Working in the fields wasn’t his only passion; even on his days off he found the time to teach himself many skills that in life he used to help many others. This helped him throughout life because he was able to build his own family a place to call home.
Those who had the pleasure of knowing him will now miss him greatly. The pain we feel is a reflection of the love we had for Jose. We will strive to keep his memory alive, laughing as we recall his jokes and stories. For now we wait until we can see and hold him again, Revelation 21:3,4.
Graveside funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kelseyville Cemetery.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.
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